The defending champion Crusaders will meet the Highlanders in a southern blockbuster to launch the second season of Super Rugby Aotearoa.
Features of the Super Rugby Aotearoa draw announced on Tuesday night sees the introduction of a one versus two final on May 8 for the Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa trophy. A double round-robin will again be used with each side playing eight round games and having two byes.
Sky are the sponsors.
The competition kicks off on February 26 with the Highlanders hosting the Crusaders in a South Island showdown at Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium.
In the other round one clash, the Hurricanes take on the Blues at Wellington’s Sky Stadium on February 27 with the Chiefs having a first round bye.
Four family-friendly Sunday afternoon kickoffs will feature in 2021, two at Auckland’s Eden Park and one each at Sky Stadium and Christchurch’s Orangetheory Stadium.
New Zealand Rugby head of high performance Mike Anthony confirmed the All Blacks would be available from round one.
“The later start date for Sky Sport Super Rugby Aotearoa means our players will be ready to go on the start line, which is a good result for everyone. From a high-performance point of view, it will once again give us an ideal platform to assess our top playing talent going head-to-head in a high quality competition.”
NZR general manager professional rugby & performance Chris Lendrum said the 2021 season would build on the excitement generated by the first edition of Super Rugby Aotearoa.
Lendrum confirmed NZR was working closely with Rugby Australia on a trans-Tasman competition and would announce details shortly.
“We saw how exciting this home and away format was last year, and all five teams now know what’s required to compete and win every week. With the availability of the All Blacks locked in for round one there are going to be fireworks from the opening whistle,” Lendrum said.
“It’s fantastic to have some certainty for fans, players, and partners after what’s been a year of uncertainty. Confirming the 2021 draw is a significant milestone and a positive step for rugby in New Zealand.”
No final was held this season with the Crusaders declared champions, finishing top on 30 points – six more than the second placed Blues.
The Blues will host the Crusaders in 2021 on March 21 at Eden Park with the sides then meeting again in Christchurch on April 25.
AT A GLANCE:
Super Rugby Aotearoa 2021 fast facts:
– 2021 will be the second edition of Super Rugby Aotearoa.
– There will be 20 round-robin matches with each team playing each other twice on a home and away basis.
– The 2021 season will include the addition of a 1 v 2 final to decide the champion on May 8.
– The Crusaders are the defending champions after finishing first at the end of a round-robin tournament in 2020, six points ahead of the Blues.
– The Super Rugby Aotearoa trophy is called Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa (Stand As One New Zealand) and was created by Wellington carver Bill Doyle.
– Sky will sponsor the competition.
