It was a long time ago. The financial crisis had just hit, Michael Jackson was talking about touring with his brothers again, and China was about to host the Olympics. Robbie Deans still spoke in Kiwi lingo - the nickname Dingo was yet to come. The year 2008, under the stewardship of Deans, was the last time the Crusaders saw the trophy.
So how much pressure is there on the seven-time champions? Coach Todd Blackadder has always been quick to turn the heat on himself. "We've won nothing."
The Crusaders board extended his contract for 12 months in July last year. His record of four semifinals and one final appearance must have the likes of Jamie Joseph, Mark Hammett and Sir JK more than a little envious, but with a current and two recent IRB World Players of the Year at his disposal, it's not unreasonable to expect the Crusaders to keep intact their unbroken run of making the semis every year since 2001.
Of course, two of those players, Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, for varying reasons, have been somewhat sporadic in their appearances. But McCaw is back and looking hungry and Carter is back in training and will re-enter the fray late in the campaign.
