The Crusaders feel last season's pain has been this season's gain. 

And for seasons to come. 

The perennial Super Rugby contenders have shrugged off the agony of missing the finals in 2024, to now be hosting this year's final. 

Crusaders captain David Havili says last year's suffering was worth it. 

He told Piney it wasn’t ideal at the time, but there were huge learnings to come of it, which has set them up for this year and the years to come. 

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