The Crusaders have once again demonstrated their enduring dynasty in Super Rugby Pacific, capturing a record 13th title with a hard-fought 16–12 victory over the Chiefs at a sold-out Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch. In a tense final played amid blustery conditions, the home side’s resilience, tactical kicking and defensive grit proved decisive, cementing their status as rugby’s benchmark franchise.
A Dynasty Reborn
From Humble Beginnings to Record Titles
Founded in 1996, the Crusaders endured modest beginnings before rising to prominence in the early 2000s under head coach Robbie Deans. Their success accelerated during Todd Blackadder’s tenure (2008–2016) and reached new heights under current coach Scott Robertson. Having reclaimed the title in 2022, 2023 and now 2025, the Crusaders have clinched three of the last four championships and hold an unparalleled 13 Super Rugby crowns in total.
Overcoming a 2024 Slump
Just 12 months ago the Crusaders suffered an unprecedented dip, winning only four matches in 2024 and missing the post-season for the first time since 1998. Their resurgence this year has been one of rugby’s great turnarounds, characterized by a revamped roster blending All Blacks veterans with emerging talent.
“After last year’s disappointment, we knew we had to rebuild belief,” said coach Robertson. “Every player embraced the process. This title is testament to their collective resilience and work ethic.”
Road to the Final
Regular Season Consistency
Although not minor premiers, the Crusaders finished fourth in the regular season, posting a 10–6 record. Notably, they shattered a stretch of defensive frailty mid-campaign by conceding an average of 28 points per match. A backline revamp—starting rising star Rivez Reihana at first five-eighth—infused creativity, while veterans such as Richie Mo’unga and Codie Taylor provided stability.
Play-off Performances
In the quarter-final, the Crusaders edged the Highlanders 23–20 in Dunedin, with fullback Will Jordan’s last-gasp try sealing victory. The semi-final saw a commanding 31–17 win over the Blues at Eden Park, highlighted by a dynamic display from centre Braydon Ennor and a flawless kicking day from Reihana.
The Grand Final: Key Moments
Early Exchange and Sin-Bin Drama
The Chiefs struck first in the 11th minute when prop George Dyer powered over from a driving maul. However, Crusaders captain David Havili’s high tackle on wing Emoni Narawa led to a yellow card, forcing Christchurch to defend 10-man for 10 crucial minutes. Despite intense pressure, tighthead Owen Franks anchored the scrum and the Crusaders’ defence held firm to keep the score at 5–0.
Taylor’s Brilliant Solo Try
With momentum swinging, the Crusaders engineered a powerful maul on their own 22. All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor peeled off the back, evaded a defender, and sprinted 45 metres down the left touchline to score beneath the posts in the 26th minute. Reihana’s conversion and a penalty brought the half-time score to 13–7.
Chiefs’ Response and Missed Chances
Just before the break, Shaun Stevenson darted over in the corner following slick interplay, but Damian McKenzie’s conversion drifted wide. In the second half, McKenzie had a chance to seize the lead with a penalty in the 55th minute but hooked it wide. The final 25 minutes devolved into a tense arm-wrestle, with both defences holding firm.
Reihana’s Ice-Cold Finish
Seven minutes from full-time, a dominant scrum earned the Crusaders a penalty on the Chiefs’ 10-metre line. Reihana, calm under pressure, slotted the kick to extend the advantage to 16–12. From there, the Crusaders repelled wave after wave of Chiefs attack—most memorably holding up Christian Lio-Willie over the line after a 25-phase siege—to secure the title.
Stand-Out Performances
Man of the Match: Rivez Reihana
In his debut Crusaders season, Reihana orchestrated play with maturity beyond his years. He finished with 11 points—two conversions and a penalty—and managed the game’s territorial chess match with impeccable tactical kicking. His decision-making underpins the Crusaders’ attacking rhythm and defensive solidity.
Defensive Heroics: Will Jordan and Brodie Retallick
Fullback Will Jordan made several try-saving tackles in the second half, including a superb cover tackle on Shaun Stevenson. Lock Brodie Retallick dominated the lineout and disrupted Chiefs ball-carriers at the breakdown.
Chiefs’ Grit Under Fire
Although the loss was painful, the Chiefs’ performance deserved commendation. Fullback Shaun Stevenson and flanker Sam Cane led the defensive effort, while McKenzie’s broken-field bursts kept the Crusaders honest. But missed goal-kicking and the inability to breach the Crusaders’ red zone proved costly.
Post-Match Reactions
Crusaders Coaching Staff
“I’m immensely proud of how the men dug in,” Robertson told reporters. “They showed heart, skill and composure. This is Christchurch’s moment—especially for our fans who’ve rallied behind us all season.”
Chiefs’ Captain Reflects
Chiefs skipper Luke Jacobson praised the contest’s tight margins. “It was a classic final—two quality teams battling for every inch. Credit to the Crusaders for capitalizing on key moments. We had opportunities but weren’t clinical enough.”
Wallabies Call-Up Snub for James O’Connor
Australian veteran James O’Connor, who joined the Crusaders this season, made a brief appearance as a late substitute. Despite finishing the campaign with a Super Rugby title, O’Connor’s omission from the Wallabies squad for the upcoming tests against Fiji and the British & Irish Lions suggests his international chapter may be over.
Historical Significance
Record Tally of Titles
The Crusaders’ 13 trophies stand as the most by any club in Super Rugby history, eclipsing the Northern Hemisphere’s European champions. Their sustained excellence over three decades—through competition restructures, coaching changes and player turnover—cements their reputation as the sport’s benchmark.
Home-Ground Fortress
Saturday’s victory marked the Crusaders’ 32nd straight home play-off win, an astonishing run that dates back to the inception of Super Rugby playoffs. The “temporary” Orangetheory Stadium, erected after the 2011 earthquake, will host its final match this Sunday before the team relocates to the new 30,000-seat Te Pae Stadium in 2026.
Looking Ahead
Crusaders’ 2026 Prospects
With many core players under contract and an injection of academy talent on the horizon, the Crusaders are well-placed to defend their crown in 2026. The challenge will be integrating new signings while preserving the culture that has driven their unmatched success.
Chiefs’ Rebuilding Path
For the Chiefs, missing back-to-back titles after three straight final defeats (2023–25) will sting. However, their depth and attacking flair bode well for a strong 2026 campaign. Retaining McKenzie, Jacobson and Stevenson will be crucial to sustaining their challenge.
Super Rugby Pacific Evolution
As Super Rugby expands to include new franchises from the Pacific Islands and South Africa, the competition’s landscape will shift. The Crusaders’ ability to adapt will be tested, but their winning ethos suggests they will remain front-runners.
Conclusion
In a nail-biting final that encapsulated the passion and unpredictability of rugby, the Crusaders once again proved why they stand head and shoulders above the rest. Their 16–12 triumph over the Chiefs not only secured a record 13th title but also showcased a team forged in adversity and driven by an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. As they depart the temporary confines of Orangetheory Stadium, the Crusaders prepare to usher in a new era at Te Pae, confident that their dynasty will endure for many seasons to come.
READ MORE: Minjee Lee Seizes Commanding Lead at Women’s PGA Championship, Eyes Third Major Victory
