In the 2/3 games he covered for Sam recently he let the ball bounce numerous times (I think 5/6) and we got away with it. I also think our wingers are a bit more tentative at the back when He's on.
It feels like he may be there in case were struggling and were behind - And I wouldn't feel comfortable bringing him on if the game was tight last 20.

I'd have picked Hamlin last week and would again this week
Bateman could go to centre - Leaving Sarge to cover if needed

However trust in Wane and either way I don't think it will change the outcome.

Yeah he's not the greatest defender, granted, but like you say, if we were behind then bringing him on, maybe in the halves, could help spark something. Too late now but I've said for a while I'd have liked to see him attacking at FB and defending at SH, with Tomkins doing the opposite. Obviously not something to try for the first time in a final though!

For Tautai should be out. The other is between Hamlin and Escare. I’m honestly undecided but leaning towards a bigger bench. I know Escare can have a bit of x-factor (sometimes) in attack but I simply don’t trust him at the back.

Its going to pour down on Saturday (a real shame for the event). We need four forwards on the bench - Escare is not much use to us in those conditions. Hamlin in his place.

Nah, its forecast a dry night but a wet pitch from the storm on friday.

All the forecasts I have seen it’s meant to lash it down all day and because of that I would play an extra forward.

At the moment the met office (usually the most accurate) is showing rain in the morning then starting again around 7pm. Difficult choice between Hamlin and Escare for me. I enjoy watching Escare. He adds flair and pace that we’re lacking. Hamlin’s drive and enthusiasm adds a lot too.

It tends to be a forwards based game in the wet weather and even more so in a Grand Final but on nights like those where ball movement is difficult, it can take an individual moment of magic to crack a game open and Escare is capable of that. I wouldn’t be looking to get more then 20/25 mins out of him but that could be enough.

Every forecast I have seen,including the Met office is predicting almost continuous rain through the day.

Quote: CobraCraig "Every forecast I have seen,including the Met office is predicting almost continuous rain through the day.'" https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/wea ... 2018-10-13

Quote: CobraCraig "Every forecast I have seen,including the Met office is predicting almost continuous rain through the day.'" https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/wea ... 2018-10-13

IS this a Rugby forum or weather watch forum?

I’id have Hamlin in the 17 going to be a game for the forwards if as expected it hammers it down

So would I we have any injuries in the backs we could move Bateman who could play centre we have utility player in Sargison but would we miss Escare's speed against a tiring side glad I don't have to make that decision.