The Chiefs secured a spot in the Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final after a commanding 49-12 victory over the defending champion Crusaders in their semifinal at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton on Friday, June 12, 2026.
The win marked redemption for the Hamilton-based franchise, which had lost five consecutive finals and three straight regular-season games against the Crusaders.
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All Blacks playmaker Damian McKenzie started at fly-half in his milestone 150th Super Rugby match for the Chiefs, helping guide his team to the final round.
Before the match, McKenzie emphasized the importance of collective execution over personal achievement.
"We have been working really hard throughout the year to put ourselves into playoff contention and to play my 150th against the Crusaders in the semi-final is special," McKenzie said.
He noted that narrow margins in knockout rugby required absolute precision from the squad on home turf.
"In play-off rugby there are small margins and small moments you have to nail," McKenzie added.
The Chiefs entered the semifinal after a 46-24 win over the Reds in the qualifying final, despite injuries forcing lineup changes including the absences of Wallace Sititi and Kyle Brown.
McKenzie credited the home crowd for providing additional energy.
"We know if we stay with what is true to us, it will put us in a good position.
Being at home is great, we love playing in front of our fans and we are excited," he said.
