Otago take on Waikato in the final Ranfurly Shield challenge of the year, though the Mooloosdo look poised to retain the Log O' Wood for the summer after a string of impressive results. Jono Gibbes' side have won their last six games by at least 12 points and have covered all of those games.
Otago have had a patchy season, currently with a 5-4 record, and were unconvincing in both of their round 8 matches, having covered just two of their last six and three of nine overall. All signs point to a Waikato cover.
Bay of Plenty broke their six-game losing streak with a narrow win in Invercargill last week, but it was by no means a promising performance. The Steamers' lack of form is shown by their 0-7 record ATS across their last seven games.
Northland were dealt a painful hiding by Waikato last week but can climb up to third on the standings with a win. Expect them to do just that on Saturday given BOP's shocking form.
The Battle of the Bridge carries a heap of significance for both sides with a potential top-of-the-table finish at stake for Auckland and a semi-final spot on the line for Harbour.
Harbour have won their last four games by an average of 17 points and with a playoff spot on the line, they are a chance of upsetting Auckland.
There were whispers that the Barrett brothers were keen to suit up for Taranaki for Friday night's game but that has not been allowed by the All Blacks, meaning a usual-looking Bulls side will be taking the field.
That's not good news for a side whose four losses to Premiership sides this season have come by an average of 25 points. Wellington need a bonus point win to secure a semi-final spot and could run riot.
