Hawkes Bay vs Tasman Predictions - Hosts to win top-of-the-table contest

Over the last four matches between these sides, each have won twice. They last met in 2022, a match that The Bay won 25-17 at home.

Hawkes Bay are currently top of the table with five wins from their five games. They are also the defending champions of the NPC.

In the opening three rounds, Hawkes Bay won against North Harbour, Southland and Northland with relative comfort. They then faced Canterbury last Wednesday, winning the match 27-21 away from home.

With a game just four days later against Manawatu to come, Hawkes Bay rested key players but still won the fixture 38-26 away. They have not won with a four-try bonus point in all five games.

Hawkes Bay are expected to make a number of changes from last Sunday. They rested players against Manawatu so all the big names should return this Saturday.

Tasman have made a very similar start to their opponents and currently sit third on the table. They have, however, played a game left, but are six points behind.

Tasman have won all four matches to date this season, three of which was with a bonus point. An opening round victory over Manawatu was followed by a convincing home success against Canterbury. They then defeated Counties Manukau 48-3 away from home.

Last weekend, against another in-form outfit, Tasman proved too strong at home for Bay of Plenty. In very wet and windy conditions, Tasman controlled the game, winning it 34-15.

Tasman are likely to pick a strong side with a few changes from last weekend. They also have a massive test next weekend against Wellington so they will want to manage their top players.