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

Chiefs sneak into play-offs

The defending champion Chiefs secured their place in the play-offs with an 11-8 win over the Blues at a wet Eden Park on Friday. BRENTON CHELIN reports.

Bismarck the man for Sharks

Sharks captain Bismarck du Plessis will lend his team an edge at the set pieces and breakdowns in a season-defining fixture at Newlands, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Hougaard will run Rebels ragged

Francois Hougaard will ensure the Bulls finish their Super Rugby campaign on a positive note with a win against the Rebels at Loftus on Friday night. SIMON BORCHARDT reports.

Todd’s turn to deliver

Matt Todd is a fine replacement for Richie McCaw and should help the Crusaders clinch the New Zealand conference title this Saturday, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Hooper the heartbeat of the Waratahs

The Waratahs will continue to play the right way under Michael Hooper and should blow the Reds away in Brisbane, writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Barrett stays with Canes

Beauden Barrett has committed to the Hurricanes and New Zealand rugby for a further two years.