Ahead of Saturday’s qualifiers in Super Rugby, we are putting our head on the block and picking our winners from the three games.
The Crusaders open proceedings against the Sharks before the Waratahs host the Highlanders and the Lions and the Jaguares complete the day’s action at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
SUPER RUGBY
Crusaders v Sharks
Preview: The tournament’s in-form team the Crusaders continue the defence of their Super Rugby title against the Sharks in Christchurch on Saturday.
Prediction: Home win here as the reigning champions march on. Crusaders by 15.
Waratahs v Highlanders
Preview: The Waratahs host the Highlanders at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Saturday in what should be a thrilling trans-Tasman Super Rugby quarter-final.
Prediction: The hosts to show they can beat Kiwi teams with 15 men. ‘Tahs by 5.
Lions v Jaguares v
Preview: The Lions and Jaguares will clash for the third time this season when they go head-to-head in the fourth and final Qualifier at Ellis Park on Saturday.
Prediction: The Jaguares are much improved from the side that went down by 20 points in the regular-season fixture at Ellis Park, but we think that home advantage will be a decisive factor. Lions by 5.