Rugby Playoffs Week 2: Key Matchups and Predictions

The Rugby playoffs are in full swing, and the stakes couldn't be higher. With two teams already eliminated and a shocking result in Hamilton, the competition is fierce. Only one Australian team remains, and from here on out, it's win or go home.

Friday, June 13: Crusaders vs. Blues

Location: Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch Time: 5:05 PM (AEST)

Crusaders Lineup:

• Backs: Will Jordan, Chay Fihaki, Braydon Ennor, David Havili (captain), Sevu Reece, Rivez Reihana, Noah Hotham
• Forwards: Christian Lio-Willie, Tom Christie, Ethan Blackadder, Antonio Shalfoon, Scott Barrett, Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams
• Replacements: George Bell, Tamaiti Williams, Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Tahlor Cahill, Cullen Grace, Kyle Preston, James O'Connor, Dallas McLeod

Blues Lineup:

• Backs: Zarn Sullivan, Mark Tele'a, Rieko Ioane, AJ Lam, Caleb Clarke, Beauden Barrett, Finlay Christie
• Forwards: Hoskins Sotutu, Dalton Papali'i, Adrian Choat, Laghlan McWhannell, Patrick Tuipulotu, Marcel Renata, Ricky Riccitelli, Joshua Fusitu'a
• Replacements: Kurt Eklund, Jordan Lay, Angus Ta'avao, Josh Beehre, Anton Segner, Sam Nock, Harry Plummer, Cole Forbes

Officials: James Doleman; Assistants: Paul Williams, Fraser Hannon; TMO: Richard Kelly

Prediction: The Crusaders have an unbeatable home record in finals, and they'll be looking to extend that streak. The Blues will need to bring their A-game defensively to have a shot. Crusaders by 7.

Saturday, June 14: Chiefs vs. Brumbies

Location: FMG Waikato Stadium, Hamilton Time: 5:05 PM (AEST)

Chiefs Lineup:

• Backs: Shaun Stevenson, Emoni Narawa, Daniel Rona, Quinn Tupaea, Leroy Carter, Damian McKenzie, Cortez Ratima
• Forwards: Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson, Samipeni Finau, Tupou Vaa'i, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, George Dyer, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Ollie Norris
• Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Jared Proffit, Reuben O'Neill, Jimmy Tupou, Kalyum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Gideon Wrampling

Brumbies Lineup:

• Backs: Tom Wright, Andy Muirhead, Len Ikitau, David Feliuai, Corey Toole, Noah Lolesio, Ryan Lonergan
• Forwards: Tuaina Taii Tualima, Rory Scott, Rob Valetini, Tom Hooper, Nick Frost, Allan Alaalatoa, Billy Pollard, James Slipper
• Replacements: Lachlan Lonergan, Lington Leli, Feao Fotuaika, Lachlan Shaw, Luke Reimer, Harrison Goddard, Declan Meredith, Ollie Sapsford

Officials: Nic Berry; Assistants: Damon Murphy, Jordan Way; TMO: Brett Cronan

Prediction: The Brumbies face a tough challenge in New Zealand, but they'll need to overcome past failures to advance. The Chiefs, bolstered by Tupaea's return, have the edge. Chiefs by 5.

Stay tuned for more thrilling Rugby action as the playoffs continue!