Crusaders bid to maintain Super top spot

Ronan O’Gara’s Crusaders can consolidate their place on top of the Super Rugby standings when they play the Hamilton-based Chiefs in an abbreviated 16th round, before the tournament breaks for June internationals.

The Crusaders moved five points clear in first place when they convincingly defeated rivals the Hurricanes last weekend and have the chance to lengthen that lead and extend their winning streak to 10 games against the fifth-placed Chiefs.

The manner in which the Crusaders beat the Hurricanes, while missing six current All Blacks who were either injured or suspended, has led some to declare it a certainty the eight-time champions will win the title for the second straight year.