Absolutely — I find myself in full agreement with Ken Laban.
The experienced broadcaster questioned whether the Crusaders truly have what it takes to win the Super Rugby Pacific title this season, largely due to the absence of a top-class playmaker. It’s a valid concern. They had one not long ago in Richie Mo’unga, but they don’t have anyone of that calibre now.
Saturday’s matchup between the Crusaders and Chiefs didn’t exactly leave me inspired. There was nothing wrong with the game itself — in fact, the Chiefs were impressive. It’s just that I left feeling like there’s no serious contender to challenge them.
I had my doubts about the Chiefs earlier, particularly about their defensive structure and whether they could hold up under pressure. That’s still a question to be answered in the playoffs, of course, but if anyone was going to provide a legitimate threat, I thought it would be the Crusaders. I’m no longer convinced.
While Laban zeroed in on the lack of command at first five-eighth, I think the issues run deeper. The Crusaders are careless in possession, frequently turning over the ball, aimlessly kicking, and showing little resilience when errors pile up.
That wasn’t the case in the Mo’unga era. His teams thrived on capitalising off the opposition’s mistakes. He kept the Crusaders playing in the right areas, nailed crucial kicks, and punished lapses with ruthless efficiency.
Yes, they miss Mo’unga — but the decline is sharper because the team around him has regressed in their basic execution.
What made past Crusaders teams so formidable was their low-risk style, dominant set-piece, stifling defence, and relentless pressure. That identity seems to have vanished. As someone who’s long admired their cold-blooded precision, it’s both disappointing and puzzling to watch them unravel with so many unforced errors.
The Chiefs, on the other hand, were outstanding. They essentially beat the Crusaders at their own game. Now, their final challenge is delivering when it matters most.
There’s still some intrigue left in this season. The Crusaders could rediscover their old habits. The Hurricanes are showing improvement. And while the Blues haven’t hit top gear, they remain in the hunt with plenty of firepower — not least in Beauden Barrett, a proven match-winner.
That’s what makes knockout rugby so compelling. Bring on the playoffs — the real drama is still to come.
