Predictions 2020: How badly did we get it wrong?
IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR: While #COVID-19 has put the sport in an unexpected hiatus, we decided the lull is a good time to revisit our pre-season predictions.
It is an interesting exercise, with some not so surprising results – given our bold forebodings.
The biggest jaw-dropper, without doubt, is the performances of the Sharks.
We were also pretty accurate with the progress – or lack thereof – of the Bulls and Lions.
We look back at our predictions for the four South African franchises!
Sharks
Current position: First
Games played: Seven
Points: 24
Our pre-season predictions
South African Conference Placing: Fifth
Super Rugby Placing: Twelve or lower
Our current predictions
South African Conference Placing: First
Super Rugby Placing: First
Stormers
Current position: Seventh
Games played: Six
Points: 17
Our pre-season predictions
South African Conference Placing: First
Super Rugby Placing: Third
Our current predictions
South African Conference Placing: Second
Super Rugby Placing: Seventh
Bulls
Current position: 11th
Games played: Six
Points: Six
Our pre-season predictions
South African Conference Placing: third
Super Rugby Placing: Outside the top 10
Our current predictions
South African Conference Placing: Fourth
Super Rugby Placing: Eleventh
Lions
Current position: 13th
Games played: Six
Points: Five
Our pre-season predictions
South African Conference Placing: Fourth
Super Rugby Placing: Outside the top 10
Our current predictions
South African Conference Placing: Fifth
Super Rugby Placing: Thirteenth
@rugby365com pre-season previews
Roller coaster ride continues
The perfect storm?
Something old, something blue
New beginnings