RUGBY THRILLS - what to expect this weekend

SuperSport has an action-packed weekend in store for rugby fans. Here's what to look forward to:

SUPER RUGBY TAKES CENTRE STAGE

The excitement kicks off with Round 9 of Super Rugby Pacific. On Friday, April 11, the Hurricanes face the Crusaders at 9am CAT (SA, GMT+2), followed by Waratahs v Chiefs at 11:30am.

Saturday, April 12, brings more thrilling matchups, including Blues v Moana Pasifika at 6:30am, Highlanders v Fijian Drua at 9am, and Reds v Brumbies at 11:30am.

VARSITY TITLES DECIDED

Top university teams will battle for glory on Friday. At 1:40pm, Stellenbosch University clash with the University of Pretoria in the Women's Varsity Cup Final.

Later, at 3:55pm, Varsity College take on Nelson Mandela University in the FNB Varsity Shield Final.

CHAMPIONS CUP PLAYOFFS PROMISES FIREWORKS

The Investec Champions Cup quarterfinals promise high-stakes drama.

On Friday night, Leinster Rugby meet Glasgow Warriors at 8:55pm.

Saturday’s line-up features Bordeaux Bègles v Munster Rugby at 3:55pm and Northampton Saints v Castres Olympique at 6:25pm.

The action concludes on Sunday, April 13, with RC Toulon facing Stade Toulousain at 3:55pm.

CHALLENGE CUP: THE CHERRY ON TOP

The Challenge Cup playoffs kick off on Saturday with the Vodacom Bulls, South Africa's only surviving team in Europe, taking on Edinburgh Rugby at 1:25pm.

Later that evening, Connacht Rugby meet Racing 92 at 8:55pm.

On Sunday the weekend wraps with Bath Rugby v Gloucester Rugby at 6:25pm.

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