Rugby fans in South Africa can expect to be able to watch New Zealand’s domestic rugby competition via SuperSport next month.

On Monday, New Zealand Rugby confirmed the domestic form of Vodacom Super Rugby will kick off on 13 June following the announcement that the country will move to Covid-19 alert level 2 on Thursday.

The 10-week domestic competition will be called Super Rugby Aotearoa, and involve the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders.

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Although it’s yet to be officially confirmed, it’s expected that local broadcaster SuperSport – who have a strong relationship with Sky Sport NZ – will come to an agreement to also provide live broadcasts of the competition.

It will be the first bit of live action that rugby fans will be able to enjoy since mid-March.

However, it will require an early start for SA fans, with New Zealand’s Saturday matches all kicking off at 07:05am (SA time), while the Sunday matches get under way at 05:05am (SA time).

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