The Crusaders say the departure of a group of cherished players will have them playing with the same sort of emotion the Jaguares are likely to bring to the Super Rugby final in Christchurch.

The Crusaders are the most successful team in the history of the game and are aiming to win three titles in a row and 10th overall.

Flanker Matt Todd says the looming last game for a number of acclaimed teammates will play a part this week.

Some players that will leave the Crusaders after the final are Japan‑bound All Blacks captain Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty while captain Sam Whitelock is also taking next year off under a sabbatical in his NZ Rugby contract but will return in 2021.

The Crusaders play the Jaguares at 7.35pm Saturday.

Source: TV NZ