2020 Super Rugby Aotearoa – Highlanders vs Blues Preview & Prediction

THE FACTS

When is Highlanders vs Blues taking place? Sunday 2^nd August, 2020 – 04:35 (UK)

Where is Highlanders vs Blues taking place? Forsyth Barr Stadium

What channel is Highlanders vs Blues on? Sky Sports Action

Where can I stream Highlanders vs Blues? Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match via Sky Go

Where can I get tickets for Highlanders vs Blues? Visit this link for ticket information on Super Rugby games

THE TEAM NEWS

HIGHLANDERS

• Highlanders come into this game on the back of a bye week after earning just their second win in Super Rugby Aotearoa as they fought back from a big deficit to defeat Chiefs in their last contest.
• It looked as though the Highlanders would suffer a fourth straight loss after they trailed 24-0 and 31-7 but they turned the game on its head by scoring 26 unanswered points to earn a superb victory.
• There are some significant changes to the Highlanders’ side for this clash with Josh Ioane named at fly-half while Michael Collins will shift to his preferred position at number 13.

BLUES

• Blues got their Super Rugby Aotearoa title challenge back on track as they ended their losing streak at two matches with a narrow victory over the Chiefs last week but they will need to improve on that display here.
• The Blues had led 14-0 but they allowed the Chiefs to take the lead as they scored 17 points without reply, although the Blues showed good character to get themselves back in front and snatch the 21-17 victory.
• Beauden Barrett will retain the number 10 jersey for this contest with head coach Leon MacDonald hoping his star man can play a big role back in his favoured position following his switch from fullback.

THE PREDICTION

Blues must win this game to keep the pressure on Crusaders at the top of the Super Rugby Aotearoa standings and they ideally need to claim maximum points. They face a tricky test against the Highlanders who were able to overturn a huge deficit against the Chiefs in their last game and that comeback should fill them with confidence. Both teams will fancy their chances here but this is likely to be an open game with plenty of points and this contest is likely to yield at least 52.