Chiefs vs Crusaders set for Super Rugby Pacific semifinal

The Waikato Chiefs and Canterbury Crusaders will clash in a Super Rugby Pacific semifinal on Friday, June 12, at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton, with a place in the championship final at stake. The match marks a milestone 150th Super Rugby appearance for Chiefs flyhalf Damian McKenzie.

Both teams enter the contest in strong form, having secured convincing victories in last weekend's qualifying finals. The Chiefs defeated the Queensland Reds 46-24, while the defending champion Crusaders advanced with a 52-31 win over the Auckland Blues. The Crusaders also hold a psychological edge, having won their last three encounters against the Chiefs, including a 43-33 victory in Hamilton earlier this season, and they boast a record of seven consecutive semifinal wins.

McKenzie acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating that facing the Crusaders in his milestone match would be special but tough. He emphasized the team's readiness, saying they were "extremely excited for this match and ready to rip in." He noted the fine margins of playoff rugby, adding, "We know if we stay with what is true to us, it will put us in a good position."

The Chiefs have made two enforced changes to their starting...