Friday
- Crusaders v Sharks (9.35am)
In a top-of-the-table clash to open this weekend’s Super Rugby action, the Sharks fancy their chances after the Crusaders rested a number of All Blacks for the encounter.
But having beaten the Waratahs last weekend, the Sharks’ battle will once again be against consistency.
- Reds v Sunwolves (11.45am)
The Sunwolves are once again at the foot of the Super Rugby table, but they have shown this year that they can produce the goods.
For the Reds it will be a tough encounter if they underestimate their visitors.
Saturday
- Hurricanes v Rebels (7.15am)
The Rebels are still at the top of the Australian Conference and will fancy their chances.
Having slaughtered the Chiefs last weekend, the Canes will enter the match as favourites.
- Highlanders v Chiefs (9.35am)
It's been a tough season to date for the Chiefs from Waikato.
Second-from-bottom, they have not reached the same heights as in years gone by and, at home, the Highlanders will be out to prove that they are a better team than their visitors.
- Brumbies v Blues (11.45am)
Four wins in nine matches, the Blues are on the up.
While they don’t have Rieko Ioane available for this clash, the Blues have more than enough firepower in their backline.
- Bulls v Waratahs (3.05pm)
Having lost to the Stormers last weekend, the Bulls know they have to win to keep their hopes of a playoff spot alive.
With the Crusaders coming up next week, followed by their tour of Australia, coach Pote Human’s men know they can’t afford to drop points at home.
- Jaguares v Stormers (9.40pm)
A lot has been made of the hostile reception the Stormers will get in Buenos Aires.
And with captain Siya Kolisi unavailable, the other leaders in the team have to step up if they want to bag the log points.
At home, the Jaguares are expected to beat the Stormers, but Steven Kitshoff and his teammates will have to prove that they’ve got the necessary hunger to make the playoffs and win this game if they want to be taken seriously in this competition.