The Easter long weekend has rolled in early this year, bringing four big derby clashes across New Zealand and Australia in Round Six of Super Rugby Pacific.
Crusaders v Chiefs
The Crusaders face a tough challenge as they gear up to host the Chiefs to break their winless streak. Being 0-5 already puts them under immense pressure, and to exacerbate matters, they’ll be missing key players like David Havili due to injury. As a result, Mitch Drummond steps in to lead the team, becoming the third captain this season. The absence of Havili is a significant blow for the Crusaders, especially considering their already struggling form.
On the other hand, the Chiefs have made a surprising decision to rest Damian McKenzie, which has raised eyebrows given his pivotal role in the team’s performance. However, they still present a formidable challenge for the Crusaders. The Chiefs have already defeated the Crusaders earlier this season and’ll be looking to replicate that success.
Both teams have made adjustments to their lineups for this crucial encounter. The Crusaders will field George Bower, George Bell, and Fletcher Newell in the forward pack while Quinten Strange and Jamie Hannah bolster the second row. In the backline, the likes of Sevu Reece and Chay Fihaki will be instrumental in creating scoring opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs will rely on Aidan Ross, Samisoni Taukei’aho, and George Dyer in the front row, with Luke Jacobson leading the pack as captain. In the backs, the combination of Quinn Tupaea and Anton Lienert-Brown provides a potent attacking threat.
Crusaders: George Bower, George Bell, Fletcher Newell, Quinten Strange, Jamie Hannah, Corey Kellow, Tom Christie, Cullen Grace, Mitch Drummond, Riley Hohepa, Johnny McNicholl, Dallas McLeod, Levi Aumua, Sevu Reece, Chay Fihaki
Replacements: James Mullan, Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Owen Franks, Dominic Gardiner, Fletcher Anderson, Noah Hotham, Rivez Reihana, Macca Springer
Chiefs: Aidan Ross, Samisoni Taukei’aho, George Dyer, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, Josh Lord, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Kaylum Boshier, Luke Jacobson (c), Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Etene Nanai Seturo, Quinn Tupaea, Anton Lienert-Brown, Emoni Narawa, Shaun Stevenson
Replacements: Bradley Slater, Jared Proffit, Reuben O’Neill, Jimmy Tupou, Simon Parker, Cortez Ratima, Josh Ioane, Daniel Rona
Waratahs v Rebels
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The Waratahs are gearing up to face the Rebels in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. Australian rugby received a boost with Max Jorgensen’s commitment for the foreseeable future, adding to the excitement surrounding the Tahs. They’ll be looking to capitalize on this positivity and perform strongly against the Rebels.
The Rebels, on the other hand, are coming off a disappointing defeat to the Hurricanes last weekend. They were convincingly beaten. This loss will undoubtedly fuel their determination to bounce back against the Waratahs. However, the Tahs will take encouragement from their recent performance against the Drua despite suffering a defeat in Lautoka. Their fighting effort in that match will serve as motivation as they prepare to take on the Rebels.
Both teams will be eager to secure a much-needed victory in this encounter. The Waratahs will look to Jorgensen to make a significant impact on the field and contribute to their attacking efforts. Meanwhile, the Rebels will aim to tighten up their defence and execute their game plan effectively to come away with the win.
Waratahs: Angus Bell, Mahe Vailanu, Tom Ross, Jed Holloway, Hugh Sinclair, Lachlan Swinton, Charlie Gamble, Langi Gleeson, Jake Gordon (c), Tane Edmed, Dylan Pietsch, Joey Walton, Izaia Perese, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Max Jorgensen
Replacements: Julian Heaven, Hayden Thompson-Stringer, Harry Johnson-Holmes, Miles Amatosero, Ned Hanigan, Jack Grant, Will Harrison, Lalakai Foketi
Rebels: Matt Gibbon, Jordan Uelese, Sam Talakai, Angelo Smith, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Josh Kemeny, Rob Leota (c), Ryan Louwrens, Carter Gordon, Darby Lancaster, David Feliuai, Filipo Daugunu, Lachie Anderson, Jake Strachan
Replacements: Alex Mafi, Cabous Eloff, Taniela Tupou, Josh Canham, Maciu Nabolakasi, Vaiolini Ekuasi, James Tuttle, Nick Jooste
Fijian Drua v Force
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The Fijian Drua have been formidable at home, remaining unbeaten in the competition and aiming to extend their winning streak. However, the Force have struggled away from home, with a poor record in recent matches.
After upsetting the Reds last weekend, the Force will be riding high on confidence as they head into this clash. If they can replicate the level of performance they displayed against the Reds; they have the potential to make this match a lot closer than initially anticipated. The Drua must be at their best to contain the Force’s attacking threat and maintain their unbeaten record at home.
Fijian Drua: Haereiti Hetet, Tevita Ikanivere, Mesake Doge, Mesake Vocevoce, Leone Rotuisolia, Etonia Waqa, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Frank Lomani, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Epeli Momo, Apisalome Vota, Iosefo Masi, Selestino Ravutaumada, Ilaisa Droasese
Replacements: Zuriel Togiatama, Livai Natave, Samuela Tawake, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Motikiai Murray, Simione Kuruvoli, Waqa Nalaga, Taniela Rakuro
Force: Ryan Coxon, Tom Horton, Santiago Medrano, Thomas Franklin, Lopeti Faifua, Tim Anstee, Carlo Tizzano, Reed Prinsep, Nic White (c), Ben Donaldson, Chase Tiatia, Hamish Stewart, Sam Spink, Bayley Kuenzle, Harry Potter
Replacements: Ben Funnell, Josh Bartlett, Tiaan Tauakipulu, Sam Carter, Ollie Callan, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Max Burey, George Poolman
Moana Pasifika v Blues
Moana Pasifika has moved the game to the Blues’ home, hoping to replicate their strong performance from last year at Eden Park. Despite leading by six points as time expired in their previous encounter, Moana suffered a heartbreaking defeat after conceding a penalty try off the game’s last play. This time, Moana is more robust and will seek to secure a victory against the Blues.
Moana will face a formidable challenge from the Blues, who will be determined to bounce back from recent setbacks. The Blues have been rocked by the news of fullback Zarn Sullivan’s injury, with the in-form player expected to be sidelined for up to eight weeks due to a knee injury.
Moana Pasifika: Abraham Pole, Samiuela Moli, Sione Mafileo, Tom Savage, Allan Craig, Jacob Norris, Sione Havili Talitui (c), Lotu Inisi, Ereatara Enari, Christian Lealiifano, Fine Inisi, Julian Savea, Pepesana Patafilo, Nigel Ah Wong, Danny Toala
Replacements: Samiuela Moli, Donald Brighouse, Sekope Kepu, Ola Tauelangi, Semisi Paea, Melani Matavao, William Havili, Kyren Taumoefolau
Blues: Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Soane Vikena, Marcel Renata, Patrick Tuipulotu (c), Laghlan McWhannell, Anton Segner, Adrian Choat, Hoskins Sotutu, Finlay Christie, Stephen Perofeta, Caleb Clarke, Bryce Heem, Rieko Ioane, Mark Tele’a, Corey Evans
Replacements: Ricky Riccitelli, Joshua Fusitu’a, Angus Ta’avao, Josh Beehre, Akira Ioane, Sam Nock, Harry Plummer, Cole Forbes
Highlanders v Hurricanes
The upcoming clash between the Highlanders and Hurricanes has all the makings of an exciting shootout, with both teams known for their attacking prowess. The Hurricanes, currently sitting high on the table, have relied on their ability to score points consistently throughout the season. Coach Clark Laidlaw’s strategy emphasizes trusting his young players, a proven successful tactic. Adding to their firepower, the Hurricanes welcome back key players Cam Roigard, Kini Naholo, and Du’Plessis Kirifi for this crucial match.
On the other hand, the Highlanders faced challenges in their previous encounter against the Hurricanes. Despite standout performances from players like Tanielu Tele’a, who is currently suspended, and injuries to key players like Jermaine Ainsley, the Highlanders are determined to bounce back. The return of Ethan de Groot will provide a boost to the team’s lineup.
Both teams must maintain high levels of alertness, especially when dealing with players like Timoci Tavatavanawai and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, who can capitalize on scoring opportunities. With the potential for an intense and fast-paced matchup, fans can expect a thrilling contest between the Highlanders and Hurricanes.
Highlanders: Ethan de Groot, Henry Bell, Saula Ma’u, Fabian Holland, Max Hicks, Sean Withy, Billy Harmon (c) Tom Sanders, Folau Fakatava, Rhys Patchell, Jona Nareki, Sam Gilbert, Tanielu Tele’a, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
Replacements: Jack Taylor, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Rohan Wingham, Oliver Haig, Nikora Broughton, James Arscott, Ajay Faleafaga, Josh Timu
Hurricanes: Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua, Tyrel Lomax, Caleb Delany, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Brad Shields, Peter Lakai, Brayden Iose, Cam Roigard, Brett Cameron, Kini Naholo, Jordie Barrett, Billy Proctor, Josh Moorby, Ruben Love
Replacements: James O’Reilly, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Pasilio Tosi, Justin Sangster, Du’Plessis Kirifi, TJ Perenara, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Ngane Punivai
Reds v Brumbies
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The Queensland Reds, who started the season with flying colours, hit a roadblock last week when they suffered a surprising defeat against the Force in Perth. Unable to assert dominance with their set-piece or highly-rated back row, the Reds experienced just their second season loss. However, returning home, they will be determined to bounce back and set things right.
Coach Les Kiss has made subtle adjustments to the Reds’ lineup, with Jeffrey Toomaga-Allen moving into the starting XV. Additionally, Jordan Petaia will don the No.14 jersey, replacing Suliasi Vunivalu. Meanwhile, the Brumbies aim to compound the Reds’ woes by securing another victory, with coach Stephen Larkham naming experienced Wallaby James Slipper in the starting lineup. Fellow Wallaby Lachie Lonergan will join Slipper in the forward pack. The rest of the Brumbies lineup remains unchanged, with Corey Toole, Tom Wright, and Ollie Sapsford poised to showcase their attacking prowess in Brisbane.
Both teams understand the significance of this match, as they eye each other as the leading contenders from across the ditch. Despite their setback, the Reds have shown glimpses of their potential, while the Brumbies regained their form with a commanding victory over Moana Pasifika last weekend. With both sides hungry for success, this clash promises to be fiercely contested as they vie for supremacy in Australian rugby.
Reds: Peni Ravai, Matt Faessler, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Seru Uru, Ryan Smith, Liam Wright (co-c), Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott (co-c), Tom Lynagh, Mac Grealy, Hunter Paisami, Josh Flook, Jordan Petaia, Jock Campbell
Replacements: Josh Nasser, George Blake, Zane Nonggorr, Cormac Daly, John Bryant, Kalani Thomas, Lawson Creighton, Suliasi Vunivalu
Brumbies: James Slipper, Lachlan Lonergan, Sefo Kautai, Darcy Swain, Cadeyrn Neville, Rob Valetini, Jahrome Brown, Charlie Cale, Ryan Lonergan (c), Noah Lolesio, Corey Toole, Tamati Tua, Hudson Creighton, Ollie Sapsford, Tom Wright
Replacements: Billy Pollard, Harry Vella, Rhys Van Nek, Nick Frost, Tom Hooper, Luke Reimer, Harrison Goddard, Declan Meredith
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