The Waratahs have, on average, made the play-offs once every two years since their first semi-final appearance in 2002. With a record like that, anything less than a quarter-final outing will be disappointing for Daryl Gibson's men.
For Kiwi coach Daryl Gibson this season will be make-or-break. The deterioration of the side’s results under his watch hasn’t gone to plan for the Waratah’s succession planning.
The Highlanders have beaten the NSW Waratahs 55-29 in their pre-season Super Rugby match in Queenstown, whilst the Hurricanes and Blues have trounced the Crusaders and Chiefs in their New Zealand derbies.