You would think it’s highly likely Pole has earned a promotion to become a starting prop and Hunt would become impact value off the bench. That should adequately cover the loss of Utoikamanu.
It’s hard to say if Bird will be looked at as a starting centre, back rower or 13, but if he was to start on our right edge and used in tandem with Seyfarth, I believe that’s a big upgrade from Bateman.
The sticking point is how we cover the loss of Papali’i who is now proving to be a valuable 13. In my opinion signing any of Kobe Herherington, Jack Williams, Adam Elliott or Tallis Duncan would go a long way to filling void at 13, particularly with the possibility of Latu Fainu also spending time as our 13 each game.
Stef will be replaced by Fonua.
one of Seyfarth and Bird will replace Bateman, the other will play off the bench
Horsburgh / Hetherington will replace Papali’i
looking squarely at 2024 output, Fonua leaves Stefano for dead, Seyfarth and Bird are as good as Bateman at the very least and we will miss Papali’i, irrespective of who his replacement is.
you are right though, it is a massive preseason for a number of players that will be required to take on bigger roles. time will tell.
