Grand Final rematch set for Eden Park

The Blues first home game of DHL Super Rugby Pacific 2023 is not to be missed - a Grand Final rematch against the Crusaders on Eden Park.

After away games to the Highlanders, Super Round in Melbourne against the Brumbies then a Round Three clash against the Hurricanes, the Blues return home in Round Four and a Grand Final rematch against their southern rivals.

Throughout the season, Eden Park will host the Hurricanes, Highlanders and Moana Pasifika as well as overseas visits from the Force and Waratahs.

Blues CEO, Andrew Hore, expects fans to pour into Eden Park for the first home game of the season. 

“It doesn’t get much bigger than a Grand Final rematch against the Crusaders,” said Hore. 

“We had it circled pretty early on as a fixture we want to sell-out, so we’ll be looking to put on a show both on-field but also by enhancing the match-day experience for fans – we are working hard now to make it a must see!”

With Eden Park known as a notoriously challenging venue for visiting teams, Hore said the Blues are hoping this season’s home games will be the hottest ticket in town.

“Now we have a full draw locked in, we’re working to ensure we have bespoke entertainment and experiences for our Blues family to enjoy. When you come to a home game this season, we want you to enjoy a full entertainment experience.”

Hore was also happy to see the Super Round in Melbourne back for a second season.

“Super Rugby Pacific is a strong competition, but we need to continually grow and evolve.  Innovations like the Super Round in Melbourne ensure we are giving fans something different and not just relying on the high standard of rugby we see each week.”

Key features of the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific draw:

Each team plays 14 regular season matches

Round Two is the Super Round in Melbourne

All teams have six home matches, seven away, plus the Super Round in Melbourne

All teams play all other teams in the competition

All teams play three ‘rivalry’ games which create home and away mini-series

Blues’ rivalry opponents are the Hurricanes, Highlanders and Crusaders

All teams will have their byes between Rounds 7, 8 & 9

Total Matches: 91

Season Length: 18 weeks = 15-week regular season + three-week playoff series

Top eight teams reach the finals