For the first time since 2011, the Chiefs will run out this weekend without Aaron Cruden in the No 10 jersey.

Aaron Cruden sounded like a captain who didn't know whether to laugh or cry after another staggering comeback draw in South Africa.

After a loss and a draw to date on their tour, Chiefs coach Dave Rennie says it's essential his side triumph in the final fixture of their road trip.

Gregor Paul and Wynne Gray discuss the importance of the upcoming away games for the Blues and Chiefs.

The defending Super Rugby champion Chiefs are defying injuries, set-piece woes, savvy opponents and statistics to remain in pole position in the New Zealand conference.

The Chiefs pride themselves on their depth and that will be tested after making eight changes to the side to face the Bulls tomorrow morning in Pretoria.

After struggling all season at the lineout, the Chiefs are set for a torrid time when they line up against the Bulls this weekend.

The worst performance in Wayne Smith's time at the Chiefs will leave a few players fearing for their spots against the Bulls this weekend.

As predictable as their results have been this season, the Chiefs' backline selections have been much more uncertain.

Robbie Fruean will miss the Chiefs' three match road trip after needing a heart procedure which will put the centre out of action for up to eight weeks.

The Chiefs remain unbeaten atop the New Zealand Conference and, if they can put together their whole package, that record will be hard to break.

Join us here for our live blog of tonight's Super Rugby encounter between the Chiefs and the Stormers from Waikato Stadium in Hamilton.

If the Chiefs and Stormers do play out a predicted defensive duel, Dave Rennie knows he will have an advantage in the halfback position.

The reinforcements are ready for the Chiefs and, before an arduous schedule over the next two months, their arrival is not a moment too soon.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie accurately summed up his side's performance in their unconvincing win over the Highlanders on Saturday night.

The Chiefs once again proved why they are the defending champions, winning over the Highlanders 21-19.