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Crusaders celebrate winning the Super Rugby Aotearoa (Getty).
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) Tuesday announced the draw for the 2021 Super Rugby New Zealand season.
Ten weeks of derby will begin on February 26 and end with a grand final on May 8.
It differs from the 2020 inaugural season, in which the Crusaders claimed the title courtesy of finishing atop the standings.
In Game 1 (Friday, February 26), the Highlanders will host the Crusaders in Dunedin, and the Hurricanes and Blues will complete the first round in Wellington the following day.
The Chiefs will have an opening round before hosting the Highlanders in Hamilton on Friday, March 5.
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Chris Lendrum, general manager of rugby and professional performance for the NZR, told the official All Blacks website that the 2021 season would build on the excitement generated by the first edition of Super Rugby Aotearoa.
“We saw how exciting this home and away format was last year, and all five teams now know what it takes to compete and win each week. With the All Blacks available for the first round, there will be fireworks from the opening, whistling.
“It is fantastic to have some certainty for fans, players and partners after a year of uncertainty. Confirming the 2021 draw is a significant milestone and positive step for rugby in New Zealand and we are delighted to have our broadcast partner Sky on board as sponsor of naming rights. “
Trans-Tasman Plans
Lendrum also confirmed that NZR was working closely with Rugby Australia on a trans-Tasmanian competition and would announce details shortly.
A feature of the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa draw is four Sunday afternoon home matches for families, two at Eden Park in Auckland and one at Wellington’s Sky Stadium and Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch.
Each team will have four home games and two byes.
“We have listened to the fans and our players and added a final, which we believe will provide an appropriate climax for the competition,” Lendrum said.
Mike Anthony, head of high performance for the NZR, confirmed that the All Blacks would be available in Round 1.
“The latest start date for Super Rugby Aotearoa means our players will be ready to go to the starting line, which is a good result for everyone. From a high performance point of view, it will once again provide us with a platform. ideal for evaluating our best talents who play head-to-head in a high-quality competition. “
– Compiled by Sport24 staff
