Damian McKenzie says the Chiefs are ready to “rip in” as they prepare for a Super Rugby Pacific semi-final against the Crusaders in Hamilton on Friday.
The All Blacks playmaker is set to make his 150th Super Rugby appearance as the Chiefs chase a place in next week’s final.
Standing in their way are the defending champions, who arrive with a formidable playoff record. The Crusaders have won seven consecutive semi-finals and are unbeaten in their last three meetings with the Chiefs, including a 43-33 victory in Hamilton earlier this season.
McKenzie acknowledged the size of the challenge but believes the Chiefs have earned the right to be in this position.
“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,” he said.
“We are extremely excited for this match and ready to rip in. We know what to expect and we know what we need to do to win.
“In playoff rugby there are small margins and small moments you have to nail.
“We know if we stay with what is true to us, it will put us in a good position.”
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Chiefs captain Luke Jacobson will lead a largely unchanged side, although injuries have forced two adjustments.
With No 8 Wallace Sititi unavailable and centre Kyle Brown sidelined by concussion, Lalakai Foketi starts in midfield while Samipeni Finau comes into the loose trio. Simon Parker shifts to No 8.
win or go home
– https://t.co/5Km25SiY6t pic.twitter.com/bJXpGk6sOT
— Gallagher Chiefs (@ChiefsRugby) June 10, 2026
The Crusaders, meanwhile, have been boosted by the return of All Blacks prop Fletcher Newell.
The experienced heavy comes straight back into the starting lineup alongside Codie Taylor and Finlay Brewis after recovering from injury.
The second semi-final sees the Hurricanes host the Blues in Wellington on Saturday.
Photo: Michael Bradley/Getty Images
The post D-Mac fired up for milestone Saders clash appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Damian McKenzie says the Chiefs are ready to “rip in” as they prepare for a Super Rugby Pacific semi-final against the Crusaders in Hamilton on Friday.
The post D-Mac fired up for milestone Saders clash appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
