Tomorrow 8.35am Chiefs v Highlanders Hamilton

The Chiefs hammered the Sunwolves last week but in contrast, the Highlanders came badly unstuck against the Hurricanes and even if they lift their performance, it might not be enough.

Prediction: Chiefs by nine.

10.45 Rebels v Hurricanes

Melbourne The Rebels have been the talk of the competition but they haven’t yet faced Kiwi opposition. The Hurricanes have been the form team and could have a bit too much finesses and power for the Rebels.

Prediction: Hurricanes by 13. Saturday 8.35am Blues v Sharks Auckland The Blues are coming off a bye following mixed success on their SA safari, while the Sharks have been the big underperformers and could face a third straight defeat on tour. But let’s hope they prove us wrong. Prediction: Blues by eight.

10.45 Brumbies v Waratahs

Canberra Both teams are returning from a bye, with the Brumbies surprising the Sharks and the Waratahs handing out a first defeat to the Rebels before their break. So, we have to opt for the home team.

Prediction: Brumbies by seven.

5.15pm Bulls v Stormers

Pretoria The Stormers will be oozing confidence after two wins at home, but they don’t perform that well away from Newlands. The Bulls looked promising on tour but suffered three straight defeats. Prediction: Bulls by six. Sunday 2.30pm Lions v Crusaders

Johannesburg Unfortunately, the Lions look like a team in decline, but they have always performed well at home. The Crusaders, however, haven’t yet looked as invincible as they have in the past and could be more streetwise.

Prediction: Crusaders by 11.

Byes: Jaguares, Reds, Sunwolves.