Hurricanes clinch Kiwi title

The Hurricanes smashed the Highlanders 56-20 in Napier on Friday to win the New Zealand conference and earn a home semi-final. JON CARDINELLI reports.

The WrapAround (Week 17)

Rugby HQ's Sean Maloney takes a look at the wild and wacky from the world of rugby.

All eyes on Elton

The quality of Elton Jantjies's attacking play and goal-kicking will influence the result of the crunch derby between the Stormers and Lions at Newlands this Saturday, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Higginbotham can hurt Bulls

The Vodacom Bulls will finish their tour winless if they fail to keep Scott Higginbotham in check in Melbourne this Saturday, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Folau to flog sloppy Cheetahs

Israel Folau's game-breaking ability could expose a weak Cheetahs defence in Bloemfontein and maintain the Waratahs' home semi-final hopes, writes RYAN VREDE.

Carter to keep Crusaders’ hopes alive

Another influential performance from Dan Carter against the Blues in Auckland on Saturday will help keep the Crusaders in the play-off hunt, says SIMON BORCHARDT. 

Brodie’s return boosts Chiefs

All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick will make a welcome return for the Chiefs against the Reds in Brisbane on Saturday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.

Barrett to control Kiwi clash

The Hurricanes' returning flyhalf Beauden Barrett's class could be the difference against the Highlanders in Napier on Friday, writes RYAN VREDE.