With all five Kiwi sides involved in four separate matches this weekend, 1 NEWS NOW rugby expert Campbell Burnes breaks down the latest round of Super Rugby action.
Blues v Hurricanes: Hurricanes by 6
There seems to be a strange groundswell of support for the Blues tonight. Maybe it is Sonny Bill Williams' return or the fact some punter outlaid $100k on the Canes to win. Of more import is the fact that Murphy Taramai is again being played out of position at openside, meaning Ardie Savea will be all over the breakdown. Still, the looming bad weather should make it close.
Crusaders v Waratahs: Crusaders by 14
The phony war that is the Israel Folau saga continues, but it will not affect the Crusaders one iota as they seek a third straight win over the Australian sides (chalk up No 39 overall in this hoodoo). Joe Moody is back to add ballast to the scrum, so other than Folau's incursions from the back, it is difficult to see where the Waratahs can hurt the home team.
Highlanders v Lions: Highlanders by 1
The Highlanders may be vulnerable, having not long flown back from the Republic, where they were lucky to emerge with anything to show for the trip. Aaron Smith is being rested, which will make some fans more nervous, but there is enough talent to get the job done over the listing Lions. Do not expect a blowout either way.
Stormers v Chiefs: Stormers by 8
I have a bad feeling about this one for the still depleted Chiefs. Call it a sixth sense, but the Stormers are on the rise and their forwards will be champing at the bit to rip into the Sam Cane-less Chiefs pack. The clash of the No 10 Damians, Willemse versus McKenzie, will be instructive.
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