With two games left, we have guaranteed at least a qualifier in order to try to promote to div 1. Although we do have arguably our toughest two games left home to New Zealand and away to Argentina!
We are therefore going to play strong teams in both matches and TNT them both. Here's my thoughts on team selection:
Front row
Both our front rows work well as a unit, however they can't mix and match particularly well due to the relative heights as this would incur a scrum penalty for us. Therefore the first choice front three of du Randt, Mhofu and Kwati will probably feature in both lineups.
Locks
The first choice locks are much better in skills but the seconds make up for this with their additional height, I therefore feel comfortable mix and matching these. We will therefore see Summers and Gutsa against New Zealand, with Weppener and Faredo taking the field against Argentina!
Back Row
With Netshamulivho in the squad as an injury replacement we effectively have 4 first choice back row players. Add to this Nhira who will have to step up to first choice next season when Makonese ages out, we have 5 players who will make up the back row in these two games. The other three are Chiyangwa, Makonese and Hariro.
Halves
Even I'm not sure what our best halfback combination is, so each pair will get a game here. Tshuma and Jongwe against New Zealand, Carmody and Smit against Argentina.
Backs
The first choice backs this season have been Gwisai, Webster, Dobel, George and Zengeza. For the reserves we have seen very good performances from Kwati and Gotora putting themselves in contention for the final weekend. And recent convert Berthele from France makes up the final member of the 8 backs who will play this weekend!
