Wild Prediction

Someone must have had a word in the offseason as the Highlanders find themselves seven games deep before they even pack their passports. Geographic boons aside, the first two months of derbies and challenges from the Stormers and Brumbies will be make or break for Mauger’s men. There’s no let-up in reality but the Highlanders can build off and rely on some fundamentals they inherently possess. Set-piece, defence, spirit and a well-balanced pack will see them hug the middle of the New Zealand Conference and secure a playoff spot again.