The Crusaders and Highlanders sit top of the New Zealand Super Rugby conference after the opening round of competition, with the Blues and Chiefs third equal and the Hurricanes last.

However the Chiefs are in by far the worst position of the New Zealand franchises after suffering a massive injury toll during their home loss to the Highlanders.

These players include Ben Afeaki and Toby Smith, as well as former All Blacks halfback Brendon Leonard, wing Lelia Masaga and Number 8 Alex Bradley.

Meanwhile Stormers sit on top of the overall Super rugby table with Reds at second place.

In this week’s matches, Blues will play Chiefs at 6.35pm on Friday and Rebels will take on Waratahs at 8.40pm.
 
At 6.10am on Saturday, Lions host the Hurricanes and at 7.35pm on Saturday, Highlanders will be up against Crusaders.

At 8.40pm Reds will play the Western Force.


Story by: Dhanjay Deo