Prized recruit Ardie Savea will captain Moana Pasifika during the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.
The Auckland-based club made the announcement on Monday after landing the All Blacks and Hurricanes star in a monumental off-season coup.
Savea, 31, was world player of the year in 2023 and is the All Blacks vice captain.
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Ardie Savea of New Zealand celebrates scoring at Stade de France. Getty
He will play alongside older brother Julian at Moana Pasifika, who are coached by another former All Blacks and Hurricanes great – Tana Umaga.
"It's pretty special and I believe it's God's purpose for me to lead," Savea said.
"When I signed with the team Tana spoke to me about it and I went away and thought about it. After spending some time talking to my wife and those close to me, I realised it was the right decision to say yes.
Ardie and Julian Savea of the Hurricanes walk out onto the ground at Sky Stadium. Getty
"First and foremost I've got to lead myself first and that's through my performance on the field and how I operate at trainings, and off the field as well. I also want to serve the brothers, serve the team, serve the franchise and serve the people any way I can."
Savea's move north was the biggest Super Rugby transfer from a New Zealand perspective but there were also some massive shakeups in Australia.
Read on for all the 2025 Super Rugby squads.
David Feliuai poses during a Wallabies portrait session. Getty
ACT BRUMBIES SQUAD
Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Tevita Alatini, Liam Bowron, Charlie Cale, Nick Frost, Lachlan Hooper, Tom Hooper, Lachlan Lonergan, Cadeyrn Neville, Billy Pollard, Luke Reimer, Blake Schopp, Rory Scott, Lachlan Shaw, James Slipper, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Rob Valetini, Rhys van Nek, Harry Vella
Backs: Austin Anderson, Hudson Creighton, Jack Debreczeni, David Feliuai, Harrison Goddard, Len Ikitau, Noah Lolesio, Ryan Lonergan, Declan Meredith, Andy Muirhead, Ben O'Donnell, Kadin Pritchard, Ollie Sapsford, Klayton Thorn, Corey Toole, Shane Wilcox, Tom Wright
TALKING POINTS
The recruitment of Wallabies squad member David Feliuai headlines the 2025 Brumbies squad.
Feliuai has been dubbed the 'Romanian Rumbler' by Stan Sport's Sean Maloney due to his unusual background playing for CSM Baia Mare in Transylvania.
The centre played for the now defunct Melbourne Rebels this year and is yet to make his Test debut.
Tuaina Taii Tualima is another Rebels recruit.
The Brumbies have also named promising loose forward Lachlan Hooper – the younger brother of Wallabies cult hero Tom Hooper.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham at GIO Stadium. Getty
COACH'S CALL
"To maintain the bulk of our group from last season is pleasing and keeps a real sense of continuity around the club," Stephen Larkham said.
"We're excited to see what all the new additions can bring to the team in 2025. The two guys from Melbourne have given a great account of themselves since coming in for pre-season last week and are going to prove invaluable to us.
"The elite development squad here keeps producing talent year after year and it's incredibly satisfying to see those boys come through the system and pull on a Brumbies shirt."
Peter Lakai of the Hurricanes warms up in Wellington. Getty
HURRICANES SQUAD
Forwards: Tevita Mafileo, Raymond Tuputupu, Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Pasilio Tosi, Siale Lauaki, Josh Taula, Tom Allen, Jacob Devery, Asafo Aumua, Zach Gallagher, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Will Tucker, Caleb Delany, Arese Poliko, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Brayden Iose, Brad Shields, Peter Lakai, Devan Flanders
Backs: Cam Roigard, Ereatara Enari, Riley Hohepa, Harry Godfrey, Riley Higgins, Billy Proctor, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Bailyn Sullivan, Ngatungane Punivai, Kade Banks, Fehi Fineanganofo, Kini Naholo, Ruben Love, Lucas Cashmore, Jordi Viljoen, Tjay Clark
TALKING POINTS
The Hurricanes have had some massive off-season losses with club legends Ardie Savea (Moana Pasifika) and TJ Perenara (Japan) both leaving the club and Jordie Barrett having a sabbatical season in Ireland with Leinster.
Last season's minor premiers will also be without first choice No.10 Brett Cameron after he ruptured his ACL.
Riley Hohepa has been picked up as a potential replacement but new All Blacks star Ruben Love looms as the likely five-eighth.
The Hurricanes have also snared young backs Kade Banks and Lucas Cashmore from the Blues and locks Will Tucker (Highlanders) and Zach Gallagher (Crusaders).
Coach Clark Laidlaw of the Hurricanes at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Getty
COACH'S CALL
"We've seen a bit of player movement but we're realistic about what it means to have an open market," Clark Laidlaw said.
"I'm confident with the depth that we've got in our squad. We're in a good spot with guys like Peter Lakai, Ruben Love and Harry Godfrey locked in for the next two or three years.
"They're going from strength to strength, and that consistency will help us continue to build our depth over the next few seasons."
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii during Wallabies training at the AIS, Getty
NSW WARATAHS SQUAD
Forwards: Adrian Brown, Angelo Smith, Angus Bell, Ben Grant, Charlie Gamble, Clem Halaholo, Daniel Botha, David Porecki, Ethan Dobbins, Fergus Lee-Warner, Hugh Sinclair, Isaac Kailea, Jack Barrett, Jack Grant, Julian Heaven, Leafi Talatiana, Langi Gleeson, Mahe Vailanu, Mesu Kunavula Miles Amatosero Rob Leota Siosifa Amone, Taniela Tupou, Thomas Lambert, Brad Amituanai, Ale Aho
Backs: Andrew Kellaway, Archie Saunders, Darby Lancaster, Henry O'Donnell, Jack Bowen, Jack Grant, Jake Gordon, Joey Walton Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Lalakai Foketi, Lawson Creighton, Max Jorgensen, Tane Edmed, Teddy Wilson, Triston Reilly, Jackson Ropata, James Hendren
TALKING POINTS
Where to start?
The Waratahs were wooden spooners this year but have landed some massive names for 2025 with Wallabies Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Taniela Tupou and Andrew Kellaway signing on.
Crucially, NSW have also got Simon Raiwalui on board as director of performance, Dan McKellar as coach and Mike Catt as assistant.
Otago lock Ale Aho and former Junior Wallabies squad member James Hendren are other interesting new faces.
Taniela Tupou and assistant coach Dan McKellar of the Wallabies celebrate in 2021. Getty
COACH'S CALL
"We're going to have a powerful and skilful team," Dan McKellar said.
"We'll have powerful front rowers that can play, and a decent amount of strike in the back line as well. We want to make sure those players get the ball in their hands. I think attack will come pretty naturally to this group.
"But at the same time, you've got to be able to roll your sleeves up and put your head in a dark place and be comfortable doing it. We're going to be a team that loves the dark arts, and we're going to love defence."
James O'Connor of the Wallabies runs the ball during the Bledisloe Cup. Getty
CRUSADERS SQUAD
Forwards: Fletcher Newell, George Bower, Tamaiti Williams, Finlay Brewis, Seb Calder, Codie Taylor, Ioane Moananu, George Bell, Quinten Strange, Scott Barrett, Jamie Hannah, Dom Gardiner, Tahlor Cahill, Tom Christie, Cullen Grace, Cory Kellow, Ethan Blackadder, Christian Lio-Willie, Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Antonio Shalfoon, Fletcher Anderson, Xavier Saifoloi
Backs: Mitch Drummond, Noah Hotham, Rivez Reihana, Taha Kemara, James O'Connor, Dallas McLeod, Braydon Ennor, David Havili, Levi Aumua, Chay Fihaki, Sevu Reece, Macca Springer, Will Jordan, Johnny McNicoll, Kyle Preston, Aki Tuivailala
TALKING POINTS
After now All Blacks coach Scott Robertson breakdanced them to a ridiculous seven straight titles, the Crusaders flopped last season.
New boss Rob Penney's big recruit is former Wallabies playmaker James O'Connor in a move that has been panned by many across the ditch.
Wellington's NPC-winning halfback Kyle Preston is another addition.
Penney has also confirmed that All Blacks captain Scott Barrett will likely be relieved of the Crusaders leadership.
Coach Rob Penney of the Crusaders at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Getty
COACH'S CALL
"History would say it's going to be too challenging for him (Barrett) to do both jobs," Rob Penney said.
"It's a big ask doing the All Blacks job. So, highly likely we will be moving to another person to captain the group.
"We're a team full of leaders and captains. It's great, we will discuss with them how that looks and what the best shape of our leadership group is going forward into the new campaign."
Suliasi Vunivalu of the Queensland Reds at HFC Stadium. Getty
QUEENSLAND REDS SQUAD
Forwards: Josh Nasser, Sef Fa'agase, Liam Wright, Ryan Smith, Richie Asiata, Zane Nonggorr, George Blake, Angus Blyth, Fraser McReight, Connor Vest, Harry Wilson, Seru Uru, Joe Brial, Matt Faessler, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Massimo De Lutiis, Alex Hodgman, Josh Canham, John Bryant, Trevor King, Max Craig, Matt Gibbon, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
Backs: Josh Flook, Hunter Paisami, Mason Gordon, Jock Campbell, Frank Goldsbrough, Tate McDermott, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Louis Werchon, Tom Lynagh, Kalani Thomas, Isaac Henry, Filipo Daugunu, Tim Ryan, Will McCulloch, Dre Pakeho, Jude Gibbs, Lachie Anderson
TALKING POINTS
Suliasi Vunivalu is a notable absentee from the 2025 squad after falling out of favour this year.
The former Wallabies and NRL star is contracted to Rugby Australia for next season but is expected to be granted an early release and is tipped to join a Top 14 club in France.
Jordan Petaia has also been left out of the squad as he chases his NFL dream with Queensland's blessing.
If he fails to make the grade then he is likely to return to the Reds.
The Reds have also recruited heavily from the Rebels with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Filipo Daugunu and Josh Canham big ins.
Coach Les Kiss of the Reds watches on during the warm up. Getty
COACH'S CALL
"This is an ambitious group that knows working hard is the only way to bring out the best of their abilities in a fantastic competition," Les Kiss said.
"We need to be ready for everything Super Rugby throws at you and that starts on the training field, in the gym and in our team meetings."
Wallace Sititi and Cortez Ratima of the Chiefs react. Getty
CHIEFS SQUAD
Forwards: Aidan Ross, Ollie Norris, George Dyer, Reuben O'Neill, Samisoni Taukie'aho, Brodie McAlister, Bradley Slater, Tupou Vaa'i, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, Josh Lord, Jimmy Tupou, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Jahrome Brown, Kaylum Boshier, Samipeni Finau, Simon Parker, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson, Sione Ahio Jared Proffit, Fiti Sa
Backs: Xavier Roe, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, Daniel Rona, Kaleb Trask, Anton Lienert-Brown, Quinn Tupaea, Rameka Poihipi, Gideon Wrampling, Leroy Carter, Liam Coombes-Fabling, Emoni Narawa, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Shaun Stevenson, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Malachi Wrampling, Josh Jacomb
TALKING POINTS
Former Brumbies backrower Jahrome Brown is heading home to Hamilton while ex-Crusaders hooker Brodie McAlister is another handy addition.
Otherwise it is a very settled squad.
Clayton McMillan of the Chiefs speaks to the media. Getty
COACH'S CALL
"I'm a big believer in cohesion together for a while and experienced the highs and lows together," Clayton McMillan said.
"They learn and then create opportunities in the new season to put those learnings into practice and go one step further."
Levi Aumua of Moana Pasifika celebrates after scoring a try. Getty
MOANA PASIFIKA SQUAD
Forwards: Abraham Pole, Alamanda Motuga, Allan Craig, Ardie Savea, Chris Apoua, Irie Papuni, James Lay, Lotu Inisi, Michael Curry, Miracle Faiilagi, Ofa Tauatevalu, Ola Tauelangi, Pone Fa'amausili, Samiuela Moli, Samuel Slade, Sama Malolo, Semisi Paea, Sione Havili Talitui, Sione Mafileo, Tomasi Maka, Tito Tuipulotu, Tom Savage
Backs: Aisea Halo, Danny Toala, Fine Inisi, Jackson Garden-Bachop, Jonathan Taumateine, Julian Savea, Kyren Taumoefolau, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Losi Filipo, Melani Matavao, Neria Fomai, Patrick Pellegrini, Pepesana Patafilo, Solomon Alaimalo, Tuna Tuitama William Havili
COACH'S CALL
Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga said it was an easy decision to appoint Ardie Savea as captain.
"Ardie is a hard worker and incredible role model who pushes others to be better by setting a high standard for himself, both professionally and personally," Umaga said.
"That's something that stands out for us as a good leader, bringing out the best in the team and uplifting others. He's a natural leader who is going to have a massive impact on our team."
FIJIAN DRUA SQUAD
Forwards: Emosi Tuqiri, Haereiti Hetet, Livai Natave, Tevita Ikanivere, Mesulame Dolokoto, Zuriel Togiatama, Mesake Doge, Samuela Tawake, Meli Tuni, Peni Ravai, Mesake Vocevoce, Isoa Nasilasila, Leone Rotuisolia, Sailosi Vukalokalo, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Meli Derenalagi, Elia Canakaivata, Kitione Salawa, Motikiai Murray, Vilive Miramira, Etonia Waqa, Joseva Tamani
Backs: Frank Lomani, Peni Matawalu, Simione Kuruvoli, Philip Baselala, Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Kemu Valetini, Isikeli Rabitu, Iosefo Masi, Inia Tabuavou, Waqa Nalaga, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Selestino Ravutaumada, Epeli Momo, Taniela Rakuro, Ilaisa Droasese, Junior Ratuva, Vuate Karawalevu, Ponipate Loganimasi
Brandon Paenga-Amosa of the Wallabies celebrates victory. Getty
WESTERN FORCE SQUAD
Forwards: Sam Carter, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Ryan Coxon, Nic Dolly, Vaiolini Ekuasi, Lopeti Faifua, Will Harris, Harry Hoopert, Tom Horton, Harry Johnson-Holmes, Kane Koteka, Atunaisa Moli, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Marley Pearce, Reed Prinsep, Tom Robertson, Papillon Sevele, Darcy Swain Tiaan Tauakipulu, Josh Thompson, Carlo Tizzano, Mitchell Watts, Jeremy Williams
Backs: Max Burey, Ben Donaldson, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Mac Grealy, Bayley Kuenzle, Ronan Leahy, Divad Palu, Reesjan Pasitoa, Dylan Pietsch, Doug Philipson, George Poolman, Harry Potter, Matt Proctor, Henry Robertson, Hamish Stewart, Patelesio Tomkinson, Nic White
TALKING POINTS
The Force have had a strong offseason with Wallabies Dylan Pietsch, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Harry Johnson-Holmes and Darcy Swain headed west.
Internationally capped Nic Dolly (England) and Matt Proctor (New Zealand) have also joined.
Simon Cron addresses the Force at HBF Park. Getty
COACH'S CALL
"The biggest focus was making sure the people we brought into our environment were going to add value and make a positive impact both on and off the field," Simon Cron said.
"The people we have targeted do that and have chosen to join us, so we are really looking forward to welcoming them to Western Australia."
"We've got more players stepping up to become Wallabies.
"Initially we had limited exposure and representation in those key representative teams so it's great to see our players driving themselves forward."
Tanielu Tele'a of the Highlanders celebrates scoring a try. Getty
HIGHLANDERS SQUAD
Forwards: Ethan de Groot, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Saula Ma'u, Rohan Wingham, Sosefo Kautai, Henry Bell, Jack Taylor, Soane Vikena, Will Stodart, Fabian Holland, Mitch Dunshea, Oliver Haig, Sean Withy, Lui Naeata, Hayden Michaels, Hugh Renton, Nikora Broughton, Josh Bartlett, Veveni Lasaqa, Te Kamaka Howden, Tom Sanders,
Backs: Folau Fakatava, Nathan Hastie, Cameron Millar, Ajay Faleafaga, Jake Te Hiwi, Thomas Umaga Jensen, Tanielu Tele'a, Jona Nareki, Sam Gilbert, Taine Robinson, Caleb Tangitau, Jonah Lowe, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Finn Hurley, James Arscott, Josh Whaanga, Michael Manson, Josh Timu
BLUES SQUAD
Forwards: Angus Ta'avao, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Marcel Renata, Jordan Lay, Joshua Fusitu'a, PJ Sheck, Kurt Eklund, Ricky Riccitelli, James Mullan, Laghlan McWhannell, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Darry, Josh Beehre, Cameron Suafoa, Adrian Choat, Dalton Papali'i, Anton Segner, Hoskins Sotutu, Ben Ake, Che Clark, Cameron Christie
Backs: Finlay Christie, Sam Nock, Taufa Funaki, Stephen Perofeta, Harry Plummer, Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Xavi Taele, Corey Evans, Zarn Sullivan, Mark Tele'a, Caleb Clarke, AJ Lam, Cole Forbes, Bryce Heem, Reon Paul, Meihana Grindlay, Payton Spencer
COACH'S CALL
"I think we'll start ahead of where we were last season, we can take the results and experience gained last time round and build on it this year, " Vern Cotter said.
"I'm looking forward to getting in with everyone, reconnecting and getting back to work. It will be good to get to know the new squad members and see what they're all about. I want enthusiasm and for them to put their hand up.
"I enjoyed watching NPC this season and seeing the younger guys stepping up. Now it's their time to come into the Blues and start pushing for spots.
"It's part of our Blues DNA – pushing ourselves and staying connected. The pushing is not only physical but mental too, we want to ensure our whole squad is growing to be the best version of themselves.
"We're just about ready to take the handbrake off and get stuck in – a lot of preparation has already been done. As a coaching group we've been watching a lot of rugby, keeping an eye on our guys both here and abroad and it's about time to open the doors and get started."
