As Super Rugby Pacific enters round six this weekend, the stakes are higher for Fantasy enthusiasts looking to maximize their lineups. After a riveting round five where the performances of the Crusaders’ back three turned heads, players are now in a position to evaluate their teams with some favorable matchups and a few challenging ones.
This round, kicking off on March 22, 2025, presents an excellent opportunity for Fantasy players to reassess their rosters. Let’s take a closer look at the must-have players for this week and those you might want to avoid.
Must-Haves:
Ponepati Loganimasi – Fiji Drua – Price: $5m
Ponepati Loganimasi takes the spotlight as the first Fijian Drua player on the ‘must-have’ list this season. The exciting winger has shown remarkable form, scoring consistently above 40 points in every game he has participated in this season. "Loganimasi hasn’t scored under 40 in games he has featured in this season," reported a Super Rugby Fantasy analyst. Facing off against a Force team with the worst defensive record in the league, Loganimasi is expected to shine yet again.
Leroy Carter – Chiefs – Price: $4m
Sticking to the pacey wingers, Leroy Carter of the Chiefs continues to impress, especially following his striking performance against the Blues recently. His involvement in tries has made him a treasured asset for Fantasy players, as every opportunity translates into point-scoring potential. "Carter’s involvement in Chiefs tries is a fantasy owner’s dream," noted the analyst, emphasizing his role in multiple scoring plays. This weekend’s matchup against Moana Pasifika promises to be an exciting one filled with opportunities for Carter.
Tom Hooper – Brumbies – Price: $4.5m
Keeping the momentum going, Tom Hooper from the Brumbies is another ‘must-have’ owing to his outstanding performances thus far. Leading the player/coach vote for the league’s best player by a margin of just one point, Hooper has consistently secured more than 30 fantasy points in his games. "Hooper has consistently scored above 30 fantasy points in games he’s played this season," illustrated the analyst, making him a wise investment for any Fantasy team looking to bolster its lineup.
Avoids:
Mark Tele’a – Blues – Price: $9m
While Mark Tele’a has recently stepped up his game, the matchup against the formidable Crusaders this week poses a significant challenge. Although his finishing ability can turn a game upside down, the analyst warns that Tele’a’s chances for effective plays might dwindle depending on how the match unfolds. "If Tele’a can get some front foot ball this weekend against the Crusaders, he will score a number of points to match his price," the report states. However, cautious players may wish to explore alternatives given the constraints.
Quinn Tupaea – Chiefs – Price: $6.5m
Formerly a hot pick after scoring a stunning 98 points against the Crusaders in round two, Quinn Tupaea is currently more of a gamble. At 44 percent ownership, Fantasy managers are wary this week, especially as a bench option might not yield the results they desire. Those seeking a reliable score this week may want to consider Len Ikitau from the Brumbies or David Havili, who have shown consistent outputs.
Patrick Tuipulotu – Blues – Price: $5m
Lastly, Patrick Tuipulotu’s Fantasy output has left many disappointed this season, scoring under 20 points in three of five matches. With lineout troubles highlighted, he might struggle further against Scott Barrett, the All Blacks captain, making Tuipulotu a risky option this week.
As with each round, strategy and adaptability are key in Fantasy Super Rugby. With key players like the Fijian Drua’s Loganimasi, Chiefs’ Carter, and Brumbies’ Hooper taking center stage as must-haves, Fantasy managers should also exercise due diligence on players to avoid, such as Tele’a, Tupaea, and Tuipulotu. With the Super Rugby competition heating up, the right moves can make all the difference this weekend.
