- Original article: Rugby: Players to watch in the Super 15 .
Seta Tamanivalu (Chiefs)
He was the star of last year's ITM Cup, but Seta Tamanivalu never quite got going for the Chiefs. A damaging runner, the Taranaki centre set his backline alight with his ability to make breaks and create something from nothing. Big, strong ball-carriers do not always translate well to a higher level though, as defences tend to be tougher and players do not get away with raw ability so much. That probably held back Tamanivalu, as he did not see much so playing time, making just six appearances. Do not write him off just yet though, he will take time to adapt. Even after a quiet campaign he was called into the All Black squad as cover, showing Steve Hansen is still keeping an eye on him.
Dan Pryor (Highlanders)
Dan Pryor has been long overdue a decent chance in Super Rugby and this season proved why. A strong, powerful runner in the open, but equally a physical and desperate defender, Pryor was outstanding in so many ways for the Highlanders. He was used in varying roles and did well in each, covering all three looseforward positions at different stages, while also being used off bench for impact. That versatility made him valuable, but it came as a result of his well-rounded game which he lifted to ensure he was making the same impact in Super Rugby as he was in the ITM Cup. Definitely one of the season's big successes, do not be surprised if Pryor steps in to fill the No. 8 jersey left vacant by Nasi Manu.
Michael Leitch (Chiefs)
The New Zealand-born, Japanese captain, Michael Leitch got better and better as the season went on. Playing in the looseforwards for the Chiefs, Leitch brought a physical game and provided good go-forward with ball in hand. His work-rate was high throughout, always going looking for ball to carry or tackles to make. In his side's playoff encounter with the Highlanders he came on midway through the first half and made an immediate difference, proving a handful for the defence to bring down. He was Japan's best player at the last World Cup, expect him to be similarly good this time around.
Nehe Milner-Skudder (Hurricanes)
The man is now an All Black, enough said. After a sublime ITM Cup Nehe Milner-Skudder exceeded everyone's expectations and was one of the stars of an outstanding Hurricanes team. In space there were few who could contain him, with his speed and quick feet making him tough to reel in. Used as both a winger and fullback, Milner-Skudder was so often the one to create the break or exploit the smallest of gaps to force the defence to scramble. Whether he has the full skill set of a fullback at this stage is questionable, but there is no denying his ability on the counter-attack. Without having even played for them yet, he is already being talked about as a possibility to make the final All Blacks squad to go to the World Cup.
Maama Vaipulu (Chiefs)
Maama Vaipulu was probably the biggest snub when the 2014 Super Rugby squads were named, but he more than held his own in this year's competition. Competing with a handful of other very good looseforwards for game time, Vaipulu made ten appearances for the Chiefs. While not emerging as a superstar, he was strong carrying the ball and made his tackles, showing that he is certainly a useful player at this level.
Ross Geldenhuys (Highlanders)
The strong-running Tasman prop was a handy player to finish of games for the Highlanders this year, although hindsight will tell us Brendon Edmonds would have been a better choice here. Even so, Geldenhuys was certainly a good pick up. He carried the ball well and while not quite the prolific tackler Edmonds and Josh Hohneck were, he was reliable in making the ones he did make. On top of that, he was part of the much-improved set-piece that was so strong towards the end of the season.
Damian McKenzie (Chiefs)
Damian McKenzie was so good the Chiefs kept him when the rest of best Under 20 players in the country went to the World Championships. Aaron Cruden's injury had a lot to do with that, but it would not have been a surprise had the Chiefs tried to keep him even with Cruden fit. Capable of playing both first five-eighth and fullback, McKenzie took the step up with no problem at all, looking just as threatening running the ball as he had at lower levels. He has a great eye for a gap and has the pace and agility to go through them, while also bringing the ability to draw defenders to create gaps for those outside him. There are still some weaknesses in his game, but at just 20 years old he still has plenty of time iron these out. Watch this space.
Other newcomers to make an impact
Waisake Naholo (Highlanders)
Clearly the biggest snub from this article. Probably the most dangerous attacking player in the competition and knew his way to the try line. Tamanivalu was chosen ahead of him, being a similarly dangerous threat with ball in hand while playing for the same team and making a bigger impact than anyone else in the ITM Cup.
Brendon Edmonds (Highlanders)
Looked okay for New Zealand Maori at the end of last year, but nothing like the star he emerged as for the Highlanders. Got around the field at pace, was physical, scrummed well and kept making tackles.
Alex Ainley (Highlanders)
Another Highlander, but another justified one too, Alex Ainley went from strength to strength this year. A hard-working lock, he was fast around the field and worked hard in the tight. It is still hard to believe he is 33 years old.
Callum Gibbons (Hurricanes)
The Manawatu and Hurricanes flanker went close to making the original list, but was axed at the last minute. Had a tough time breaking into the starting XV with so much talent in the capital, but impressed nonetheless with a combination of a solid attacking and busy defensive game.
Otere Black (Hurricanes)
Another who stood out for Manawatu last year, although at the time it seemed Super Rugby might be a bit of a step up for such a young player. He only played four games, but he was outstanding in each of them and is definitely a player the All Blacks will have an eye on for the future.
