Departing Chiefs Coach Predicts Future Super Rugby Title

Departing Waikato Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan expressed confidence that the team will eventually win a Super Rugby Pacific title despite their third consecutive final loss, this time a narrow 16-12 defeat to the Canterbury Crusaders. McMillan, who will leave to coach Irish side Munster, praised the consistency and hard work of his players and suggested that a change in head coach might help the team finally succeed. The Chiefs have reached the final three years in a row but have yet to secure the championship, having lost twice to the Crusaders and once to the Auckland Blues. Chiefs players and staff remain optimistic, citing strong regular season performances against the Crusaders and a significant points differential advantage. Despite lingering disappointment, McMillan emphasized the toughness of reaching finals and the resilience of the team, believing they will bounce back in the future. The 2025 final marks a pivotal moment as the Chiefs aim to overcome their past defeats and claim the title.