CRAIG LEWIS rates the 15 Super Rugby teams based on performances after eight rounds.
The Super Rugby conference system makes for confusing reading regarding the respective teams’ standings in the tournament. SARugbymag.co.za’s senior writer believes that this is where they should rank on current form.
1. Hurricanes (5-1)
Last week’s ranking: 1
The Hurricanes hang onto top spot after their thrilling one-point win over the Sharks last Friday. Although it certainly wasn’t the most convincing performance from the Canes, they have now won five games on the trot.
2. Crusaders (5-2)
Last week’s ranking: 2
The Crusaders did well to claim a comfortable win over the Jaguares in Argentina in the final game of the weekend, and while they are one point ahead of the Canes in the official standings, they have played the extra game.
3. Chiefs (5-1)
Last week’s ranking: 3
The Chiefs also weren’t at their absolute best in round eight, but their dominance over the Blues was not accurately reflected in what turned out to be a hard-fought 21-19 win.
4. Lions (5-3)
Last week’s ranking: 5
The Lions jump up a spot following their highly impressive 52-32 victory over the Stormers on Saturday. The Johannesburg-based side actually leads the official overall standings, but more will be learned about this side when they soon head off on a four-week overseas tour.
5. Rebels (4-2)
Last week’s ranking: 4
The Rebels had a bye this past weekend, but will be targeting a bonus-point over the Jaguares this Saturday to maintain their position as the leading Aussie team.
6. Highlanders (3-2)
Last week’s ranking: 6
The Highlanders have played at least one game less than every other team in the competition, and will want to make a statement of intent when they face the Brumbies this weekend.
7. Waratahs (4-1-1)
Last week’s ranking: 7
The Waratahs claimed a comfortable win over the Sunwolves on Saturday. More will be learned about their qualities when they face the Lions and then four New Zealand teams in the near future.
8. Sharks (2-1-4)
Last week’s ranking: 10
It might seem strange for the Sharks to move up to eighth spot after losing to the Hurricanes on Friday, but they have now completed the most challenging part of their campaign, while showing signs of real progress in New Zealand.
9. Reds (3-3)
Last week’s ranking: 8
The Reds slumped to defeat against the Brumbies on Saturday, and in fact, lie fourth in the Australian conference.
10. Stormers (3-5)
Last week’s ranking: 9
The Stormers’ woeful away form continued over the weekend as they slipped to a meek defeat against the Lions. They are desperately in need of this weekend’s bye.
11. Bulls (2-4)
Last week’s ranking: 11
The Bulls had a bye this past weekend, and they will be hoping for an energised performance in a crucial derby against the Sharks this Saturday.
12. Brumbies (3-3)
Last week’s ranking: 12
The Brumbies are coming off a good win over the Reds, but will know that upcoming games against the Highlanders and Crusaders will truly test their credentials.
13. Blues (1-5)
Last week’s ranking: 13
The Blues put up an almighty battle against the Chiefs over the weekend, but again failed to get over the line for a much-needed win.
14. Jaguares (2-5)
Last week’s ranking: 14
The Jaguares remains one of the tournament’s perennial underperformers, as their heavy defeat to the Crusaders suggested once again on Saturday.
15. Sunwolves (0-6)
Last week’s ranking: 15
The Sunwolves were no real match for the Waratahs in round eight, and remain in search of their first win of the season.
Photo: Scott Barbour/Getty Images
