Chiefs-Crusaders clash like a test match - Leitch

Gallagher Chiefs back rower Michael Leitch believes their match against the BNZ Crusaders will be the closest to playing a test match.

With the Crusaders unbeaten from Round One and the Chiefs only losing one game, the clash at the ANZ Stadium this Friday is expected to be the most brutal and exciting in the competition.

Leitch who has maternal links to Nasukamai village in Ra will be playing his last game for the Chiefs in Fiji as he will leave to join the Sunwolves next season.

He says they are ready for the Crusaders.

Leitch was injured when the Chiefs came to Fiji last year and was greeted by his parents when they arrived yesterday at Nausori Airport.

Both teams were traditionally welcomed by members of the RFMF at Novotel Hotel and Holiday Inn last night.

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says they are humbled by the reception from the locals.

Some of the All Blacks players who are part of the Chiefs team include Aaron Cruden, Anton Lienert Brown, Tawera Kerr Barlow, Damian McKenzie, Liam Messam and Brodie Retallick.

Some of the All Blacks in the Crusaders team who have arrived include Matt Todd, Israel Dagg, Wyatt Crockett, Ryan Crotty, Sam Whitelock, Owen Franks and Joe Moody.

The Chiefs will host the Crusaders at 7.35pm Friday at the ANZ Stadium in Suva.

Rugby fans in and outside Suva can now purchase tickets for the game from any Post Fiji outlet across the country.

Fiji Sports Council Chief Executive Officer and Super Rugby 2017 Steering Committee Chair Litiana Loabuka says it’s now or never to get tickets before Friday.

Loabuka adds that for every ticket purchased from Post Fiji Ltd, a $2 fee applies.