Rivalry revitalised as Crusaders-Blues gear up for showdown

FILE PHOTO: Auckland Blues second five Sam Tuitupou (R) tries to evade the tackle of Canterbury Crusaders Scott Robertson and Justin Marshall (obscured) during the final of the Super 12 at Eden Park in Auckland May 24, 2003. In support are Blues (from L) Deacon Manu, Dave Gibson and Doug Howlett. The Blues won 21-17. REUTERS/Simon Baker/

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - The bitter rivalry between Canterbury and Auckland has been re-ignited ahead of the Crusaders clash with the Blues on Saturday with both teams flying in Super Rugby Aotearoa, Crusaders assistant coach Scott Hansen has said.

The provincial rivalry, which dates back more than a century, has waned in recent years with the Crusaders dominating New Zealand rugby over the last two decades.