Waratahs’ 2025 Super Rugby Season: A New Era Under Dan McKellar
After a disastrous 2024 season that saw them sink to the bottom of the Super Rugby table and part ways with fan-favourite coach Darren Coleman, the Waratahs have entered a new chapter. Esteemed coach and former long-time rival Dan McKellar has taken the reins at Daceyville, signaling a fresh start for the club.
High Expectations and Big Signings for the Waratahs
As always, expectations are sky-high for the Waratahs, bolstered by the signings of Wallabies stars Taniela Tupou and Andrew Kellaway, along with high-profile code-hopper Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, who earned rave reviews on his international debut over the weekend. These additions bring undeniable star power, with Tupou renowned for his dominant scrummaging and ability to bulldoze through defences. Pairing him with Wallabies teammate Angus Bell promises one of the most formidable front rows in the competition.
Dynamic Backline with Emerging Talent
Kellaway is expected to take on the fullback role, with Max Jorgensen shifting to the wing, joined by Rebels recruit and speedster Darby Lancaster on the opposite flank. Suaalii’s impressive debut all but secures him a starting spot in Round 1, likely at outside centre.
Shaping the Forward and Back Rows: A Key Challenge for McKellar
Dan McKellar should have little trouble shaping his backline, thanks to a blend of star power and emerging talent. While his front and back rows appear formidable, the second row poses a potential challenge, with limited depth casting doubt on who will secure the starting lock positions. Maintaining the fitness of both Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou will also be a priority, as both players have struggled with recurring injuries.
Expect Fireworks at Allianz Stadium
With a dozen Wallabies in the squad, fans can expect fireworks when the Waratahs kick off their season at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.
Predicted starting XV: Andrew Kellaway, Max Jorgensen, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Lalakai Foketi, Darby Lancaster, Tane Edmed, Jake Gordon, Rob Leota, Charlie Gamble, Langi Gleeson, Miles Amatosero, Fergus Lee-Warner, Taniela Tupou, Dave Porecki, Angus Bell.
Squad:
Forwards: Adrian Brown, Angelo Smith, Angus Bell, Ben Grant, Charlie Gamble, Clem Halaholo, Daniel Botha, David Porecki, Ethan Dobbins, Fergus Lee-Warner, Hugh Sinclair, Isaac Kailea, Jack Barrett, Julian Heaven, Leafi Talatiana, Langi Gleeson, Mahe Vailanu, Mesu Kunavula, Miles Amatosero, Rob Leota, Siosifa Amone, Taniela Tupou, Thomas Lambert, Brad Amituanai, Ale Aho.
Backs: Andrew Kellaway, Archie Saunders, Darby Lancaster, Henry O’Donnell, Jack Bowen, Jack Grant, Jake Gordon, Joey Walton, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Lalakai Foketi, Lawson Creighton, Max Jorgensen, Tane Edmed, Teddy Wilson, Triston Reilly, Jackson Ropata, James Hendren.
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