With Leinster already dominating the United Rugby Championship log, this weekend's fixtures will be crucial to see if the Irish provinces follow their national team's lead.
Sharks flyhalf Cruwin Bosach is under no illusions as to the importance of getting a win over the Lions in their United Rugby Championship clash on Saturday.
Munster have confirmed that Springbok star RG Snyman is nearing a return to full fitness as he looks to make his long-awaited comeback from injury.
Despite his team's 46-19 URC defeat at home against the Stormers at the weekend, Sharks director of rugby Neil Powell is confident they can still reach the play-offs.
The United Rugby Championship may be on a short hiatus this week, but when the action resumes next weekend, it will be with two massive South African derbies in Gauteng.
Stormers coach John Dobson is eager to improve the franchise's depth in the crucial position of flyhalf.