6 Sports Matches You Can’t Afford To Miss This Weekend

The weekend is here and there are some epic encounters to keep you eye on, including some massive international rugby Tests, more intense Premier League clashes, and the battle between the Black Caps and Proteas.

South Africa vs New Zealand (T20 Cricket)

Friday, 18:00

The first of the two match T20 series between South Africa and New Zealand promises to be an interesting one with a number of top players in both the teams. New Zealand may be missing some of their big stars such as Ross Taylor, Brendon McCullum, Tim Southee amongst others, but the Porteas cannot afford to take the Black Caps lightly.  South Africa are one of the strongest teams in world cricket while playing at home and with the players at their disposal such as Faf du Plessis, Morne Morkel, David Miller and AB de Villiers among others, they should be considered favourites. However, New Zealand also have some classy batsmen such as Kane Williamson, Martin Guptill, Luke Ronchi and Grant Elliot among others to help defeat the hosts.

Golden Lions vs Pumas (Currie Cup rugby)

Friday, 19:10

Both the Lions and the Pumas made great starts to the Currie Cup season last weekend, with the Lions defeating the EP Kings and the Pumas stunning the Sharks, so this encounter should be interesting. Last week’s results will obviously boost the confidence of both sides but the Pumas will feel they have a little more to prove. Beating the Lions in Ellis Park is no easy task, but the Pumas have shown they have the spirit and exuberance of some young players to take down the larger franchises.

All Blacks vs Wallabies (Bledisloe Cup)

Saturday, 09:35

Everything is on the line in the second Bledisloe encounter between the All Blacks and Wallabies. This is the second most important trophy to either side (after the World Cup, of course) and after the Aussies were able to seal the Rugby Championship trophy, the All Blacks are seeking redemption in the form of a convincing win in Eden Park just over a month out from the World Cup. This will also be the last opportunity for coaches Steve Hansen and Michael Chieka to show their hands as to what their teams will likely be for the global show-piece.

England vs France (International friendly)

Saturday, 21:00

Argentina vs Springboks (International friendly)

Saturday, 21:40

Following a difficult week for the Springboks following their first loss to Argentina a week ago, Heyneke Meyer has looked at the chance of redemption as an opportunity to give some bench and returning players a chance. Zane Kirchner, Lwazi Mvovo, Pat Lambie, Willem Alberts, Marcel van der Merwe, Adriaan Strauss and Trevor Nyakane all getting their first starts of the season. Argentina has made a few changes too, most notable being Nicolas Sanchez coming into flyhalf and Juan Martin Hernandez sliding into the centre position. This is the last chance for Heyeneke Meyer to prove his squad selection ahead of the World Cup and is a must-win for the national side.

Manchester City vs Chelsea (Premier League football)

Sunday, 17:00

First and second meet on the second round of the football season and it could potentially be a real cracker. Manuel Pellegrini and his City troops went to the Midlands and annihilated West Brom in what was the only convincing performance of the opening weekend from any of last season’s top four. It was a reminder of just how strong the spine of Joe Hart, Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and David Silva can be when on top form. On the other hand, Chelsea began their season with a disappointing 2-2 draw at home to Swansea and their goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will continue to serve his suspension after seeing red for tripping Bafetimbi Gomis as he looked to round the Belgian. Jose Mourinho will be getting his players fired up and ready to get back on that horse because they have the best squad depth and should remain favourites to lift the title for a second time come May.

What sports encounter are you most looking forward to this weekend? Any predictions on who will come out victorious?