Chiefs And Crusaders Reveal Star-Studded Squads For 2025 Super Rugby Final
Chiefs And Crusaders Reveal Star-Studded Squads For 2025 Super Rugby Final
Ten All Blacks headline Chiefs’ unchanged XV, while the Crusaders recall Tamaiti Williams for Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final in Christchurch.
The Chiefs and Crusaders have named their squads for Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final, with both teams boasting firepower and experience ahead of a highly anticipated showdown at Apollo Projects Stadium.
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The Chiefs will field an unchanged starting XV from the side that dismantled the Brumbies 34-14 in the semifinals, including 10 current All Blacks. Head coach Clayton McMillan has opted for consistency in the decider, as the franchise chases its first title since 2013.
“We’ve built real continuity across the season, and that will serve us well in Christchurch,” McMillan said. “The Crusaders are clinical and composed, especially at home. But we’re ready for a good final fight.”
Among the key additions to the bench is seasoned prop Aidan Ross, who will play his final game for the Chiefs before joining the Queensland Reds. Etene Nanai-Seturo returns to the matchday squad, replacing Gideon Wrampling in the No. 23 jersey.
McMillan, who also will depart the franchise at the conclusion of the season, is hoping for a memorable finish after near misses in recent years.
“We know there’ll be a loyal crew backing us in the stands and thousands more watching from home," he said. "Our fans bring something special.”
The Crusaders, meanwhile, regain All Blacks' prop Tamaiti Williams, who returns to the front row after missing the semifinal win over the Blues due to a knee issue. His inclusion is the only change to Rob Penney’s starting side, with George Bower moving to the bench.
“Tamaiti is ready to go,” Penney said. “He was close last week, but we gave him the extra time. It’s a good problem to have with players of this caliber.”
A late injury to Chay Fihaki has opened the door for Macca Springer to return on the left wing, joining Sevu Reece and Will Jordan in a dangerous back three. Captain David Havili and Braydon Ennor form the midfield, while Noah Hotham and Rivez Reihana steer the ship in the halves.
The Crusaders are riding a 31-game unbeaten streak in home playoff matches, a record that will close the chapter on their time at Apollo Projects Stadium before a move to a new venue in 2026.
“History is history,” Penney said. “We’re not focused on the streak—we’re focused on this game. This group is excited for the challenge.”
Chiefs Roster
15 Shaun Stevenson, 14 Emoni Narawa, 13 Daniel Rona, 12 Quinn Tupaea, 11 Leroy Carter, 10 Damian McKenzie, 9 Cortez Ratima, 8 Wallace Sititi, 7 Luke Jacobson, 6 Samipeni Finau, 5 Tupou Vaa’i, 4 Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 3 George Dyer, 2 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 1 Ollie Norris
Replacements: 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
Crusaders Roster
15 Will Jordan, 14 Sevu Reece, 13 Braydon Ennor, 12 David Havili (c), 11 Macca Springer, 10 Rivez Reihana, 9 Noah Hotham, 8 Christian Lio-Willie, 7 Tom Christie, 6 Ethan Blackadder, 5 Antonio Shalfoon, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Fletcher Newell, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Tamaiti Williams
Replacements: 16 George Bell, 17 George Bower, 18 Seb Calder, 19 Jamie Hannah, 20 Cullen Grace, 21 Kyle Preston, 22 James O’Connor, 23 Dallas McLeod
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