Former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick believes that the French Top 14 competition is superior to Super Rugby Pacific, which he believes will impact the Rugby World Cup.
Former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick believes France's Top 14 is superior to Super Rugby Pacific, with its larger, faster, and stronger players. This adds to the challenge the All Blacks will face against Argentina, filled with Top 14 players. The Top 14's competitive nature benefits French and Argentine passport holders alike, with many contributing to Argentina's squad. With the absence of a Super Rugby Pacific commission, New Zealand and Australia face frustration. However, both teams are focused on securing victory in an intriguing battle. The Rugby Championship promises high-quality matches.
Read about the Crusaders' impressive 52-15 victory over the Blues in the Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals. Despite injuries, Scott Barrett's team outplayed their rivals in every aspect of the game, led by Richie Mo'unga's inventive attacking play. Leicester Fainga'anuku's two tries earned him a standing ovation and may have secured his All Blacks place. Meanwhile, the Blues struggled to match the Crusaders' intensity and made too many mistakes under pressure.
Get an early indication of Eddie Jones' impact on the struggling Australian team in the upcoming Rugby Championship. With concerns about their ability to fight against Springboks and NZ, can the Wallabies avoid a catastrophic failure on the way to the World Cup 2023?
The Crusaders dominate Auckland Blues, securing a spot in the Super Rugby Pacific final for the seventh consecutive year. Leicester Fainga'anuku scores two outstanding tries in a dominant performance.