Super charged: Big games, Jack Goodhue’s return and back-row battle

These teams have enjoyed identical records having both won five of their eight games in positive starts to the tournament. However, the reality is very different, with both sides only having played their local counterparts, including newcomers Moana Pasifika and Fijian Drua, respectively.

The Chiefs’ forward pack has improved and is functioning well, benefitting from an extended run from captain Sam Cane. Their eight may offer more mobility and athleticism than the Waratahs, but the battle up front still needs to be won, with young Waratahs prop Angus Bell hitting his straps recently.

It will be interesting to see how quickly the Chiefs adjust to a positional shift for Quinn Tupaea, who starts on the wing, as he has been a solid component of their midfield structure throughout. Fly-half Bryn Gatland will be looking to continue his good form following fine showings over the last fortnight.

Meanwhile, the Waratahs have grown in confidence with each game, and the full return of talisman Michael Hooper is a tremendous boost as the rugby world is very aware of the supreme qualities he can add to a side. Fly-half Tane Edmed looked promising last time out against the Force and maintains his partnership with captain Jake Gordon, while Alex Newsome moves to the wing after scoring a brace of tries last weekend.

The table is going to change radically over the next couple of rounds. The two teams are supposedly operating on similar levels, but this weekend’s clash will offer a more accurate indication.

New Zealand’s bottom-placed side face the leading Australian one in the Super Round in what will be a perfect gauge of where the Australian teams measure up to their trans-Tasman rivals.

The Highlanders have only won one of their