Super Rugby Pacific Round 9: Key Matchups, Injury Updates, and Fantasy Picks
Previewing Round 9 of Super Rugby Pacific with team lineups, injury news, expert predictions, and fantasy rugby tips for all key matchups.
Super Rugby Pacific Heats Up in Pivotal Round 9
As Super Rugby Pacific passes its midway point, Round 9 delivers several crucial encounters that could shape the playoff picture. The standout fixtures include the heavyweight Hurricanes-Crusaders clash and the Australian derby between the Reds and Brumbies.
Friday's Marquee Matchup: Hurricanes vs Crusaders
Venue: Sky Stadium, Wellington | Time: 5:05pm AEDT
Key Players to Watch:
- Hurricanes: Cam Roigard (scrum-half), Asafo Aumua (hooker)
- Crusaders: Scott Barrett (lock), Sevu Reece (wing)
Prediction: Despite the Hurricanes' improved form, the Crusaders' returning All Blacks give them the edge in a tight contest. Crusaders by 2
Fantasy Tip: Sevu Reece remains a top winger pick with his try-scoring ability.
Australian Derby: Reds vs Brumbies
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane | Time: 7:35pm AEDT
Key Storylines:
- Reds captain Tate McDermott plays his 100th game
- Brumbies wing Andy Muirhead also reaches century milestone
- Major blow for Reds with Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson out for 6 weeks (fractured arm)
Prediction: A classic Australian derby likely decided by the halves battle. Reds by 3 at home despite Wilson's absence.
Weekend Fixture Highlights
Blues vs Moana Pasifika:
- Moana chasing historic third straight win
- Blues seeking consistency after strong showing last round
- Miracle Faiilagi's return boosts Moana's back row
Highlanders vs Fijian Drua:
- Highlanders favored at home against inconsistent Drua
- Timoci Tavatavanawai a fantasy standout with all-around game
Comprehensive Injury Report
Major Absences for Round 9:
- Reds: Harry Wilson (arm, 6 weeks)
- Hurricanes: Brett Cameron (knee, season)
- Chiefs: Anton Lienert-Brown (leg, short-term)
- Crusaders: Braydon Ennor (hamstring, TBC)
Fantasy Rugby Recommendations
- Must-haves: Damian McKenzie (Chiefs), Tate McDermott (Reds)
- Value Picks: Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders), Peter Umaga-Jensen (Hurricanes)
- Sleeper Pick: Miracle Faiilagi (Moana Pasifika)
Odds Note: All betting lines current as of publication date. Monitor for late changes due to team announcements.
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