The Christchurch‑based Crusaders are edging closer to an eighth Super Rugby title but the dream could be destroyed by the Waikato Chiefs this weekend.
It has been a remarkable campaign to date for the seven‑time champions and as round after round they grew stronger and now look to be the real deal.
The Chiefs have restricted the Crusaders to fewer than 20 points in each of their last six meetings.
The last time the teams met was in Suva where the Crusaders won 31-24.
Since 2013, the Chiefs and the Crusaders have met each other nine times and the Chiefs have won five of those matches.
The Lions will host the Hurricanes at 12.30am Sunday in the Super Rugby semi final. The Crusaders take on the Chiefs in the other semi at 7.35pm this Saturday.
1. 2017: Crusaders won 31-24 in Suva.
2. 2016: Chiefs won 23‑13 in Suva.
3. 2016: Chiefs won 27‑21 in Christchurch.
4. 2015: Chiefs won 26‑9 in Christchurch.
5. 2015: Chiefs won 40‑16 in Hamilton.
6. 2014: Crusaders won 17‑18 in Hamilton.
7. 2014: Chiefs won 18‑10 in Christchurch.
8. 2013 (semi‑final): Chiefs won 20‑19 in Hamilton.
9. 2013: Crusaders won 15‑43 in Christchurch.
