The 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season is gearing up to showcase thrilling match-ups as teams look to establish dominance early on. After the opening round, several teams have already shown promise, with returning stars and new signings set to shake up the competition.
The ACT Brumbies are bolstered by the return of six Wallabies, including stalwarts like James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa, who are eager to add energy and experience to the squad. "Everyone who came to the side for Fiji stepped up to the plate and delivered. It's pleasing to have boys at our disposal who can come in and do a job for us," said Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham, reflecting on their winning start against the Fijian Drua. The Brumbies edged out Drua with a narrow 36-32 victory, but they'll face stiffer competition against the Western Force this weekend, who recently triumphed over Moana Pasifika.
Western Force's coach Simon Cron acknowledges the challenge, stating, "Playing the Brumbies in Canberra will be a different beast." The Force looks to bounce back from their pre-season defeat against the Brumbies, urging his players to rise to the occasion.
Further intrigue lies with the Auckland Blues, who are seeking redemption this weekend after their loss to the Waikato Chiefs. Coach Vern Cotter is optimistic about the team's chances now bolstered by the return of 2024 Super Rugby Player of the Year, Hoskins Sotutu. "We need a strong platform along with accuracy at collision for us to prosper," he noted, as the Blues prepare for their clash against the Otago Highlanders, who are also seeking their first win of the season after narrowly losing to the NSW Waratahs.
Over at the Crusaders, the new signing, James O'Connor, made his debut last week and played pivotal roles as they defeated the Wellington Hurricanes. With 17 years of experience, O'Connor helped rally the team back after trailing. "I felt really nice and invigorated to go out there and perform for my new club," he said after the match, highlighting the positive reception from his new fans.
On the field, the spotlight also turns to Jahrome Brown, who hopes to fill the boots of the departed Sam Cane at the Chiefs. Brown has returned home after stints with Brumbies and expressed excitement about reuniting with old teammates and making his mark. Coach Clayton McMillan sees high potential in him, noting, "We probably see him as a specialist 7. We've really only carried one of them in recent seasons, and that's been Sam."
Looking across the competition, several key matches are lined up for the second round of Super Rugby Pacific. The Chiefs will look to build on their recent success against the Crusaders, and the pressure is on the Hurricanes as they travel to face the Fijian Drua, who are struggling after back-to-back defeats. Meanwhile, the Highlanders are primed to confront the Blues, setting the stage for what promises to be another competitive weekend of rugby.
This season's intensity is apparent, with coaches and players alike echoing sentiments of championship aspirations, evident from the close results from the opening round. The Blues' Cotter described this year's competition as "extremely competitive," emphasizing the necessity for teams to hit their strides quickly if they hope to contend for the title.
The excitement continues to build as the new season progresses with each team strategizing to outmaneuver their rivals on the field. Fans can expect nothing less than thrilling action, showcasing the grit, determination, and sportsmanship inherent to Super Rugby.