Predictions: November Tests, PRO14 and Top 14

Editor

This year’s November internationals gets underway this weekend with England’s encounter against South Africa top of the bill on Saturday.

The Test action kicks off in Tokyo where Japan host the world champions, New Zealand, before Wales and Scotland do battle for the Doddie Weir Cup in Cardiff and Ireland and Italy go head-to-head in Chicago.

Elsewhere, there are also a full round of matches in the PRO14 and Top 14.

See who we’re backing below.

NOVEMBER TESTS

England v South Africa

Preview: An injury-stricken England will look to get their November campaign off to a positive start when they take on South Africa at Twickenham on Saturday.

Prediction: South Africa may be without Faf de Klerk but England have so many injuries that the visitors should take it. Springboks by six.

Japan v New Zealand

Preview: New Zealand will be determined to hit the ground running when they kick off their end-of-year tour against Japan in Tokyo on Saturday.

Prediction: Although this is an inexperienced All Blacks side, they will still have too much firepower for their hosts. New Zealand to win by 20 points.

Wales v Scotland

Preview: Scotland will be looking for revenge when they open their November international series against Wales at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday.

Prediction: There shouldn’t be too much to choose between the sides. Wales by 10!

Ireland v Italy

Preview: Ireland return to the scene of one of their most famous triumphs when they face Italy in Chicago in their November Test opener on Saturday.

Prediction: It’s tough to see Italy coming close at Soldier Field. Ireland by 25.

PRO14

Edinburgh v Scarlets: Scarlets by 8
Ospreys v Glasgow Warriors: Glasgow Warriors by 6
Connacht v Dragons: Connacht by 9
Benetton Rugby v Ulster: Ulster by 5
Cardiff Blues v Zebre: Cardiff Blues by 7
Cheetahs v Munster: Munster by 6
Southern Kings v Leinster: Leinster by 10

TOP 14

Grenoble v Clermont: Clermont by 11
Castres v Pau: Castres by 8
Toulon v Perpignan: Toulon by 5
La Rochelle v Agen: La Rochelle by 9
Toulouse v Bordeaux Bègles: Toulouse by 7
Lyon v Stade Français: Stade Français by 4
Montpellier v Racing 92: Racing 92 by 3