New Zealand's Super rugby conference is primed for a high-octane start next year with a clash between the Chiefs and Crusaders, two teams forging a fierce rivalry, scheduled for opening weekend in Christchurch.
The defending champion Chiefs have had the upper hand over the Crusaders, the seven-time title holders, over the past couple of years.
Once the benchmark in New Zealand rugby, that mantle has shifted from Christchurch to Hamilton following the appointment of Dave Rennie and fellow coaches Wayne Smith and Tom Coventry.
The Chiefs have won their past two semifinals against the Crusaders in Hamilton.
However, the Crusaders will take heart ahead of the February 21 clash from their last result over their rivals at AMI Stadium, a 43-15 thrashing in the penultimate round which suggested they were on track to win their first title since 2008.
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