You have to add in Team Gai to any discussion with the Rookie 9. That's 12. What about the Sand Sibs? That's 15. What about Kakashi, Gai, Jiraiya, and Tsunade?
So I don't think Kishimoto was thinking 9 Akatsuki for the Rookie 9. It's just a coincidence with Sakura, Shika, and Naruto.
Besides, Sasori, Kakuzu, and Hidan were defeated by two main characters and the most important non Team 7 former genin. It's not like we are going to see less important charaters like Kiba, Ino, or Hinata solo an Akatsuki.
Quote:
Originally Posted by ajay29
Shino - Zetsu
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I can't see Kishi letting Shino fight someone that powerful. He's not either strong nor important enough.
Team 8 with Kurenai maybe, but no way Shino on his own.