2019 Super Rugby draw released

Highlanders winger Waisake Naholo in action against the Chiefs. Photosport

Sanzaar has released the draw for the 2019 Super Rugby season.

Being a World Cup year there will be no international break in June meaning the competition will run for 21 uninterrupted weeks.

The Chiefs and Highlanders will face off in the opening game of the season on Friday February 15. The Blues host the Crusaders the following night while the Hurricanes begin the year on the road against the Waratahs.

SUPER RUGBY DRAW 2019

After opening the season at home, the Blues then head to South Africa to play the Sharks and then Argentina against the Jaguares.

The Crusaders begin the season with four local derbies in the opening five games.

Based on the current standings, the Hurricanes face the toughest South African trip with away games against the Lions and Sharks. The Hurricanes, along with the Highlanders, also head to either Japan or Singapore to play the Sunwolves.