Overview
- Cameron Millar struck from near halfway with about 90 seconds remaining at Forsyth Barr Stadium to clinch the match.
- Highlanders tries came from Caleb Tangitau, Angus Ta’avao and Jonah Lowe, with Crusaders scores from Noah Hotham and bench returnee Will Jordan.
- The Crusaders briefly moved ahead through Taha Kemara’s 71st-minute penalty after earlier kicks from Rivez Reihana before the hosts reclaimed the lead.
- Reports noted Highlanders lineout and kicking issues to address, while the Crusaders were cited with 25 turnovers to the Highlanders’ 10.
- After finishing last in 2025, the Highlanders secured their first win since round nine of last season to open Super Rugby Pacific with a statement in Dunedin.