Super Rugby Pacific

Tupou Vaa’i hat-trick helps Chiefs claim top spot for playoffs

Published

9 months ago

30th May 2025

Chiefs Tupou Vaa'i scores during the Highlanders v Chiefs, Super Rugby Pacific match, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, New Zealand. Friday, 30 May 2025, (Photo by Michael Thomas / action press)

The Chiefs secured the coveted top seed for the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs with a commanding 41-24 victory over the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium, though they were made to work considerably harder than their early dominance suggested in a thrilling encounter that epitomised the unpredictable nature of this competition.

Key moments:

6′ – Samipeni Finau scores after brilliant Damian McKenzie chip kick (0-7)
11′ – Tupou Vaa’i crashes over for his first try (0-12)
13′ – Tupou Vaa’i intercepts loose pass for second try (0-19)
30′ – Ethan de Groot powers over from close range (7-19)
33′ – Reuben O’Neill yellow card for high tackle on Jack Taylor
39′ – Timoci Tavatavanawai muscles over in corner (14-19)
41′ – Xavier Roe breaks away for early second-half try (14-26)
51′ – Cameron Millar penalty reduces deficit (17-26)
59′ – Manasa Mataele finishes in corner (17-31)
73′ – Sam Gilbert scores consolation try (24-34)
80′ – Tupou Vaa’i completes hat-trick for bonus point (24-41)

Tupou Vaa’i’s hat-trick ultimately proved the difference as Clayton McMillan’s side claimed the bonus-point victory that guarantees home advantage throughout the knockout stages. The towering All Blacks lock showed remarkable opportunism and athleticism throughout the 80 minutes, capping his performance with a perfectly timed finish in the dying seconds that secured both the victory margin and crucial bonus point.

The Chiefs secure top spot on the table leading into the Finals 🙌#SuperRugbyPacific | #HIGvCHI pic.twitter.com/BTAVYsNdu6

— Super Rugby Pacific (@SuperRugby) May 30, 2025

The visitors appeared destined for another comprehensive victory when they raced to a commanding 19-0 lead inside the opening quarter-hour under the roof in Dunedin. Damian McKenzie was the orchestrator-in-chief, his sublime playmaking and tactical awareness creating the platform for what seemed certain to be a routine triumph reminiscent of their 85-7 demolition of Moana Pasifika the previous weekend.

McKenzie’s masterclass began with a moment of individual brilliance that set the tone for the entire first quarter. Receiving the ball on his own 10-metre line with the Highlanders’ defensive line rushing up aggressively, the All Blacks playmaker showed remarkable vision to spot the space in behind. His perfectly weighted chip kick hung in the air just long enough for Etene Nanai-Seturo to position himself underneath the dropping ball.

The return of Nanai-Seturo to the Chiefs’ starting lineup after injury proved immediately beneficial. The electric winger gathered McKenzie’s chip cleanly before showing the quick thinking that has made him such a potent weapon. Rather than attempting to take on the converging defenders himself, Nanai-Seturo immediately fed Daniel Rona, who found himself in acres of space in the Highlanders’ half.

Rona, operating at outside centre, showed excellent game awareness by drawing the last defender before releasing a perfectly timed pass to the hard-charging Samipeni Finau. The flanker, who had timed his support run to perfection, found himself with an unopposed 25-metre gallop to the line. Finau’s finish was emphatic, diving over near the posts to give McKenzie a simple conversion attempt that he duly slotted.

The Chiefs’ second try highlighted their ability to create opportunities through sustained pressure and slick handling. After building through multiple phases down the left flank, with Shaun Stevenson and Rona both making valuable contributions in the lead-up, the visitors found themselves camped on the Highlanders’ five-metre line.

Vaa’i’s first try brought the close-range power that has become a hallmark of his game to the fore. The 24-year-old lock, standing 2.03 metres tall and weighing 115 kilograms, used his considerable frame to devastating effect. After Xavier Roe had recycled possession quickly from the breakdown, Vaa’i took the ball at pace from barely two metres out.

Despite the attentions of three Highlanders defenders, including the powerful Timoci Tavatavanawai, Vaa’i’s combination of size, strength and surprisingly good footwork proved unstoppable. He initially appeared to be held up by the defensive line, but his leg drive and determination enabled him to reach out and ground the ball with his left hand whilst being driven backwards. McKenzie’s conversion attempt from the left touchline drifted wide of the uprights, but the damage was done.

Vaa’i’s second try arrived through a combination of his intelligent positioning and a costly error from the under-pressure Cameron Millar. The Highlanders fly-half, who had been given his opportunity after Taine Robinson’s injury, found himself in an impossible situation when Quinn Tupaea’s thunderous tackle forced a hurried decision.

Millar, attempting to clear his lines from inside his own half, tried an ambitious skip pass to his outside backs with Tupaea bearing down on him. The execution was poor, with the ball floating invitingly into Vaa’i’s grateful hands at head height. The lock’s acceleration caught everyone by surprise – including the television commentators who remarked on his unexpected pace.

From 45 metres out, Vaa’i had a clear run to the line with only Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens standing between him and the try line. The Highlanders fullback, caught completely out of position by the turnover, could only watch as Vaa’i sprinted past him to score his easiest try of the night. McKenzie’s conversion from in front of the posts extended the lead to 19-0 with barely 13 minutes elapsed.

At 19-0 down with barely a quarter elapsed, the Highlanders appeared to be facing another heavy defeat that would confirm their wooden spoon status. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the 27th minute when Quinn Tupaea suffered what appeared to be a serious facial injury following what seemed like routine contact with Sean Withy.

The incident occurred during a standard ruck situation, with Tupaea arriving to support a teammate in contact. As he attempted to clear out the Highlanders forwards, there appeared to be an accidental collision that left the Chiefs centre clutching his face in obvious distress. The sight of Tupaea writhing on the ground immediately brought medical staff onto the field and prompted referee Ben O’Keeffe to stop play.

What followed was a 10-minute delay that completely disrupted the Chiefs’ rhythm and momentum. Medical staff took exceptional care in assessing Tupaea’s condition, with particular attention paid to potential spinal or head injuries. The seriousness of the situation was evident in the decision to bring the medicab onto the field, though Tupaea’s thumbs-up gesture as he was transported from the field provided some reassurance to the concerned crowd.

The injury proved to be a significant turning point in the match. Josh Jacomb, who replaced Tupaea, faced the challenging task of slotting into an unfamiliar second-five position alongside McKenzie. The disruption to the Chiefs’ backline combinations would prove costly as the Highlanders began to sense an opportunity.

The enforced break allowed the Highlanders to regroup mentally and tactically, and they began their fightback through the powerful running of co-captain Ethan de Groot. The All Blacks prop’s try encapsulated the direct, no-nonsense approach that has made him one of New Zealand rugby’s most respected forwards.

The score originated from a Highlanders scrum just five metres from the Chiefs’ line, won after some sustained pressure in the red zone. Folau Fakatava, showing the quick thinking that has made him one of the competition’s premier scrum-halves, opted for a tap-and-go rather than setting up another attacking lineout. His decision proved inspired as it caught the Chiefs’ defensive line slightly off-guard.

De Groot, who had positioned himself perfectly on Fakatava’s shoulder, took the pass at pace and showed remarkable determination to power his way over the line. The 1.85-metre, 120-kilogram prop proved unstoppable from close range, using his low centre of gravity and powerful leg drive to bulldoze through the tackles of Bradley Slater and Reuben O’Neill. His grounding was emphatic, slamming the ball down with both hands to ensure there was no doubt about the try’s validity.

Cameron Millar’s conversion from in front of the posts was never in doubt, reducing the deficit to 19-7 and giving the home crowd something to cheer about for the first time in the match.

The Highlanders’ revival gained significant momentum when Reuben O’Neill was shown a yellow card for what referee Ben O’Keeffe deemed a dangerous cleanout on Jack Taylor. The incident occurred during a typically robust ruck situation, with O’Neill arriving to support his teammate and clear out the Highlanders forwards.

However, O’Keeffe and the television match official identified that O’Neill’s cleanout technique involved direct shoulder contact to Taylor’s head area. Whilst there appeared to be no malicious intent, the officials correctly applied the laws regarding player safety. The yellow card decision, though appearing harsh in real time, highlighted rugby’s increased focus on protecting players from head injuries.

The numerical advantage proved crucial for the Highlanders, who immediately began to play with greater freedom and ambition. Their attack took on a more expansive approach, with Folau Fakatava and Cameron Millar using the extra space created by the man advantage to spread the ball wide at every opportunity.

The home side’s second try brought the raw power and determination that has made Timoci Tavatavanawai one of Super Rugby Pacific’s most feared ball-carriers into sharp focus. The score was the culmination of a patient build-up that illustrated the Highlanders’ improved attacking structure under the numerical advantage.

The move began with excellent approach work down the left flank, where Taniela Filimone and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens combined with a series of stunning offloads that stretched the Chiefs’ defensive line. Tanielu Tele’a then came close to scoring himself, taking the ball to within five metres of the line before being bundled into touch by desperate defending.

From the resulting lineout, the Highlanders showed patience and precision in their execution. Rather than forcing the issue, they recycled possession methodically before switching the point of attack to the opposite wing. When the ball eventually reached Tavatavanawai, positioned 15 metres from the line, the powerful centre had three defenders between him and the try line.

What followed was a masterclass in power running. Tavatavanawai first stepped inside Josh Jacomb’s attempted tackle, using his 1.85-metre frame and 108-kilogram bulk to his advantage. As Damian McKenzie rushed across to provide support, Tavatavanawai showed remarkable strength to fend off the fly-half with his left arm whilst maintaining his drive towards the line.

The final obstacle was Etene Nanai-Seturo, who arrived at pace to attempt a covering tackle. However, Tavatavanawai’s momentum and determination proved irresistible. In a moment that captured his reputation as one of the hardest men to tackle in the competition, he drove through Nanai-Seturo’s attempted tackle and reached out with his right hand to ground the ball in the corner.

Millar’s conversion from the right touchline was struck beautifully, curling just inside the right upright to reduce the deficit to 19-14 and set up a fascinating second half.

The Chiefs needed an immediate response after the restart to reassert their authority, and they delivered through Xavier Roe’s opportunistic finish that highlighted their ability to capitalise on even the smallest of openings. The try came barely 41 seconds into the second half, catching the Highlanders mentally still in the changing rooms.

The score originated from the Chiefs’ first possession of the second half, with the visitors setting up a lineout drive 30 metres from the Highlanders’ line. Bradley Slater, operating at hooker, controlled the drive expertly before recognising an opportunity to break away from the maul. His decision-making proved crucial as he spotted Cameron Millar positioned too narrowly in the defensive line.

Slater’s initial break took him to within 20 metres of the line before he drew Millar and released a perfectly timed pass to Roe, who had positioned himself on the halfback’s outside shoulder. The pass was slightly behind Roe, but the experienced number nine showed excellent handling skills to gather the ball cleanly whilst maintaining his pace.

With the Highlanders’ defensive line scrambling to readjust, Roe found himself with a clear run to the line. His 20-metre sprint to the corner was unopposed, and his finish was clinical, diving over in the left corner to restore the Chiefs’ commanding position. McKenzie’s conversion from wide out was never in doubt, extending the lead to 26-14 and effectively ending the contest as a genuine competition.

Despite extending their advantage, the Chiefs found the Highlanders unwilling to surrender completely. Cameron Millar’s penalty from 30 metres out in the 51st minute reduced the gap to nine points and provided a brief glimmer of hope for the home supporters who had endured a challenging season.

The Chiefs’ fourth try, scored by substitute Manasa Mataele, arrived at a crucial juncture when the Highlanders had briefly threatened to make the final quarter interesting. The score highlighted the value of the Chiefs’ powerful bench and their ability to maintain pressure even when their first-choice players were tiring.

The try was the culmination of a sustained period of pressure that began with Xavier Roe’s brilliant 50-22 kick. After the Highlanders had briefly threatened with a lineout drive that took them into the Chiefs’ 22, Roe recognised an opportunity to relieve the pressure with a tactical kick. His execution was perfect, finding touch just inside the Highlanders’ half to earn his side a lineout throw deep in opposition territory.

From the resulting lineout, the Chiefs built through multiple phases, with their forwards doing the hard work in tight before releasing their backs into wider channels. The crucial moment came when Daniel Rona, operating at inside centre, spotted Mataele positioned on the left wing with space to exploit.

Rona’s pass was floated perfectly over the heads of two Highlanders defenders, allowing Mataele to gather the ball at pace with just the corner to aim for. The former Moana Pasifika winger showed excellent finishing skills, accelerating into the corner and diving over despite the desperate covering tackle attempt from Jonah Lowe.

McKenzie’s conversion attempt from wide out on the left drifted wide of the uprights, but the damage was done. At 31-17 with just over 20 minutes remaining, the Chiefs had effectively sealed the victory and the crucial bonus point.

The Highlanders refused to fade quietly into the southern night, with Sam Gilbert providing a moment of individual brilliance that briefly threatened the Chiefs’ bonus point position. The try was particularly poignant as it came in Gilbert’s final match for the club before his departure to pursue opportunities overseas.

The score originated from a Highlanders turnover near halfway, with the home side capitalising on a rare handling error from the Chiefs’ forwards. Thomas Umaga-Jensen and Tavatavanawai combined to make valuable ground through the middle of the field before the ball was recycled quickly to Tanielu Tele’a on the right wing.

Tele’a’s decision-making proved crucial as he recognised that the Chiefs’ defensive line was slightly disorganised following the turnover. Rather than attempting to beat his man on the outside, the winger opted for a perfectly weighted grubber kick that bounced favourably for the chasing Gilbert.

The substitute back, who had only been on the field for 12 minutes, showed excellent pace and anticipation to race onto the ball in open space. With no Chiefs defender within 15 metres, Gilbert gathered the ball cleanly and sprinted the final 25 metres to score near the posts.

Gilbert’s conversion of his own try was struck with obvious emotion, curling just inside the left upright to reduce the deficit to 34-24 and briefly threaten the Chiefs’ bonus point. The try provided a rare moment of joy for the Highlanders faithful and a fitting farewell for a player who had given his all for the club.

However, the Highlanders’ hopes of salvaging something from the contest were almost dashed in dramatic fashion when Adam Lennox appeared certain to score with five minutes remaining. The replacement halfback had worked his way to within inches of the Chiefs’ try line following sustained pressure from the home pack, but Cortez Ratima produced a sensational covering tackle to hold Lennox up over the line and preserve his side’s advantage.

Tupou Vaa’i ensured there would be no late drama with a moment of tactical awareness that underlined why he has become such a crucial component of the Chiefs’ forward pack. His hat-trick try, scored in the final minute, was the culmination of intelligent positioning and quick thinking that secured both the victory margin and the crucial bonus point.

The opportunity arose when the Highlanders, trailing by 10 points and desperate to avoid the wooden spoon, opted for a short dropout from their own goal line. Sam Gilbert, who had been thrust into the kicking role following Cameron Millar’s substitution, attempted to find a teammate near the 22-metre line to maintain possession.

However, Vaa’i had anticipated the Highlanders’ tactical approach and positioned himself perfectly near the goal line. When Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens leaped to tap the ball back for his teammates, the bounce was unkind, and the ball fell straight into Vaa’i’s grateful hands just five metres from the line.

With no defender between him and the try line, Vaa’i’s finish was a formality. The lock showed surprising agility for a man of his size, diving over near the posts to complete his hat-trick and secure the bonus point that confirmed the Chiefs’ status as minor premiers.

McKenzie’s conversion was never in doubt, providing the final flourish to a performance that illustrated why the Chiefs enter the playoffs as overwhelming favourites for their first Super Rugby title since 2013.

The result extends the Chiefs’ winning streak over the Highlanders to seven matches and confirms their status as the competition’s form team heading into the playoffs. Their powerful bench, featuring the likes of Samisoni Taukei’aho, Naitoa Ah Kuoi and Ollie Norris, highlighted the gulf in squad depth that could prove decisive in the knockout stages where squad rotation becomes increasingly important.

For the Highlanders, this defeat confirms their first wooden spoon finish since 1997, though there were encouraging signs in their never-say-die attitude and the individual performances of players like Tavatavanawai, de Groot and Gilbert. The recent contract extensions for key players including Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, de Groot, Tavatavanawai and Fabian Holland provide hope for a brighter future under Jamie Joseph’s guidance.

The Chiefs now turn their attention to the quarter-finals, where they will enjoy home advantage throughout their playoff campaign. Based on this performance, they remain the team to beat, though their inability to maintain early dominance and the concern over Tupaea’s fitness will provide areas for improvement ahead of matches where margins for error become increasingly slim.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

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Super Rugby Pacific

Billy Proctor hat-trick as Hurricanes demolish Waratahs in Sydney

Billy Proctor scores a stunning second-half hat-trick as the Hurricanes demolish the NSW Waratahs 59–19 at Allianz Stadium. Cam Roigard’s 50th cap ends in emphatic victory as the Canes extend their winning streak over Sydney to nine matches.

Published

17 hours ago

6th March 2026

rugbyisthegame

Billy Proctor hat-trick as Hurricanes demolish Waratahs in Sydney

SUPER RUGBY WARATAHS HURRICANES, Billy Proctor of the Hurricanes celebrates scoring a try with team mates during the Super Rugby Pacific Round 4 match between the NSW Waratahs and the Wellington Hurricanes at Allianz Stadium in Sydney, Friday, March 6, 2026. (IMAGO / AAP)

Billy Proctor produced a stunning second-half hat-trick as the Hurricanes demolished the NSW Waratahs 59–19 at Allianz Stadium, handing Dan McKellar’s side a brutal reality check after their unbeaten start to the season.

Key moments

13 mins – TRY WARATAHS: The hosts struck first after sustained pressure near the line. Miles Amatosero picked and drove close before Triston Reilly caught the defence napping, forcing his way over beside the posts. Lawson Creighton converted. (Waratahs 7–0)

15 mins – TRY HURRICANES: Instant response from the visitors. Callum Harkin’s deep restart caused problems and after Pete Samu spilled it, the Hurricanes pounced. A slick lineout move saw the ball swept left, leaving Asafo Aumua unmarked on the wing to streak away in the left corner. Jordie Barrett missed the conversion. (Waratahs 7–5)

19 mins – TRY HURRICANES: The Canes took the lead through a moment of magic. Devan Flanders secured the lineout and the ball went left for Billy Proctor to carry into the 22. Isaia Walker-Leawere made ground before Fehi Fineanganofo burst into space on the left wing, drawing the last man and slipping a perfect inside ball to Peter Lakai, who strolled over untouched. Barrett converted. (Hurricanes 12–7)

30 mins – TRY WARATAHS: Max Jorgensen produced a moment of individual brilliance. After Leafi Talataina and Miles Amatosero carried close, the ball found Jorgensen on the left wing. He stood up his opposite with slick footwork before diving over in the corner. Creighton missed the conversion. (Hurricanes 12–12)

33 mins – TRY HURRICANES: The visitors regained the lead with a stunning team try. Lakai and Warner Dearns carried close before Barrett placed a pinpoint cross-kick on the spot for Bailyn Sullivan, who collected the bounce on the right wing and dove over in the corner. Barrett missed the conversion. (Hurricanes 17–12)

Half-time: Hurricanes 17–12. An entertaining first half played at a cracking tempo. The Waratahs struck first through Reilly but the Hurricanes hit back through Aumua’s training-ground lineout move. Lakai’s try gave the visitors the lead before Jorgensen’s individual brilliance levelled it. Sullivan’s try from Barrett’s cross-kick ensured the Hurricanes held a slender five-point advantage at the break.

43 mins – TRY HURRICANES: Dream start to the second half for the visitors. Du’Plessis Kirifi charged back on a strong run before Barrett dropped a beautiful ball off to Proctor at the line. The centre burst through a gaping hole in the rush defence and strolled over under the posts. Barrett converted. (Hurricanes 24–12)

47 mins – TRY HURRICANES: Proctor doubled his tally with another moment of class. Walker-Leawere won the lineout and Barrett stabbed a chip kick over the top with no one in behind. The bounce sat up perfectly for Proctor, who powered over beside the posts. Barrett converted. (Hurricanes 31–12)

55 mins – YELLOW CARD WARATAHS: Angus Blyth sent to the sin bin after the TMO spotted him playing the ball illegally on the ground as the Hurricanes threatened the line. Tevita Mafileo’s try was ruled out for a knock-on in the build-up, but Blyth’s actions were deemed cynical.

59 mins – TRY HURRICANES: The Hurricanes made the extra man count immediately. The scrum was steady and the ball went wide right, with Barrett spotting space and floating a brilliant ball to Sullivan, who strode over untouched in the corner for his second. Barrett converted. (Hurricanes 38–12)

62 mins – TRY WARATAHS: Jorgensen gave the home crowd something to celebrate. The Waratahs won the lineout and worked through phases before Proctor’s pass was intercepted by the alert winger, who sprinted 40 metres untouched to score in the left corner. Sid Harvey converted. (Hurricanes 38–19)

65 mins – TRY HURRICANES: Try-fest at Allianz Stadium. Walker-Leawere popped a short ball to Jone Rova, who sliced straight through from 40 metres, drawing the fullback and passing to Ereatara Enari on the inside. The replacement halfback streaked away to score beside the posts. Harkin converted. (Hurricanes 45–19)

66 mins – YELLOW CARD WARATAHS: George Poolman sent to the sin bin for a dangerous aerial challenge on Josh Moorby, reducing the Waratahs to 14 men just as Blyth returned to the field.

78 mins – TRY HURRICANES: The Hurricanes brought up the half-century. Poolman spilled the ball in contact and Proctor was in the perfect spot to clean up, sending Rova away untouched to score under the posts. Lucas Cashmore converted. (Hurricanes 52–19)

80 mins – TRY HURRICANES: Proctor completed his hat-trick in style. The restart was secured and Fineanganofo burst through on the left wing, offloading inside for Moorby to break away. He fed Proctor, who strode away to score a stunner beside the posts. Cashmore converted. (Hurricanes 59–19)

Full-time: Hurricanes 59–19

The classy All Blacks centre showcased his claims for a recall under freshly appointed coach Dave Rennie, crossing three times after the break as the visitors ran in six unanswered tries to turn a tight contest into a 40-point thrashing. It extended the Hurricanes’ remarkable dominance over the Waratahs to nine consecutive victories, stretching back to 2015.

The hosts’ night had begun badly when star centre Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was ruled out with a hamstring injury suffered during the warm-up, forcing McKellar to hand youngster George Poolman an unexpected debut at outside centre. Given the nature of the injury, McKellar suggested afterwards that Suaalii could be sidelined for longer than a couple of weeks. It capped off a disappointing evening for the hosts.

The Waratahs started encouragingly enough in the steamy conditions, their rush defence repelling the Hurricanes after conceding turnovers with their first five possessions. Winger Triston Reilly eventually got them on the board in the 13th minute, rolling up his sleeves to force his way over from the back of a ruck after Miles Amatosero had been stopped just short. Lawson Creighton converted for a 7–0 lead.

But the Hurricanes struck back within two minutes. Callum Harkin’s deep restart caused problems and after Pete Samu spilled it, the visitors pounced on the field position. A slick lineout move saw the ball swept left, leaving hooker Asafo Aumua — looking fit and dangerous after an injury-plagued 2025 — unmarked on the wing to streak away in the left corner. Jordie Barrett missed the conversion, but the momentum had shifted.

Peter Lakai extended the lead in the 19th minute with a moment of magic down the left edge. Devan Flanders secured the lineout and the ball went wide for Proctor to carry into the 22. Isaia Walker-Leawere made hard yards before Fehi Fineanganofo burst into space, drawing Andrew Kellaway’s tackle before slipping a perfect inside ball to Lakai, who strolled over untouched. Barrett converted to make it 12–7.

Max Jorgensen, continuing his remarkable try-scoring run, levelled matters with a moment of individual brilliance in the 30th minute. After Leafi Talataina and Amatosero carried close, the ball found Jorgensen on the left wing with almost no space to work with. He stood up Cam Roigard with slick footwork before diving over in the corner for his fifth try in three games. Creighton missed the conversion from the sideline.

But the visitors had the final say of the half when Barrett produced a pinpoint cross-kick to the right corner. Bailyn Sullivan timed his run perfectly, collecting the bounce with a skilful regather and diving over to dot it down. Barrett’s conversion attempt drifted wide, but the Hurricanes held a 17–12 buffer at the break.

What followed after the restart was ruthless. Du’Plessis Kirifi, returning from a calf injury, charged back on a strong run before Barrett dropped a beautiful ball off to Proctor at the line. The centre burst through a gaping hole in the rush defence and strolled over under the posts in the 43rd minute. Barrett converted to extend the lead to 12 points.

Just four minutes later, Proctor was over again. Walker-Leawere won the lineout and Barrett stabbed a chip kick over the top with no one in behind. The bounce sat up perfectly for the All Blacks centre, who powered over beside the posts. Barrett converted, and in the space of four minutes the game had swung from a five-point contest to a 19-point blowout.

The Waratahs’ discipline then deserted them entirely. Lock Angus Blyth was sent to the sin bin in the 55th minute after the TMO spotted him cynically playing the ball on the ground as the Hurricanes threatened the line. Though Tevita Mafileo’s try was ruled out for a knock-on in the build-up, the visitors made the extra man count immediately. The scrum was steady and the ball went wide right, with Barrett spotting space and floating a brilliant ball to Sullivan, who strode over untouched in the corner for his second. Barrett converted from the sideline for 38–12.

Jorgensen gave the home crowd a brief moment to celebrate in the 62nd minute. The Waratahs won the lineout and worked through phases before Proctor’s pass was intercepted by the alert winger, who sprinted 40 metres untouched to score in the left corner. Sid Harvey, on for his debut, converted to make it 38–19.

But the Hurricanes responded instantly. Jone Rova sliced straight through midfield from 40 metres, drawing the fullback before putting Ereatara Enari away on the inside. The replacement halfback streaked away to score beside the posts in the 65th minute. Harkin converted to restore the 26-point cushion.

Things went from bad to worse when Poolman was shown a yellow card for a dangerous aerial challenge on Josh Moorby in the 66th minute, reducing the Waratahs to 14 men just as Blyth returned. The visitors were brutally efficient in exploiting the advantage.

Rova crossed in the 78th minute after Poolman spilled the ball in contact. Proctor was in the perfect spot to clean up and sent Rova away untouched to score under the posts. Lucas Cashmore converted to bring up the half-century.

Proctor then completed his hat-trick in style on the hooter. The restart was secured and Fineanganofo burst through on the left wing, offloading inside for Moorby to break away. The fullback fed Proctor, who strode away to score a stunner beside the posts. Cashmore converted to complete the 59–19 demolition.

For the Hurricanes, Barrett and Proctor combined superbly in midfield, while Lakai and Flanders were immense in the pack. Roigard marked his 50th Hurricanes cap with an emphatic victory, and the return of Kirifi at openside added the edge they had lacked in last week’s upset loss to the Fijian Drua in Lautoka. Aumua, riddled with injuries last year, looked back to his marauding best and will charge into Rennie’s thinking if he remains fit.

The Waratahs, by contrast, were left to lick their wounds. They gave up 18 turnovers, missed 28 of their 128 tackles, and made countless aimless kicks that gifted the Hurricanes easy territory. They endured 20 straight minutes a player short while Blyth and Poolman served their sin-bin sentences, and capitulated in the sapping conditions.

McKellar was blunt in his assessment afterwards, calling it “a nice little reality check” and pointing to turnovers as the root cause of the collapse.

“First of all, we turned over the ball way too much,” he said. “On top of that, we didn’t kick well, our kicking hurt us. And off the back of turnovers and kicking poorly, we had to do a whole lot of defence, transition defence, and against the Hurricanes that’s where they hurt you.”

Captain Matt Philip gathered his players for an extended talk on the field after the final whistle. “The 2026 Waratahs, that’s not us, that’s not how we’re going to play and that’s not going to define our season,” he said. “We’re going to react from that and show with our actions next week what this jersey means to us.”

Young reserve fullback Harvey was one of the few positives, looking assured on debut in what McKellar predicted would be “the first of many games for New South Wales.”

The Hurricanes have now completed their last match of the regular season outside New Zealand and return home to host the Western Force at McLean Park in Napier next Friday. The Waratahs head north to face the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium looking to bounce back from a chastening night in Sydney.

Teams

Waratahs: 15 Andrew Kellaway, 14 Triston Reilly, 13 George Poolman, 12 Joey Walton, 11 Max Jorgensen, 10 Lawson Creighton, 9 Jake Gordon, 8 Pete Samu, 7 Charlie Gamble, 6 Leafi Talataina, 5 Miles Amatosero, 4 Matt Philip (c), 3 Daniel Botha, 2 Folau Faingaa, 1 Tom Lambert.
Replacements: 16 Ioane Moananu, 17 Isaac Kailea, 18 Siosifa Amone, 19 Angus Blyth, 20 Clem Halaholo, 21 Teddy Wilson, 22 Jack Debreczeni, 23 Sid Harvey.

Hurricanes: 15 Josh Moorby, 14 Bailyn Sullivan, 13 Billy Proctor, 12 Jordie Barrett (co-c), 11 Fehi Fineanganofo, 10 Callum Harkin, 9 Cam Roigard, 8 Peter Lakai, 7 Du’Plessis Kirifi (co-c), 6 Devan Flanders, 5 Isaia Walker-Leawere, 4 Warner Dearns, 3 Pasilio Tosi, 2 Asafo Aumua, 1 Xavier Numia.
Replacements: 16 Jacob Devery, 17 Siale Lauaki, 18 Tevita Mafileo, 19 Brad Shields, 20 Brayden Iose, 21 Ereatara Enari, 22 Lucas Cashmore, 23 Jone Rova.

Match details

Hurricanes 59 (Tries: Proctor 3, Sullivan 2, Aumua, Lakai, Enari, Rova; Conversions: Barrett 4/6, Harkin 1/1, Cashmore 2/2)
Waratahs 19 (Tries: Reilly, Jorgensen 2; Conversions: Creighton 1/2, Harvey 1/1)
Half-time: 17–12

Venue: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Attendance: 15,460
Referee: James Doleman (New Zealand)
Assistant Referees: Fraser Hannon, Dan Moore
TMO: James Leckie

Yellow cards: Angus Blyth (55 mins, cynical play), George Poolman (66 mins, dangerous aerial challenge)

Late change: Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was a late scratching with a hamstring injury suffered in the warm-up. George Poolman replaced him at outside centre.

Super Rugby Pacific

Leroy Carter hat-trick powers Chiefs to rout of Moana Pasifika

Leroy Carter bags a hat-trick as the Chiefs run riot against Moana Pasifika, scoring nine tries in a 57–24 demolition at FMG Stadium Waikato. Damian McKenzie masterful on return from paternity leave in emphatic Club Rugby Round opener.

Published

19 hours ago

6th March 2026

rugbyisthegame

Leroy Carter hat-trick powers Chiefs to rout of Moana Pasifika

Chiefs Leroy Carter and Chiefs Kyle Brown celebrate a try during the Chiefs v Moana Pasifika, Super Rugby Pacific match, FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand. Friday, 6 March 2026, (Photo by Aaron Gillions / action press)

Leroy Carter bagged a hat-trick as the Chiefs ran riot against Moana Pasifika, scoring nine tries in a 57–24 demolition at FMG Stadium Waikato to open Club Rugby Round in emphatic fashion.

Key moments

3 mins – TRY CHIEFS: The home side struck early from a lineout steal, with Cortez Ratima floating wide to pick out Quinn Tupaea, who flopped over in the corner. Damian McKenzie converted. (Chiefs 7–0)

5 mins – TRY CHIEFS: Simon Parker collected a restart and trucked it up outside the 22. The Chiefs worked left, folding numbers around the corner, with Leroy Carter freeing Liam Coombes-Fabling to stroll in from 30 metres. McKenzie converted. (Chiefs 14–0)

10 mins – TRY MOANA PASIFIKA: Tom Savage claimed the lineout and Moana drove before launching wide. A bounce pass found Glen Vaihu, who straightened and sliced through beside the posts. Jackson Garden-Bachop converted. (Chiefs 14–7)

16 mins – TRY CHIEFS: Naitoa Ah Kuoi rode a tackle well to the left edge before offloading to Jahrome Brown. He drew the defence, freeing Tupaea down the left sideline, who found Carter on the inside to stroll in for his first. McKenzie missed the conversion. (Chiefs 19–7)

22 mins – TRY MOANA PASIFIKA: Big scrum from Moana, and after Ratima slipped, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa broke to the left, lined up Tupaea and rolled him over, powering down the left edge. Garden-Bachop converted. (Chiefs 19–14)

30 mins – TRY CHIEFS: McKenzie tidied outside the 22 after a loose ball, going on a jiving crossfield run before finding Brown, who released Emoni Narawa on a hot line. The winger steamed through and rolled in behind the posts. McKenzie converted. (Chiefs 26–14)

32 mins – TRY CHIEFS: Ratima’s box kick spilled loose but McKenzie recovered, kicking in behind and getting a kind bounce. He flicked it out the back for Ratima, who stepped nicely and fed Lalakai Foketi. The centre got airborne and grounded it in the corner for his first Chiefs try. McKenzie missed the conversion. (Chiefs 31–14)

Half-time: Chiefs 31–14. Seven tries in an entertaining first half with defence largely absent. The Chiefs’ slick attack hurt Moana on the edges, with Tupaea and Carter finding plenty of joy on the left. Glen Vaihu and Tupou Ta’eiloa provided bright spots for the visitors, but Moana struggled to gain territory after their early scores.

43 mins – TRY MOANA PASIFIKA: Moana folded numbers to the right, with Allan Craig running hard to the line. Ngani Laumape had a carry before leaving it for Tupou Ta’eiloa, who scooped up a deflected pass and rampaged over for his second. Garden-Bachop missed the conversion. (Chiefs 31–19)

48 mins – TRY CHIEFS: The Chiefs applied pressure through their forwards before Ratima whipped it out the back to McKenzie, who fired a cracking ball into Coombes-Fabling. The fullback drew the defender and passed back inside to Carter, who raced in down the right edge for his second. McKenzie missed the conversion. (Chiefs 36–19)

54 mins – TRY CHIEFS: Samisoni Taukei’aho was stopped short off the lineout drive, but Ratima fed it flat to the left where Carter went low and hard, beating the cover tackle to score in the corner for his hat-trick. McKenzie converted from the sideline. (Chiefs 43–19)

61 mins – TRY CHIEFS: The Chiefs stole possession and spread it wide. Josh Jacomb dropped a chip which sat nicely for Tupaea, who fired left to McKenzie. The playmaker angled back in and found replacement Kyle Brown, who scored with his first touch. McKenzie converted. (Chiefs 50–19)

67 mins – TRY CHIEFS: Tyrone Thompson lobbed to the back of the lineout and the Chiefs got a rolling maul going. Thompson remained patient and powered over in the corner. McKenzie converted from the sideline. (Chiefs 57–19)

79 mins – TRY MOANA PASIFIKA: Joel Lam wrapped around the back and Patrick Pellegrini fired wide to Tevita Ofa, who collected and flopped over in the corner for a consolation. Pellegrini missed the conversion. (Chiefs 57–24)

Full-time: Chiefs 57–24

The electric winger touched down three times — in the 16th, 48th and 54th minutes — as the hosts’ left-edge attack carved through Moana’s defence at will. Carter’s finishing was clinical throughout, but he was far from a one-man show: returning playmaker Damian McKenzie orchestrated proceedings with a masterclass in his first game back from paternity leave.

McKenzie, who had barely a week’s training under his belt following the birth of his son Louie, looked nothing like a sleep-deprived new father. The 30-year-old was at his livewire best from the opening whistle, linking beautifully with fellow paternity returnee Cortez Ratima to tear holes in Moana’s defensive structure.

The Chiefs wasted no time establishing dominance. From a lineout steal in the third minute, Ratima floated wide to pick out Quinn Tupaea, who crashed over in the corner for the opener.

Two minutes later, Simon Parker collected a restart and trucked it up outside the 22. The Chiefs worked left with devastating efficiency, folding numbers around the corner until Carter freed Liam Coombes-Fabling to stroll in untouched from 30 metres. At 14–0 inside six minutes, the writing was already on the wall.

Moana showed glimpses of what they can produce when given space. Fullback Glen Vaihu produced a moment of individual brilliance in the 10th minute, collecting a bounce pass off the back of a lineout drive before straightening up and slicing clean through beside the posts. Jackson Garden-Bachop converted to cut the deficit to 14–7, and for a moment it seemed the visitors might make a game of it.

Carter’s first try arrived in the 16th minute, the product of slick handling down the left edge. Naitoa Ah Kuoi rode a tackle well before offloading to Jahrome Brown, who drew two defenders and freed Tupaea down the sideline. The centre found Carter on the inside, and the winger strolled in untouched.

Moana hit back through No. 8 Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, who produced perhaps the try of the match in the 22nd minute. After a dominant scrum, the powerful back-rower broke to the left, lined up Tupaea and simply rolled him over like a bowling pin, powering down the edge to score. Garden-Bachop converted and suddenly it was 19–14 — game on.

But McKenzie’s biggest play of the night swung momentum decisively back to the Chiefs. Lock Allan Craig charged down a Ratima kick and was surging for the line with the try at his mercy. McKenzie, giving away considerable size, used the angle to muscle the much bigger man into touch — a freakish try-saver that seemed to inspire everything that followed.

From there, McKenzie’s fingerprints were on almost every Chiefs try. He tracked back to recover a loose ball near Moana’s line, then produced his trademark jinking crossfield run, slipping out of tackles before finding Brown, who released Emoni Narawa on a hot line. The winger steamed through and rolled in behind the posts for the fourth. McKenzie converted to make it 26–14.

The fifth try was pure McKenzie magic. Ratima’s box kick spilled loose, but the playmaker recovered, kicked in behind and got a kind bounce. He flicked it out the back for Ratima, who stepped nicely before feeding Lalakai Foketi. The former Wallaby got airborne and grounded it in the corner for his first try in Chiefs colours. At 31–14, the bonus point was secured before half-time.

Tupou Ta’eiloa gave Moana hope early in the second stanza, scooping up a deflected pass and rampaging over for his second. But Carter had other ideas. In the 48th minute, the Chiefs applied pressure through their forwards before Ratima whipped it out the back to McKenzie, who fired a cracking ball into Coombes-Fabling. The fullback drew the last defender and passed back inside to Carter, who raced in down the right edge for his second — this time on the opposite wing.

Carter completed his hat-trick six minutes later. Samisoni Taukei’aho was stopped short off a lineout drive, but Ratima fed it flat to the left where Carter went low and hard, beating the cover tackle to score in the corner. McKenzie converted from the sideline to make it 43–19.

The tries kept coming. Replacement Kyle Brown scored with his first touch after a Josh Jacomb chip sat up perfectly for Tupaea, who fired left to McKenzie. The playmaker angled back in and found Brown sliding in behind the posts. Thompson then powered over from a rolling maul to bring up 57 points, before Tevita Ofa’s late consolation rounded out the scoring.

For head coach Jono Gibbes, there will be concerns about discipline — the Chiefs conceded 16 penalties to Moana’s seven, including several in the red zone. They also lost three forwards to injury in the first half, with Samipeni Finau and Kaylum Boshier suffering head knocks before prop Benet Kumeroa limped off.

But the attacking display will please him immensely. Despite having just 10 entries into Moana’s 22 compared to the visitors’ 11, the Chiefs were ruthlessly clinical, their 71% ruck speed in the 0–3 second bracket giving them quick ball to exploit Moana’s fragile defence. Moana’s lineout troubles compounded their woes, losing seven of their 20 throws.

The Chiefs now head into their bye week sitting second on the ladder before a trip to Canberra to face the competition-leading Brumbies. For Moana Pasifika, now winless in all six meetings with the Chiefs, the search for answers continues as head coach Tana Umaga looks to arrest a slide that has seen them concede 122 points in their last three matches.

Teams

Chiefs: 15 Liam Coombes-Fabling, 14 Emoni Narawa, 13 Lalakai Foketi, 12 Quinn Tupaea, 11 Leroy Carter, 10 Damian McKenzie, 9 Cortez Ratima, 8 Simon Parker, 7 Jahrome Brown, 6 Samipeni Finau, 5 Tupou Vaa’i (c), 4 Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 3 Reuben O’Neill, 2 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 1 Benet Kumeroa.
Replacements: 16 Tyrone Thompson, 17 Ollie Norris, 18 George Dyer, 19 Josh Lord, 20 Kaylum Boshier, 21 Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, 22 Josh Jacomb, 23 Kyle Brown.

Moana Pasifika: 15 Glen Vaihu, 14 Tevita Ofa, 13 Tevita Latu, 12 Ngani Laumape, 11 Solomon Alaimalo, 10 Jackson Garden-Bachop, 9 Augustine Pulu, 8 Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, 7 Semisi Paea, 6 Miracle Faiilagi (c), 5 Allan Craig, 4 Tom Savage, 3 Chris Apoua, 2 Millennium Sanerivi, 1 Abraham Pole.
Replacements: 16 Samiuela Moli, 17 Malakai Hala-Ngatai, 18 Lolani Faleiva, 19 Ofa Tauatevalu, 20 Ola Tauelangi, 21 Joel Lam, 22 Patrick Pellegrini, 23 Tyler Pulini.

Match details

Chiefs 57 (Tries: Carter 3, Tupaea, Coombes-Fabling, Narawa, Foketi, Brown, Thompson; Conversions: McKenzie 6/9)
Moana Pasifika 24 (Tries: Tupou Ta’eiloa 2, Vaihu, Ofa; Conversions: Garden-Bachop 2/3, Pellegrini 0/1)
Half-time: 31–14

Venue: FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton
Attendance: 9,020
Referee: Todd Petrie (New Zealand)
Assistant Referees: Maggie Cogger-Orr, Warwick Lahmert
TMO: Richard Kelly

Super Rugby Pacific

Super Rugby Pacific 2026: Round 4 preview

The inaugural Club Rugby Round arrives in Super Rugby Pacific with five blockbuster fixtures headlined by an Eden Park showdown between the Blues and Crusaders, while the Brumbies host the Reds in a battle of Australian heavyweights and James Slipper chases history.

Published

2 days ago

5th March 2026

rugbyisthegame

Super Rugby Pacific 2026: Round 4 preview

Damian McKenzie during the Chiefs v Crusaders, Super Rugby Pacific match, FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand. Saturday, 28 February 2026, (Photo by Aaron Gillions / action press)

Round 4 marks a celebration of grassroots rugby, with players across the competition wearing the socks of community clubs that shaped their journeys. The initiative comes at a pivotal moment in the season, with the table-topping Brumbies (3-0, 14 points) looking to extend their perfect start while the Waratahs (2-0, 10 points) aim to maintain their unbeaten record against a wounded Hurricanes outfit. In the New Zealand derbies, big-name playmakers return: Damian McKenzie suits up for the first time in 2026 for the Chiefs against Moana Pasifika, while Beauden Barrett makes his season debut off the bench as the Blues host the Crusaders in the match of the round.

The action kicks off Friday evening in Hamilton with the Chiefs hosting Moana Pasifika, before the Waratahs welcome the Hurricanes to Allianz Stadium. Saturday’s triple-header begins under the roof in Dunedin where emotions will run high as Angus Ta’avao returns for the Highlanders following the tragic death of his son, before Eden Park hosts the Blues-Crusaders rivalry and GIO Stadium closes out the round with the Australian derby. The Fijian Drua enjoy the bye following their statement win over the Hurricanes.

Friday 6 March

Chiefs v Moana Pasifika

FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton — 7.05pm NZDT / 5.05pm AEDT

Just two days after being named the new All Blacks head coach, Dave Rennie will be watching intently as one of his potential Test playmakers returns to Super Rugby action. Damian McKenzie missed the opening three rounds due to the birth of his first child but slots straight back into the Chiefs’ starting XV at first five-eighth, bringing his dazzling footwork and tactical nous to a side that fell 33-43 to the Crusaders last weekend.

The Chiefs sit third on the ladder with eight points from three matches but have shown vulnerability, particularly in their home loss to the Crusaders where they conceded six tries. Captain Luke Jacobson is absent with a hip injury, meaning All Blacks lock Tupou Vaa’i takes over the captaincy duties. Former Wallabies centre Lalakai Foketi gets his first start of the season in the midfield, having impressed off the bench in Hamilton last round.

Moana Pasifika arrive at FMG Stadium Waikato searching for their second win of the campaign after suffering a 35-19 defeat to the Western Force in Auckland. Former All Blacks halfback Augustine Pulu makes his Moana debut after recovering from a calf injury — his first Super Rugby appearance since 2018 following a stint in Japan. The visitors have identified Ngani Laumape as their go-to ball carrier, with the powerful centre looking to punch holes through the Chiefs’ defensive line.

The head-to-head record is stark: the Chiefs have won all five meetings between these sides, averaging 60 points per match. With McKenzie pulling the strings and Wallace Sititi prowling at No. 8, the home side should have too much firepower, though Moana’s physical pack will ensure it’s no walkover.

Teams:

Chiefs: 15 Liam Coombes-Fabling, 14 Emoni Narawa, 13 Lalakai Foketi, 12 Quinn Tupaea, 11 Leroy Carter, 10 Damian McKenzie, 9 Cortez Ratima, 8 Wallace Sititi, 7 Jahrome Brown, 6 Samipeni Finau, 5 Tupou Vaa’i (c), 4 Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 3 Reuben O’Neill, 2 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 1 Benet Kumeroa.
Replacements: 16 Tyrone Thompson, 17 Ollie Norris, 18 George Dyer, 19 Josh Lord, 20 Kaylum Boshier, 21 Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, 22 Josh Jacomb, 23 Kyle Brown.

Referee: Todd Petrie. Assistant Referees: Maggie Cogger-Orr, Warwick Lahmert. TMO: Richard Kelly.

Unavailable — Chiefs: Luke Jacobson (hip).

NSW Waratahs v Hurricanes

Allianz Stadium, Sydney — 7.35pm AEDT / 9.35pm NZDT

Something has to give in Sydney. The Waratahs are unbeaten through two rounds with emphatic victories to their name, while the Hurricanes have won their last eight matches against the Sydneysiders dating back to 2016. The Waratahs’ last win over the Canes came at Allianz Stadium in their 2014 title-winning season.

Dan McKellar has stuck with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii at outside centre despite external noise suggesting the cross-code star would be better utilised at fullback or on the wing. “We had this conversation last year when I played him at 15 and copped a bit of flak around that,” McKellar said. “It’s a bit ironic now that everyone thinks he should be playing 15.” Andrew Kellaway returns at fullback after missing the first two games, forming an all-Randwick back three with Triston Reilly and Max Jorgensen, the latter having scored four tries in two appearances to briefly lead the competition’s Player of the Year voting.

The Hurricanes limp into Sydney after their 25-20 loss to the Fijian Drua in Lautoka’s mud bath. Co-captain Du’Plessis Kirifi has shaken off a calf injury to make his season debut at openside flanker, shifting fellow All Black Peter Lakai to No. 8. Cam Roigard will notch his 50th Hurricanes appearance, while Pasilio Tosi returns to the starting front row. The loss of first five-eighths Brett Cameron and Harry Godfrey for the season with knee injuries leaves Callum Harkin at No. 10 ahead of Lucas Cashmore.

If the Waratahs can match the intensity they showed in dismantling the Fijian Drua 36-13 in Round 2, they have every chance of snapping that eight-match losing streak. But the Hurricanes’ combination of Roigard’s dynamism and Jordie Barrett’s playmaking ability makes them dangerous opponents when they find their rhythm.

Teams:

Waratahs: 15 Andrew Kellaway, 14 Triston Reilly, 13 Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, 12 Joey Walton, 11 Max Jorgensen, 10 Lawson Creighton, 9 Jake Gordon, 8 Pete Samu, 7 Charlie Gamble, 6 Leafi Talataina, 5 Miles Amatosero, 4 Matt Philip (c), 3 Daniel Botha, 2 Folau Faingaa, 1 Tom Lambert.
Replacements: 16 Ioane Moananu, 17 Isaac Kailea, 18 Siosifa Amone, 19 Angus Blyth, 20 Clem Halaholo, 21 Teddy Wilson, 22 Jack Debreczeni, 23 Sid Harvey.

Referee: James Doleman. Assistant Referees: Fraser Hannon, Dan Moore. TMO: James Leckie.

Unavailable — Waratahs: Eamon Doyle (ankle), Austin Durbidge (forearm), Harry Potter (toe), Angus Scott-Young (calf).

Unavailable — Hurricanes: Brett Cameron (knee — season), Harry Godfrey (knee — season).

Saturday 7 March

Highlanders v Western Force

Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin — 4.35pm NZDT / 2.35pm AEDT

Emotions will run high under the roof in Dunedin as former All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao returns to the Highlanders for the first time since his young son Leo passed away last month. Leo was born with partial-trisomy-13, a genetic disorder that affects a child’s ability to grow, and spent the first three months of his life in hospital. Ta’avao played in the Round 1 victory over the Crusaders but understandably stepped away during the family’s time of grief.

The Highlanders (1-2, 5 points) need a response after losing consecutive matches — narrowly to the Chiefs (23-26) before a disappointing 31-14 defeat to the Reds in Brisbane. Head coach Jamie Joseph, who was overlooked for Dave Rennie for the All Blacks job, has made several changes. Powerful No. 8 Nikora Broughton returns for his first match of the season, while Folau Fakatava reclaims the starting halfback jersey.

The Force arrive buoyant after their 35-19 victory over Moana Pasifika in Auckland ended their losing run. Simon Cron welcomes back Wallabies flanker Nick Champion de Crespigny after a two-game absence with a knee strain, while hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa also returns to the starting XV. Ben Donaldson orchestrated last week’s win and will target Highlanders co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai, who leads the competition for tackle busts (15) and offloads (7).

Joseph warned his side must be ready for an in-form Force outfit. “We saw last week what they’re capable of. They’ll be upbeat and enjoying their New Zealand tour, so they’ll present challenges for us, no doubt. We need to build on our start to the season, lift a notch or two, and convert more of the pressure we’re applying into points.”

Teams:

Highlanders: 15 Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, 14 Caleb Tangitau, 13 Jonah Lowe, 12 Timoci Tavatavanawai (co-c), 11 Jona Nareki, 10 Cameron Millar, 9 Folau Fakatava, 8 Nikora Broughton, 7 Veveni Lasaqa, 6 Te Kamaka Howden, 5 Mitch Dunshea, 4 Oliver Haig, 3 Angus Ta’avao, 2 Jack Taylor, 1 Ethan de Groot (co-c).
Replacements: 16 Soane Vikena, 17 Daniel Lienert-Brown, 18 Sosefo Kautai, 19 Will Stodart, 20 Sean Withy, 21 Adam Lennox, 22 Reesjan Pasitoa, 23 Tanielu Tele’a.

Western Force: 15 Mac Grealy, 14 Darby Lancaster, 13 Divad Palu, 12 Hamish Stewart, 11 George Bridge, 10 Ben Donaldson, 9 Nathan Hastie, 8 Vaiolini Ekuasi, 7 Carlo Tizzano, 6 Nick Champion de Crespigny, 5 Darcy Swain, 4 Jeremy Williams (c), 3 Harry Johnson-Holmes, 2 Brandon Paenga-Amosa, 1 Tom Robertson.
Replacements: 16 Nic Dolly, 17 Sef Fa’agase, 18 Misinale Epenisa, 19 Franco Molina, 20 Will Harris, 21 Henry Robertson, 22 Max Burey, 23 Kurtley Beale.

Referee: Ben O’Keeffe. Assistant Referees: Maggie Cogger-Orr, Warwick Lahmert. TMO: Richard Kelly.

Unavailable — Force: Feao Fotuaika (foot — medium term), Dylan Pietsch (foot — medium term), Alex Harford (shoulder — long term), Doug Philipson (knee — long term).

Blues v Crusaders

Eden Park, Auckland — 7.05pm NZDT / 5.05pm AEDT

The match of the round. Two wounded giants collide at Eden Park, with the Crusaders (1-2, 5 points) arriving without All Blacks fullback Will Jordan — rested after being “dinged up and sore” following last week’s win over the Chiefs — and suspended prop Tamaiti Williams, who cops a three-week ban for his dangerous cleanout on Tupou Vaa’i.

Most significantly, Beauden Barrett makes his first appearance of 2026 for the Blues, named on the bench after being treated with kid gloves through the opening three rounds. The 34-year-old playmaker hasn’t played since the All Blacks’ 33-19 defeat to England last November, with New Zealand Rugby keen to manage his workload ahead of a packed Test schedule including the South Africa tour. Stephen Perofeta retains the No. 10 jersey, with Barrett set to provide an injection of class from the pine.

The Blues (1-2, 6 points) have dropped consecutive close matches — the Chiefs beat them 19-15 at Eden Park in Round 1, then the Brumbies edged them 30-27 in Canberra last Saturday night. Head coach Vern Cotter has made three changes: Josh Beehre starts at lock in place of the concussed Laghlan McWhannell, Torian Barnes leads out at blindside flanker, and Codemeru Vai earns his first start on the right wing with Cole Forbes sidelined by an ankle injury.

Crusaders coach Rob Penney has named a 6-2 split on the bench, citing the heavy workload on his forwards through the opening month and the expectation the Blues will play direct and physical. Taha Kemara, outstanding at first five-eighth against the Chiefs, shifts to fullback with the return of Rivez Reihana from an adductor strain. Codie Taylor reclaims the hooking jersey after recovering from a rib injury, with George Bell out for 2-4 weeks with a foot problem. Lock Will Tucker makes his Crusaders debut.

“We were disappointed not to get the result last week, but there were plenty of positives in our performance,” Cotter said. “We’ve had a good review and trained with real purpose this week. These contests carry a bit of extra edge. It’s special to be back home in front of our supporters.”

Teams:

Blues: 15 Zarn Sullivan, 14 Codemeru Vai, 13 AJ Lam, 12 Pita Ahki, 11 Caleb Clarke, 10 Stephen Perofeta, 9 Finlay Christie, 8 Hoskins Sotutu, 7 Dalton Papali’i (c), 6 Torian Barnes, 5 Sam Darry, 4 Josh Beehre, 3 Marcel Renata, 2 Kurt Eklund, 1 Ofa Tu’ungafasi.
Replacements: 16 James Mullan, 17 Mason Tupaea, 18 Sam Matenga, 19 Che Clark, 20 Anton Segner, 21 Taufa Funaki, 22 Beauden Barrett, 23 Xavi Taele.

Crusaders: 15 Taha Kemara, 14 Chay Fihaki, 13 Leicester Fainga’anuku, 12 David Havili (c), 11 Sevu Reece, 10 Rivez Reihana, 9 Noah Hotham, 8 Christian Lio-Willie, 7 Ethan Blackadder, 6 Dom Gardiner, 5 Jamie Hannah, 4 Antonio Shalfoon, 3 Fletcher Newell, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 George Bower.
Replacements: 16 Manumaua Leitu, 17 Finlay Brewis, 18 Seb Calder, 19 Will Tucker, 20 Corey Kellow, 21 Kyle Preston, 22 Xavier Saifoloi, 23 Dallas McLeod.

Referee: Nic Berry. Assistant Referees: Marcus Playle, Louis Trisley. TMO: Aaron Paterson.

Unavailable — Blues: Laghlan McWhannell (concussion), Cole Forbes (ankle), Patrick Tuipulotu (injury — expected back Round 9).

Unavailable — Crusaders: Will Jordan (rested), Tamaiti Williams (suspended — 3 weeks), George Bell (foot — 2-4 weeks), Tahlor Cahill (shoulder).

ACT Brumbies v Queensland Reds

GIO Stadium, Canberra — 7.35pm AEDT / 6.35pm AEST

The round closes with an Australian derby carrying significant weight for both sides — and a slice of Super Rugby history. Brumbies veteran James Slipper will equal Wyatt Crockett’s all-time appearance record of 202 Super Rugby caps when he trots onto GIO Stadium, fittingly against his former club where he accumulated 104 of those appearances before heading south to Canberra.

The Brumbies (3-0, 14 points) sit atop the ladder after an imperious start to the season. Their drought-breaking 50-24 demolition of the Crusaders in Christchurch was followed by a tense 30-27 victory over the Blues in Canberra, with Charlie Cale and the backrow unit proving devastating. Stephen Larkham has made just one change, with former Red Tuaina Taii Tualima replacing the rested Rob Valetini at blindside flanker — a match-up charged with extra meaning against his old club.

The Reds (1-1, 5 points) responded well to their Round 2 bye with a 31-14 victory over the Highlanders in Brisbane. Les Kiss has handed Filipo Daugunu a start on the wing after the Wallaby’s impressive 21-minute cameo off the bench, with Tim Ryan rotated out. Hunter Paisami’s ankle injury opens the door for Isaac Henry at inside centre, while 18-year-old Treyvon Pritchard is named on the bench for a potential Super Rugby debut — setting up a family showdown with older brother Kadin, who has been cleared to return at outside centre for the Brumbies after passing concussion protocols.

Kiss is under no illusions about the challenge. “We know what we are up against, the best team in the comp at the moment at their home ground,” he said. “It’ll be a very tough encounter. Our preparation needs to be good and our performance needs to be disciplined for the 80 minutes. Canberra is a tough place to win but these are the challenges we look forward to.”

The Brumbies have won five straight against the Reds and look formidable, but Queensland’s backrow of Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson and Joe Brial can cause havoc at the breakdown.

Teams:

Brumbies: 15 Andy Muirhead, 14 Ollie Sapsford, 13 Kadin Pritchard, 12 David Feliuai, 11 Corey Toole, 10 Declan Meredith, 9 Ryan Lonergan (c), 8 Charlie Cale, 7 Rory Scott, 6 Tuiana Taii Tualima, 5 Cadeyrn Neville, 4 Lachie Shaw, 3 Rhys van Nek, 2 Billy Pollard, 1 James Slipper.
Replacements: 16 Liam Bowron, 17 Blake Schoupp, 18 Tevita Alatini, 19 Toby Macpherson, 20 Luke Reimer, 21 Klayton Thorn, 22 Tane Edmed, 23 Hudson Creighton.

Reds: 15 Jock Campbell, 14 Lachie Anderson, 13 Josh Flook, 12 Isaac Henry, 11 Filipo Daugunu, 10 Carter Gordon, 9 Louis Werchon, 8 Harry Wilson, 7 Fraser McReight (c), 6 Joe Brial, 5 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 4 Josh Canham, 3 Zane Nonggorr, 2 Josh Nasser, 1 Aidan Ross.
Replacements: 16 Richie Asiata, 17 George Blake, 18 Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 19 Seru Uru, 20 Vaiuta Latu, 21 Kalani Thomas, 22 Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, 23 Treyvon Pritchard.

Referee: Angus Gardner. Assistant Referees: Jordan Way, Jeremy Markey. TMO: James Leckie.

Unavailable — Brumbies: Allan Alaalatoa (shoulder — team captain), Rob Valetini (rested), Nick Frost (match fitness — playing curtain-raiser).

Unavailable — Reds: Hunter Paisami (ankle), Matt Faessler (knee), Tom Lynagh (leg — rebuilding strength).

BYE: Fijian Drua

The Drua enjoy a well-earned rest following their stunning 25-20 upset of the Hurricanes in Lautoka’s mud bath. Despite the challenging conditions, they produced one of their best performances to claim a third win in as many home games against the Wellington side.

Super Rugby Pacific debuts

Joel Lam (Moana Pasifika — halfback, bench) — if used
Tyler Pulini (Moana Pasifika — first five-eighth, bench) — if used
Sid Harvey (Waratahs — utility back, bench) — if used
Will Tucker (Crusaders — lock, bench) — if used
Treyvon Pritchard (Reds — utility back, bench) — if used

Club debuts

Augustine Pulu (Moana Pasifika — halfback, starting) — ex-Chiefs, Blues

Milestones

James Slipper (Brumbies) — 202nd Super Rugby cap (equalling Wyatt Crockett’s all-time record)
Cam Roigard (Hurricanes) — 50th Hurricanes cap
Andrew Kellaway (Waratahs) — 85th Super Rugby cap
Beauden Barrett (Blues) — First appearance of 2026 (if used)