Perhaps the biggest factor in the Chiefs success in 2023 has been the depth, balance, explosiveness, versatility, and clinical execution of their bench.
Both the Crusaders and Hurricanes entered their final match of the regular season with their seeding already secured, but that didn't stop either side from bringing the heat.
This match had a symphony of narratives to get excited about; last year's final rematch, the individual matchups, the All Blacks selection battle, and the rival coaches who are soon to be All Blacks leaders...
The reigning champions hosting an unbeaten Brumbies is a mouth-watering prospect and despite the Crusaders' shaky start to 2023, the Super Rugby win predictor favoured the Canterbury side by 93%.
Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson has defended his side's approach to defending in the red zone after his side came away with a 34-28 win over the Blues at Eden Park.
The grand final rematch comes at an intriguing time for the Crusaders, having won just one match from three in 2023 and having suffered a physical loss at the hands of the Drua in Fiji last round.
As Wasps savoured their moment of magic, a concurrent plot played out. Yes, they had de-bagelled themselves in the standings–but they were also en route to shipping nine tries, and finding themselves with just five matches left in the league.