Be interesting to see how this game is refereed, Wigan are probably the worst team in the league for unlawfully slowing down the ruck but it will be interesting to see if the same standard is set that was in the Saints Catalan game or if they will just let the usual slide; hands/knees in at the play the ball, players climbing around the tackled player to get to marker, players laying on.

Agree, K Wood can play the full 80 but is a lot more effective when played in stints, likewise with J Wood from what I have seen.

I am a fan of having a hooker on the bench as they can usually cover the halves as well should they be needed.

Are the games televised?

I agree. Its going to be important to have fresh players who can take advantage of those that are not fresh.
Possession as said is going to be vital. Wigan are good at that. Hopefully they'll get pinged for holding down and we get the 6 again but I can see it going more the other way if we are not careful.

Can't wait.

First weekend is.

Good news is that Ben Thaler will be the ref.

That is good news, I think Thaler reffed the Saints Catalan game really well, especially the new 6 again rule - Hicks seemed almost afraid to over-use it which led to it not making much difference to the ruck at all.

It was nothing to do with ‘pay reduction talks’ or ‘contract discussions’ or anything to do with pay whatsoever

Apparently all August games are at the moment.

Ashurst out with a hamstring injury, Jordy C is also injured

Didn't mention Hampshire on his injured list so he might be available.

Gigot and Kay starting

First time I've heard Chester say he is formally giving Max a run at half back. He said Gigot and Walker ate fighting for full back with Rocky and Max fighting for half back.

I think Vasty was the first I saw talking about him being a half and I just didn't see it. How wrong I was.

Where will Hampshire be playing do you think ?

I always thought Jowitt was more a stand off than full back.

What position did he play his junior rugby in?