The NSW Waratahs are on guard against a first-round ambush as they prepare to face competition's newcomers, the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua this Friday in the opening match of the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Winless in 2021, the Waratahs enter their season opener at Commbank Stadium with renewed confidence after an unbeaten trial campaign against the Queensland Reds, Brumbies and combined Shute Shield opposition.
NSW attacking coach Chris Whitaker says the Drua's talents were there for all to see during their initiation in the National Rugby Championship from 2017 to 2019, including their win in 2018.
He says they're freak athletes and not short on recruiting some talents.
Whitaker says whether they're starting the game or finishing the game, they've all got natural ability and, once they start to click, they will be a dangerous team and that's for sure.
The Waratahs meet the Drua at 8.45pm this Friday.
In other matches, the Chiefs will take on the Highlanders at 3.35pm Saturday, the Crusaders will play the Hurricanes at 6.05pm Saturday, the Reds will face the Rebels at 8.45pm Saturday and the Brumbies meet the Western Force at 3pm Sunday.
[Source: Rugby.com.au]
