'You work hard to be given this opportunity': Stage set for Super Rugby showdown

“You work hard to be given this opportunity and it is satisfying to be in this position, but we also know there is one more game to win.”

That’s the message from Chiefs coach Jono Gibbes ahead of Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific final against the Hurricanes in Wellington - a clash that will crown a new champion for 2026.

The Chiefs arrive chasing redemption after three straight Grand Final defeats while the Hurricanes are chasing a first title in a decade after finishing top of the regular season and powering into the decider with a dominant semi-final win over the Blues.

Gibbes says the challenge is clear: the Hurricanes have set the pace all season but his side believes it is ready for one last push.

“The Hurricanes have been the pace setters throughout the season and it will be a terrific challenge playing them at their home, but it is one we are looking forward to.”

The final will be played in front of a sold-out Hnry Stadium, with tickets snapped up within minutes earlier in the week.

The Hurricanes booked home advantage after a 57-21 semi-final win over the Blues while the Chiefs crushed the defending champions Crusaders 49-12 in Hamilton.

The Chiefs have been forced into a handful of key changes despite coach Gibbes largely backing the same squad that defeated the Crusaders last week.

Midfielder Quinn Tupaea, the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year, has been named to start after leaving the field early against the Crusaders due to injury concerns.

Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year Quinn Tupaea has been named for the Chiefs despite leaving the field injured during last week's semi-final win over the Crusaders. Photo/Photosport/John Davidson

But the Chiefs will be without former Wallabies centre Lalakai Foketi, who had an outstanding game last week. He also limped off the field last week. Kyle Brown comes into the starting XV at centre to replace Foketi.

At the back, Leroy Carter shifts into the starting side at fullback after Isaac Hutchinson was ruled out through injury.

The Chiefs are still without No.8 Wallace Sititi who continues to be managed under concussion protocols.

Despite the changes, Gibbes has kept faith in continuity for the biggest game of the season.

Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw says the occasion is exactly what the team has worked for.

“It’s a hugely exciting week and game ahead. A home final in front of a sold-out stadium, it doesn’t get much better than that.”

He said his side is aware of the challenge ahead, but ready for the moment.

“We’ve prepared really well at the start of the week. We've got no question about what’s coming from the Chiefs and how good they are. We know it’s going to be a tough battle, but it’s something we’re really excited about.”

The Hurricanes have been boosted by the return of Devan Flanders, who starts in the back row after recovering from concussion. Isaia Walker-Leawere also comes into the starting side in the second row.

“It’s great news that we can welcome back Devan Flanders and pick a really settled team at this stage of the season," Laidlaw said.

"That’s something we’re really grateful for. It’s a massive weekend, we’re hugely excited and can’t wait to get into it.”

Gibbes says the atmosphere will add to the occasion.

Hurricanes loose forward Devan Flanders returns to the starting side for Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final after recovering from concussion. Photo/Photosport/Elias Rodriguez

“Playing in front of a full house is always stimulating and we know there will be plenty of Chiefs supporters in the crowd, ringing their cowbells loudly.”

The All Blacks squad will be named on Monday for the upcoming July Test matches, which includes the Nations Championship campaign against France, Italy, and Ireland.

Saturday's Super Rugby Pacific final is expected to be a trial for the selectors.

Chiefs vs Hurricanes at Hnry Stadium, Wellington. with kickoff at 7.05pm (NZT).

TEAMS

HURRICANES: Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua, Pasilio Tosi, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Warner Dearns, Devan Flanders, Du’Plessis Kirifi (co-c), Peter Lakai, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Fehi Fineanganofo, Jordie Barrett (co-c), Billy Proctor, Josh Moorby, Callum Harkin.
Replacements: Jacob Devery, Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Brad Shields, Brayden Iose, Ereatara Enari, Jone Rova, Kini Naholo

CHIEFS: Ollie Norris, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Sione Ahio, Josh Lord, Tupou Vaa’i, Samipeni Finau, Luke Jacobson (c), Simon Parker, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, Kyren Taumoefolau, Quinn Tupaea, Kyle Brown, Leroy Carter, Liam Coombes-Fabling
Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Jared Proffit, George Dyer, Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Reon Paul

Referee: Nic Berry
Assistants: Reuben Keane, Louis Trisley
TMO: Brett Cronan