The Super Rugby big game of the weekend is a repeat of last year’s final with the Blues hosting their archrivals and defending champions, the Crusaders, at Eden Park on Saturday. A rematch of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific championship final will take place on Saturday between the Crusaders of Christchurch and the Blues of Auckland.
Nonetheless, the game is only the fourth round of the season, and both clubs have already dropped games at this stage. Because of this, it could not have the same significance or influence that it ordinarily would. Neither team is giving its best effort.
One of the biggest upsets in Super Rugby history occurred when the Crusaders lost to the Fijian Drua last weekend after losing to the Hamilton-based Chiefs in the opening round. They are now in eighth place out of the 12 teams after the loss.
The Blues got off to a strong start with a convincing 60-20 win over the Highlanders in their tournament opener in Dunedin before falling to the Brumbies by a slim margin of 25-20 in the Super Round in Melbourne a fortnight ago.
Notwithstanding that loss, the lads from Auckland last weekend defeated the Hurricanes in Wellington with a commanding 25-19 victory. They are going up against a Crusaders team that is still reeling from a shocking 25-24 loss to the Fijian Drua in Lautoka.
Before to that, the Christchurch-based team dropped their first game at home to the Chiefs (31-10) but got back on track when they easily defeated the Highlanders 52-15 in their subsequent match.
Crusaders midfielder commits to New Zealand Rugby until 2025
All Blacks return David Havili, who just extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby through the end of 2025, has his sights set on more success in Aotearoa. The utility player, who was born in Nelson, aspires to continue his success in the international sphere, DHL Super Rugby Pacific, and Bunnings Warehouse NPC.
25 Tests for the All Blacks, six straight Super Rugby championships with the Crusaders, and two NPC championships as Tasman Makos captain are just a few of his amazing accomplishments.
I’m thankful and thrilled to be re-signing with New Zealand Rugby, and I’m excited about the future, said Havili.
“I’ve always wanted to play professional rugby since I was a young child. So it’s special and something I didn’t want to give up just yet to have the chance to play for my three favorite teams for a few more years: Tasman, Crusaders, and All Blacks.
For the past two seasons, the 28-year-old utility player has established himself as a regular for the All Blacks, participating in 22 of a possible 28 Tests.