The quantity of quality players arriving in Sydney to play Shute Shield this year has been nothing short of amazing. Playing alongside the best young and established talent in Australia, it’s taken the competition to new highs in the opening five rounds.

We’ve picked out the 10 new recruits who have impressed us the most in the opening five rounds.

10) Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens - Southern Districts

Former Fiji U20s and Taranaki ITM Cup fullback Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens has given Southern Districts plenty of strike in the opening five rounds.

Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens is a tall, fast outside back with a really smart footy brain.

9) Kainoa Gudgeon - Gordon