A blockbuster Super Rugby Pacific Final is set for Wellington next Saturday after the Hurricanes and Chiefs recorded dominant semi-final wins over the Blues and Crusaders.
The Hurricanes secured their place in the decider with a commanding 57-21 victory over the Blues, running in six of their nine tries in the second half to overwhelm their opponents.
The Chiefs were equally impressive, dismantling defending champions the Crusaders 49-12 in Hamilton.
The Chiefs scored six tries in the first half to establish a 42-5 lead at the break and effectively end the contest.
The Hurricanes are expected to enter the final as slight favourites due to home advantage and the outstanding form of halfback Cam Roigard, although concerns remain over their lineout after hooker Asafo Aumua left the field during the semi-final.
The Chiefs will take confidence from a dominant set-piece performance against the Crusaders, particularly at scrum time where they consistently applied pressure.
However, they will be monitoring the fitness of influential midfielder Quinn Tupaea, who suffered an ankle injury during the match.
Next Saturday's final will mark the Chiefs' fourth consecutive Super Rugby Pacific grand final appearance as they look to end a title drought stretching back to 2013.
The result also means there will be a new champion this season after Crusaders was knocked out in the semi-finals.
The Blues defeat also brought an end to the tenure of head coach Vern Cotter, who guided the Auckland side to the 2024 Super Rugby title and three consecutive playoff campaigns.
The Super Rugby Pacific final between the Hurricanes and Chiefs will be played in Wellington next Saturday at 7.05pm.
(Source: 1 News)
