Super Rugby Pacific is back!
After a not-so-long offseason, the best players from Australia, New Zealand and across the Pacific are ready to hit the pitch once again in a huge year for rugby. With a World Cup just seven months away, Super Rugby Pacific will be the audition space for some of rugby's best to make their final pitches for a ticket to France.
But more importantly, the Super Rugby Pacific trophy is up for grabs yet again. Can the Crusaders send Scott Robertson off with another title? Will the Waratahs create a fortress at their rebuilt home at Allianz Stadium? Or will the Brumbies be the team to fly the flag for Australia?
As the countdown enters it's final days prepare yourself with everything you need to know ahead of the opening matches.
Stay across all the line-ups, team news and odds for Round 1 as they come to hand below.
Crusaders vs. Chiefs | Waratahs vs. Brumbies | Moana Pasifika vs. Fijian Drua | Highlanders vs. Blues | Reds vs. Hurricanes | Force vs. Rebels
Friday, February 24
Crusaders vs. Chiefs, Orangetheory Stadium, Christchurch, 5.05pm [AEDT]
Crusaders: David Havili, Sevu Reece, Braydon Ennor, Jack Goodhue, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Richie Mo'unga, Mitchell Drummond; Cullen Grace, Tom Christie, Ethan Blackadder, Mitchell Dunshea, Scott Barrett, Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, Joe Moody. Replacements: Brodie McAlister, George Bower, Tamaiti Williams, Zach Gallagher, Christian Lio-Willie, Willi Heinz, Fergus Burke, Macca Springer
Chiefs: Shaun Stevenson, Solomon Alaimalo, Alex Nankivell, Anton Lienert-Brown, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Damian McKenzie, Brad Weber (cc), Luke Jacobson, Sam Cane (cc), Pita Gus Sowakula, Tupou Vaa'i, Brodie Retallick, George Dyer, Samisoni Tauklei'aho, Aidan Ross. Replacements: Bradley Slater, Ollie Norris, John Ryan, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Samipeni Finau, Cortez Ratima, Josh Ioane, Rameka Poihipi.
Odds [tab.com.au]: Crusaders $1.36, -6.5 $1.85; Chiefs $3, +6.5 $1.90 [odds correct as of 8:30am 22/2]
Verdict: What a game we have to start the new season. The defending champions, who are hoping to send Richie Mo'unga and probably Scott Robertson and Sam Whitelock out on the right note, begin their quest for yet another title at home to the Chiefs. Some 20 All Blacks will be on show in Christchurch in a meeting that we might well see again to close the season out later in the year. The Crusaders are without Whitelock and flyer Will Jordan for this one, but are otherwise close to full strength. The Chiefs, meanwhile, have opted for the returning Damian McKenzie at No. 10 while Anton Lienert-Brown is finally back after missing a chunk of last season. Look for hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho, who graduated to the Test scene last year, to provide the thrust up front for a Chiefs outfit that is well outside the odds at $3. The Chiefs also knocked the Crusaders off in Christchurch in 2022, while the Cantabs have held a reputation in the past as being slow starters. It will take a monumental effort, but we like the look of the upset to start the year. Chiefs by 2.
Waratahs vs. Brumbies, Allianz Staidum, Sydney, 7.35pm [AEDT]
Waratahs: Ben Donaldson, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Izaia Perese, Lalakai Foketi, Max Jorgensen, Tane Edmed, Jake Gordon; Charlie Gamble, Michael Hooper, Lachie Swinton, Taleni Sau, Jed Holloway, Archer Holz, Dave Porecki, Angus Bell. Replacements: Mahe Vailanu, Tom Lambert, Te Tera Faulkner, Hugh Sinclair, Langi Gleeson, Will Harris, Harrison Goddard, Nemani Nadolo.
Brumbies: Tom Wright, Andy Muirhead, Len Ikitau, Tamati Tua, Corey Toole, Jack Debreczeni, Ryan Lonergan, Pete Samu, Rory Scott, Rob Valetini, Cadeyrn Neville, Nick Frost, Allan Alaalatoa, Connal McInerney, Blake Schoupp. Replacements: Lachlan Lonergan, James Slipper, Rhys Van Nek, Darcy Sawin, Luke Reimer, Nic White, Noah Lolesio
Odds: [tab.com.au] Waratahs $2, +1.5 $1.85; Brumbies $1.75, - 1.5 $1.90 [odds correct as of 8:30am 22/2]
Verdict: While there are some 20 All Blacks on show in Christchurch, there will be 25 Wallabies in action as Super Rugby returns to Allianz Stadium. The rebuilt Sydney venue is a picture in Harbour City, and the Waratahs have already signalled their intention to make it a fortress this season. That will be easier said than done against a Brumbies team that loves nothing more than knocking off its biggest rival, and again looks well placed to do just that. While coach Stephen Larkham is bringing some Wallabies back via the bench -- specifically Nic White, James Slipper and Noah Lolesio -- the Brumbies pack is laden with Wallabies and the addition of former Australia sevens flyer Corey Toole is exciting. The Waratahs, meanwhile, have greater depth than last season and have unleashed a rookie flyer of their own in 18-year-old sensation Max Jorgensen. Charlie Gamble's selection at No. 8 also holds intrigue while Lachie Swinton returns after a long layoff. With 20,000+ expected at Moore Park, this is a real opportunity for both teams to make a statement early in the year. Just like the earlier match, there will only be a few points in this one either way. If the Waratahs can manage their emotions, and survive the late addition of Brumbies quality off the bench, then they might just be too strong at home. Waratahs by 1.
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Saturday, February 25
Moana Pasifika vs. Fijian Drua, Mt. Smart Stadium, Auckland, 2.35pm [AEDT]
Moana: William Havili, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Levi Aumua, Danny Toala, Neria Foma'i, Christian Lealiifano (captain), Ereatara Enari, Jonah Mau'u, Solomone Funaki, Michael Curry, Mahonri Ngakuru, Samuel Slade, Sosefo 'Apikotoa, Samiuela Moli, Ezekiel Lindenmuth. Replacements: Luteru Tolai, Abraham Pole, Chris Apoua, Mike McKee, Alamanda Motuga, Manu Paea, Henry Taefu, Fine Inisi.
Drua: Ilaisa Droasese, Selestino Ravutaumada, Iosefo Masi*, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Teti Tela, Frank Lomani; Te Cirikidaveta, Kitione Salawa, Joseva Tamani, Leone Rotuisolia, Isoa Nasilasila, Jone Koroiduadua, Tevita Ikanivere (c), Emosi Tuqiri*. Replacements: Zuriel Togiatama, Jone Tiko, Samuela Tawake, Sorovakatini Tuifagalele, Elia Canakaivata, Peni Matawalu, Caleb Muntz, Taniela Rakuro.
Odds: [tab.com.au] Moana $2.10, +2.5 $1.85; Drua $1.68, -2.5 $1.90 [odds correct as of 8:30am 22/2]
Verdict: Last year's expansion franchises face off against one another in what looms as an entertaining encounter at Mt. Smart Stadium in Auckland. The Drua got the better of Moana in Sydney last year and the Fijians have looked dangerous in the preseason, accounting for both the Rebels and Force in comfortable fashion. Moana have faced the tougher Kiwi opposition for their preseason clashes, but coach Aaron Mauger is thankful for the hitouts and predicts genuine improvement from his team this season. Both teams have multiple attacking threats and it might be who better manages their discipline that comes out on the right side of the ledger. Look for powerhouse winger Timoci Tavatavanawai to explode through contact, while Kalaveti Ravouvou was a standout for the Drua last year. With the confidence of two trial wins behind them, the Drua might just hold the upper hand here. Drua by 5.
Highlanders vs. Blues, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, 5.05pm [AEDT]
Highlanders: Sam Gilbert, Jonah Lowe, Josh Timu, Thomas Umaga-Jensen, Jona Nareki, Mitch Hunt, Folau Fakatava, Marino Mikaele-Tu'u, Billy Harmon (captain), Shannon Frizell, Josh Dickson, Pari Pari Parkinson, Jermaine Ainsley, Rhys Marshall, Ethan de Groot. Replacements: Andrew Makalio, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Saula Ma'u, Will Tucker, Sean Withy, Kemara Hauiti-Parapara, Freddie Burns, Connor Garden-Bachop.
Blues: Stephen Perofeta, Mark Telea, Rieko Ioane, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Caleb Clarke, Beauden Barrett, Finlay Christie; Hoskins Sotutu, Dalton Papalii (capt), Akira Ioane, Cameron Suafoa, Patrick Tuipulotu, Nepo Laulala, Kurt Eklund, Ofa Tuungafasi. Replacements: Ricky Riccitelli, Joshua Fusitu'a, Marcel Renata, James Tucker, Adrian Choat, Taufa Funaki, Bryce Heem, AJ Lam.
Odds: [tab.com.au] Highlanders $3.10, +7.5 $1.87; Blues $1.34, -7.5 $1.87 [odds correct as of 8:30am 22/2]
Verdict: On a weekend when multiple matches appear to be on a knife's edge, the Blues start as the shortest price favourites of Round 1. And rightfully so, given the absolute quality they have from numbers 15-1. Leon MacDonald has named 13 All Blacks in his starting side, with their lethal mix of backline threats and probably the most mobile back-row in the tournament headlining the Blues' run-on side. If the visitors get a roll on up front, it's hard to see how the Highlanders will be able to contain the likes of Beauden Barrett, Caleb Clarke and Mark Telea, while Roger Tuivasa-Sheck needs to start his second Super Rugby season with a bang. Look for the Highlanders to hang in this one until halftime, and the sight of a fit Marino Mikaele-Tu'u is cause for celebration, but the hosts just don't have the firepower to match it with the Blues first up. Blues by 15.
Reds vs. Hurricanes, Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville, 7.35pm [AEDT]
Reds: Jordan Petaia, Josh Flook, Hunter Paisami, Isaac Henry, Filipo Daugunu, Tom Lynagh, Tate McDermott; Harry Wilson, Fraser McReight, Seru Uru, Lopeti Faifua, Ryan Smith, Zane Nonggorr, Matt Faessler, Dane Zander. Replacements: Richie Asiata, Sef Fa'agase, Peni Ravai, Jake Upfield, Connor Anderson, Kalani Thomas, Lawson Creighton, Taj Annan.
Hurricanes: Josh Moorby, Julian Savea, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Salesi Rayasi, Aidan Morgan, Cam Roigard, Ardie Savea ©, Peter Lakai, Devan Flanders, Isaia Walker-Leawere, James Blackwell, Owen Franks, Dane Coles, Xavier Numia. Replacements: Asafo Aumua, Tevita Mafileo, Tyrel Lomax, Caleb Delany, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Brayden Iose, Jamie Booth, Harry Godfrey.
Odds: [tab.com.au] Reds $2.30, +3.5 $1.90; Hurricanes $1.58, -3.5 $1.85 [odds correct as of 8:30am 22/2]
Verdict: This looks like another incredibly tough game to call on the opening weekend. Hot and sweaty conditions await both teams as Super Rugby returns to Townsville for the second time in three years, the Reds defeating the Chiefs there two years ago. Queensland have again had a rough start with injury, with James O'Connor, Angus Blyth and Suliasi Vunivalu all joining Taniela Tupou on the sidelines. Still, Reds coach Brad Thorn has run out a strong side, one with the famous Lynagh name back at No. 10. Tom, son of the great Michael Lynagh, debuts in the playmaking hotseat and he will surely see plenty of defensive traffic and pressure from the likes of Ardie Savea and rookie Peter Lakai, who was a star of last year's Mitre 10 Cup. The Reds last year raced out to a 17-0 lead against the Hurricanes at Super Round, before the Kiwis powered over the top of them and Reds counted the cost of their indiscipline. That looks like it could happen again, particularly with the Canes having the superior quality on the bench. Hurricanes by 7.
Force vs. Rebels, HBF Park, Perth, 10pm [AEDT]
Force: Chase Tiatia, Manasa Mataele, Sam Spink, Hamish Stewart, Zach Kibirige, Bryce Hegarty, Ian Prior, Michael Wells (c), Ollie Callan, Tim Anstee, Jeremy Williams, Felix Kalapu, Santiago Medrano, Folau Fainga'a, Tom Robertson. Replacements: Feleti Kaitu'u, Angus Wagner, Siosifa Amone, Jackson Pugh, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Bayley Kuenzle, Toni Pulu.
Rebels: Nick Jooste, Lachlan Anderson, Reece Hodge, Stacey Ili, Monty Ioane, Carter Gordon, Ryan Louwrens; Richard Hardwick, Brad Wilkin (c), Josh Kemeny, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Josh Canham, Sam Talakai, Alex Mafi, Matt Gibbon. Replacements: Jordan Uelese, Isaac Aedo Kailea, Pone Fa'amausili, Trevor Hosea, Tamati Ioane, Vaiolini Ekuasi, James Tuttle, Lukas Ripley.
Odds: [tab.com.au] Force $1.53, -4.5 $1.90; Rebels $2.40, +4.5 $1.85 [odds correct as of 8:30am 22/2]
Verdict: The opening round of action for 2023 wraps up in Perth, and is yet another game that appears destined to be decided in the closing minutes. New Force coach Simon Cron has made it clear his troops need a change of "mindset" after they lost six games by seven points or less last season, and this game will be a measure of whether that mental preparation is working. Cron has pulled a few selection shocks, most notably journeyman Bryce Hegarty's position at No. 10, while Force fans will get a first look at Chase Tiatia, Sam Spink and Zach Kibirige, the latter two heading Down Under after Wasps were forced into administration in England. The Rebels, meanwhile, have a European import of their own in Monty Ioane, with the Melbourne-born winger trading Italy's Six Nations campaign for a fresh start Down Under, while Josh Kemeny makes a timely return to the back-row trio. With multiple Wallabies still sidelined, the Rebels are however well down on troops, and that may just shift this match in the favour of the home side. Force by 3.