2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific Final: Crusaders vs. Chiefs Showdown

The anticipation builds as the Crusaders prepare to host the Chiefs in the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final, scheduled for Saturday, June 21, at 7:05 PM NZT at the iconic Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch. The match marks a significant event in rugby, as the Crusaders, with an impressive record of 31 consecutive wins at home during playoff matches since 1996, seek to extend their dominance against a Chiefs team that has faced them in the finals for three consecutive years.

This year's final is not just a battle for the championship; it is a culmination of hard lessons learned. The Chiefs, having previously faced defeats against the Crusaders in 2023 and the Blues in 2024, are determined to capitalize on their experiences, bringing a renewed focus and strategy into this decisive match. "We have learned from our past encounters, and we aim to implement those lessons on the field," stated Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan in an interview on June 15, 2025.

Both teams are bolstered by an array of All Blacks talent, with players who have proven their mettle at the highest levels of the sport. Crusaders fullback Will Jordan, returning from injury, showcased his prowess by scoring two tries in the semifinal victory over the Blues, demonstrating his value to the team. He will be joined by Scott Barrett, the captain of the All Blacks, and Sevu Reece, the all-time leading try-scorer for the Crusaders. The leadership of David Havili, known for his calm demeanor under pressure, will also be crucial as the team approaches the final.

Conversely, the Chiefs will rely on their dynamism, with playmaker Damian McKenzie leading the charge. As the top point scorer in the Super Rugby Pacific season with 207 points, McKenzie represents a formidable challenge for the Crusaders' defense. "It’s crucial for us to maintain composure and execute our game plan effectively," McKenzie remarked during a press conference on June 18, 2025. Alongside him, the emergence of Wallace Sititi, recognized as the 2024 World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year, adds an exciting dimension to the Chiefs' strategy.

A sell-out crowd is expected, with fans across 58 countries able to watch the game live and free on NZR+. Areas covered include regions from Afghanistan to Portugal, ensuring a wide-reaching audience for this high-stakes encounter. For viewers outside these territories, the match will be broadcast through various international partners, including Sky TV in New Zealand and Flo Sports in the USA, among others.

As both teams prepare for this historic matchup, the implications extend beyond the trophy. The Crusaders are on the brink of solidifying their legacy as one of the greatest teams in Super Rugby history, while the Chiefs are eager to reclaim their status as champions after two near misses. The outcome will not only reflect their season's efforts but also shape the narratives heading into the next rugby year.

In summary, the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific Final promises not only a thrilling display of rugby but also a clash of strategies, talent, and resilience, marking a pivotal moment in the sport's ongoing evolution. As the teams gear up for the showdown, fans worldwide eagerly await the unfolding of this epic narrative on the rugby field.