A Weekend of Rivalries and Reckonings in Super Rugby Pacific
As the sun rises over Wellington, anticipation builds for the weekend’s opening clash—an all-Kiwi showdown between the Hurricanes and Highlanders that promises fireworks and fierce determination. It’s a battle steeped in history, with both sides eager to make their mark as the regular season nears its climax.
Later in Sydney, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the NSW Waratahs. Their playoff hopes hang in the balance as they prepare to face the Crusaders in a do-or-die encounter. With everything on the line, expect emotion, grit, and a desperate push for survival.
In the Pacific, the atmosphere in Lautoka will be electric as the Fijian Drua host the Western Force. Known for their flair and physicality, the Drua will be looking to assert dominance on home soil, while the Force arrive with their own postseason aspirations.
Meanwhile, fierce Pacific pride will be on display when Moana Pasifika lock horns with the Blues. This rivalry has grown into one of the competition’s most passionate matchups—and with finals implications looming large, neither side can afford to take a backward step.
And back on Australian soil, the ACT Brumbies and Queensland Reds renew their classic rivalry in a blockbuster derby. These two powerhouses never fail to deliver drama, and this encounter could shape the playoff picture.
While all eyes are on the action, the Chiefs enjoy a well-earned bye—still perched at the top of the table, watching the chasing pack jostle for position.
Hurricanes v Highlanders
FRI 16 MAY: SKY Stadium, Wellington (19:05)
Brett Cameron Returns as Hurricanes Reshuffle Forward Pack Ahead of Highlanders Clash
After months of grueling rehab and quiet determination behind the scenes, Brett Cameron is finally set to make his long-awaited return to Super Rugby Pacific. The Hurricanes’ first-choice No.10 from 2024 is back in the match-day squad for the first time since last year’s heartbreaking semifinal defeat to the Chiefs—seven months removed from ACL surgery that put his career on hold.
This week, he’ll wear the No.22 jersey, easing back into top-level rugby from the bench while Ruben Love retains the starting role at fly-half. Cameron’s return adds valuable depth and leadership as the Hurricanes enter a crucial stage of their campaign.
But the Hurricanes have also been forced into changes up front. Two key figures in the pack—All Blacks prop Tyrel Lomax (ankle) and lock Caleb Delany (back)—have been sidelined, prompting a reconfiguration among the forwards. A reshuffled back row sees Du’Plessis Kirifi moved to the bench, while the dynamic Brayden Iose reclaims the No. 8 jersey, joining forces with Peter Lakai and skipper Brad Shields in a trio full of pace and power.
As Wellington gears up for a heated battle with the Highlanders, the return of a seasoned playmaker and a bold new-look pack adds even more intrigue to an already pivotal contest.
HURRICANES (1-15)
Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua (co-c), Pasilio Tosi, Zach Gallgher, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Brad Shields (co-c), Peter Lakai, Brayden Iose, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Ngatungane Punival, Riley Higgins, Billy Proctor (co-c), Bailyn Sullivan, Callum Harkin
Replacements: Raymond Tuputupu, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Tevita Mafileo, Will Tucker, Du’Plessis Kirifi (co-c), Ereatara Enari, Brett Cameron, Fatafehi Fineanganofo
Highlanders Back Youth and Redemption as Joseph Rings the Changes for Hurricanes Clash
In a bold show of faith, Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph has doubled down on youth and potential, handing the No.10 jersey once again to Taine Robinson—just a week after a costly misstep in the loss to Moana Pasifika. Rather than punishing the young playmaker, Joseph has opted for continuity, betting on resilience and redemption in the face of pressure.
Robinson won’t be the only fresh face in the starting XV. The Highlanders welcome back a wave of talent, with Tanielu Tele’a, Jona Nareki, and Veveni Lasaqa set to ignite the backline. Up front, Mitch Dunshea reclaims his place, while Folau Fakatava and rising hooker Jack Taylor add punch and tempo to the spine of the squad.
On the bench, Soane Vikena, Oliver Haig, Cameron Millar, and Thomas Umaga-Jensen provide depth and impact options, ready to influence the match when called upon.
But there’s no room this week for Nathan Hastie, Sam Gilbert, or Will Stodart, as Joseph continues to refine his side for what promises to be a fierce showdown against the Hurricanes.
With changes made and confidence placed in youth, the Highlanders are chasing not just victory—but belief.
HIGHLANDERS (1-15)
Ethan de Groot (co-c), Jack Taylor, Saula Ma’u, Mitch Dunshea, Fabian Holland, Te Kamaka Howden, Veveni Lasaqa, Sean Withy, Folau Fakatava, Taine Robinson, Jona Nareki, Timoci Tavatavanawai (co-c), Tanielu Tele’a, Jonah Lowe, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
Replacements: Soane Vikena, Josh Bartlett, Sosefo Kautai, Oliver Haig, Michael Loft, Adam Lennox, Cameron Millar, Thomas Umaga-Jensen
Referee: Marcus Playle
Assistant Referees: Fraser Hannon, Stu Curran
TMO: Glenn Newman
NSW Waratahs v Crusaders
FRI 16 MAY: Allianz Stadium, Sydney (19:35)
Farewells, Fresh Faces, and a Fractured Jaw: Waratahs Ready for Emotional Crusaders Clash
As the Waratahs prepare for a high-stakes showdown with the Crusaders on Friday night, emotion will run deep at Allianz Stadium—not just because of what’s on the line, but because of who won’t be returning.
Head coach Dan McKellar has called on rising star Darby Lancaster to start on the wing in place of Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, whose debut Super Rugby campaign came to a cruel end with a fractured jaw. The injury, sustained in a heavy collision with Andrew Kellaway, has sidelined Suaalii for the remainder of the season—cutting short what was to be a crucial year of development ahead of his full-time shift to rugby union stardom.
Suaalii’s absence triggers a backline reshuffle, with his Test teammate shifting from wing to fullback, and Lancaster joining Triston Reilly to complete a youthful, explosive back three.
In the halves, Tane Edmed holds onto the No.10 jersey, keeping Jack Bowen in a support role from the bench. Notably, Lawson Creighton—who spent much of the season as the preferred fly-half—misses out again as the Waratahs continue to search for consistency in the playmaking role.
But the biggest emotional weight may come from a broader farewell. The franchise confirmed this week that five regulars—Rob Leota, Langi Gleeson, Mahe Vailanu, Julian Heaven, and Felix Kalapu—will all depart the Waratahs at season’s end. Friday night will mark their final appearance in sky blue on home soil, bringing added meaning to an already pivotal contest.
For the Waratahs, this isn’t just another round. It’s a chance to fight for pride, to send off their own with honor—and perhaps, to spark one last run in a season filled with adversity.
WARATAHS (1-15)
Angus Bell, Dave Porecki, Daniel Botha, Fergus Lee-Warner, Miles Amatosero, Rob Leota, Charlie Gamble, Langi Gleeson, Jake Gordon (c), Tane Edmed, Darby Lancaster, Joey Walton, Henry O’Donnell, Triston Reilly, Andrew Kellaway
Replacements: Mahe Vailanu, Tom Lambert, Taniela Tupou, Ben Grant, Hugh Sinclair, Teddy Wilson, Jack Bowen, Lalakai Foketi
Crusaders Receive Surprise Boost as Bell Returns, But Injuries Take Toll on All Blacks Core
Just when it seemed their season couldn’t take another twist, the Crusaders have been thrown a lifeline—and a curveball.
In a surprise few saw coming, All Blacks hooker George Bell has been named in the squad, making a remarkable return from a fractured foot that was once thought to have ended his Super Rugby campaign. The young rake has defied medical timelines, adding a spark of hope to a Crusaders outfit that desperately needs some.
Bell’s comeback arrives at a critical time, with head coach Rob Penney forced to navigate yet another week of setbacks. Star fullback Will Jordan remains sidelined, and now joins a growing casualty list of All Blacks, with skipper Scott Barrett ruled out due to a sprained thumb, powerhouse prop Fletcher Newell nursing an Achilles issue, and veteran leader Codie Taylor unavailable due to a personal matter.
It’s a mixed bag for the Crusaders—a welcome return from the unexpected, shadowed by the absence of proven firepower. As they gear up to face the Waratahs, Penney’s men must dig deep, balancing the energy of fresh faces with the challenge of filling massive voids.
In a season that has demanded resilience at every turn, this week is no different. But with George Bell back in the fold, the Crusaders will believe that there’s still some fight left in them.
CRUSADERS (1-15)
Tamaiti Williams, Ioane Moananu, Kershawl Skyes-Martin, Quinten Strange, Antonio Shalfoon, Cullen Grace, Tom Christie, Christian Lio-Willie, Noah Hotham, Rivez Reihana, Sevu Reece, David Havili (c), Braydon Ennor, Chay Fihaki, Johnny McNicholl
Replacements: George Bell, George Bower, Seb Calder, Tahlor Cahill, Corey Kellow, Kyle Preston, James O’Connor, Dallas McLeod
Referee: Marcus Playle
Assistant Referees: Fraser Hannon, Stu Curran
TMO: Glenn Newman
Fijian Drua v Western Force
SAT 17 MAY: Churchill Park, Lautoka (15:35)
Baselala Earns First Start as Flying Fijians Welcome Back Waqa
It’s a moment Philip Baselala will never forget. After making his mark as a livewire off the bench, the young halfback has now earned his first start in the Fijian jersey—a clear signal of trust from head coach Glen Jackson and his staff.
The decision marks a new chapter in Baselala’s rise through the ranks, and his selection couldn’t come at a more crucial time. With his quick feet, sharp service, and calm under pressure, he’s been quietly building towards this opportunity—and now, the stage is his.
Adding further firepower to the matchday 23 is the return of dynamic flanker Etonia Waqa. The powerful forward, known for his pace and aggression at the breakdown, reclaims his spot in the starting XV after a stint on the sidelines due to injury.
With youth stepping up and key talent returning, Jackson’s side is shaping up for a statement performance—one that blends raw potential with seasoned impact.
DRUA (1-15)
Haereiti Hetet, Tevita Ikanivere (c), Samuela Tawake, Mesake Vocevoce, Isoa Nasilasila, Etonia Waqa, Isoa Tuwai, Elia Canakaivata, Philip Baselala, Kemu Valetini, Taniela Rakuro, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Iosefo Masi, Ponipate Loganimasi, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
Replacements: Mesulame Dolokoto, Peni Ravai, Mesake Doge, Leone Rotuisolia, Kitione Salawa, Leone Nawai, Inia Tabuavou, Selestino Ravutaumada
Fresh Faces and Bold Moves: Cron Gambles on New-Look Force for Drua Clash
With their season hanging by a thread, the Western Force are heading into the heat of Lautoka with a side few would have predicted.
In a bold call, head coach Simon Cron has chosen to rest several of his key Test stars—Nic White, Hamish Stewart, and Harry Potter—despite the high stakes. Ben Donaldson, another Wallaby regular, has been relegated to the bench.
Instead, Cron has rolled the dice on a new-look backline, handing a debut to New Zealander Alex Harford at fly-half. He’ll partner Henry Robertson in the halves, while Reesjan Pasitoa returns to the run-on side wearing the unfamiliar No.12 jersey for the first time in 2025, linking up with Sio Tomkinson in the midfield.
Bayley Kuenzle shifts to the wing to join an exciting back three featuring Mac Grealy and the experienced Kurtley Beale, who will be expected to anchor the backfield with poise and vision.
While the tight five remains untouched, there’s a shake-up in the back row. Reed Prinsep steps in at No.8 for the injured Nick Champion de Crespigny, with Titi Nofoagatotoa providing bench cover in the absence of Carlo Tizzano.
There’s good news on the injury front, too—Test hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa returns from a calf strain just in time to shore up the front row, and veteran lock Sam Carter has also been named on the bench.
Playmaker Issak Fines-Leleiwasa adds spark to the reserves in what could be a crucial injection of energy late in the game.
It’s a daring reshuffle from Cron, one that speaks to long-term planning—but in the cauldron of Lautoka, it may just take a touch of audacity to turn the tide.
FORCE (1-15)
Ryan Coxon, Nic Dolly, Tom Robertson, Jeremy Williams (c), Darcy Swain, Will Harris, Kane Koteka, Reed Prinsep; Henry Robertson, Alex Harford, Mac Grealy, Reesjan Pasitoa, Sio Tomkinson, Bayley Kuenzle, Kurtley Beale
Replacements: Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Atu Moli, Tiaan Tauakipulu, Sam Carter, Titi Nofoagatotoa, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Ben Donaldson, George Poolman
Referee: Jordan Way
Assistant Referees: Matt Kellahan, Jeremy Markey
TMO: Brett Cronan
Moana Pasifika v Blues
SAT 17 MAY: North Harbour Stadium, Auckland (19:05)
Pellegrini Pulls the Strings as Moana Pasifika Reload for Rivalry Clash
Fresh off a stirring 34-29 victory over the Highlanders in Dunedin, Moana Pasifika head coach Tana Umaga has opted for minimal changes—but they’re changes that could make a big impact.
Patrick Pellegrini has been handed the keys to the backline, named to start at fly-half in a move that signals both trust and tactical intent. Known for his sharp distribution and ability to challenge the line, Pellegrini will be tasked with steering the ship in what looms as a crucial clash with finals implications.
Up front, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou returns to anchor the scrum at tighthead prop, bringing power and set-piece stability to a pack that’s shown plenty of heart this season.
With continuity and confidence on their side, Umaga’s men are shaping up to take their momentum to the next level—refreshed, refocused, and ready for battle.
PASIFIKA (1-15)
Tito Tuipulotu, Millennium Sanerivi, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, Tom Savage, Samuel Slade, Miracle Faiilagi, Ardie Savea (c), Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, Jonathan Taumateine, Patrick Pellegrini, Kyren Taumoefolau, Danny Toala, Lalomilo Lalamilo, Tevita Ofa, William Havili
Replacements: Samiuela Moli, Abraham Pole, Chris Apoua, Allan Craig, Sione Havili Talitui, Melani Matavao, Jackson Garden-Bachop, Julian Savea
Caleb Clarke Returns as Blues Reload for Pasifika Showdown
The Blues are set to welcome back one of their most explosive weapons, with All Blacks winger Caleb Clarke cleared to return from injury just in time for Saturday night’s clash against Moana Pasifika at North Harbour Stadium.
After a frustrating four-week spell on the sidelines nursing a thigh injury, Clarke reclaims his spot on the left wing—bringing with him pace, power, and a proven finishing touch. His return pushes AJ Lam back to the right wing, giving the Blues a potent one-two punch out wide.
The reshuffle isn’t limited to the backs. Up front, experienced campaigner Angus Ta’avao slots back into the starting XV at tighthead prop, reinforcing a Blues scrum that will be eager to assert dominance early. Josh Beehre steps into the second row, while Adrian Choat gets the nod at blindside flanker in place of the injured Anton Segner, who is out with a shoulder complaint.
With big names returning and fresh energy injected across the park, the Blues are building toward a high-stakes showdown—one that could have major ramifications for the finals race.
BLUES (1-15)
Joshua Fusitu’a, Ricky Riccitelli, Angus Ta’avao, Patrick Tuipulotu (c), Josh Beehre, Adrian Choat, Dalton Papali’i, Hoskins Sotutu, Taufa Funaki, Beauden Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Xavi Taele, Rieko Ioane, AJ Lam, Corey Evans
Replacements: Kurt Eklund, Mason Tupaea, Marcel Renata, Laghlan McWhannell, Cam Christie, Finlay Christie, Harry Plummer, Cole Forbes
Referee: Angus Gardner
Assistant Referees: Graham Cooper, Ben O’Keeffe
TMO: Glenn Newman
ACT BRUMBIES V QUEENSLAND REDS
SAT 17 MAY: GIO Stadium, Canberra (19:35)
Brumbies Eye Top Spot Despite Lolesio’s Absence, Meredith Steps In for Reds Clash
After a hard-fought win over a resilient Force side in Perth last weekend, the Brumbies are poised for a crucial showdown with the Reds on Saturday night—one that could propel them to the top of the Super Rugby Pacific standings. But the road ahead won’t be easy, especially with a key player sidelined.
Wallabies fly-half Noah Lolesio, who was stretchered off in a concerning incident during the Force game, has been ruled out for this week’s clash. While he’s been cleared of any serious injury, the Brumbies coaching staff have opted to rest him, with hopes of having him back in time for their final round match against the Crusaders.
In Lolesio’s absence, Declan Meredith steps into the No.10 jersey, bringing his playmaking skills to the fore in what is sure to be a high-pressure encounter. With no specialist fly-half named on the bench, the onus will fall on versatile players like Tom Wright to cover if Meredith is forced off the field.
The Brumbies are buoyed by one significant return—Billy Pollard is back at hooker, adding much-needed stability to the forward pack. Meanwhile, Cadeyrn Neville and Hudson Creighton return to the bench, with Neville’s experience particularly valuable after the Force exploited the Brumbies’ lineout weaknesses last week.
With key players stepping up and a chance to seize top spot on the line, the Brumbies know that, despite the absence of Lolesio, this is a game they must win to stay in control of their Super Rugby destiny.
BRUMBIES (1-15)
James Slipper, Billy Pollard, Allan Alaalatoa (c), Nick Frost, Lachlan Shaw, Rob Valetini, Rory Scott, Tom Hooper, Ryan Lonergan, Declan Meredith, Corey Toole, David Feliuai, Len Ikitau, Andy Muirhead, Tom Wright
Replacements: Lachlan Lonergan, Lington Ieli, Rhys van Nek, Cadeyrn Neville, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Harrison Goddard, Hudson Creighton, Ollie Sapsford
Reds Rally Despite Injuries, Paisami Returns to Lead Midfield Against Brumbies
Injuries have hit the Reds hard ahead of their crucial clash with the Brumbies, as they will be without three Test stars—Tom Lynagh, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, and Seru Uru—who played pivotal roles in their win over the Waratahs last week.
Lynagh has been sidelined with a concussion, while Salakaia-Loto and Uru will miss out due to shoulder and knee injuries, respectively. It’s a tough blow for coach Les Kiss, but there is a silver lining: the return of Wallaby Hunter Paisami, who will take the reins in the No.12 jersey and inject much-needed experience and flair into the midfield.
Despite the absence of key players, the Reds’ squad has been reshuffled with strength in mind. Ryan Smith reclaims his spot in the second-row alongside Josh Canham, while Joe Brial slots in at blindside flanker, forming a dynamic back-row trio with Fraser McReight and John Bryant. This fresh forward pack will be crucial as they prepare to battle the second-placed Brumbies.
The fly-half position also sees a change with Harry McLaughlin-Phillips set to start his fourth match of the year, continuing his development as a key playmaker. Meanwhile, rising star Dre Pakeho returns to the bench, where he will be ready to make an impact.
Connor Vest, who has been fully involved with both his Souths club and the Reds Development XV, provides back-row cover and will bring his trademark energy and versatility when called upon. Alongside him, Heremaia Murray also returns to the bench, adding depth to an already resilient Reds squad.
Reds coach Les Kiss is acutely aware of the challenge ahead, knowing that despite the injuries, his team must be at their best to overcome the formidable Brumbies and keep their playoff hopes alive.
REDS (1-15)
Sef Fa’agase, Richie Asiata, Zane Nonggorr, Josh Canham, Ryan Smith, Joe Brial, Fraser McReight, John Bryant, Tate McDermott (c), Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Tim Ryan, Hunter Paisami, Filipo Daugunu, Lachie Anderson, Jock Campbell
Replacements: Josh Nasser, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Massimo De Lutiis, Angus Blyth, Connor Vest, Kalani Thomas, Dre Pakeho, Heremaia Murray
Referee: Nic Berry
Assistant Referees: Damon Murphy, Jordan Kaminski
TMO: James Leckie
My picks , Hurricanes, Crusaders, Drua, Blues, and Brumbies
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