Former Crusaders coach Robbie Deans believes a win for the seven‑time champions in Sunday’s final would be their best ever victory in the competition.
Deans, who coached the Christchurch‑based side from 2000 to 2008 and guided them to five tournament victories, acknowledged that they face a formidable task against the Lions in Johannesburg but said his former side can pull off the win away from home.
Deans says the Crusaders deserve to win the title.
He says the players know their lungs are going to burn, but there is nothing they will be afraid of.
However, New Zealand Rugby’s medical chief Ian Murphy believes the travel factor could prove the difference in the Super Rugby final.
In an interview with the Stuff.co.nz, Murphy said there was significant research to suggest teams travelling across a time zone will play at less than 100 percent.
The Crusaders is Super Ruby’s most successful team with seven titles, but their last success was in the 2008 season.
The Lions will host the Crusaders at 2am Sunday.
Source: Sport24
