Highlanders halfback Aaron Smith has praised his Hurricanes counterpart TJ Perenara as the "fittest, fastest and strongest" halfback in New Zealand ahead of another Super Rugby showdown between the pair.
As long‑time rivals for the All Black No.9 jersey, the pair enjoys a good off‑field relationship, but Smith regards Perenara as a "physical beast".
In Super Rugby this week, the Crusaders play the Bulls at 6.35pm Friday while the Rebels take on the Sharks at 8.45pm.
The Sunwolves play the Chiefs at 4.15pm on Saturday while the Hurricanes play the Highlanders at 6.35pm.
On Sunday, the Stormers take on the Reds at 3.15am while the Jaguares play the Lions at 9.40am.