Bulls to boast derby scalp

Cape Town - Sport24 chief writer Rob Houwing, in the first of his regular South African-focused Super Rugby previews this year, fancies the Bulls to get off to a winning start as they cash in on some callow figures in the visiting Stormers’ ranks.

He also thinks the Sharks, his pick to retain SA conference supremacy this year, will subdue a game Cheetahs side ... even though the Durban outfit remain some way from fullest strength as they await a few seasoned infusions from Japan.

The Lions-Hurricanes game could be a rollercoaster ride ... but perhaps with the New Zealanders’ lungs giving way near the finish after their very early-season trek to the Highveld from more temperate climes.