100. Pita Ahki – midfield, Blues (new)
With Ioane on sabbatical in Ireland, Ahki joins the Blues as a welcome veteran presence in the midfield. The 33-year-old returns to the Blues after a long, successful stint with French club Toulouse where he was a member of five Top 14-winning teams and will work alongside some talented young players who will be pushing Ahki for the No 12 jersey. Having last represented Tonga in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Ahki is All Blacks eligible in October.
99. Codemeru Vai – outside back, Blues (new)
With Mark Tele’a continuing his career in Japan, an opportunity presents itself on the wing for the Blues. Enter Vai, a 21-year-old who left the sevens system to join the Blues for the upcoming season. After fellow ex-sevens players Leroy Carter and Caleb Tangitau had such success in 2025, don’t be surprised to see Vai follow suit if he can fend off Cole Forbes for the opportunity.
98. Soane Vikena – hooker, Highlanders (new)
Stop me if you think you’ve heard this one before – struggling for game time with the Blues, a young talent travelled to Dunedin where he looked for a new opportunity to establish himself as the first-choice. It worked for Caleb Tangitau and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, and in 2025 Vikena made good strides into making it work for him too. A dependable set-piece operator and a powerful carrier, he’ll again look to earn the majority of first-choice reps ahead of Jack Taylor and Henry Bell.
97. Callum Harkin – first five-eighths, Hurricanes (new)
Harkin might be listed as a first-five, but his opportunities are likely to come at fullback in 2026. The 26-year-old made seven starts in the No 15 jersey in 2025 as Ruben Love finally got a run in the No 10, and if that continues in 2026 there should be opportunities for Harkin to again make an impact.
96. Kurt Eklund – hooker, Blues (down 16)
A solid performer at Super Rugby level. With Ricky Riccitelli gone, will contest the Blues No 2 jersey with Bradley Slater after his move north from the Chiefs. Eklund’s attacking nous has made him a force from close range at times. He’s tough, goes looking for work and makes the most of his time on the pitch.
95. Brad Shields – loose forward, Hurricanes (down 8)
Shields has been terrific since returning from England with his effort and leadership in the Hurricanes set up. Towards the back end of 2025 – and in the playoffs – he moved into a bench role, but he remains a factor for the team who will have high hopes in 2026.
94. Macca Springer – outside back, Crusaders (down 12)
While his opportunities usually only come when another outside back is unavailable, Springer is a proven try-scorer who knows how to use his speed. It seems like it will be more of the same for him in 2026, but he’s still just 22 so there’s plenty of time for him to develop into a matchday lock at Super Rugby level.
93. Corey Evans – midfield, Blues (new)
With Ioane on sabbatical in Ireland, Evans could earn himself a shot in the No 13 jersey. That’s where he spends the majority of his time in the NPC with Northland, and would bring another running threat into the mix. He was a Blues regular last season in various roles, but all his starts were either at fullback or on the wing. Perhaps this year he’ll get a shot in the midfield.
92. Angus Ta’avao – prop, Highlanders (down 21)
Ta’avao is collecting Super Rugby jerseys as he moves on to his fourth team in the competition, after a couple of stints with the Blues as well as time spent with the Chiefs and Waratahs. He brings a veteran presence to the front row for the Highlanders who, with Saula Ma’u expected to miss the first eight weeks of the season, could certainly use that at tighthead.
91. Jack Taylor – hooker, Highlanders (new)
The young Southlander would be a popular choice in the Highlanders’ No 2 jersey and has the ability to lock it down ahead of Vikena and Bell – though it will be intriguing to see how that positional battle unfolds through the season. The 22-year-old showed his promise both from the bench and in starting roles last Super Rugby season, and then again with the All Blacks XV at the end of the year. One to watch in 2026.
90. Laghlan McWhannell – lock, Blues (up 1)
McWhannell has always played the game with enthusiasm and energy, but he could struggle for opportunities this season with Patrick Tuipulotu and Sam Darry both healthy, and Josh Beehre emerging as a player for the future last year.
89. Dominic Gardiner – loose forward, Crusaders (up 10)
After a year lost to injury, Gardiner will be hoping for opportunities to get back on track in 2026. He started last year with a hamstring niggle, before a season-ending foot injury. Primarily a No 6, Gardiner can cover lock and that versatility should see him get some chances this year, be they starting or from the bench, in a Crusaders pack full of talent. He will get the first reps on the blindside, though, with Cullen Grace out due to a knee injury. He’ll outplay this ranking with a decent run in that jersey.
88. Marcel Renata – prop, Blues (down 2)
A versatile prop, Renata has been a regular in the starting front row for Vern Cotter’s side over the last few years and again shapes up to be the starting tighthead to begin the season.
87. George Bower – prop, Crusaders (down 25)
Bower is a dependable player in the Crusaders’ front row. He does his core roles well and seems set to settle back into his role on the bench – with the odd start here and there – for the Crusaders in a quality propping group, though has some of the young talent nipping at his heels.
86. Dallas McLeod – utility back, Crusaders (down 39)
McLeod is a versatile player who can fill roles both in the midfield and on the wing, with determined ball-carrying, solid distribution skills and a strong defensive game. He’s consistent and continues to be a great asset for the Crusaders whether he’s called upon to start or from the bench. His involvement could be impacted by the return of Leicester Fainga’anuku.
85. Bradley Slater – hooker, Blues (up 8)
Limited to seven appearances as he fell to No 3 in the depth chart with the Chiefs last season, Slater moves to the Blues looking to compete for a starting role following Riccitelli’s move overseas. Slater is reliable in his core roles and maintains a high work rate, and should see more opportunities in 2026 regardless of whether he beats out Eklund and James Mullan for starters reps or not.
84. Jona Nareki – wing, Highlanders (down 19)
Quietly, the Highlanders might just have one of the most exciting back three combinations in the competition. With both Tangitau and Jonah Lowe for competition, Nareki’s running game will be vital to the Highlanders. As always, though, his fitness could apply the handbrake as and when injuries strike again.
83. Kaylum Boshier – loose forward, Chiefs (down 24)
Boshier has been a dependable player for the Chiefs in recent years, but could find himself working mostly from the bench in 2026 should the likes of Luke Jacobson, Simon Parker, Samipeni Finau and Wallace Sititi stay healthy. Still, when he gets the opportunity, Boshier brings plenty of effort to the pitch as well as a calm head.
82. Taha Kemara – first five-eighths, Crusaders (up 16)
Kemara made a bright start to the 2025 campaign before having his season ended by an ACL injury. He’s on track to return for week one in 2026 and, if the preseason is anything to go by, looks set to pick up where he left off. He’ll be competing for Rivez Reihana for the starting role.
81. Xavi Taele – midfield, Blues (new)
He might have only played five games in his rookie season, but Taele showed he’s a talent worth investing in. At 21, Taele will contest the Blues’ midfield, and could be a shout to take the No 12 jersey outright, considering A.J. Lam’s departure to France at the end of the season – though new signing Ahki could also make a play for the No 12. Taele has played plenty of centre in his rugby career, so perhaps he’s looking to secure the No 13 jersey in Rieko Ioane’s absence. Either way, he’s one to keep an eye on.
80. Isaia Walker-Leawere – lock, Hurricanes (down 17)
Walker-Leawere has become a familiar contributor in the Hurricanes tight five. He’s a physical player, though he does have the tendency to give away a penalty here and there. He’ll likely get first shot at locking down a starting role, but when Caleb Delany returns he could be set for a bench role this season.
79. George Dyer – prop, Chiefs (new)
Dyer made his mark with the Chiefs as an injury replacement in 2022, earning himself a fulltime contract for the 2023 season and has only continued to develop into a high-quality prop from there. He’ll again be a constant presence at tighthead for the Chiefs and one who could push for higher honours in 2026.
78. Braydon Ennor – utility back, Crusaders (up 18)
Injuries have set Ennor back in recent years, but he has been a solid backline option for the Crusaders when available. Like McLeod, his role could be dictated by how Fainga’anuku is deployed, and he is heading offshore at the end of the season.
77. Joshua Fusitu’a – prop, Blues (new)
While he didn’t make the best start to 2025, Fusitu’a came into his own after being elevated to start at loosehead after Ofa Tu’ungafasi was injured. The young prop was a solid contributor for Cotter’s side and played his way into a run with the All Blacks XV at the end of the year. He’ll likely have more competition for minutes in 2026, but early indications are he’ll get plenty more opportunity to make his mark.
76. Rivez Reihana – first five-eighths, Crusaders (new)
An injury to Kemara gave Reihana a clear run in the No 10 jersey with the Crusaders in 2025 and being able to stack games saw the 25-year-old settle into his role and help his side win a championship. He’s an accurate goal-kicker and a solid playmaker who will now be competing for the top spot with Kemara in 2026.
75. Te Kamaka Howden – loose forward, Highlanders (new)
After missing the first two weeks of the season, Howden came in and cemented himself as the first-choice blindside for Jamie Joseph’s team, and he gave a good account of himself with the All Blacks XV later in the year. Howden can also slot into lock, which will serve him well in what seems like it will be good competition for minutes in the loose trio.
74. Tevita Mafileo – prop, Hurricanes (new)
Mafileo was a man of many jerseys for the Hurricanes in 2025, playing both sides of the scrum from starting and bench roles. He also spent time in the All Blacks camp and seemed set for an elusive test debut before injury stepped in. His versatility and strength in his core roles make him a solid piece for the Hurricanes.
73. Brodie McAlister – hooker, Chiefs (up 24)
The bolter of 2025, McAlister made 12 appearances for the Chiefs and showed enough to catch the eye of All Blacks selectors, making his test debut in the July window. With Bradley Slater moving on, McAlister is the clear second-choice hooker behind Samisoni Taukei’aho and can build on last year’s success.
72. Hugh Renton – loose forward, Highlanders (down 4)
With uncertainty over the Highlanders coach, co-captain Renton can at the very least give his side some stability on the field. The 29-year-old has quietly become a staple of the Highlanders forward pack, even if injuries have taken their toll over the past 12 months.
71. Pasilio Tosi – prop, Hurricanes (up 10)
Tosi is a strong scrummager and as a former No 8, he knows how to operate with ball in hand. After emerging with the Hurricanes in 2024 and earning an All Blacks call-up, the 27-year-old made even fewer starts in 2025 – just three in 13 appearances – and seems set as an outright finisher at both Super Rugby and test level. That does mean his impact can be limited, which is reflected in this ranking.
70. Jamie Hannah – lock, Crusaders (new)
Hannah comes into the season as a young lock with plenty of potential. Now, with Barrett on a non-playing sabbatical and Strange moving overseas, Hannah looks the likely candidate to take those minutes in the starting line-up.
69. Xavier Roe – halfback, Chiefs (up 5)
A player who backs his instincts and brings energy to the pitch, Roe has been a quality contributor for the Chiefs over the past few seasons. He works well in tandem with Cortez Ratima, with the two likely to share the load at halfback again this year.
68. Kyle Preston – halfback, Crusaders (new)
When the 2025 season started, few people outside of the Wellington NPC tragics could have told you who Preston was, but after a couple of weeks, some pundits were ready to put him in the All Blacks conversation. Preston made the most of Noah Hotham’s unavailability early in the season, giving a solid account for himself and later earning his first test cap. Likely stuck in a back-up role again in 2026, Preston can still make an impact.
Kyle Preston had a breakout year in 2025. Photo / Photosport
67. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa – loose forward, Moana Pasifika (new)
If he was playing for any of the New Zealand sides, the 22-year-old would have been the breakout star of 2025. He led the league in carries, with his 205 being 16 more than the next best. After coming into Moana Pasifika’s squad last year on a training contract, became undroppable and formed a formidable loose trio alongside Miracle Fai’ilagi and Savea. And with Savea spending 2026 in Japan, the youngster will have to step up again as Moana push for a maiden finals appearance.
66. Veveni Lasaqa – loose forward, Highlanders (new)
I remember watching the Highlanders and remarking to myself how good Lasaqa was with ball in hand on more than one occasion in 2025. But he’s a player who tries to impact the game on both sides, looking to be dominant in tackles and challenge the breakdown. He had an impressive rookie season with the Highlanders in 2025 and will look to kick on from there.
65. Chay Fihaki – outside back, Crusaders (up 13)
With a strong boot and the ability to create something from nothing, Fihaki is a talented player who is always looking to take his opportunities, whether they’re on the wing or at fullback, and has the additional asset of a great kicking game. He’s a consistent player who has established himself as someone the Crusaders can rely on in recent years.
64. Kyren Taumoefolau – outside back, Chiefs (new)
Taumoefolau broke out with Moana Pasifika last season as an elite-level try-scorer and, signalling his intentions to try and break into the All Blacks squad, has relocated to a Chiefs team stacked with talent across the back three. It will be interesting to see exactly how he is deployed in Hamilton. He becomes eligible for All Blacks selection in October.
Kyren Taumoefolau will play for the Chiefs in 2026. Photo / Photosport
63. Etene Nanai-Seturo – outside back, Chiefs (down 25)
Has the speed, acceleration and footwork to be a menace for defences, and knows how to finish a try. It remains to be seen how and when he will be deployed by the new Chiefs coaching staff who have a full arsenal at their disposal for their backline positions in 2026 – including the signing of Taumoefolau.
62. Josh Beehre – lock, Blues (new)
Quite the sophomore season for the young Blues lock in 2025 as he gave the side much-needed reliability in a position they have seen hit hard by injuries in recent times. Beehre, 23, looks like a player capable of pushing for test honours at some point in his career, and should be a starter again for the first half of the season as Tuipulotu works back from injury.
61. Sean Withy – loose forward, Highlanders (up 31)
A physical presence for the Highlanders, Withy will look to build on a campaign that saw him start all 12 of his appearances and end the year in the All Blacks XV. He played across all three positions in the loose forwards for the Highlanders last season. There will be plenty of competition for minutes in the Highlanders loose trio this year, but Withy shapes up as a player who will find a way to make his mark.
60. Devan Flanders – loose forward, Hurricanes (up 15)
Flanders was limited to just three Super Rugby appearances in 2025 due to injury. He ended the year in the All Blacks XV however and again caught the eye, particularly with his dominant ball carrying. Fully healthy, Flanders should make his presence felt in the No 6 jersey for the Hurricanes.
59. Ngani Laumape – midfield, Moana Pasifika (new)
Back from a stint overseas, Laumape joins a Moana Pasifika team trying to build on a solid year in 2025. The 15-test All Black will look to provide leadership from the midfield and an attacking threat. He has indicated his interest in representing Tonga internationally, but he remains All Blacks eligible for the time being.
58. Caleb Delany – lock, Hurricanes (down 2)
One of the country’s most promising young locks, Delany can cover lock or flanker and plays the game with intensity and intent. He constantly puts up a high tackle count and goes looking for work. He emerged as a first-choice lock for the Hurricanes in 2025, and that should continue this year.
57. Finlay Christie – halfback, Blues (up 10)
While his chances of a test recall appear slim, don’t underestimate how important Christie is in Cotter’s Blues system. The 30-year-old has locked himself in as the Blues’ first-choice No 9 despite some pressure from Sam Nock and Taufa Funaki, and is arguably the best defensive halfback in New Zealand.
56. Xavier Numia – prop, Hurricanes (down 3)
Solid in his core roles, but it’s Numia’s abilities with ball in hand and a bit of space to work with that make people question the position he plays. Certainly not your textbook prop, Numia is a true X-factor player, bringing a unique blend of skills to the Hurricanes front row.
55. A.J. Lam – outside back, Blues (up 2)
Lam brought his blend of power, speed and smarts to the Blues backline last year, starting in all 15 of his outings and spending time in the midfield and on both wings. He looks likely to resume his role in the midfield for the Blues in 2026, before moving overseas at the end of the season.
54. Antonio Shalfoon – lock, Crusaders (new)
After an impressive rookie season, the 28-year-old late bloomer’s importance to the reigning champions will hit another level this year. With no Barrett, on his non-playing sabbatical, Shalfoon will be asked to shoulder plenty in the Crusaders second row duties, as a senior-ish figure alongside the promising Hannah.
53. Brayden Iose – loose forward, Hurricanes (down 4)
Perhaps not quite reaching the same heights for the Hurricanes last year as he did in 2024, that’s not to say Iose didn’t have an impact – until a leg injury ended his season. He plays the game hard, running good lines, carrying with strength and pace, and makes plenty of tackles, but will have to fight for his minutes in a solid group of loosies.
52. Kini Naholo – wing, Hurricanes (down 6)
Naholo was robbed in 2025. He had finally emerged as a true strike weapon for the Hurricanes on the wing in a dangerous one-two punch with Fehi Fineanganofo. But his season was cruelly struck down by an ACL injury in round 12. With eight tries, Naholo was still among the leading try-scorers in the New Zealand teams, despite only playing 10 games. If there are no lingering issues from his injury, Naholo should be running around and over the top of defenders again.
51. Josh Jacomb – first five-eighths, Chiefs (up 15)
Having signed to join the Highlanders in 2027, Jacomb could find himself in limbo this year. Depending on what Damian McKenzie does, Jacomb could either be first-choice or an able deputy. He has shown more than once that he’s capable of performing at Super Rugby level, but exactly how many opportunities he gets this year remains to be seen.
Josh Jacomb has made an impact when given the opportunity with the Chiefs. Photo / Photosport
50. George Bell – hooker, Crusaders (up 23)
The Crusaders hooker continues to be one of those players tipped to go on to big things, but injury issues held him back in 2025. He looks set to share the load with All Blacks stalwart Codie Taylor again in 2026 in a dynamic one-two punch.
49. Ofa Tu’ungafasi – prop, Blues (down 20)
A neck injury kept Tu’ungafasi on the sidelines last year, but that has allowed him a proper preseason. A veteran of nearly 70 tests in the black jersey, expect the 33-year-old to pass that experience on to the Blues’ young front row stocks, as he pushes for a return to the national set-up after being unavailable last year.
48. Patrick Tuipulotu – lock, Blues (down 38)
One of the most influential players in world club rugby. The 33-year-old was man of the match in the Blues’ 2024 final triumph over the Chiefs, but has struggled to stay on the park ever since. That’ll continue this year, with a shoulder injury suffered at the end of 2025 set to keep him out for a good chunk of time, hence the drop in ranking. Once he’s back, though, expect Tuipulotu to slot back into the Blues second row.
47. Daniel Rona – midfield, Chiefs (up 22)
As a versatile member of the Chiefs backline, Rona’s importance to his side should continue under new coach Jono Gibbes. Capable of playing both midfield and on the wing, the 25-year-old’s abilities on both sides of the ball will be vital if the Chiefs are to finally break their duck of losing the biggest games this year.
46. Anton Segner – loose forward, Blues (up 2)
Segner is going to be an important piece for the Blues in 2026 as a well-established member of the starting loose trio. The German-born flanker has a physical, high-work-rate style of rugby and is well-suited to playing on the blindside, though he’s able to move around the loose trio as required.
45. Ollie Norris – prop, Chiefs (up 16)
In 2023, I wrote a piece thrusting Norris into the All Blacks conversation. I might have jumped the gun by a couple of years there, but Norris’ potential was realised in 2025 when he earned his maiden test cap. That came after Norris established himself as the first-choice loosehead for the Chiefs with a scrummaging game that has developed well to go with his strong carrying. Look for him to lead the Chiefs front row once more.
44. Josh Lord – lock, Chiefs (down 8)
There’s nothing flashy about the way Lord goes about his business, but he’s strong in his core roles and knows how to make his mark. The big concern with Lord is his durability as it seems he spends time in the injury ward every season.
43. Emoni Narawa – wing, Chiefs (down 18)
Narawa continues to be unlucky with injuries after establishing himself as a test-level talent. The professional finisher returns to a Chiefs team with plenty of options in the outside backs and a new coaching staff, so there are a few questions coming into the campaign. He is, however, a proven asset on the wing.
Chiefs winger Emoni Narawa. Photo / Photosport
42. Naitoa Ah Kuoi – loose forward, Chiefs (up 2)
The energetic lock finds a way to make his mark, be it starting or from off the bench. He’s got a terrific read at the lineout and often disrupts or steals opposition throws, and he’s active in hunting turnovers at the breakdown. He also has the ability to cover the blindside, so he’ll again be a matchday regular for the side.
41. Cullen Grace – loose forward, Crusaders (up 2)
Able to play lock or in the loose forwards, Grace is a talented player. Given the style of game he plays, Grace opens himself up to a lot of wear and tear, and has spent plenty of time on the sidelines. He was able to put together a strong, consistent campaign last year though, so he’ll look to continue that in 2026.
40. Zarn Sullivan – outside back, Blues (up 11)
Sullivan’s electric skillset served him well in his time with the Blues. Able to play at first-five and fullback, he’s got good vision and a solid kicking game, he’s quick and can test defenders with his carrying or move the ball on to teammates. He does, however, have a couple of All Blacks to contend with for playing time in Beauden Barrett and Stephen Perofeta. That, however, is a problem for future Cotter, with Barrett a delayed starter this season.
39. Folau Fakatava – halfback, Highlanders (up 2)
Fakatava looks set to dominate the reps at halfback for the Highlanders following an injury to young talent Pledger. Having Fakatava out there certainly isn’t a terrible outcome for what shapes up as a high-tempo Highlanders attack. Fakatava should thrive this season in big minutes with the players he has around him and, as one of the more experienced players in the team, will look to lead by example.
38. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens – outside back, Highlanders (up 47)
One of my favourite off-field moments of the 2025 Super Rugby season was when, ahead of his return from injury, Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens dropped a Chris Jericho WWE-inspired hype video. It set the tone for what was to come for the electric fullback, who impressed across the park. With a full season, he could be a massive contributor for this promising Highlanders outfit and this ranking reflects the impact he could have on the competition.
37. Ethan Blackadder – loose forward, Crusaders (down 15)
When he’s on the field, he is a talented physical presence and, in recent seasons, has shown he is a solid option at openside. But injuries have plagued his career and limited his impact. If he can stay on the field, he could outplay his ranking this year.
36. Leicester Fainga’anuku – utility back, Crusaders (new)
I settled here for the returning Fainga’anuku for a few reasons. His game should see him be a force in Super Rugby regardless of whether Rob Penney deploys him in the midfield or on the wing. Fainga’anuku is a dominant and dynamic runner, with speed and strength to burn. He can be one of the competition’s best performers in 2026.
35. Christian Lio-Willie – loose forward, Crusaders (up 19)
Earning the No 8 jersey in Penney’s team last year and starting all 16 of his appearances there, Lio-Willie stepped things up again, leading the competition in tackles made and earning a spot in the All Blacks’ first squad of the year. He’s set to resume that role in 2026 where he will again look to impress.
34. Samipeni Finau – loose forward, Chiefs (down 19)
A big-effort, big-engine player who can play his way right back into the frame for an All Blacks jersey with another strong season. He plays every phase with intent and has a knack for timing big hits to perfection, while his ability at the lineout is another arrow in his quiver.
33. Caleb Tangitau – outside back, Highlanders (up 69)
Had injury not disrupted his season, Tangitau could well have put some pressure on All Blacks selectors, such was the way he started his time with the Highlanders. Moving south after struggling for game time with the Blues proved to be a good call for the young winger, who emerged as one to watch on the wing moving forward.
32. Stephen Perofeta – first five-eighths, Blues (up 3)
After a standout year in 2024, Perofeta was rarely called upon in the Blues’ 2025 campaign. Starting the year limited by injury, Perofeta managed just a handful of appearances – one start at first-five, one at fullback and three bench appearances – never seeing more than 55 minutes of game time, before being unavailable for All Blacks selection in the test window. He’ll have the chance to turn things around immediately as he’s set to take the reins from Barrett, who will be a late starter this season.
31. Hoskins Sotutu – loose forward, Blues (down 28)
Yeah, okay, we ranked Sotutu much too high last season. After being the easy choice for player of the competition in 2024, Sotutu failed to reproduce that form in 2025. He still took plenty of carries and added a couple more tries to his count, but he failed to reach the same level. Another who is headed overseas at the end of the season.
30. Sam Darry – lock, Blues (new)
Expect big things from Darry – if he can stay fit. After an impressive campaign in 2024, that yielded an All Blacks debut, Darry was hit by injuries last year, and played just one test as a result. But with Tuipulotu not expected back until midway through the competition at the earliest, Darry can step up as a player and a leader in the Blues pack.
29. Luke Jacobson – loose forward, Chiefs (down 11)
Capable of playing any position in the loose trio, Jacobson always plays hard, bringing physicality and a high work rate to the pitch. He’s an absolute workhorse in Super Rugby and will look to set the tone once again after playing in both the No 7 and 8 jerseys last season.
28. Noah Hotham – halfback, Crusaders (up 12)
Injury impacted his campaign early in 2025, but he shook that off to establish himself among the most exciting young talents in the New Zealand game. He’s composed and confident in his abilities, as he attacks defences with speed, vision and quality delivery.
27. David Havili – utility back, Crusaders (no change)
Able to cover anywhere in the backline, Havili has a strong running game, which is well complemented by his kicking abilities. The 31-year-old played exclusively in the No 12 jersey last year after moving around a bit the season prior. More of the same to come in 2026.
26. Simon Parker – loose forward, Chiefs (up 62)
Departed All Blacks coach Scott Robertson’s description of Parker as accurate and intimidating says everything you need to know about the 1.97m, 117kg Chiefs loosie. Parker has been set back by injuries throughout his career, but getting a good run in 2025 saw him establish himself among the top flankers in the country.
25. Billy Proctor – midfield back, Hurricanes (up 5)
Proctor has arguably been the form Super Rugby centre of the last couple of years as a threat with ball in hand and was among the league leaders in defenders beaten in 2025 – which is more impressive when you factor in he only played in seven games last year. He’s among the young core of Hurricanes players who are now established and will be key in helping the team reach the next level.
Billy Proctor has been impactful for the Hurricanes over the past few seasons. Photo / Photosport.
24. Leroy Carter – outside back, Chiefs (new)
Writing these rankings last year, I tossed up between choosing Caleb Tangitau or Carter for the No 100 position. Both talented young wings, it seemed Tangitau had more opportunity and made the list. Boomfa Carter, though, took his opportunity with a week one start as Narawa made his way back from the bench and, from there, Carter was undroppable. Now an All Black, he’ll star on the Chiefs wing again.
23. Ruben Love – utility back, Hurricanes (up 29)
Is this the year we see Ruben Love emerge as a first five-eighths first and a fullback second? The young prospect was impressive when moved into the No 10 jersey last year and a more permanent move in 2026 wouldn’t surprise. He’s an exciting talent with a great read of the game and a skillset to match.
22. Dalton Papali’i – loose forward, Blues (down 5)
With Robertson gone as All Blacks coach, Papali’i has plenty to gain in 2025. The 28-year-old will begin the season as the Blues captain, and will hope to emulate the same success that he did when leading the side during Tuipulotu’s Japanese sabbatical.
21. Tyrel Lomax – prop, Hurricanes (up 17)
Lomax has established himself as one of the game’s elite props with his strong scrummaging and activity in open play. After a late start in the competition last year, he resumed his role as an anchor in the Hurricanes front row. While he starts 2026 still working back from a thumb injury, he is expected to be ready to go early in the competition.
20. Cortez Ratima – halfback, Chiefs (up 6)
The first-choice No 9 at the Chiefs, the No 2 halfback for the All Blacks, Ratima impresses through his attacking nous, while his decision-making and kicking game have developed well in recent years. He’s also quick with ball in hand and can find the tryline, which are big assets in Super Rugby.
19. Beauden Barrett – first five-eighths, Blues (down 5)
While Barrett will have a delayed entrance to Super Rugby in 2026, courtesy of an extended preseason rest, expect the 34-year-old to have a stranglehold of the Blues No 10 jersey when he returns. Keep an eye on Barrett’s quest to overtake Dan Carter as Super Rugby’s leading points-scorer this year, currently 163 away from the mark.
18. Timoci Tavatavanawai – utility back, Highlanders (up 27)
Tavatavanawai made his name with the Highlanders as a fast and physical presence on the wing. In 2025, he showed what he was capable of in the midfield. Tavatavanawai did not shy away from work on either end on his way to an All Blacks call-up. He led the league in defenders beaten, and was among the best for offloads and carries. Things could get properly scary for defences if Joseph and co can get this Highlanders backline humming.
17. Asafo Aumua – hooker, Hurricanes (up 3)
He has always had the strength and speed to be a threat with ball in hand, but in recent years has improved in other areas of the game and comes into the season looking to be in great shape after an injury-limited campaign in 2025.
16. Ethan de Groot – prop, Highlanders (down 5)
De Groot has consistently impressed in Super Rugby over the past few seasons with his physical ball-carrying and strong scrummaging. That won’t change in 2026 as he looks to help the Highlanders rise up the ladder.
15. Wallace Sititi – loose forward, Chiefs (new)
While 2024 saw Sititi become a household name for the Chiefs, injury saw the 23-year-old struggle to hit those same heights again. Now, with a full preseason under his belt, Sititi looms as one to watch in 2026, as easily the closest thing New Zealand has had to Sir Michael Jones since the Iceman finished playing.
14. Peter Lakai – loose forward, Hurricanes (up 9)
After another strong season with the Hurricanes, the 22-year-old has emerged as a true star of the game. A damaging ball runner with athleticism and strength, he takes plenty of carries and makes plenty of tackles. He ended the year with a few starts for the All Blacks in the No 8 jersey, where he figures to line-up in the Hurricanes pack in 2026.
13. Caleb Clarke – outside back, Blues (down 7)
Clarke has developed into a quality power winger, using his strength as well as his speed. His last few years have been a bit of a rollercoaster, with disappointing campaigns in 2023 and 2025 split by a tremendous season in 2024. Will that pattern continue in 2026? Regardless of his struggles in 2025, he remains a massive threat on the Blues wing and will need to be back to his best this season.
12. Fletcher Newell – prop, Crusaders (up 19)
A strong scrummager who carries the ball with intent and even has a bit of footwork to go with it, Newell certainly had some claims for man of the match in the Super Rugby final last year after he put in a huge 80-minute shift. He’s a constant worker and will again play an important role for the Crusaders.
11. Samisoni Taukei’aho – hooker, Chiefs (up 2)
His strong ball-carrying ability and a surprising turn of foot brings a boost to the Chiefs attack, while he is generally solid in his core roles, and can score a try with six in 2025. He’ll be an important member of this Chiefs group as they look to go one better than last year’s runner-up finish.
10. Du’Plessis Kirifi – loose forward, Hurricanes (up 23)
He knows where his strengths lie and plays the game accordingly – be it charging onto the ball, making a tackle or getting stuck into the breakdown. Kirifi was second in tackles made in the competition last year and has really taken to a leadership role with the Hurricanes and has matured into a fine player.
9. Sevu Reece – outside back, Crusaders (up 15)
Now, I don’t expect this ranking to sit well with everyone reading this, but the Super Rugby brand of football suits Reece to a tee. The Crusaders wing is consistently among the competition leaders in tries, and he makes the most of open spaces with his speed and footwork. Reece is also exceptionally good at getting over the ball at the breakdown for a winger, and that is an asset the Crusaders will miss when he takes his talents overseas after the 2026 campaign. The high tempo of Super Rugby allows players like Reece to be game-changers.
8. Codie Taylor – hooker, Crusaders (up 4)
Taylor can impact a team in plenty of ways – be those at the set piece or in open play – and has long since established himself as the country’s top No 2. He’s a leader in this Crusaders team and continues to set the standard for hookers around the competition.
7. Quinn Tupaea – midfield, Chiefs (up 27)
In last year’s rankings, I wrote Tupaea “will be looking to remind everyone what he’s capable of after limited time in 2024”. He did that and then some in an impressive year. Tupaea was among the competition leaders in carries and ultimately forced his way into a first-choice role at test level. The hard-running midfielder will be key for the Chiefs again in 2026.
6. Tamaiti Williams – prop, Crusaders (up 10)
Makes the most of his size and strength to impose himself on opposition front rows and his days as a loosie have served him well in terms of skill on the ball. He can also play 80 minutes if needed. He’s a real point of difference for the Crusaders and sends shudders into opposition goal-line defences.
5. Jordie Barrett – midfield back, Hurricanes (new)
Returning to the Hurricanes after a sabbatical in Ireland, Barrett slots in with a Hurricanes team looking to play their way into title contention. He’s been one of the most consistent and reliable performers in the competition, and will be a leader in this group. Whether he spends his time in the midfield or at fullback, Barrett will make his presence felt.
4. Tupou Vaa’i – lock, Chiefs (up 4)
Vaa’i emerged as one of the best locks in the country in 2024, and was arguably the best in his position in 2025. Vaa’i is a big effort guy, who chases work defensively and around the breakdown, while he’s got a solid core skillset and is handy with ball in hand. He’s become a key piece to the puzzle for the Chiefs, though the team continues to try and put all the pieces together.
3. Will Jordan – outside back, Crusaders (up 2)
Newstalk ZB host D’Arcy Waldegrave coined the moniker “scores at” for Will Jordan, because at times it really does seem like he can, and does, score at will. He made the most of a relatively healthy campaign in 2025 and helped the Crusaders to another title, and continues to be one of the biggest attacking threats in the competition.
2. Cam Roigard – halfback, Hurricanes (no change)
Coming off an international season in which he was the All Blacks’ best, Roigard seems poised for a big season in Hurricanes colours. The sharp No 9 has a way of exploiting space with his speed and acceleration off the mark, a strong kicking game, stands his ground defensively, and comes into the season with a lot of familiar faces around him. He’ll be key to the Hurricanes’ hopes.
1. Damian McKenzie – first five-eighths, Chiefs (up 3)
McKenzie has never been outside the top five in these rankings, now in his third year of eligibility. Such is the consistency of his play for the Chiefs regardless of the number he wears on his back. While his abilities haven’t necessarily translated quite so well at test level, he’s the gold standard in Super Rugby.
While his abilities haven’t necessarily translated quite so well at test level, Damian McKenzie is the gold standard in Super Rugby. Photo / Photosport
Christopher Reive joined the Herald sports team in 2017, bringing the same versatility to his coverage as he does to his sports viewing habits.