Set pieces a work in progress for Sunwolves
Set pieces have not been the strongest area of the Sunwolves' game in this year's Super Rugby competition and Hammett knows that they will need to address their shortcomings in this area of their game if they are to be more competitive against some of the competition's stronger teams.
"It is an issue, but in time with coaching, strength and conditioning programs and more understanding I actually believe it won't be an issue," said Hammett, who was addressing reporters at Newlands on Thursday ahead of his team's Round Seven clash with the Stormers.
"The Japanese are immensely strong and quite explosive. There is also big a Korean influence as well and they are also powerful men so it would be interesting if we had a crystal ball and could see what it (set pieces) would be like in ten years."
The Sunwolves will be tested even more in the scrums and line-outs against a Stormers outfit who pride themselves on their set-piece play and Hammett is under no illusions of how tough it will be against the Cape side.
"In all the years that I have been playing, they have always been pretty damn good.
"Set pieces are always a strong characteristic of any South African side – whereas we probably enjoy playing a bit more.
"In saying that the Stormers have scored some outstanding tries this year. They play with really good width once they get over the advantage line so we know it is a heck of a challenge," he added.
Hammett, who was a robust hooker in his playing days, is very familiar with Newlands. He was inlvolved in many Super Rugby matches their with the Crusaders and he is well aware of the boisterous support the Stormers get at home.
"I love it. I have been here so many times.
"They tell you that that they are going to kill you on the way in and kill you with kindness on the way out – win or lose. That is the great thing about playing here at Newlands. It's probably one of the best rugby stadiums in the world," said Hammett.
By Warren Fortune
@FortuneWarren
@rugby365com
