The Bledisloe Cup has arrived once again for another year with renewed hope and Australian fans daring to dream once again.
But with the first match at Eden Park in what is only a two match series (don’t get me started on that), it’s going to be one almighty challenge for the Wallabies.
A day time kick off in Auckland will no doubt get any sports fan excited as the All Blacks welcome the Wallabies to the fortress.
Both sides coming off defeats at the hands of South Africa and Argentina a fortnight ago.
The New Zealand media is again freaking out about the thought that the All Blacks aren’t living up to the expectations.
They will be without leader Scott Barrett this week with Ardie Savea to lead the side.
Cam Roigard returns, which is a big boost for the side with winger Leroy Carter retaining his spot.
Meanwhile the Wallabies are missing the two enforcers Will Skelton & Rob Valentini with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto given the assignment of bringing the niggle.
Tate McDermott & James O’ Connor will combine in the halves with Max Jorgenson getting his first opportunity at Fullback.
James Slipper will play his 150th test match, which is an extraordinary achievement.
My plays for Bledisloe One:
- New Zealand by 1-12 @ $3.10
- Wallabies +13.5 @ $1.90
- Total points Under 55.5 @ $1.90
- Caleb Clarke Anytime try @ $2.15
- Tate McDermott anytime try @ $4.40
The other match up in the Rugby Championship will see Argentina travel to South Africa to take on the world champions with both teams showing glimpses of how good they can be when they turn up.
It’s a must-win match for Boks as the race for the TRC trophy is coming right down to the wire. These two have met three times In Durban with Argentina having tasted success at this venue before so no doubt will up for the match.
Best plays:
- South Africa Win @ $1.12
- Argentina +16.5 @ $1.90
- Cheslin Kolbe try @ $1.85
- Over 54.5 total points @ $1.87