TOMORROW 8.35am Highlanders v Blues Dunedin

The Highlanders lost centre Malakai Fekitoa and wing Patrick Osborne, while Aaron Mauger has taken over as coach from Tony Brown. The Blues are still in a rebuilding phase.

Prediction: Highlanders by nine.

10.45 Rebels v Reds

Melbourne The Rebels made some big signings like scrumhalf Will Genia and lock Geoff Parling from the UK, while SA-born Dave Wessels has taken over the coaching from Tony McGahan. Brad Thorn takes over from Nick Stiles at the Reds. Prediction: Rebels by eight. SATURDAY

6:15am Sunwolves v Brumbies

Tokyo The Sunwolves have appointed Jamie Joseph as coach and will be boosted by former Bulls Grant Hatting and Lappies Labuschagne. The Brumbies have a new coach in Dan Mckellar.

Prediction: Brumbies by 10.

8.35am Crusaders v Chiefs

Christchurch The Crusaders are defending champions and have retained the nucleus of their squad, while the Chiefs have a new coach in Colin Cooper who has taken over from Dave Rennie and have lost star flyhalf Aaron Cruden and scrumhalf Tawera Kerr-Barlow. Prediction: Saders by 10.

10.45 Waratahs v Stormers

Sydney The Tahs have been the biggest disappointment Down Under the last two years and there is increased pressure on coach Darryl Gibson. The Stormers are being offered their best chance to win on tour with the Crusaders and Highlanders still to come. Prediction: Tahs by seven.

3.05pm Lions v Jaguares

Ellis Park The Lions would have been boosted with their start against the Sharks last week, but the Jaguares have always proved to be their bogey side and could expect more heat up front from the visitors who gave the Stormers a run for their money. Prediction: Lions by eight.

5.15pm Bulls v Hurricanes

Loftus It’s a major test for their defensive structures first up for the Bulls under new coach John Mitchell. There are bound to be big improvements but they are probably not ready yet to stand up to a side who are as streetwise and multi-skilled as the Hurricanes. Prediction: Canes by 13. Bye: Sharks.