The Crusaders have dominated Super Rugby over the years, but only managed to sneak into the knockout stages above the Waratahs on points difference. Always a massive threat, be it at homeor away, the Crusaders remain one of the biggest games on any teams roster. That being said, I do however think tat it is safe to say that the whole stigma surrounding them as “invincible” has eroded away.

The Crusaders will, this season, want to try and reclaim their place at the top of the Super Rugby food chain, and let the rugby supporting fraternity know that they are still the kings of the Southern Hemisphere competition. Whether they will manage to do this remains to be seen, as the Super 14 becomes more and more evenly contested each year. With the top eight or ten teams all having a realistic chance of reaching the knockout stages, and what happens in the semis is anyone’s guess.

The Crusaders will still, and probably always, be one of the favourites going into the competition. With All Black supestars like Richie McCaw and Dan Carter running the show, it creates a solid foundation for success. That, coupled with the rest of the depth within the Crusaders camp, which is by far the deepest of any Super 14 union, is a recipe for success.

Players to watch:

• Dan Carter is always a great player to watch. He is the full package as far as #10s are concerned
• Richie McCaw always seems to be able to get away with a whole lot more than any other loose forward. His work-rate around the park is always impressive, as well as his leadership.
• Zac Guildford is increasingly impressive on the wing. He looks to be around for many years to come. Serious contender for #1 try scorer this season.
• Chris Jack will miss the 1st three rounds of the 2010 Super 14, but by the looks of things during his time at Western Province, he is set to have an impressive season.

This is what they’ve been doing for years: [DannyiLL]

Possible concerns:

• The new tackle laws may finally even things out at the breakdown, even for McCaw.
• The hoodoo of other teams not being able to compete with the like of the Crusaders seems to have been broken.

BSR’s prediction for the Crusaders’ best possible finish: definite playoff contenders