Predictions: Super Rugby, Round 18
Ahead of the penultimate round of the regular Super Rugby season, we are putting our head on the block and picking our winners.
The Chiefs, Hurricanes, Sharks and Jaguares will look to boost their play-off prospects, while the Waratahs will attempt to win the Australian Conference when they face the Sunwolves in the third match of the day.
SUPER RUGBY
Chiefs v Brumbies
Preview: The Chiefs take on the Brumbies in Hamilton on Saturday in what should be a thrilling trans-Tasman encounter between two of the tournament’s in-form sides.
Prediction: Both sides will be brimming with confidence after notching wins last week but the Chiefs will have the edge on their home turf. Chiefs by 8.
Hurricanes v Blues
Preview: The Hurricanes will be looking to arrest a three-game losing streak when they entertain the Blues at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on Saturday.
Prediction: Beauden Barrett’s return to spark the hosts into life. Hurricanes by 12.
Waratahs v Sunwolves
Preview: Following a potentially season-defining victory over the Rebels, the Waratahs will look to take a step closer to winning the Australian Conference on Saturday.
Prediction: The Sunwolves have improved but the Australian outfit should have far too much for them on Saturday, particularly with a home game in the play-offs beckoning. Waratahs by 20.
Bulls v Jaguares
Preview: The Jaguares can go top of the South African Conference if they beat the Bulls in their Super Rugby fixture at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
Prediction: Could it be win number eight in a row? We think so. Jaguares by 5.
Stormers v Sharks
Preview: The Sharks have given themselves a chance of reaching the play-offs and they will look to continue their fine recent form at the Stormers on Saturday.
Prediction: Robert du Preez’s men have won their last four against the Stormers and we think that they will make it five in a row. Sharks by 5.