The Rugby Championship Round 4 Predictions!

The Pumas were slightly better than expected in Round 3, but still lost to the All Blacks by 22 points.

This time it’s the Springboks’ turn to have a crack at New Zealand, which used to be the battle of the two best sides in the world, but it’s now 1st versus 7th.

New Zealand v South Africa

The All Blacks have reinstated Beauden Barrett for this one, with Ryan Crotty also back in the fold at centre. Handre Pollard returns in the No 10 jersey for South Africa, taking the reins back from Elton Jantjies, and Malcolm Marx starts at hooker. Both sides have two of their best players returning, but there aren’t many Boks that you’d pick over their kiwi counterparts.

A fairly dismal defeat in Australia last week won’t help confidence in the South African camp, and I suspect the All Blacks will be looking for a more clinical all-round performance than last week, which could be bad news for the visitors.

New Zealand by 26

Australia v Argentina

Whilst their performance against South Africa was far from perfect, the result was important for Wallaby confidence after back-to-back defeats by New Zealand. Australia have beaten Argentina home and away in their last 6 matches, and should be looking for another home win here.

Australia by 9

What do you make of Hutch's picks? Let us know how your picks compare in the comments!