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I’m fascinated by the accelerated criticisms around the finals structure of Super Rugby Pacific.  

Granted, the process is not perfect. The matches could have been ordered in manner that may avoid the probability that the Hurricanes-Brumbies encounter result will be essentially of little import.  

The nature of qualification where a life is offered to the highest qualifying loser isn’t ideal.  

The issue here of course is the number of teams competing. This was foisted upon the organisers after the Rebels folded. That odd number has created the need for an unusual competition structure which has caused much consternation amongst, predominantly, the media. That number of teams though, has also been the making of this Super Rugby this season. As sad as it was to watch the hapless Rebels stumble and fall, their death has resulted in a vibrant competition that has enthralled the masses since day one.   

This appears to have been forgotten by the army of enraged media who are now taking potshots at the structure, now that they have tired of celebrating the good.   

The powers that be had no idea how the points collection would pan out. They weren't to know who would end up where. Yes, they had control over the placement of the finals fixtures, and have probably acquiesced to the broadcasters timing needs, but Super Rugby Pacific isn’t a charity, bills need to be paid.  

There is only one certainty here. There will be one winner. Regardless of how they scale their lofty peak, whatever steps they had to take, none of that matters in the wash up.  

The champion of 2025 will be remembered, not how they got there.