Crusaders vs Blues Predictions & Tips - Blues can push Crusaders in Super Rugby contest

Ralph Staniforth

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Last updated: 16 Apr 2025

Ralph Staniforth 16 Apr 2025

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Crusaders have won 6 of their last 7 matches vs Blues.
Blues showing momentum with their last 2 match wins.
Crusaders likely to field a strong side; Blues at full strength.

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Crusaders have won 6 of their last 7 matches against the Blues. (Getty Images)

Crusaders vs Blues Preview

The Blues improved performances of the last few weeks gives them a chance here. While the table topping Crusaders are favourites, I do feel this contest will be decided by fine margins.

Crusaders vs Blues Preview
Head to Head
Crusaders Form
Crusaders Injuries & Team News
Blues Form
Blues Injuries & Team News

Crusaders have won 6 of their last 7 matches against the Blues.
Crusaders have won 13 of their last 14 home matches against the Blues.
Crusaders have won 5 of their last 6 Super Rugby matches.
Crusaders have scored 4+ tries in their last 6 matches.
Blues have won their last 2 matches.
Blues have suffered 1-point defeats in 2 of their last 3 losses.

Head to Head

Six of the last seven fixtures between these sides have gone in the Crusaders favour.

Crusaders Form

The Crusaders will be very pleased with how their 2025 season has started, especially after their horrific 2024 performance. After eight matches, the Crusaders are top of the table with six wins in eight matches.

The 12-time Super Rugby champions won their round one fixture before losing to the Chiefs in round two. They bounced back to win their next three games at home to the Reds and Western Force before thrashing the Blues 42-19 at Eden Park.

That run was ended with a surprise home loss to Moana, but the Crusaders won their subsequent two games. They bounced back to beat Fijian Drua away before seeing off the Hurricanes 31-24 last weekend.

Crusaders Injuries & Team News

This is unlikely a game where the Crusaders will be looking to rest key players. I do expect them to field a strong side, but there could be a few changes from last week.

Blues Form

The defending Super Rugby champions have had a season to forget thus far. They are placed ninth on the table with just three wins from eight games. While the playoffs are still a realistic hope, defending their title from here will be very tough.

One bright light for the Blues is that they have won their last two matches, so they do have some momentum. There have also been a number of unfortunate defeats for the Blues this season.

Over the last two rounds, the Blues have beaten the Hurricanes 19-18 at home and last week thrashed Moana 36-17. Prior to that, the Blues lost at home to the Crusaders and suffered one-point losses to the Brumbies and Chiefs.

Blues Injuries & Team News

The Blues are desperate for results and a very strong run could still put them in the running for a top four finish, however, that will require winning almost all their games going forward. I expect them to be at full strength this weekend.

Verdict

Crusaders v Blues

I am backing the Blues to get within the 5.5 handicap. If it is that close, there is some value in backing an upset win.

Blues +5.5

Handicap

@10/11 - 3 Units

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Blues Win

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@7/4 - 1 Unit

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