Super Rugby Squads Take Shape with Key Signings Ahead of 2026 Season
Hurricanes Bolster Ranks with New Talent and Re-signings
The Hurricanes are building for the future, announcing a series of significant player signatures as they prepare for the 2026 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. Among the confirmed re-signings are scrum-half Ere Enari, hooker Jacob Devery, tighthead prop Pasilio Tosi, centre Billy Proctor, and utility back Ngatungane Punivai.
Ere Enari, who joined the Hurricanes in 2025 after three seasons with Moana Pasifika, expressed his enthusiasm for another year in Wellington. “It’s been such a privilege to represent this club, and God has opened the door to another year,” Enari stated. “My wife and I are looking forward to coming back to our Wellington family in 2026.”
Hooker Jacob Devery, a product of the Hurricanes’ development system, has overcome significant knee injuries to make 17 appearances and score four tries. His strong performances this season also earned him a call-up to the Māori All Blacks squad.
The Hurricanes have also secured the services of Japanese international lock Warner Dearns, a 2.02m, 124kg powerhouse born in Wellington. “I’m really excited about the opportunity to join the Hurricanes and take on a new challenge in Super Rugby,” said Dearns, who has 21 caps for Japan.
Utility back Callum Harkin has signed a deal through to 2027. The 26-year-old, who can play at fullback and fly-half, impressed coach Clark Laidlaw with his coachability, athleticism, and kicking game.
Tighthead prop Pasilio Tosi has recommitted to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby until 2028. Tosi, who debuted for the All Blacks in 2024, has progressed through the New Zealand rugby pathways.
Billy Proctor, a consistent performer in the midfield and a Māori All Black, has also re-signed through to 2027. His younger brother, Matt Proctor, is a former Hurricane and All Black.
Versatile back Ngatungane Punivai, who has impressed across wing and centre, has recommitted through to 2027, bringing valuable leadership qualities to the squad.
However, the Hurricanes will see eight players depart at the conclusion of the 2025 season, including Peter Umaga-Jensen, who is heading to Japan. Other departures include Zach Gallagher, Will Tucker, Riley Hohepa, Daniel Sinkinson, Kade Banks, Lucas Cashmore, and Josh Taula.
Highlanders Secure Star Power with Multiple Re-signings
The Highlanders have made significant moves to retain their core talent, securing exciting young talents Te Kamaka Howden and Veveni Lasaqa through 2026 and 2027 respectively.
All Black prop Ethan de Groot has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby and the Highlanders until the end of 2027, extending his stay with his hometown franchise.
Explosive outside backs Caleb Tangitau and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens have also recommitted to the southern club until the end of the 2028 season. Tangitau, a former Sevens star, had a breakout 2025 season despite a groin injury, while Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens has provided X-factor and versatility.
Powerhouse winger Timoci Tavatavanawai, a fan favourite and co-captain for the 2025 season, has re-signed for a further two years, committing through to 2027. His strong form earned him his first All Blacks cap against France.
Towering lock Fabian Holland, who arrived from the Netherlands at 16, has extended his contract for three years, through to 2028. His consistent performances led to an All Blacks call-up in 2025.
Dynamic halfback Folau Fakatava, a consistent game-changer, has extended his contract through the 2026 and 2027 Super Rugby Pacific seasons. Fakatava made his All Blacks debut in 2022.
Crusaders and Chiefs Lock Down Key Playmakers
The Crusaders have extended the contracts of All Black centre Braydon Ennor through to 2026 and promising prop Fletcher Newell through to 2028. Newell has achieved 25 caps for the All Blacks. Loose forward Xavier Saifoloi has also extended his deal with the Crusaders until 2027.
The Chiefs have secured the services of star playmaker Damian McKenzie until the end of the 2029 season, ensuring his prolific scoring will continue. Captain Luke Jacobson, a respected leader and All Black, has re-signed for another two years, bringing his tally to 90 caps for the club. World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year Wallace Sititi has committed to the Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby until the end of 2027. Powerhouse lock Tupou Vaa’i, a cornerstone of the squad and an All Black with 38 Test caps, has also re-signed through to 2027.
Blues Reinforce Squad with Mix of Youth and Experience
The Blues have made strategic signings, welcoming rising loose forward Malachi Wrampling through to the end of the 2027 season. Skilled hooker Bradley Slater, who arrives with significant experience from the Chiefs, has also signed a deal through to 2027.
Dynamic winger Caleb Clarke has re-signed with the Blues and New Zealand Rugby through to 2027, solidifying his place as a key attacking weapon. Captain Patrick Tuipulotu, a talismanic leader and centurion for the club, has re-signed until the end of the 2028 season. Lock Sam Darry, who made his All Blacks debut in 2025, has signed a three-year extension, keeping him with the Blues until 2028. Exciting midfielder Xavi Taele has committed to the 2026 season.
However, the Blues will be without flanker Adrian Choat and hooker Ricky Riccitelli, who depart at the end of the 2025 season. Riccitelli is heading to France, while Bryce Heem has announced his retirement from rugby after a decorated career that included stints with the All Blacks Sevens, Chiefs, and overseas clubs. The club will also see Rieko Ioane take a sabbatical in 2026 before returning for the 2027 season.
In the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season, the Chiefs’ Damian McKenzie led the league in points scored with 210, showcasing his enduring impact. RugbyPass reported this statistic on December 14, 2024.
