Damian McKenzie and the Waikato Chiefs are hoping their third try will bring success when they take on the strong Canterbury Crusaders in the Super Rugby Pacific final this Saturday in Christchurch. McKenzie, who plays as flyhalf for the All Blacks, has been in great form this season, leading a powerful attacking line behind a tough forward pack. Thanks to their strong performances, the Chiefs made it to the final for the third year in a row.
Unfortunately, they lost both of their last two finals — to the Crusaders in 2023 and to the Auckland Blues the year before. That means this current group of players is still chasing their first title, unlike the Chiefs team under Dave Rennie, which won back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013.
Coach Clayton “Donk” McMillan has played a big role in the team’s success since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this final will be his last match with the Chiefs, as he’s set to join the Irish club Munster after this season.
“We have so much to fight for and many reasons to give it our all,” said McKenzie this week. “We want to win it for Donk, for our region, for our fans, and for our families. It’s been frustrating not being able to win a final the last few years.”
Even though cowbells — a symbol of the Chiefs’ supporters — won’t be allowed due to health and safety rules, the team is still expected to have strong backing from their fans in the sold-out Christchurch Stadium.
The Chiefs might not think too much about the past, but they will still have to face the Crusaders’ incredible home record in Super Rugby playoffs — 31 wins and no losses over the last 30 years.
However, the Chiefs have had the upper hand recently, winning five of their last seven matches against the Crusaders, including both home and away games this season. Coach McMillan believes their current form is more important than past records.
“We’re not afraid of playing the Crusaders in Christchurch,” he said.
“We’ve done well there before, but we know it’s always a tough challenge.”
The Chiefs have kept the same lineup from their semi-final win, while the Crusaders have strengthened their team by bringing back prop Tamaiti Williams to join their all-Test front row, setting up a key battle between the forward packs.
Both teams have strong attacking and defensive players, so Damian McKenzie’s accurate goal-kicking from long range might decide where the trophy goes — to either of New Zealand’s two main islands.
The Crusaders, who have won 12 titles (or 14 if you include the regional competitions held during COVID), failed to make the playoffs last season under new coach Rob Penney.
But this year, with the return of star fullback Will Jordan and several other top players, the team found its rhythm again. During the playoffs, they’ve shown signs of becoming the powerful and relentless side they once were.
Saturday’s final could also be their last game at their current stadium, which has been their temporary home since the 2011 earthquake damaged Lancaster Park. A new stadium, Te Kaha, is almost finished.
“We have a team that can win,” said Penney. “This is a special one-time moment. We’re playing at home, in front of our fans, for the final time at this stadium. It’s going to be something really special.”
FAQ
What does “mixes past and present” mean in this context?
It means the final features a clash between teams or players with rich histories and traditions, alongside new talent and modern strategies, creating a blend of legacy and fresh energy.
Which teams are playing in this year’s final?
The final teams are usually determined through playoffs. For exact details about this year’s finalists, check the latest official Super Rugby updates or news sources.
When and where is the Super Rugby Final taking place?
The date and venue vary each year. For 2025, please refer to the official Super Rugby website or tournament schedule.
Why is this final being called a “big battle”?
The term highlights the intensity and high stakes of the match. It suggests a fierce competition between two well-matched and determined sides.
Where can I find highlights and match analysis after the final?
Highlights and analysis will be available on Super Rugby’s official website, sports news platforms, and social media channels shortly after the game.
