Fantasy International Rugby: Final Round Preview

Bryan Habana has plenty of motivation for a big game against Argentina this weekend. Photo / AP

While all eyes are focused on the main event, I have mine firmly set on the bronze medal match between South Africa and Argentina.

If we presume fantasy points are largely reliant on match-ups, then this final round will see you exploit the players involved in the bronze medal match, rather than the gold.

Over the course of this event's history the final has generated, on average, a stingy 29 points and 1.6 tries per game.

However, when we look at third-place playoffs, those encounters have produced an average of 38 points and 3.7 tries.

There's a clear difference to be observed statistically; as well as with your own eyes. There's less pressure on players and team tactics swing more towards an exhibition style of play in which risk is something to be embraced.

With all this in mind, both the Springbok and Puma squads will be the best place to look for points this weekend.

However, there are always exceptions to the rule and players that seem to perform no matter the occasion.

Dan Carter and Bernard Foley are sure to have plenty of kicking opportunities while Ma'a Nonu and Jerome Kaino look to be putting everything in to what will be their final flings and are great selections.

Rob Simmons, Richie McCaw and Scott Fardy have also been huge at the pointy end of this game.

Before setting your squads, please make note of the below changes to sides and keep an eye on the Herald Rugby site for any last-minute injury news.

Good luck to all those competing for the overall Fantasy International Rugby title as well as those who aim to top their groups. Below is my team to select for the round ahead, based on career stats, recent form and the match up.

DR STATS XV

Front Row
Dane Coles, New Zealand, $72,800
Bismarck du Plessis, South Africa, $78,900
Julian Montoya, Argentina, $79,200

Second Row
Eben Etzebeth, South Africa, $68,700
Rob Simmons, Australia, $68,100

Back Row
Francois Louw, South Africa, $90,700
Jerome Kaino, New Zealand, $78,300
Duane Vermeulen, South Africa, $112,100

Halfback
Aaron Smith, New Zealand, $69,100

First Five
Nicolas Sanchez, Argentina, $218,600

Centre/Wings
Santiago Cordero, Argentina, $171,300
Ma'a Nonu, New Zealand, $136,700
Damian de Allende, South Africa, $116,000
Bryan Habana, South Africa, $128,900

Fullback
Ben Smith, New Zealand, $143,700

Listen to Radio Sport every week, the day before each fantasy round gets underway, to hear Dr Stats chat with D'Arcy Waldegrave about the latest fantasy news and advice.

On the bench:
James Slipper, Australia (benched)
Wyatt Crockett, New Zealand (out)
Fourie du Preez, South Africa (out)
Lood de Jager, South Africa (benched)
Joaquin Tuculet, Argentina (out)
Marcelo Bosch, Argentina (out)
Juan Martin Hernandez, Argentina (out)
Juan Imhoff, Argentina (out)
Leonardo Senatore, Argentina (out)
Pablo Matera, Argentina (out)
Agustin Creevy, Argentina (out)
Guido Petti, Argentina (benched)
Martin Landajo, Argentina (benched)