Chiefs' standout Damian McKenzie will not play in this weekend's match against the struggling Crusaders in a surprising move. The talented fly-half, expected to lead the All Blacks in the 2024 Test season, has appeared in all five Super Rugby Pacific games. However, as per the agreement with New Zealand Rugby, McKenzie must miss two Super Rugby matches. Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan explained that it was always the plan for McKenzie to rest, unrelated to the Crusaders' current form. The decision has raised eyebrows in New Zealand, as the Crusaders are struggling at the bottom of the table.

Despite McKenzie's absence, the Chiefs are confident in young fly-half Josh Jacomb, who will make his debut. Anton Lienert-Brown and Samisoni Taukei'aho return to the Chiefs lineup. The match promises to be a challenging encounter for both teams.