The Chiefs will run out with 10 All Blacks in their starting XV for the Super Rugby Pacific grand final in Christchurch, with one capped Kiwi international also named on the bench.
It will be the same starting side that beat the Brumbies by 20 in the semi-final who will greet the Crusaders, with two changes on the bench.
Aidan Ross adds experience to the reserves in what will be his final game in Chiefs colours. The two-cap All Black’s with a contract with the Reds starts next month.
Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan has also opted for experience in the form of Etene Nanai-Seturo off the bench, who replaces Gideon Wrampling in the No. 23 jersey.
“We’ve built real continuity across the season, and that will serve us well in Christchurch. The Crusaders have proven time and again that they know how to lift in finals footy. They’re clinical, composed, and proud of their home record. We’re ready for a good final fight,” McMillan said.
That home record reached the staggering heights of 31 playoff games unbeaten last weekend, a record only the Chiefs can break as the Crusaders move to a new stadium in 2026.
With plenty of history on the line, McMillan, who is also heading offshore after the 2025 campaign, is hoping his side can get over the hump after a dominant season and consecutive close run-ins with the Super Rugby Pacific trophy.
“We know there’ll be a loyal crew backing us in the stands at Apollo Projects Stadium, and thousands more watching from home. Our fans bring something special, and we feel that no matter where we are.”
Chiefs team to play the Crusaders
- Ollie Norris
- Samisoni Taukei’aho
- George Dyer
- Naitoa Ah Kuoi
- Tupou Vaa’i
- Samipeni Finau
- Luke Jacobson
- Wallace Sititi
- Cortez Ratima
- Damian McKenzie
- Leroy Carter
- Quinn Tupaea
- Daniel Rona
- Emoni Narawa
- Shaun Stevenson
Reserves
16. Brodie McAlister
17. Aidan Ross
18. Reuben O’Neill
19. Jimmy Tupou
20. Kaylum Boshier
21. Xavier Roe
22. Josh Jacomb
23. Etene Nanai-Seturo
