11am Reds v Brumbies Brisbane

The Reds were hammered by the Rebels last week after an early red card to captain Scott Higginbotham, but the Brumbies were not much better having being pushed by the Sunwolves before winning 32-25.

Prediction: Brumbies by nine SATURDAY

8.35am Crusaders v Stormers

Christchurch The Stormers are up against it after losing in the dying minutes to the Waratahs last week, while the Crusaders showed they are meaning business after beating the Chiefs 45-23.

Prediction: Crusaders by more than 15

11am Sunwolves v Rebels

Singapore The Sunwolves showed they will be more competitive going down to just seven to the Brumbies, while the Rebels’ 46-19 win over the Reds should be seen in the context of an early red card. Prediction: Rebels by 12

3.05pm Sharks v Waratahs

Durban The Sharks enjoyed a bye last week after pushing the Lions in their first game, while the Tahs struggled to put the Stormers away at home and failed to impress despite winning 34-27. Prediction: Sharks by 10

5.15pm Bulls v Lions

Pretoria The Bulls have made the rugby world sit up and take notice after their surprise win over the Hurricanes, while the Lions have been impressive, but are still looking to remedy their poor starts. Prediction: Lions by five

11.40pm Jaguares v Hurricanes

Buenos Aires The Jaguares’ discipline problems remain their biggest handicap, while the Hurricanes will be keen to show their loss at Loftus was a tempory setback.

Prediction: Hurricanes by eight.

Bye: Highlanders.