The Crusaders have apologised after damaging the custom-made Super Rugby Aotearoa trophy during celebrations after claiming an unprecedented fourth successive title at the weekend.
Chief executive Colin Mansbridge confirmed to the Herald that Tū Kōtahi Aotearoa, a unique trophy made in Ōtaki and that was presented to the team on Sunday, was dropped after the match against the Highlanders in Christchurch.
When contacted earlier today by the Herald, Mansbridge initially denied that the trophy had been damaged, then said it had suffered only "minor damage" in a transport case, before admitting it had been dropped.
Images of the damaged trophy show chunks of wood missing from several areas of the base.