Super Rugby Pacific Round 1: Lineups, Tips, Odds, and Weekend Insights
The Super Rugby Pacific season kicks off with Round 1, featuring notable matchups among New Zealand and Australian teams. Defending champions, the Crusaders, alongside teams like the Blues, Chiefs, and Hurricanes, look to showcase strong performances early in the season.
Round 1 Match Previews
Highlanders vs. Crusaders
Date: February 13
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Time: 5:05 PM AEDT
- Highlanders Lineup: Jacob Ratumaitavuki Kneepkens, Caleb Tangitau, Jonah Lowe, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Jona Nareki, Cam Millar, Folau Fakatava, Lucas Casey, Sean Withy, Te Kamaka Howden, Mitch Dunshea, Oliver Haig, Angus Ta’avao, Jack Taylor, Ethan de Groot.
- Crusaders Lineup: Chay Fihaki, Sevu Reece, Braydon Ennor, David Havili, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Rivez Reihana, Noah Hotham, Christian Lio-Willie, Ethan Blackadder, Dom Gardiner, Jamie Hannah, Antonio Shalfoon, Seb Calder, George Bell, Finlay Brewis.
Predicted Outcome: Crusaders are favored to win by 17 points amid injury challenges for the Highlanders.
Waratahs vs. Queensland Reds
Date: February 13
Venue: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Time: 7:35 PM AEDT
- Waratahs Lineup: James Hendren, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Joey Walton, Max Jorgensen, Lawson Creighton, Jake Gordon, Pete Samu, Charlie Gamble, Clem Halahalo, Miles Amatosero, Matt Philip, Daniel Botha, Ethan Dobbins, Tom Lambert.
- Reds Lineup: Jock Campbell, Lachie Anderson, Josh Flook, Hunter Paisami, Tim Ryan, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Louis Werchon, Vaiuta Latu, Fraser McReight, Joe Brial, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Josh Canham, Zane Nonggorr, Matt Faessler, Aidan Ross.
Predicted Outcome: A tight match is expected, with Waratahs likely winning by 3 points.
Fijian Drua vs. Moana Pasifika
Date: February 14
Venue: Churchill Park, Lautoka
Time: 2:35 PM AEDT
- Drua Lineup: Ilaisa Droasese, Manasa Mataele, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Virimi Vakatawa, Ponipate Loganimasi, Kemu Valetini, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Elia Canakaivata, Kitione Salawa, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Doge.
- Moana Pasifika Lineup: William Havili, Tevita Ofa, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Ngani Laumape, Solomon Alaimalo, Patrick Pellegrini.
Predicted Outcome: The Drua is expected to win by 8 points, bolstered by the debut of Virimi Vakatawa.
Blues vs. Chiefs
Date: February 14
Venue: Eden Park, Auckland
Time: 5:05 PM AEDT
- Blues Lineup: Zarn Sullivan, Cole Forbes, AJ Lam, Pita Ahki, Caleb Clarke, Stephen Perofeta, Finlay Christie, Hoskins Sotutu, Dalton Papali’i.
- Chiefs Lineup: Etene Nanai-Seturo, Kyren Taumoefolau, Daniel Rona, Quinn Tupaea, Liam Coombes-Fabling, Josh Jacomb, Xavier Roe.
Predicted Outcome: Chiefs may edge the Blues by 2 points in a closely contested match.
Western Force vs. Brumbies
Date: February 14
Venue: HBF Park, Perth
Time: 7:35 PM AEDT
- Force Lineup: Mac Grealy, Divad Palu, George Bridge, Hamish Stewart, Bayley Kuenzle, Ben Donaldson.
- Brumbies Lineup: Andy Muirhead, Ollie Sapsford, Kadin Pritchard, David Feluiai, Corey Toole, Declan Meredith.
Predicted Outcome: A close match is anticipated, with the Force possibly winning by 2 points.
Odds and Predictions Summary
| Match | Prediction | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Highlanders vs. Crusaders | Crusaders by 17 | Highlanders: $3.20, Crusaders: $1.34 |
| Waratahs vs. Reds | Waratahs by 3 | Waratahs: $2.05, Reds: $1.75 |
| Drua vs. Moana Pasifika | Drua by 8 | Drua: $1.32, Pasifika: $3.30 |
| Blues vs. Chiefs | Chiefs by 2 | Blues: $2.70, Chiefs: $1.45 |
| Force vs. Brumbies | Force by 2 | TBA |
With plenty of excitement ahead, fans are encouraged to stay tuned to Filmogaz.com for updates and insights. The first weekend of Super Rugby Pacific promises thrilling matches and strategic gameplay.
