Greetings from Johannesburg, where I am this week for a few meetings without being able to take in any Rugby. I have managed to fit in a spot of golf though to offset that disappointment.

It’s two weeks in a row now with red arrows on Superbru, largely thanks to the Stormers letting me down at home to the Lions. We had been on the right side of the Crusaders v Hurricanes result, and then the Brumbies stole everyone’s GSP with a late win over the Bulls, before the Lions continued their dominant run over other South African teams.

There are just 5 games this weekend, with no South African teams involved.

Highlanders v Hurricanes
The ‘Canes have won the last three against the Highlanders, and whilst a defeat to the Crusaders ended their winning run, the Hurricanes are in better form. A thumping by the Waratahs and then a narrow win against the Reds is pathetic. Hurricanes by 8

Blues v Rebels
This could be a high-scoring encounter, but it really should be a first home win of the season for the Blues. Blues by 16

Chiefs v Crusaders
What a tough pick this one is. In Christchurch, it would be simpler, but in Hamilton it’s closer to call. The ‘Saders have won the last three against the Chiefs, and also have that winning run of 9 in a row this season, which is hard to ignore. Crusaders by 2

Reds v Waratahs
Eugh, two crap teams and this is a match to avoid. The Waratahs have won 8 in a row against the Reds, and I think they are a slightly better team this season. Waratahs by 13

Brumbies v Sunwolves
This should be comfortable for the home side after the Sunwolves were brought back down to earth by defeat at the Rebels last weekend. Brumbies by 19

What do you think of these picks?

Follow Hutch on Twitter: @Hutch_James