Three things it must do
Tackle: The side scored 49 tries last year — a record — but also conceded 44 which was far too many. It has the attacking ability but needs to tighten up on defence. Ben Herring has come into the assistant coaching role and is looking to shore up the defence.
Set piece basics: For all the brickbats this competition gets it is still about the basics. Get the scrum and lineout right and things will roll from there. The intensity of defence is a step below Super rugby so if sides can get the ball it will find it easier to get on the front foot. That starts up front.
Good start: Otago has four games in 15 days to start the season, all against teams from the Championship. It needs to win at least three of these as some tough assignments await.
Three key players
Jonathan Ruru: Halfback from Hawke’s Bay will be important with Josh Renton gone and Kaide Whiting struggling injury-wise. Has some nice touches to his play but unproven at this level.
Fletcher Smith: Got some valuable experience with the Highlanders. A player of some promise it is time for him to deliver. Still only 21 though, so still has some growing to do.
Paul Grant: Been away for a couple of years and will want to come back and dominate games. Was a form player when he left.
Three question marks
Backing up: How many of the side’s Super rugby players will be too tired to front up?
Lock depth: Has the second row got enough depth to sustain any injuries?
Laws: Will the trial laws change the game much? For better of worse?