Predictions: Six Nations, Super Rugby, Top 14
It’s the final weekend of the Six Nations/Super Rugby crossover period, meaning a ton of high-quality matches await.
All eyes will be on England’s chase of a second consecutive Grand Slam, after Scotland host Italy and France take on Wales on Saturday.
There are also five matches in Super Rugby on Saturday as well as a full slate of games over the weekend in the Top 14.
Here’s our thoughts on who will come out on top.
SIX NATIONS
Preview: Vern Cotter’s men will be reeling after their Six Nations hopes were snuffed out by a massive 61-21 loss to England last weekend where they conceded a demoralising eight tries.
Prediction: Scotland will be ailing after their big loss last week and will want to show they’re better than that, so expect a ruthless backlash from the Scots. Scotland by 20.
Preview: Although both les Bleus and Wales have delivered impressive performances, they are still some way off the standard set by England who claimed narrow wins over these sides earlier in the competition.
Prediction: This will be an entertaining spectacle and should go down to the wire. Although France are on their own turf, Wales will pip them by three points!
Preview: They look the real deal at the moment and slack Scottish midfield defence or not, the English threw down a marker at Twickenham last week.
Prediction: Try as they no doubt will, it’s going to be difficult for Ireland to stop this English machine. England to win by five.
SUPER RUGBY
Prediction: The Sunwolves looked good last week but after two losses and a bye expect a massive Bulls backlash on Friday. Bulls by 15.
Prediction: Home win here as the ‘Canes get back to winning ways and condemn the Highlanders to a third defeat. Hurricanes by eight.
Prediction: This is a difficult one to call as both sides are yet to reach their peak this year. After their win over the Force, the Brumbies hold a slight edge and Foley’s absence will be a blow for the ‘Tahs. Brumbies to win by five points.
Prediction: Although the Reds will be competitive for large periods, the home side will have too much firepower in their own backyard. Lions to win by 12 points!
Prediction: The Sharks are historically good against the Kings and that shouldn’t change this weekend, especially since they are playing in Durban. Sharks by 20.
Prediction: The Cheetahs’ selection and Jaguares bright start to the season should lead to a healthy home victory, likely with a bonus point, as the Jagaures bid to go top of Africa 2. Jaguares by 14.
TOP 14
La Rochelle v Brive: La Rochelle by 15
Bayonne v Bordeaux-Bègles: UBB by 6
Clermont Auvergne v Pau: Clermont by 10
Toulouse v Lyon: Toulouse by 6
Grenoble v Toulon: Toulon by 8