Week Five: Kynan's Team

* New buys in italics

FR Stephen Moore (AUS) - $1,172,500
FR Andrew Hore (NZL) - $1,155,000

LK Nathan Sharpe (AUS) - $1,212,500
LK Isaac Ross (NZL) - $720,000

LF George Smith (AUS) - $1,207,500
LF Richie McCaw (NZL) - $1,242,500

HV Dan Carter (NZL) - $1,272,500
HV Matt Giteau (AUS) - $1,295,000

CT Berrick Barnes (AUS) - $1,250,000
CT James O'Conner (AUS) - $860,000

OB Adam Ashley-Cooper (AUS) - $1,172,500
OB Drew Mitchell (AUS) - $1,250,000

Team Value: $13,810,000
Cash in Bank: $920,000

So money has become no object, for some reason. James O'Connor and Isaac Ross help, but I put it down to some judicious trading in earlier rounds, buying low, selling high and all the rest of it.

I am extremely Aussie heavy, which is by stratagem more so than foresight into the game's result. Australia play three weeks in a row, so when faced with the choice between an Aussie or Kiwi of similar worth, I went Aussie (conserves trades, which are looking slim again).

Otherwise, I'm really happy with my team. I'm looking to improve on my 8th in the world rank, and have a pretty good shot at it with this selection. My only wish is Rocky Elsom - I have the money, but not the trades (though George Smith is no slouch and may outscore Rocky, but I have a good feeling about the returning monster.)