Super Rugby 2013: 5 AU backs to watch out for

The annual Super Rugby tournament is around the corner, and the prestigious event is set to have a big showing in 2013.

While taking a look at some of the players that will be in the limelight next year, Australia have a number of game-changing individuals that you should look out for in 2013.

Check out the AU backs that you should keep an eye out for this season:

Israel Folau (NSW Waratahs)

One of the big stories in Australian rugby was that of try-scoring sensation Israel Folau converting from league to union, in order to join the Waratahs for the 2013 Super Rugby season. Folau began playing rugby league with the Melborne Storm and Brisbane Broncos, before trying his hand with in the AFL. The 23-year old had to lose a little bit of bulk playing AFL, but his pace, strength and unquestionable ability to find the tryline will be something to watch out for in 2013.

Henry Speight (Brumbies)

Henry Speight is the unsung hero of the Brumbies 2012 season. The Fijian-born winger showed blistering pace and incredible strength to beat defenders in one-on-one situations time and time again throughout 2012. With players such as Christian Lealiifano and Pat McCabe inside of Speight, along with the coaching of Jake White, expect to see this 97 kg speedster under the uprights a number of times.

Ben Tapuai  (Queensland Reds)

Ben Tapuai is one of the emerging talents of Australian rugby, and has racked up some experience with the national side and the Reds, showing solid combinations with playmaker Quade Cooper and fellow centre Anthony Fainga’a. If Tapuai continues his straight running, hard hitting and quick-reading of the game, he will be one of the highlights of the star-studded Reds backline in 2013.

James O’Connor (Melborne Rebels)

O’Connor is an obvious selection – he’s one of the biggest sports stars in Australia, as well as having incredible international experience for his age; but on-going injury throughout 2012 saw the 22-year old miss out on the European tests. O’Connor will be looking to return with an impression and be at the forefront of attack for his second season with the Melbourne Rebels. O’Connor’s versatility and quick feet will definitely be on show in 2013.

Quade Cooper (Queensland Reds)

Quade Cooper needs no introduction, but due to the recent controversies surrounding the Reds and Wallabies fly-half’s off-field antics, all eyes will definitely be on Cooper in 2013. After rumours of a rugby league contract in the works, and an interest in a boxing career (following the footsteps of close friend Sonny Bill Williams), Cooper’s dedication to the game of union has been questioned; but while still being contracted with the Reds, Cooper has a lot of critics to silence in 2013.