It's time to make history, again: Grand Final Team Naming v Chiefs

The time is here. 

For the Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final under the lights at Apollo Projects Stadium, the first time since 2019. 

There's just one change in the starting forward pack this week – Tamaiti Williams is back in the starting line up after being sidelined last week with meniscal irritation.  

"Tamaiti is ready to go, he was on the cusp of being ready last week but it's the blessing of having a great squad; George Bower has done an amazing job and he's unlucky not to be starting but Tamaiti has got himself back into selection and he's going to get the opportunity," says Penney.  

Williams will line up alongside Codie Taylor and Fletcher Newell.  

The lock pairing of Scott Barrett and Antonio Shalfoon remains consistent this week, while Ethan Blackadder and Tom Christie stand strong in the flanker positions, and Christian Lio-Willie retains the Number 8 jersey for yet another week. 

In the backs, playmaker Rivez Reihana will be combining with Noah Hotham at halfback.  

"I know the Chiefs boys really well, being up there for four or five years, you build some relationships so it''ll definitely be good to see them again and come up against them," says Reihana.  

With Chay Fihaki sidelined with concussion, Macca Springer steps into the left wing this week, with Sevu Reece on the right wing.  

"Macca has been training hard behind the scenes. You always say to your players; an opportunity will come, be ready. Now it's come and he's ready," says Penney.  

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Captain David Havili and Braydon Ennor will provide some calm consistency in the midfield, while the trusty hands of Will Jordan will support from the back at fullback.  

While the Crusaders have an impressive playoff record at home, Head Coach Rob Penney says the team is just focused on what's next. 

"History is history, it is what it is and we're not even thinking about that, we're just thinking about the contest ahead of us which is really exciting. 

"We're at home in front of our people and it's going to be such a magic occasion."