Enthusiasm rules for the Chiefs and coach Colin Cooper has been having to keep a lid on players' wanting to return to action ahead of their prescribed times as the Investec Super Rugby competition enters its playoffs stages.
Timing has always been an asset for lock Brodie Retallick and he has shown that again with his return to Investec Super Rugby action for the Chiefs against the Hurricanes in Hamilton on Friday.
Positions in the Investec Super Rugby playoffs firmed by the end of round 18 with the defending champion Crusaders untouchable in claiming the minor championship.
The Hurricanes have got a much needed ‘W’ in the results column ahead of the playoffs and celebrated Brad Shields’ 100th Super Rugby game with a bonus point 42-24 win over the Blues in Wellington.
Diminutive Damian McKenzie dictated terms to dismember the Brumbies' Investec Super Rugby hopes with a virtuoso display in their 24–19 win at FMG Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday.
New Zealand is set to celebrate its latest Investec Super Rugby Centurion tonight when Hurricanes captain Brad Shields appears in his 100th match in the competition against the Blues tonight.
Demonstrating the sort of class that made them Investec Super Rugby champions last year, the Crusaders in their 45-22 win over the Highlanders showed the all-round skill and form that will make them formidable prospects again in 2018.
Brumbies flanker David Pocock has the Chiefs on high alert for their Saturday afternoon Investec Super Rugby game in Hamilton not only for his own abilities but also the chances he creates for others.
Facing a second demanding New Zealand derby the Highlanders have the extra pressure of taking on the Crusaders on Friday at AMI Stadium where they are into their second season without an Investec Super Rugby loss.