The unveiling of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Team of the Year has spotlighted standout performers from a spectrum of clubs, with the Highlanders and the Reds notably at the forefront. This selection celebrates the top-tier players across all positions, based on their stellar performances throughout the season.
The Highlanders, under Jamie Joseph, and the Reds, directed by Les Kiss, have each placed three players in the prestigious 15-man roster, despite their varied success during the regular season. This year's lineup also includes representatives from nine different clubs, illustrating the diverse talent pool within the league. The Chiefs and Western Force have two players each gracing the list, while the Blues, Crusaders, Hurricanes, Brumbies, and Waratahs each have one.
In the backline, Jock Campbell secures the full-back position, flanked by wings Max Jorgensen and Caleb Tangitau. Centers Quinn Tupaea and Timoci Tavatavanawai, who was a runner-up in Player of the Year voting, combine to form a formidable midfield. Ben Donaldson, another nominee, takes the pivotal fly-half spot with Ryan Lonergan orchestrating the game from scrum-half.
The pack sees an intriguing selection with the "Leicester Fainga’anuku experiment" in the back-row, a move that has evidently paid dividends. He lines up alongside Anton Segner and Fraser McReight. The locking duo comprises Jeremy Williams and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, with Samisoni Taukei’aho hooking between props Ethan de Groot and Xavier Numia.
"We’re thrilled to formally recognize excellence across every position on the field for the first time," stated Jack Mesley, Super Rugby Pacific CEO. "Congratulations to all the players who earned their spot in this year’s team."
This acknowledgment from the league's CEO underscores the significance of performance and contribution across all areas of play, emphasizing the holistic approach to player evaluation and recognition.
With the final match tickets selling out in a mere 15 minutes, it’s clear that the excitement for rugby excellence continues to captivate fans, promising a thrilling culmination to the Super Rugby season. The selected team not only highlights individual brilliance but also the strategic acumen of players who have excelled in adapting to multiple roles and challenges throughout the season.
The final team list includes players from Highlanders, Reds, Chiefs, Western Force, Blues, Crusaders, Hurricanes, Brumbies, and Waratahs, showcasing the breadth and depth of talent across the league. This year's selections reflect not just the skills but also the strategic shifts and adaptability that define modern rugby.