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

Lions need Kriel to fire

Jaco Kriel will have to be at his best if the Lions are to get anything out of their match against the Hurricanes in Joburg on Friday, writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Potgieter to punish Force

Jacques Potgieter will be hoping to make another big impact for the Waratahs when they tackle the Force in Sydney on Sunday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.

SBW to steamroll Blues

Sonny Bill Williams will mark his return to Vodacom Super Rugby with a game-shaping display in the New Zealand derby between the Blues and Chiefs, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Saders need Carter to find form

The Crusaders will look to put poor pre-season results behind them with a win against the Rebels in Christchurch on Friday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.

De Allende boosts Stormers

Damian de Allende will start at inside centre for the Stormers' clash against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus on Saturday.

Reds pick Saffa lock

Marco Kotze will make his Vodacom Super Rugby debut for the Reds against the Brumbies in Canberra on Friday.

Blues back Cowan

Jimmy Cowan will start at scrumhalf for the Blues against the Chiefs in North Harbour on Saturday.

Sonny Bill at 12 for Chiefs

Sonny Bill Williams will play his first Vodacom Super Rugby match since 2012 for the Chiefs against the Blues on Saturday.

New skipper for Tahs

Dave Dennis returns from a lengthy injury lay-off to lead the Waratahs in their opening match against the Force on Sunday.