Are the Chiefs CURSED? | Chiefs v Crusaders SEMI-FINAL Preview

We are diving straight into the high stakes Super Rugby semifinals. Nigel Yalden joins the studio to break down whether Jono Gibbes has the European experience to push the Chiefs past their final hurdle hurdle. We analyze Damian McKenzie shaking off his head knock, audit the All Black bolter credentials of Isaac Hutchinson, and explain why Friday night's clash with the Crusaders is pure appointment viewing. 00:00 – Is it the Chiefs' year? Three grand final losses in a row 02:08 – Jono Gibbss' first year – what differences has he made? 05:20 – Are the Chiefs firing on all cylinders heading into Friday? 07:44 – Damian McKenzie's return & Josh Jacomb partnership reviewed 16:15 – Josh Lord & the Chiefs' All Blacks locking combination 19:58 – Cortez Ratima vs Adam Lennox – halfback battle for All Blacks IMAGE CREDIT: Chiefs Damian McKenzie celebrates a try during the Chiefs v Reds, Super Rugby Pacific Qualifying Final match, FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand. Saturday, 6 June 2026, (Photo by Aaron Gillions / action press)