Super Rugby 2011 has a higher attrition rate than any season on record and the Team of the Round reflects this with plenty of first choice superstar players injured and so they don't make this team.  There are plenty of bargains with Riaan Viljoen and Peter Betham the most unlikely outside backs.  The competition moves into unchartered waters with still about a third of the competition remaining and most squads resembling casualty wards.  Both the Crusaders and Highlanders finished their matches with a loose forward on the wing after losing so many backs to injury during the game.  The Crusaders still seem to be able to cope, but the smallest franchise the Highlanders are struggling to come to terms with it.  This is the time of year when the depth of the extended squads is tested and it leaves you wondering why they decided to extend the competition in a Rugby World Cup year?  There will be so many casualties by the end of the competition.

Super Rugby Round 12 Team of the Round

1 Wyatt Crockett FR CRU 1 475 475 $687,500 

2 Jason Rutledge FR HGH 1 410 410 $1,045,000

1 James Broadhurst LK HUR 1 330 330 $670,000 

2 Hugh Pyle LK REB 1 280 280 $697,500

Liam Messam LF CHF 1 510 510 $1,155,000 

2 Victor Vito LF HUR 1 380 380 $1,017,500

1 Quade Cooper HV RED 1 420 420 $1,445,000 

2 Aaron Cruden HV HUR 1 405 405 $955,000

1 Digby Ioane CT RED 1 420 420 $1,112,500 

2 Jaque Fourie CT STM 1 335 335 $1,085,000

1 Riaan Viljoen OB CHE 1 690 690 $930,000 

2 Peter Betham OB REB 1 390 390 $547,500

There are still plenty of New Zealanders in the Super Rugby Team of the Round 12

6 New Zealand

4 Australia

2 South Africa

By team

3 Hurricanes

2 Reds

2 Rebels

1 Cheetahs

1 Highlanders

1 Crusaders

1 Chiefs

1 Stormers



What do you think of the extended competition and the injuries this season?  Is it stupid to have so many games in Rugby World Cup year?  Have your say!

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