He may be playing in Japan Top League right now with Kurita Water Gush. But the good news is that he is set to return to NSW Waratahs ahead of 2022. The confirmation is not offical just yet.
At least it will add much needed experience. Especially with the second row options are youth. But they need mentoring so Ned is the ideal man. So these kids can be comfortable playing Super Rugby in the long-term. He is 25 years old who has lot of energy left to contribute. As this team is going through a very tough time in both ways. Having seen Rob Penney dismissed before last week.
And the losses still pile up against them after five meetings. Despite a much improved performance v the Brumbies at home. Thanks to the return of half-back Jake Gordon from injury. It goes to show that the Tahs are a young side right now.
But more experienced heads would make up their rebuilding phase. Once they get Hanigan back. The next task is stop Angus Bell from going to a rival Super Rugby club. This board should take account of their failures of late. And take things different that would stop them from repeating the same errors. Tahs giving what the young loosehead prop wants will be great. Then they can imagine a brilliant forward line from the 2022 SR season.
Angus Bell & Harry Johnson-Holmes in the props. Tom Horton as the main hooker. Ned Hanigan & Jeremy Williams just behind the front three. Before you add Lachie Swinton, Michael Hooper & Will Harris as back rowers. That is a balanced department of both youth & experience.
Same goes with the nine & ten duo of Jake Gordon & Will Harrison. As would the midfield pairing in the centres. Such as Lalakai Foketi & Izaia Perese. I would be alright with Jack Maddocks or Mark Nawaqanitawase at full-back. Just an experience winger or two would complete this rebuild. If the Tahs do really want to spend $2 million during the off season.
Plus another experienced lock & number 8 would not go amiss. Just in case if the Tahs still have some spare money. For now the interim co-coaching system has gave them a boost. Thanks to number of stars back from injury/suspension. In which backed up their improved run despite the narrow loss. All eyes on the board to address these key issues within management. Or everyone else will not thrive without a rugby dominated state.
