While some captains of gotei 13 are unable to fight anymore, a hope rise from the vice captain (except Rukia. She is not a vice captain, but we know the reason behind it. Her power is equal to a vice captain actually).
Renji and Rukia has managed to beat one sternritter each. Renji beat James, the Superstar dan Rukia amazingly beat As Nodt, the Fearless. Both with new bankai.
Actually, it is not a surprise since they are well known characters in this story. What surprises me is the fact that 2nd seat of 4th division Kotetsu and 2nd seat of 13rd division Kusaji are confronted by a sternritter and show sign to fight back.
Will they be able to show breathtaking performance like Renji and Rukia?
I think this is the best moment for them to show their real power. I want to see they fight, since their ability has never been shown before in the story.
But my guess is: this is just a bridging for the appearance of Kenpachi. He will come to the rescue and kill a number of sternritter. Another possibility is either Shinji or Rose wake from their sleep and beat the sternritter.
We'll see.
