Match-by-match guide

M1 Chiefs v Brumbies: The Brumbies have managed to qualify for the last eight of the tournament despite looking out of their depth at times. They suffered a defeat at the hands of the Reds last weekend which puts them as firm underdogs against a good Chiefs side, who could qualify for a home playoff. Chiefs should be too strong.

M2 Hurricanes v Crusaders: This will be an epic clash between two teams that made up a lot of the All Black side over the last month. Both teams are equally entertaining for different reasons. The Crusaders rely on forward dominance and the Hurricanes love to utilise their backs. If the pitch is dry be with the Hurricanes but either way it will be close.

M3 Force v Waratahs: These teams' seasons are over so don't expect much. The Waratahs looked good when beating the Jaguares last weekend and that may stand them in good shape to beat a side that may not be around in 2018.

M4 Sharks v Lions: Both teams return from a bye weekend. The Lions' last match was a 94-3 demolition of the Sunwolves while the Sharks were last in action a fortnight ago when outplayed by the Bulls in Durban. The Sharks tend to lift their game against better teams, but the Lions have been dominant so expect them to carry on their good work as they move into the last eight after this.

M5 Bulls v Stormers: The Bulls have had a nightmare season which got worse last weekend when they lost to the Kings in Pretoria. The Stormers need a win badly before they are tested in the quarterfinals. They did beat lowly Sunwolves in Cape Town last week, but will feel they need to improve more.

Suggested R120 permutation for Rugby 5 pool this Saturday 15 July: M1 = 2; M2 = 1, 4; M3 = 4, 5; M4 = 1, 4, 5; M5 = 4, 5.