Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has offered a heartfelt apology to the creator of the Super Rugby Aotearoa trophy, Bill Doyle, after the team damaged a specially carved piece during post-match celebrations.
The Crusaders were awarded the Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa trophy after their 32-22 win over the Highlanders gave them an unassailable lead atop the standings with one round remaining.
Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa translates to 'Stand As One, New Zealand'. Otaki carver Doyle created the ornate trophy, which represents the coming together of the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders after the disruption and turmoil caused by COVID-19.
During the hours after the trophy was presented it suffered damage to the base. Images also show the pounamu missing, but it was later revealed that one of the players deliberately removed it to protect it.
Earlier this week, Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge felt the team's brand has been tarnished as a result of their actions, and Robinson was equally disappointed.
The Crusaders were hoping to restore some pride in their final match against the Blues at Eden Park on Sunday, but the match has been declared a draw due to Auckland's alert level 3 restrictions, which are in place until at least August 26.
"Part of the reason we wanted to put in a really good performance [was] the actual trophy, Tū Kōtahi, but obviously what's happened during the week," said Robertson.
"I formally want to say on behalf of the Crusaders and myself, it's been quite a tough week for us.
"We didn't respect the trophy and I would like to apologise to Bill and [son] Sam Doyle and mana whenua. We gave our hearts and souls to win it and that took a lot of our focus this week.
"Today we wanted to start the restorative process towards it and build some more respect so we did a karakia and we haka'd it just to start to formalise that process."
After securing the trophy last week, Robinson refrained from doing his usual breakdance routine as he wanted to wait for the final game of the season.
But with the game called off, he won't be able to bust out his silky moves
"I'm gutted I couldn't do a backspin in the Garden of Eden. We'll have to wait for next year."
The Highlanders' match against the Hurricanes in Dunedin will still go ahead on Saturday behind closed doors, with the rest of the country under level 2 restrictions.
Kick-off has been brought forward to 3:05pm to allow Hurricanes players to travel and leave Dunedin on the same day.
Join Newshub for live updates of the Highlanders v Hurricanes Super Rugby Aotearoa from 3pm Saturday.
