Rugby: Waratahs the team to beat says Macqueen

Rebels coach Rod Macqueen. Photo / Getty Images

Melbourne Rebels coach Rod Macqueen has declared the Waratahs as the deserved favourites to win their first Super Rugby title in 2011.

The Waratahs are not rated in the top three by most bookies but Macqueen says he considers them the team to beat in the revamped competition.

The new Melbourne franchise faces a baptism of fire on Friday night when they kick off the season at home before an expected full house against the Waratahs.

- NEWSTALK ZB