Western Force 2012 preview

Western Force coach Richard Graham has announced Aussie 'fetcher' David Pocock as their captain for the upcoming campaign.

Pocock can lead from the front

Western Force coach Richard Graham has announced Aussie 'fetcher' David Pocock as their captain for the upcoming campaign. Pocock is arguably the world's best opensider with an uncanny work rate and tremendous strength over the ball. His appointment will hopefully inspire his team to adopt a similar work ethic, which they'll need as rank underdogs in the competition. From entering Super Rugby in 2006, the Force improved immeasurably under the guidance of John Mitchell. Much has been expected of the Perth-based team, but their initial ascent has been marred more recently by a series of seasons scrapping around at the wrong end of the table. Their supporters remain a fervent bunch and have proved a real asset over the years, but one can understand the rumblings of discontent as expectations of a once hopeful brand have withered away quite dramatically. The crucial pivot position is likely to go to James Stannard, originally a No.9 and recently converted to 10. Although Stannard has proved an exciting option at 10 (due to his seven's background), it remains a risky option entering a Super Rugby campaign with an unrecognised decision maker. The force will rely heavily on the experienced players in their team, hoping that they can find the form to steer them away from the dreaded 'wooden spoon'.

Ex-Waratahs, Force and Australia centre Lachlan Mackay's verdict

It's going to be a tough season for the force, they've always had a competitive pack and an extremely strong back row, having four Wallabies to fill three spots, but once again may have found themselves a little thin in the backs, having lost James O'Connor to the Rebels and Willie Ripia to off-field issues. Whoever takes that ten spot has big shoes to fill. However two players I'm looking forward to watching are Napolioni Nalaga, the Fijian flyer who has come from Clermont where he scored tries for fun, won player of the year and having played against him while at Brive, I know just how hard he is to stop! The other is a fully fit Cameron Shepherd who on his day is one of the best athletes and finishers I've played with. I really hope he can have a big season and get back into the Wallabies frame. SS.com Prediction:
Wooden spoon.
Player to watch: Napolioni Nalaga - Has a phenomenal try scoring record and if given space will do a lot of damage to the opposition.