The Chiefs were looking to be the fourth team to defend the title back to back since the Blues (1996 and 1997), Crusaders who defended it three years in a row (1998, 1999 and 2000) and the Bulls (2009 and 2010). The Brumbies were hoping to win the title for the third time which would put them equal second all-time with the Blues and Bulls with three Super Rugby titles.