The numbers are stacked Brazil's way in this year's rookie class. They've got five CT grenhorns packing for their maiden campaign. Five! Some years that's as many rookies as all the nations combined. But nope, this year it's one apiece from Oz, the US, and South Africa*, and a full five to join an expanding storm front.

Numbers aside, it's the fella from the US - San Clemente to be specific - that they'll quietly be eyeing. Of the 8 rookies, Griffin Colapinto comes into the season with the most expectation, not all of it unfounded when you see this li'l showreel. Also, he won't be wilting from the pressure if the freestyle rap thing is any guide to pluck.

*Michael February will likely replace the injured Julian Wilson at Snapper, then after Mick retires at Bells he'll surf each contest.