The Crusaders have extended their lead on the Super Rugby Aotearoa table after beating the Blues 43-27 yesterday.

The defending champions lead with 18 points while the Blues are in second place on the table with 9 points.

In third place are the Highlanders with 5 points.

In Round 5 this week, the Highlanders will take on the Hurricanes at 6.05pm Friday while the Chiefs face the Blues at 6.05pm Saturday.