MATCH OF THE ROUND
Crusaders v Brumbies. The Brumbies enter a brave new world without the brethren - George Gregan and Stephen Larkham - and reveal a new five-eighth in Christian Lealiifano. Crusaders coach and Wallabies guru Robbie Deans will be watching with interest.

BEST NEW ZEALAND GAME
Blues v Chiefs. There's a whisper around that the Chiefs could be the surprise team of the Super 14. The Blues, led by David Nucifora, whom the ARU would like to return to Australia one day and coach a local province again, could be early victims.

BEST SOUTH AFRICAN GAME
Sharks v Western Force. Are the Force on the road to self-destruction or are bar-room brawls part of their pre-season bonding? The desperation the Force are showing in keeping Matt Henjak in their team highlights their lack of depth. Henjak is good with his dooks but he's no rugby world-beater.

PLAYER TO WATCH
Christian Lealiifano. How he performs in his first game for the Brumbies will show whether there is life after Stephen Larkham.

MATCH TO FORGET
Cheetahs v Lions. Two lower-order teams doing their best. As it is on just before dawn on Sunday, it would be better to roll over and hit the zzzzzs.

CERTAINTIES
Sharks, Crusaders.

BEST CHANCE OF A BOILOVER
The Waratahs are no certainties against the Hurricanes, especially as they are fielding a raw back line. And the Highlanders could also cause trouble in Brisbane.

BEST BET
The Stormers at $2.50 to beat the Bulls at home.

Greg Growden