RUGBY THRILLS - what to expect this weekend

As the rugby season hits fever pitch, SuperSport is serving up a feast of knockout clashes across three of the world’s premier competitions.

From the southern hemisphere’s Super Rugby Pacific to the hard-hitting Gallagher Premiership and the fiercely contested United Rugby Championship, fans are in for a weekend of high-stakes drama, fierce rivalries, and championship dreams on the line. Whether you're an early riser or a prime-time viewer, there’s something for everyone.

Let’s break down what’s coming up, tournament by tournament.

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Super Rugby Pacific – Qualifying Finals

The business end of the Super Rugby Pacific season is here, and the intensity is dialled up to maximum. The Crusaders, perennial playoff contenders, kick things off against a resurgent Reds side looking to cause an upset in Christchurch. Saturday sees two more mouth-watering matchups: the Chiefs host the Blues in a classic Kiwi derby, while the Brumbies welcome the Hurricanes in a clash that promises flair and fireworks.

Expect fast-paced, high-skill rugby as these southern giants battle for a place in the semi-finals. With form, history, and home advantage all playing a role, these fixtures are set to deliver edge-of-your-seat action.

Fixtures:

- Friday, 6 June
  Crusaders vs Reds — 09:00

- Saturday, 7 June
  Chiefs vs Blues — 09:00
  Brumbies vs Hurricanes — 11:30

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Gallagher Premiership – Semi-finals

The English Premiership reaches its penultimate stage with a West Country derby that’s sure to ignite passions. Bath, enjoying a renaissance season, host their neighbours Bristol Bears in what promises to be a bruising yet brilliant encounter. With a spot in the final at stake, expect no quarter given and none asked.

Both sides boast international talent and attacking flair, but it may come down to who handles the pressure better under the Friday night lights. This one’s not to be missed.

Fixture:
- Friday, 6 June
  Bath Rugby vs Bristol Bears — 20:40

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United Rugby Championship – Semi-finals

The URC semi-finals bring together northern grit and southern flair in two blockbuster matchups. First up, Leinster take on Glasgow Warriors in Dublin. Leinster, with their depth and experience, will be favourites, but Glasgow have shown they can upset the odds when it matters most.

Later, it’s an all-South African showdown as the Vodacom Bulls host the Hollywoodbets Sharks at Loftus. Expect fireworks, physicality, and a cauldron-like atmosphere in Pretoria as these two rivals battle for a place in the final. With build-up and wraparound coverage, SuperSport has you covered from start to finish.

Fixtures:

• Saturday, 7 June
    Leinster Rugby vs Glasgow Warriors
      - Build-Up: 15:15
      - Match: 15:40
    Vodacom Bulls vs Hollywoodbets Sharks
      - Build-Up: 17:45
      - Match: 18:10
      - Wrap: 20:15

All games will be shown live on SuperSport Rugby (channel 211)

All the action will be live on SuperSport Rugby (channel 211)