March 15, 2026

#hakinakina: Crusaders defeat Highlanders in South Island Super Rugby clash

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 15, 2026

The Crusaders have claimed a hard-fought victory over the Highlanders in their latest Super Rugby Pacific clash in Christchurch, winning 29–18 in a key South Island derby.

The match saw the defending champions produce a strong attacking performance, running in several tries to secure the result and avenge their earlier loss to the Highlanders at the start of the season.

Fullback Will Jordan opened the scoring early for the Crusaders, setting the tone for the home side before further tries helped stretch their lead. The Highlanders responded through first five-eighth Rivez Reihana, who kept his side in the contest with a combination of penalties and a try of his own.

Despite the Highlanders staying within reach on the scoreboard during periods of the game, the Crusaders’ forward pack and attacking pressure eventually proved decisive. Two second-half tries from the hosts helped them pull clear and secure the win.

The fixture carried extra significance as both teams entered the match searching for momentum in the early stages of the Super Rugby Pacific season. Prior to the game the sides had been sitting near the middle of the table after inconsistent starts to the campaign.

The Crusaders, who are the defending Super Rugby Pacific champions after winning the 2025 title, will see the result as an important step toward rebuilding confidence and climbing the standings as the competition progresses.

For the Highlanders, the defeat ends hopes of a season sweep over their southern rivals after they edged the Crusaders 25–23 in their opening round meeting earlier in the year.

The South Island derby once again delivered a physical contest between the long-time rivals, with both teams now turning their attention to upcoming fixtures as the Super Rugby Pacific season continues.