An early guide to who will be New Zealand king-dog.

March 15: Brumbies v Waratahs (Canberra)

This could be the match for important get-squares after some unsavoury off-field incidents during the Wallabies' end-of-season European tour last year.

March 22: Brumbies v Stormers (Canberra)

The Brumbies must be able to back-up against one of the best South African provinces if they are any hope of going anywhere.

April 19: Chiefs v Crusaders (Hamilton)

This will show whether Hamilton is still the Chiefs' impenetrable domain.

May 3: Crusaders v Brumbies (Christchurch)

Australian teams always know where they stand after a trip to claustrophobic Crusaderland.

The Brumbies and the Crusaders have a rich history of combat © Getty Images

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May 17: Crusaders v Sharks (Christchurch)

We will know by now how the Crusaders are faring without Dan Carter, and if the Sharks are South Africa's best.

The Sharks and the Stormers could have much on the line in the final round of the competition © Getty Images

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May 31: Chiefs v Waratahs (New Plymouth)

The Waratahs should still be threatening, and the Chiefs could even snuff them. Or revitalise them.

June 28: Waratahs v Brumbies (Sydney)

The Test series with France will have just finished, and maybe there are more get-squares in the offing.

July 12: Stormers v Sharks (Cape Town), Reds v Waratahs (Brisbane)

These are two outstanding games in the final round, which could easily determine finals spots.

Which fixtures are you most looking forward to seeing this season, and why? Leave a comment below to join the conversation.

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