As the Super Rugby Pacific final approaches, Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw has intriguingly labeled his team as underdogs, despite a stellar season that saw them finish at the top of the league and dominate in the playoffs. The Hurricanes are set to host the Chiefs, who themselves crushed the Crusaders 49-12 to claim their spot in the final. This matchup, scheduled for next Saturday in Wellington, is not just a contest for the title but a showcase of tactical depth and player brilliance.
Laidlaw's strategy to adopt the underdog stance is not merely for show. He pointed out the Chiefs' seasoned experience in finals as a significant advantage. "The Chiefs are rolling into their fourth final, so they know what it takes to get there," Laidlaw explained. This acknowledgment of the Chiefs' finals familiarity subtly shifts the pressure onto their shoulders, despite the Hurricanes' impressive form.
"It probably makes them favourites I guess, having been there the last three times."
The Hurricanes' journey to the final was marked by a remarkable 57-21 victory over the Blues, a game that highlighted their lethal attacking capabilities which have been a theme this season, amassing 104 tries. Yet, the memory of a narrow 22-17 defeat to the Chiefs earlier in the season looms large, suggesting another tightly contested encounter is on the horizon.
The game also promises an exciting duel of All Blacks, particularly at inside centre where Jordie Barrett, fresh from a stint in Europe, will face the Chiefs' in-form Quinn Tupaea. Barrett’s impact since returning has been profound, with Laidlaw praising his influence on the team's dynamics. "Jordie’s ability to keep his feet moving, keep talking, keep putting other people in position is genuinely world class," he remarked. "He’s an outstanding rugby player. We missed him last year. You can feel the difference, can’t you, off the ball."
“They were exceptional at taking opportunities against the Crusaders.”
With both teams boasting strong line-ups and strategic depth, the final promises to be more than just a game of rugby; it's a clash of titans, rich in narratives and brimming with the potential to become a classic. As the rugby world turns its eyes to Wellington, the stage is set for a memorable showdown that will captivate fans and neutrals alike.