As the Lions Tour and June Internationals get ever closer, the Super Rugby schedule is disrupted somewhat – this weekend features only the New Zealand and Australia-based outfits.

Blues v Reds
The Reds have lost only 1 of the last 6 battles of the colours, but you can’t lose to the Force at home and then beat the Blues – even if it is in Samoa and not Auckland. Blues by 28.

Crusaders v Highlanders
Interestingly, the away side has won 5 of the last 7 meetings between these two teams, but I’m still backing the Crusaders – can they go the whole season unbeaten? Crusaders by 9

Chiefs v Waratahs
This is another straightforward NZ v Aus pick. Chiefs by 23.

Brumbies v Rebels
The Rebels have just one win to their name so far this season, and it’s unlikely they’ll add to that against the Aussie conference leaders in Canberra. Brumbies by 16.

Force v Hurricanes
The Force have put together a couple of surprise wins recently, notching up four in total so far. They don’t have a great record against the Canes though, losing four of the last six by 25 points or more. I’ll pick them to do slightly better than that. Hurricanes by 18.

Hurricanes v Chiefs
There’s one match out on its own next weekend, and it’s safest to pick the home side. Some All Blacks may be rested ahead of the Lions Test series, so it’s worth checking on lineups next week before locking your pick. Hurricanes by 6.

Follow Hutch on Twitter: @Hutch_James