"Complete performance" - Crusaders brace for Chiefs challenge in Grand Final rematch

Rob Penney has placed his faith in a squad he believes is ready to rise collectively. He has maintained combinations that have been steadily developing, while making targeted adjustments aimed at providing clarity and cohesion.

The 13-time Super Rugby champions have endured a disappointing start to the season. They suffered a narrow defeat to the Highlanders in the opening round, followed by a heavy 50–24 loss to the Brumbies in their first home match. With the Chiefs arriving on the back of two straight wins, they will need to turn their form around quickly rather than later.

“We’re better than what we showed last week, and this team reflects the confidence we have in the players to put things right,” Penney says.

In the front row, Tamaiti Williams, George Bell and Fletcher Newell form a trio the coaching staff trust to deliver stability and authority.

Set-piece accuracy has been a clear emphasis this week, and this combination provides a solid foundation to build from.

Behind them, Antonio Shalfoon and Jamie Hannah continue their partnership at lock. While still evolving as a pairing, Penney believes they are ready to assert themselves.

“The learnings from last week will help them take another step,” he says.

Dom Gardiner, Ethan Blackadder and Christian Lio-Willie make up a dynamic loose forward trio, blending physical edge with relentless work rate.

Blackadder’s leadership through contact remains central to the side’s approach, while Gardiner and Lio-Willie inject energy across the park. Penney has challenged this group to establish composure early and lay the platform for sustained pressure.

Noah Hotham and Taha Kemara retain the 9–10 combination, underlining Penney’s commitment to continuity. Their developing partnership has shown encouraging signs, and against a side like the Chiefs, that stability will be crucial.

In the midfield, David Havili captains the effort from centre, while Leicester Fainga’anuku returns to the starting XV, bringing directness and instinct on both sides of the ball. Penney has been measured in reintegrating Fainga’anuku, prioritising confidence and clarity in his role.

“We just want him settled, confident, and doing what he does well,” he says.

Out wide, Sevu Reece and Chay Fihaki line up on the wings, with Will Jordan at fullback. It is a back three that combines finishing ability with composure, and the kind of counterattacking threat that can shift momentum in moments.

Penney’s message to them has centred on trusting their instincts and maintaining connection, particularly against an opposition that capitalises on lapses.

The bench offers significant impact. Manumaua Letiu, George Bower and Seb Calder strengthen the front row, while Tahlor Cahill and Corey Kellow provide forward energy. Louie Chapman, James White and Dallas McLeod complete a balanced group capable of injecting tempo or control when required.

The Chiefs rarely allow second opportunities, a reality Penney fully acknowledges. Still, his belief in this squad’s response remains strong. There has been no overhaul this week, simply clarity of purpose, attention to detail and trust in preparation.

"Across the board the Chiefs are dangerous on attack and they're really physical and dangerous in defence,” says Penney.

“We can't focus on one element too much because we'll end up getting stung in another area. Any team that beats the Chiefs have to have a complete performance.”