The 2026 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season kicked off with a bang, featuring upsets, dominant performances, and thrilling finishes. Here’s a roundup of the action from the opening weekend:

Highlanders’ Top Performance Ousts Defending Champions Crusaders

The resurgent Highlanders kicked off the season with a impressive 25-23 win over the reigning champion CRUaders in Dunedin. In a physical contest, the Highlanders’ tenacity and determination in defense, coupled with timely try-scoring and goal-kicking, sealed the victory despite the Crusaders’ All Blacks-laden bench.

Hard work by loose forwards Sean Withy and Te Kamaka Howden, and constant setting up by halfback Folau Fakatava and first five-eighths Cameron Millar, brought its reward.

Highlanders v Crusaders match report

Cameron Millar’s 45-meter penalty goal two minutes from time sealed the win, as the Crusaders’ handling errors and lack of cohesion proved costly.

Waratahs’ Resurgence Continues with Comprehensive Win Over Reds

In Sydney, the Waratahs sent a statement to the competition with a 36-12 rout of the Reds. After a close first half, the Waratahs’ power and precision up front secured a bonus-point win. Max Jorgensen bagged a brace, while debutant Teddy Wilson scored a late try for the bonus point.

Waratahs’ power play up front saw replacement prop Isaac Kailea extend the lead before a marvellous cross-kick from replacement five-eighths Jack Debreczeny found flanker Charlie Gamble on the sideline.

Waratahs v Reds match report

Moana Pasifika’s Gutsy Away Win Over Fijian Drua

In Lautoka, Moana Pasifika made a strong start to their season with a 40-26 away win over the Fijian Drua. Captain Miracle Fai’ilagi scored a hat-trick, with the visiting team’s loose forwards making a significant impact. Despite a strong Drua comeback, Moana Pasifika held on for a valuable win.

Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga said he took pride in the way his players responded, achieving their goal of being efficient with their energy.

Fijian Drua v Moana Pasifika match report

Chiefs Edge Out Blues in Thriller at Eden Park

The Blues and Chiefs served up a thriller at Eden Park, with the visitors sealing a 19-15 win with a late try. Josh Jacomb’s outstanding 50:22 kick and Tupou Vaa’i’s try opened the scoring, but the Blues responded through Caleb Clarke and Dalton Papali’i. A dramatic conclusion saw Cortez Ratima score the winning try five minutes from time.

Brumbies’ Clinical Performance Too Much for Western Force

In Perth, the Brumbies showcased their potency with a 56-24 win over the Western Force. The home side briefly led, but the Brumbies’ clinical finishing, led by Declan Meredith’s two tries, proved decisive. The visitors ran in eight tries, with Carlo Tizzano, Corey Toole, and Ollie Sapsford adding late scores.

**Did You Know?**

• The Highlanders have now won three of their last four games against the Crusaders.
• Moana Pasifika’s win over the Fijian Drua is their first away win since joining the competition in 2022.
• The Brumbies have now scored 50 or more points in consecutive games against the Western Force.

**Pro Tips for Fans:**

Keep an eye on Moana Pasifika’s loose forwards. They’re a threat with their strong running and energetic play.

247sports.news sports journalist

**Looking Ahead:**

The second round sees exciting fixtures, including a rematch of last year’s final when the Blues take on the Crusaders in Christchurch. The Highlanders host the Reds, while the Fijian Drua travel to face the Waratahs in Sydney.

**Stay tuned to 247sports.news for all the latest news, updates, and analysis from the DHL Super Rugby Pacific.**