The big-game hunters
Resilience, the ability to pull a try from anywhere, and biggame experience are what will steer the Chiefs towards Super Rugby glory this year. Having played some of the best footy of the competition, the Chiefs are forced away from home, starting with an assignment in Cape Town. But after winning in five different countries this year, the team have shown the ability to adapt well to foreign conditions.
It’s part of a strong mentality within the group, which has also seen the Chiefs overcome a horrid injury run. Down on plenty of star power at different times, the Chiefs’ focus on who they have available rather than who is missing has shown what can be achieved with the right mindset – with the performance against Wales with no All Blacks a fine example.
The Chiefs also possess the magical ability to score from anywhere on the park, such is the star-power of guys like Damian McKenzie, James Lowe, Aaron Cruden and Brad Weber, who have featured in some stunners. Another one of those specials could just be the difference in a sudden-death match.
And talking of big games, it’s a place where the Chiefs are very comfortable. Since Dave Rennie took over in 2012 he guided the franchise to a first-ever title, backed it up the following year, before also getting them to the first round of the playoffs the last two seasons.
That experience is not to be underestimated – for players and coaches alike. Plenty of the Chiefs’ key men have been to this stage of the season numerous times, or have felt the added pressure of international footy, so they won’t be overawed by the task ahead.
And, if you needed any more convincing, the Chiefs have a man in their ranks named Stephen Donald.
Need I say more.