The latest news and videos from the southern-hemisphere tournament involving teams from South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina and Japan

Highlanders struggle past Reds

Marty Banks kicked 12 points to guide the Highlanders to a 20-13 win over the Reds in Dunedin on Friday, writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Marcell to muzzle Bulls

The Vodacom Bulls will need to protect the breakdown, with particular focus on Marcell Coetzee, if they're to get anything out of Saturday's match at Loftus , writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Catrakilis key for Stormers

The goal-kicking and game management of Demetri Catrakilis will shape the outcome of the South African derby at Ellis Park, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Pietersen will punish Blues

The Cheetahs can rely on Joe Pietersen's boot to guide them past the ill-disciplined Blues in Bloemfontein on Friday, writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Barrett to cane Force

Beauden Barrett's all-round game will allow the Hurricanes to record their third consecutive win, in Perth this Friday, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Fekitoa to steamroll Reds

Malakai Fekitoa can use the Highlanders' game against the Reds in Dunedin to show he is immune to second-season syndrome, writes MARIETTE ADAMS.

Rebels must repel Kuridrani threat

Hard-running Brumbies centre Tevita Kuridrani will pose a serious attacking threat to the Rebels in Melbourne on Saturday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.

Red-hot Lowe to test Saders’ defence

Chiefs wing James Lowe will look to continue his good run of form against the Crusaders at Waikato Stadium on Saturday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.

Paige gets Bulls No 9 jersey

Scrumhalf Rudy Paige will start his first Vodacom Super Rugby match for the Bulls against the Sharks at Loftus on Saturday.