Stormers defence coach Norman Laker says the team is taking it one game at a time and not focusing on playoff permutations, whether that means staying in South Africa or travelling abroad.
All Blacks centre Rieko Ioane is all too aware that his reception at Irish giants Leinster later may be far from warm.
Scarlets hooker Marnus van der Merwe is relishing the opportunity to impress Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus when he takes on the Sharks in Durban on Saturday night.
Any hopes that the injured Caelan Doris had of making it back to fitness in time for the British and Irish Lions tour have been quashed following an update from Leinster on Monday.
Bulls boss Jake White has confirmed they are taking a cautious approach as Springbok prop Gerhard Steenekamp continues his recovery from complications following a knee injury.
Johan Goosen's turbulent career could be nearing its conclusion after the Bulls flyhalf suffered another concerning knee injury during the United Rugby Championship Round 17 clash against Cardiff.