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Super Rugby semi-finals preview panel

24th July, 2014
1

Preview of Super Rugby semi-finals (all times AEST).

SATURDAY, July 26
Crusaders v Sharks at AMI Stadium, Christchurch, 1735.
Head to Head: Played 20; Crusaders 14, Sharks 5, drawn 1
In Christchurch: Played 11; Crusaders 10, Sharks 1
Last clash: Round 14, 2014 – Sharks bt Crusaders 30-25, AMI Stadium, Christchurch

A heavyweight tussle between the best of New Zealand and South Africa will kick off four hours of gripping rugby on Saturday night. While the Crusaders have found their groove and flexed their muscle after the June Test break, the Durban-based Sharks have struggled to rediscover their early form. Jake White’s men only just scraped past the Highlanders last weekend but showed they have the set-piece and forward strength to overpower any team.

They are also same Sharks who stunned the Crusaders two months ago to be the first South African team in a decade to win in Christchurch. King Richie McCaw returns to the starting side at No.6 and Dan Carter stays at inside centre where he will often feed rampaging Fijian Nemani Nadolo.

Tab Sportsbet: Crusaders $1.30 Sharks $3.50

Tip: Crusaders by 8

NSW Waratahs v Brumbies at Allianz Stadium, Sydney, 1940.
Head to Head: Played 24; Waratahs 13, Brumbies 11
In Sydney: Played 13; Waratahs 11, Brumbies 2
Last clash: Round 17, 2014 – Waratahs bt Brumbies 39-8, ANZ Stadium, Sydney

What a cracking semi-final this looms to be. Last time the bitter rivals met in Sydney for a top-four play-off, the Brumbies blew the Tahs out of the water. Little chance this time as a tight, yet entertaining, spectacle is promised.

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Although NSW romped to the minor premiership and are title favourites, the Brumbies know what it’s like to win – and lose – big play-off games. They’ve produced their best performances of the season in wins over the Force and Chiefs and are playing with great pace and skill.

The Waratahs would have enjoyed a week’s rest and a chance to fix the worrying lineout problems the Reds exposed. But talk by some players they’re “unstoppable” and yet to hit their peak wouldn’t have been missed by their opponents. Expect a few news clippings pinned up on the Brumbies’ dressing room wall. It’s been a long time since the Tahs were in a tight one so the mental battle could be telling.

Tab Sportsbet: Waratahs $1.33 Brumbies $3.35

Tip: Waratahs by 3

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