It’s hard to believe that not so long ago, the final game of the Super Rugby 2011 took place. On the morning of the 9th of July 2011 the final game saw a clash between the Aussie Reds and the New Zealand Crusaders, with the latter winning 18 points to the Reds’ 13 points. So what’s happened to the South African teams you may ask? Well, in the last five years of Super Rugby (2007-2011), South African teams have featured in the finals five times in four of the finals and won the trophy three times; with the Bulls taking the trophy on all three occasions (in 2007, 2009 and 2010).

Previous Finals Winners (2007 – 2011)

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With such a long season and aggressive game schedule, it’s no wonder that the team make-up will be changed up somewhat. Some of the top players in each team have either retired, or opted to pursue their sport in another country. Victor Matfield, who after 12 years of rugby including Captaining the National team for four years, has retired from play. He is still coaching the Bulls side on a consultancy base, however.

“It’s been good so far…Today is all about finding my feet and fitting in. What makes it a bit easier is that I know the systems the guys work with and even though they’ve been training on their own for two months, it’s just a case of looking for small adjustments at this stage. I want to make a contribution to make a difference for the team.” Victor says, (News24).

Another loss to the team is that of Jacque Fourie, who played for the Stormers, and who is said to be chasing the yen this year. Other great players to leave are: Fourie du Preez, Danie Russouw, as well as Bakkies Botha who now plays for a club in France, to name but a few.

On a lighter note, the new Super Rugby season is almost here and everyone is getting revved up to support their teams. This is the second of its kind to host not 12, not 14, but 15 teams in the fight for the ultimate championship. Your calendar for all the fixtures for 2012 is available below, just make sure you don’t miss out.
Also, check out our rugby apparel shop for your teams apparel, or get into the game with balls and kits from our rugby store.

Super Rugby Fixtures 2012

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