Star-studded Super Rugby Pacific squads unveiled for 2025 Season

Beauden Barrett is back with Auckland Blues
Beauden Barrett is back with Auckland Blues
©PA

In an exciting reveal for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, teams have announced their final squads packed with top-tier talent, international stars, and promising new recruits.

The off-season has seen high-profile signings from the Wallabies, All Blacks, and Flying Fijians, alongside Sevens specialists switching formats and an impressive lineup of 37 rookies joining the competition.

With all 11 Super Rugby Pacific squads now finalized, the 2025 season promises thrilling competition. A total of 428 players are contracted, with notable transfers and emerging rookies who aim to make a lasting impact on the field.

Among the returning superstars and fresh faces, fans have much to look forward to as the countdown to kickoff on February 14 begins.

Blues Welcome Back Beauden Barrett

Beauden Barrett’s return to the Blues after a stint in Japan headlines the defending champion’s lineup. The Blues have also added All Blacks Sevens standouts Che Clark and Payton Spencer, son of legendary All Black Carlos Spencer, bolstering their depth and versatility.

Savea Brothers Unite at Moana Pasifika

Moana Pasifika made a significant splash with the signing of 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year, Ardie Savea, who will join his brother Julian on the team. Adding to their power, Wallabies prop Pone Fa’amausili will also don Moana Pasifika colors, adding heft to the Auckland-based squad.

Waratahs’ High-Profile Recruiting Drive

The NSW Waratahs landed the highly sought-after 21-year-old Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii. This young talent joins fellow Wallabies stars Taniela Tupou, Andrew Kellaway, Rob Leota, Isaac Kailea, and Darby Lancaster, positioning the Waratahs as serious contenders for the season.

A Season of Exciting Transfers and New Opportunities

Several teams have been strategic in their acquisitions. The Western Force added Wallabies hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa, lock Darcy Swain, and winger Dylan Pietsch, building a formidable front.

Meanwhile, the Brumbies secured former Rebels players David Feliuai and Tuaina Taii Tualima, adding depth to their lineup.

Other significant signings include the Highlanders’ acquisition of former Blues and New Zealand U20 representatives Soane Vikena and Caleb Tangitau.

The Fijian Drua’s lineup boasts 33 players with Fiji Test experience, including Olympic Sevens silver medalists Ponipate Loganimasi, Iosefo Masi, and Selestino Ravutaumada.

Adding international flair, All Blacks Sevens star Leroy Carter joins the Chiefs, while Wallabies veteran James O’Connor, previously with the Reds, crosses the Tasman to play with the Crusaders. O’Connor brings a wealth of experience, with 127 Super Rugby caps to his name.

Notable Player Movements Across Teams

Hurricanes: Key recruits include Fehi Fineanganofo, Zach Gallagher, and Ere Enari from Moana Pasifika.
Brumbies: Notable additions include Tevita Alatini and Shane Wilcox.
Crusaders: With James O’Connor joining, the Crusaders add experience alongside younger talents like Xavier Saifoloi.
Chiefs: Welcomed Jahrome Brown and Leroy Carter to their squad.
Reds: Filipo Daugunu and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto return to bolster the Reds lineup.
Fijian Drua: Key gains include Inia Tabuavou and Vuate Karawalevu.

Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley highlighted the league’s talent depth, stating,

"Off the back of a great weekend of international rugby for Southern Hemisphere teams, the 11 squads announced today are stacked with world-class talent that is set to light up Super Rugby Pacific in 2025.”

Mesley emphasized standout signings, including “Ardie Savea to Moana Pasifika and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii to the Waratahs," expressing confidence in the league’s appeal for fans.

Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season

With clubs now in pre-season training, the anticipation for the opening round on February 14 is building. Fans can look forward to a season where emerging talent meets seasoned internationals, with each squad fortified for a competitive year ahead. As the clock counts down, Super Rugby Pacific promises an electrifying season packed with talent, energy, and skill.