If they can get past the only other New Zealand team still in contention, just one more win will separate the defending champions from a staggering ninth championship.
The omens are good - the Crusaders have won 11 of their 16 semifinals appearances, never lost a finals encounter in Christchurch, and beaten the Hurricanes all four times the two teams have met in the play-offs.
Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd says that's an impressive record, and admits the home advantage will provide a real boost for the Crusaders.
