Super Rugby Pacific 2026: Round One's Top Australian Performers
The Australian teams lit up the field in the first round of Super Rugby Pacific, and Rugby.com.au has selected the best performers from the land down under.
The NSW Waratahs and ACT Brumbies dominated in Sydney and Perth, respectively, with the Waratahs clinching a near-sweep in their opening match. Tom Lambert and Ethan Dobbins led the charge for the Waratahs, with Lambert winning penalties and Dobbins delivering a near-perfect performance.
But here's where it gets controversial... The selection of Rhys van Nek over Dan Botha is a point of contention. While Botha had an impressive 80-minute shift, van Nek's try and strong ball-carrying secured his spot.
Meanwhile, the ACT Brumbies' comeback win in Perth was sparked by Declan Meredith's brutal bump-off through a pair of Wallabies for a try. Meredith's performance was a key factor in the Brumbies' success, and he took over the game with his ball-running ability and scrum-half crash ball line.
The back row was a tough call, with every blindside flanker for the Australian teams performing at a world-class level. However, Vaiolini Ekuasi's impact in his carries and defense secured his spot, while the likes of Joe Brial, Clem Halaholo, and Rob Valetini would easily make this team in future weeks with similar performances.
And this is the part most people miss... The halves were a clean sweep for the Brumbies, with Ryan Lonergan and Declan Meredith delivering tidy performances. Lonergan's delivery was on point all night, showcasing his ball-running ability with a rare scrum-half crash ball line.
In the midfield, Hunter Paisami and Kadin Pritchard got the nod. Paisami's influence flew under the radar, but he limited Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii's involvement and space to create. Pritchard, on the other hand, shone late in the fixture as he impressed on his debut start.
Now, it's time for the big reveal... Rugby.com.au's Super Rugby Pacific Australian Team of the Week Round One:
- Tom Lambert
- Ethan Dobbins
- Rhys van Nek
- Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
- Franco Molina
- Clem Halaholo
- Fraser McReight
- Charlie Cale
- Ryan Lonergan
- Declan Meredith
- Max Jorgensen
- Hunter Paisami
- Kadin Pritchard
- Ollie Sapsford
- Andy Muirhead
So, what do you think? Agree or disagree? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
