The former New Zealand Under 20 flanker was the youngest player* in Super Rugby this year, before Covid-19 and at just 20, has made a huge impact in his debut season.
The Crusaders last loss at home in Super Rugby came against the Hurricanes in the final round of 2016. On the 3rd of May last year, the Crusaders drew with the visiting Sharks, meaning their record is an undefeated streak rather than a winning one.
Nonetheless, it’s an impressive record. On Sunday afternoon when they take on the Chiefs at Orangetheory Stadium in Addington in Investec Super Rugby Aotearoa, the Crusaders are going for 35 undefeated games on the trot in front of their home fans.
So, the Crusaders have lost only two of their last 45 Super Rugby home matches, however, the Chiefs were responsible for one of those defeats in Round 1 of 2016.
Over recent years, the Chiefs appear to be the Crusaders bogey team. The Red and Blacks have won 17 of their last 19 Super Rugby matches against other New Zealand sides. But the two defeats have come at the hands of the men from the Waikato.
The Chiefs drew first blood in 2020, having won their game pre-Covid, 25-15 in Hamilton in February.
With over 10,000 tickets already sold for Sunday afternoon’s fixture, this match up in the garden city promises to be a captivating encounter.
Make sure you don’t miss out and catch the action live at Orangetheory Stadium. Get your tickets HERE.
*Tupou Vaa’i is now the youngest player in Investec Super Rugby Aotearoa, after signing on with the Chiefs as injury replacement.