By Sam Ryan A string of four straight matches against New Zealand sides in May will likely decide the fate of the Waratahs 2018 Super Rugby campaign. Under the revamped Super Rugby format, each side plays two matches against their four conference rivals, then four matches against sides from each of the other two pools. While the Waratahs performances against their Australasian rivals will be crucial, fans will need to wait until May to watch NSW play a New Zealand team. Daryl Gibson’s side then plays the Blues, Crusaders, Highlanders and Chiefs in consecutive weeks, with two matches in Sydney and two matches in New Zealand. It’s the perfect opportunity to win back the support of Waratahs fans and the wider rugby community in NSW, but it will be no easy task. The Waratahs begin their 2018 campaign against the Stormers in Sydney next Saturday night. They then travel to play the Sharks and Jaguares before hosting the Rebels back in Sydney ahead of a round six bye.