There is a full smorgasbord of five matches (out of six) involving New Zealand teams this weekend. Consequently, there is every show of five Kiwi victories.
Chiefs v Jaguares: Chiefs by 7
We know the Jaguares will fancy their scrum chances against the depleted Chiefs’ front-row, so is this the time to be resting Brodie Retallick for the second time? The Chiefs will, at least be refreshed after the bye, while the tourists will seek an extraordinary fourth straight road win.
Rebels v Crusaders: Crusaders by 18
Will Genia returns for the Rebels, but it will not be enough. Richie Mo’unga and Jack Goodhue are back for the Crusaders, who will be after more fluency after a mediocre second spell against the Brumbies. The trans-Tasman hoodoo will not end here.
Hurricanes v Lions: Hurricanes by 12
The Lions will be chastened after an upset defeat to the Reds, but do they have the firepower to trouble the Hurricanes, who had an uncomfortable review after dispatching the Sunwolves? Vince Aso is the unlucky one, and there looms several back three/four selection issues for messrs Boyd and Plumtree.
Waratahs v Blues: Blues by 4
Israel Folau has left his Twitter for the moment to suit up after a hamstring injury, so that will boost the Waratahs, who need to make a firm statement about their top billing in the Australian conference. The Blues should feel good about the fact that the big three – captain Augustine Pulu, Patrick Tuipulotu and Jerome Kaino – are back in harness as they head to the home of Manly Rugby League Club. It might just be enough to sneak the W.
Sharks v Highlanders: Highlanders by 5
Shannon Frizell is back in the No 6 jersey as the Highlanders will hope they do not have to rely on Lima Sopoaga's boot in the clutch nor that they again make a whole heap of tackles. They are up to either fallback option, but their discipline will need to be on point against a sharpshooter such as Robert du Preez junior. Waisake Naholo is returns to the wing and that spells danger for the Sharks' defence.
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