The new fantasy rugby season is approaching—it’s time to gear up and strategize your way to glory. Proper preparation can set your fantasy rugby team on a path to success from Round 1 onwards. Here’s your ultimate preseason preparation guide:
Analyze Last Season’s Trends and Data
Start by reviewing last season’s data. Identify consistent performers, emerging stars, and players whose form declined. Understanding past trends helps you predict future player performance and make informed selections. Note players who regularly earned bonus points through defensive actions, try assists, and kicking accuracy.
Monitor Pre-season and Friendly Matches
Pay attention to pre-season matches and friendlies, as they offer invaluable insights. These matches reveal team tactics, player fitness, positional shifts, and emerging talents. Observing these games closely provides critical hints about upcoming season prospects and helps refine your player shortlist.
Keep Track of Transfers and New Signings
Transfers significantly impact player opportunities and team dynamics. New arrivals can drastically change team structures, affecting fantasy points for existing squad members. Evaluate new signings to identify who is likely to secure starting roles, as these players can often be undervalued initially and offer excellent fantasy value.
Develop Your Draft Strategy
Draft day success sets the tone for your entire season. Prepare a comprehensive player-ranking list, considering multiple factors such as fixture difficulty, consistency, injury risk, and positional scarcity. Target positions with fewer high-scoring players first, ensuring a well-rounded and competitive fantasy squad.
Identify Early Fixture Opportunities
Early-season fixtures can significantly impact your standing. Identify teams and players with favorable early matchups. Accumulating points quickly provides a morale boost and competitive advantage, setting a solid foundation for the entire fantasy campaign.
Plan Your Captaincy and Transfers in Advance
Set out your initial captaincy strategy early. Determine your core group of reliable captain candidates and consider fixture rotations. Also, outline a preliminary transfer plan, anticipating periods with congested schedules or international breaks that can affect player availability.
Taking the time now to carefully prepare your fantasy rugby strategy will pay significant dividends throughout the season, putting you ahead of the competition right from the kickoff.