Despite sitting sixth on the ladder with just four wins to their name so far this season, almost everyone you speak to around clubland seems certain Bond are still a smoky this season.

Under new coach Mick Heenan, last year’s minor premiers are yet to fire on full cylinders in 2024, but star outside back Rhian Stowers seems confident his side’s best isn’t too far away.

“We’ve been a bit of a mixed bag so far this year,” Stowers told Rugby News.

“We’ve been competing against all the best teams in the competition but our last 10 minutes in most games has really let us down.

“We haven’t had as much experience as we’ve had in previous years, but as the season has gone on, some of those colts that have come into grade have really adjusted to the intensity of first grade and I think it’s starting to click for them.”