Auckland Blues winger Joe Rokocoko showed why he is rated as one of the best in the number 14 jumper after scoring a hat trick against the Cheetahs this morning and helping his side to a 50-26 win.

The David Nucifora coached side dominated possession and territory to outclass their opponents.

In other game this morning defending champion the Bulls suffered their second defeat in a row to Sharks 29-15.

The Sharks led 7-6 at half-time and scored three more tries in the second half to secure a bonus point win.

Also the Brumbies thumped the Reds 43-11 while the Waratahs edged the Highlanders 15-12.

The Western Force beat the Lions 18-16 while the Crusaders recorded a 22-0 win against the Stormers.