I didn't say Stack would play the Ellis role but I reckon Stack could play anywhere (even ruck). Houli could play the role easily and better than Ellis did (but you lose that defensive linkman). Short has the same lack of run with the flight ability Ellis had so could see him playing the role.
Ellis was borderline best 22, he is eminently replaceable as indicated in his interview recently - he was told he would not be renewed in 2020 halfway through 2019. That's not a vital cog right there.
WIll Naish play in a practice match - likely. Will he be best 22 this year if no injuries? No chance. Zero, zip.
Oh, and you are so wrong on Baker, he will not be dropped. He will be top 10 B&F this year, the kid is a bona fide future gun.
love baker. Will play a ton of games for us. Stack will go back and something’s gotta give.
bakes won’t be top 10, you’re on the meth.
stack comes in regardless, no one said he wouldn’t.
and you underestimate Ellis.
for a guy who was told he was expendable halfway through the season, we clearly valued him enough to take him into a second grand final when we had a reasonably injury free list.
he’s worth more than we can pay, simples
and finally, no one said Naish is best 22. I said he will feature heavily in our pre season games.
by the end of the season, who knows?