Get ready for some thrilling rugby action as the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season is about to kick off! The anticipation is building, and we've got all the squad details you need to know.
A New Era for Super Rugby
On Thursday, the 11 Super Rugby Pacific clubs will unveil their playing squads, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in rugby. With the season starting on February 13, it's time to dive into the latest team news and uncover some intriguing signings.
Squad Reveal Schedule
- 8:00 am AEDT: Fijian Drua vs. Highlanders
- 9:00 am AEDT: ACT Brumbies vs. Blues
- 10:00 am AEDT: NSW Waratahs vs. Moana Pasifika
- 11:00 am AEDT: Hurricanes vs. Queensland Reds
- 12:00 pm AEDT: Chiefs vs. Western Force
- 1:00 pm AEDT: Crusaders
ACT Brumbies: A New Captain, New Faces
The Brumbies have undergone some changes, bidding farewell to three influential Wallabies players. However, they've gained a new leader in Tane Edmed, who has impressed under Joe Schmidt's guidance. Edmed will step into the role previously held by Noah Lolesio, who has moved to Japan.
The departures of Len Ikitau and Tom Hooper will undoubtedly impact the team, but Stephen Larkham has high hopes for the return of Test fullback Tom Wright, who suffered a devastating knee injury in Cape Town. Declan Meredith is set to take on an even bigger role in 2026, building on his increased involvement last season.
Keep an eye on Jarrah McLeod, who put on an impressive display for the Indigenous and Pasifika side against the British and Irish Lions in Melbourne. The Brumbies have also brought through some exciting young Australian under-20s stars, including Eli Langi and Shane Wilcox.
Blues: Strengthening the Pack
Head coach Vern Cotter has named a strong 38-player squad. The forward pack welcomes new additions Bradley Slater and Flyn Yates, adding depth to the front row. Malachi Wrampling and Terrell Peita bring athleticism to the loose forwards, further strengthening an already formidable pack that includes Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Darry, and Dalton Papali'i.
In the backs, several new faces join the team, including some returning home after stints elsewhere. Pita Ahki, a standout career with Toulouse in France, brings experience and physicality to the backline. Kade Banks, a North Harbour fullback, is back in blue, and young talents Rico Simpson, James Cameron, and Cody Vai have been contracted for the first time.
The Blues backline is anchored by All Blacks fly-half Beauden Barrett, who returns to lead alongside seasoned performers Caleb Clarke and AJ Lam. This unit boasts creativity, speed, and a wealth of experience.
Fijian Drua: Recruiting Well
The Drua have made some impressive signings, with lock Temo Mayanavanua returning from England. Former Wallaby Issak Fines-Leleiwasa has joined from the Western Force, adding depth to the squad.
Highlanders: Signing a Schoolboy Sensation
Jamie Joseph has made a bold move by signing former Australian Schoolboys star Reesjan Pasitoa. The 23-year-old, who played alongside Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in the successful 2019 Schoolboys side, is expected to make a significant impact in 2026. Pasitoa will have plenty of game time, joining Tanielu Tele'a and All Black Timoci Tavatavanawai as the only other centres in the squad.
The Highlanders have a speedy backline and a strong presence in the halves with Cameron Millar, Dylan Pledger, and Folau Fakatava. Up front, former All Blacks regular Angus Ta'avao joins to bolster the front-row, with Ethan de Groot leading the loose-head prop position.
Moana Pasifika: Luring an All Blacks Midfield Star
Tana Umaga faces the challenge of covering for the absence of Ardie Savea, but Moana Pasifika has made a significant signing by luring Ngani Laumape to Auckland. Laumape, a former All Blacks midfielder, headlines the squad's recruitment and will be a key player for the team.
NSW Waratahs: Strength in the Front-Row
The Waratahs have retained their Wallabies front-row, and Dan McKellar is confident in the strength of his squad. Despite losing Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou to overseas clubs and Dave Porecki to retirement, McKellar has successfully lured Folau Fainga'a back home to NSW.
McKellar has also recruited well at hooker, with Ioane Moananu impressing for the Crusaders in 2025. The back five forwards is a position of strength, with Matt Philip providing experience and power in the second row. Angus Scott-Young is set to join the Waratahs, adding further depth to the forward pack.
Jack Debreczeni's experience and skill set make him a strong contender for the No.10 jersey. McKellar also has a promising group of young talents coming through, including Sid Harvey, James Hendren, and Leo Jaques.
And there you have it! The 2026 Super Rugby Pacific squads are shaping up to be highly competitive. Who do you think will dominate this season? Let us know your predictions in the comments!
