Crusaders vs Blues: Historic Rivalry in Super Rugby Pacific Semi-Finals

The Crusaders welcome the Blues into their Christchurch fortress this week, for the first of the Super Rugby Pacific semi finals.

Coming off a strong performance last week in their quarterfinal against the Reds, the Crusaders only made one change in their 23. Tamati Williams went down last week with a knee injury, and is going to be replaced by George Bower. 

The Blues also made one change, swapping in Zarn Sullivan at fullback. They come off a major upset, scoring after full time to take the win against the previously top of the table Chiefs. 

Rivez Reihana and Beaduen Barrett will battle it out in the number 10 jersey. Reihana has been in fine form for the team in red and black, taking over the role after Taha Kemara suffered a season ending injury earlier in the competition. 

The backline offers plenty of big matchups. The midfield of David Havili and Braydon Ennor get a crack at AJ Lam and the majorly controversial Rieko Ionae. Ennor will be looking to put an end to Ionae’s social media trash talking spree, while Havili will look to cement himself in an All Black jersey.

Pressure will be on both back threes as a typical wet Christchurch night is expected. The weather probably favours the Crusaders slightly, who showed they can play in any conditions last weekend. 

Players from both sides will be out trying to make one last impression on All Black selectors. The wings are probably the most competitive selection this year, and both the Blue’s wingers have not cemented their spot. Clarke’s lacklustre form, and the fact Tele’a is leaving at the end of the year means tomorrow night could be important for them.

Hoskin Sotutu and Dalton Papali’i are in a similar boat and will be looking to impress.

It’s a historic finals matchup, and one of the bigger rivalries in New Zealand rugby. The Crusaders have had the edge on the Blues in finals matches winning three out of the four played as well as the last 21 out of 23 matches between the teams.

It is expected to be a tight contest with both teams peaking at the right time of the season. And after the last meeting, where James O’Connor kicked a winning penalty at the horn, anything could happen.

If the Crusaders do win, they'll host the final at Apollo Projects Stadium next weekend, against the winner of the Brumbies Chiefs clash in Hamilton on Saturday night.