It is that time of the season where every round is delivering season-defining results. Round 16 was no different. Glasgow succumbed to a second battering in as many weeks in South Africa as the Stormers dominated the top of the table clash. Leinster, too, suffered a damaging loss as Benetton claimed their scalp of the season. Other key results included Cardiff triumphing over the Ospreys, the Lions mauling Connacht, and Munster putting away a much-rotated Ulster side. There is still all to play for in the remaining two weeks.

Team of the Week

OB: Zekethelo Siyaya – Sharks (1 try assist, 3 line breaks, 149 carry metres, 15 defenders beaten, 1 line break assist) – Player of the Round

Siyaya must be thinking that this professional rugby thing is pretty easy. Parachuted in last week to an injury-crippled Sharks side (He is 2^nd academy fullback who has had to be brought in), he has outshone his big-named teammates. Ryan Wilson summarised it best on commentary: “He is like a cheat code”. Seemingly every time he touched the ball, he created something. He beat more than double the defenders than anyone else, and racked up nearly 150 carry metres, also the most across the round. His quality was not just limited to the attack as he was part of a back three who dominated in the air – 103 points

OB: Ethan McIlroy – Ulster (2 offloads, 2 line breaks, 7 defenders beaten, 1 dominant tackle)

A much-rotated Ulster outfit were dismantled by Munster, but McIlroy can still hold his head high. He was instrumental to what Ulster were able to put together on the attack making more passes than any other outside back across the round. He was a threat himself as well – beating 7 defenders – 68 points

OB: Ignacio Mendy – Benetton (1 try, 2 line breaks, 5 defenders beaten, 2 dominant tackles)

Mendy’s try came at a perfect moment. Just as Leinster were threatening to pull away, he scored a 5 pointer. He collected the ball from a messy pass out wide, before burning Gibson-Park on his outside. Mendy beat a further 4 defenders as he enters the TOTW for the first time for a while, after being a regular selection in the early season – 57 points

CE: Alex Nankivell – Munster (6 defenders beaten, 1 turnover won, 2 line break assists, 1 try saving tackle)

Nankivell was at the heart of an important InterPro victory for Munster in their quest for a home quarter-final. He made the most carries crossing the gain line (11) of any centre, giving his side valuable go-forward time and time again. This ball carrying threat allowed him to create 2 line breaks for teammates. He was impactful on defence as well, making all 9 of his tackles and popping up with a breakdown turnover – 66 points

CE: Henco van Wyk – Lions (2 tries, 1 try assist, 4/5 dominant carries, 2 line breaks, 1 line break assist)

After narrowly missing out on a spot in the TOTW last week, van Wyk finally earns selection. He backed up his brace of tries in Round 15 with another brace in Round 16. His first try was a vintage outside centre try, breaking the line after a strong handoff on a Connacht flanker. Weapon X was a massive physical presence making 4 dominant carries and landing a trademark dominant tackle – 75 points

FH: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu – Stormers (1 try, 2 try assists, 4 defenders beaten, 8/9 kicks at goal)

Feinberg-Mngomezulu has blown a little hot-and-cold of late. He has had incredible moments in every game; however, the concern has been the ratio of positive to negative moments. Against Glasgow, this balance fell firmly in favour of positive. He created a beautiful try for Ruhan Nel with a deft grubber in behind the defensive line. He carried with both excellent footwork and brutality – steamrolling Hastings off a set piece move. Furthermore, it was perhaps his best kicking day of the season – 99 points

SH: Matthew Devine – Connacht (2 tries, 2 line breaks, 4 defenders beaten)

Devine came off the bench and sparked a comeback that nearly yielded 2 bonus points. The Lions had wrapped up the bonus point win early on, and the livewire scrumhalf took full advantage. Devine’s sniping around the base was lethal and he was sure to be on the shoulder of teammates after a line break to run in tries – 62 points

BR: John Hodnett – Munster (4 tries, 9/11 dominant carries, 6 defenders beaten, 92 carry metres)

Perhaps surprisingly not the player of the round, Hodnett put in an extraordinary performance at home against Ulster. He scored 4 tries, each more expansive than the last. His first try was a classic maul try and his second a close-range finish after an excellent leg drive. His last two tries both came out wide as he stormed down the touchline, bouncing a defender out the way each time. He racked up both the most dominant carries and metres gained by a forward player – 93 points

BR: Fletcher Anderson – Scarlets (1 try, 11/11 tackles made, 7 defenders beaten, 1 turnover won)

Anderson was the heart and engine of a spirited Scarlets performance. He stood up valiantly against a strong Bulls pack. His 7 defenders beaten was the highest of any forward this week, most of which came in the tight. He was important on defence as well, making all the tackles that were asked of him – one of which was dominant – 69 points

BR: Francke Horn – Lions (1 try assist, 1 line break, 2 turnovers won, 7/7 carries crossing the gain line)

When the Lions are firing, as they have been for a number of rounds now, Horn is undoubtedly playing a crucial role. Horn maintains his position in the TOTW from Round 15 delivering another outstanding performance. He made metres with all 7 of his carries and brilliantly assisted yet another try in the wide channels. This was almost a carbon copy from last week as he beats a defender before freeing his arms to offload to Cronje for a simple finish – 68 points

LK: Ben Carter – Dragons (1 try, 13/14 tackles made, 1 lineout steal, 8 lineout takes)

Carter was immense at lineout time, paving the way for a last-minute victory over Zebre. He claimed 8 darts on Dragons’ ball and stole 1 away from Zebre. He ran a smart line for his try, allowing his teammate to pop the ball back on the inside for his to crash over from close range – 66 points

LK: Ricardo Favretto – Benetton (17/17 tackles made, 1 dominant tackle, 2 lineout steals, 1 line break assist)

Favretto was at the heart of a proud evening for Benetton as they overcame the Galacticos of Leinster. He barely put a foot wrong all game, completing a heroic 17 tackles. Furthermore, he disrupted Leinster’s lineout – making two crucial steals – 63 points

PR: Ntuthuko Mchunu – Stormers (2 tries, 2 defenders beaten, 4/5 carries crossing the gain line)

Mchunu has now scored 4 tries in his last 3 URC appearances – a remarkable scoring-rate for any position let alone a prop. His first try, courtesy of a brilliant pass from Neethling Fouche, finished off a beautifully worked 5m tap move; on the other hand, his 2^nd try was pure power close to the line. Mchunu was also part of a dominant scrummaging performance and his absence was felt in the 2^nd half where the Stormers began to struggle at set-piece – 67 points

HK: Ewan Ashman – Edinburgh (1 try, 1 try assist, 3 turnovers won, 1 line break)

Ashman led from the front in another remarkable performance from the Scottish international. He is one of few World Class players in this Edinburgh side, and makes his presence felt in every game. While the set-piece malfunctioned against a good Sharks defensive lineout, he was immense in the tight-loose. He won more turnovers (3) than any other tight 5 player, and assisted a try after charging down a box kick – 82 points

PR: Matteo Nocera – Zebre (15/16 tackles made, 1 dominant tackle, 100% scrum success)

It is not often that a Zebre player features in the TOTW, but Nocera’s inclusion is well deserved. He was solid in all his key roles, and laid the platform for his side to go on and claim a rare victory – which they ultimately could not do. This was through no fault of Nocera as he made 15/16 tackles and was part of a scrum which operated at 100% – 51 points

Written by Ryan

While the Garden City celebrated a public relations win for the competition, some of our managers were left with a massive “hospital pass” of a weekend, as late scratches and high-stakes trades decided the fate of the top four.

What is the OG League? For those newcomers joining us, The OG League is the founding Draft Rugby fantasy league and is in its 14th year of playing Draft Rugby. The OG League is a public and featured league on the draft rugby platform that you can follow along for the season if you have signed up to the platform. You can find it on the public leagues page featured at the top of draftrugby.com/leagues/join

Super Rugby Pacific Round 11 Top Performers

You can read about the full round 11 team of the week here.

Trades

The trade floor was electric this week, with 14 years of friendship briefly set aside for cold-blooded pragmatism:

• The Namesake Betrayal: In the week’s most ironic move, Wylie (The Toole Shed) traded away his namesake Corey Toole for Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens. Harry (Leicester We Forget) immediately scooped up Toole, and it almost ended in disaster for Wylie (more on that below).

• The Wing King Move: Nelson Dale swapped Zac Lomax for Dan Sinkinson (69), a move that proved statistically vital in Christchurch.

• Sloppy seconds: Cargie was all over Harry’s leftovers, swapping Mason Tupaea for Ollie Norris and bringing in Jona Nareki for Codemeru Vai.

You can check out the casualty ward updates for rounds 11-12, detailing all Super Rugby Pacific 2026 injuries and returns here.

Round 11 Fixtures:

Roigardians of the Galaxy vs. Ofa Tu’ungaFAST & The Furious

Result: 507 - 694 (Season Series: Blake leads Nabung 2-0)
Blake (Ofa Tu’ungaFAST) is currently a juggernaut. He completed the season sweep over Nabung with a monstrous 694 points, the second-highest team score of the year (to his 696 also scored against Nabung in round 4)! Jock Campbell (78) and Josh Moorby (75) were untouchable. Nabung (Roigardians) put up a respectable 507 but is now on a four-game losing streak. Nabung failed to snag a losing bonus point, leaving him desperate for a Round 12 turnaround.

Lam & Order vs. SAMISONIC THE HEDGEHOG

Result: 431 - 645 (Season Series: Tied at 1-1)
Nelson (SAMISONIC) continues to hunt the top spot, dismantling Sean in a clinical display at the Super Round. Sid Harvey (88) was the star of the show, backed by a revitalised Beauden Barrett (53). Sean (Lam & Order) struggled to find rhythm, with Andy Muirhead’s -1 acting as a handbrake on his scoring. Nelson also easily bagged the Attacking Bonus Point for clearing 550.

Expecto-Pa-TRY-trum vs. Situti Down

Result: 556 - 545 (Season Series: Andrew leads Cargie 2-0)
The Heartbreak match of the round. Andrew (Expecto) secured an important win by just 11 points off the back of Joey Walton (62) and Brayden Iose (61). But the story was Cargie’s (Situti Down) luck. Sevu Reece was a late scratch pre-game, leaving a 0 in Cargie’s XV. Had Sevu played and scored even a “pedestrian” 12 points, Cargie wins. Andrew takes the win and an Attacking BP, while Cargie has to settle for a solitary losing BP for finishing within 50.

The Toole Shed vs. Leicester We Forget

Result: 610 - 585 (Season Series: Tied at 1-1)
Wylie (The Toole Shed) survived a monumental scare to bag his third win of the year. After trading away Corey Toole to his opponent, Wylie watched in horror as Toole put up a massive 80 points for Harry. However, Fehi Fineanganofo (88) and Fraser McReight (67) dragged Wylie over the line. Both managers walk away with Attacking Bonus Points, and Harry snags a Losing Bonus Point to stay relevant in the playoff hunt.

Round 11 OG League Fantasy Facts

• Best Player: Fehi Fineanganofo & Sid Harvey (88 points) - The Toole Shed & Samisonic The Hedgehog,

• Best Trade: Corey Toole (80) - Leicester We Forget.

• Best Free Agent: Glen Vaihu (92) - Moana Pasifika. Now basically a guarantee to be in Andrew’s team once his AI algorithm gets a hold of this.

• Biggest Coaching Mistake: Harry Dale leaving Dallas McLeod (82) on the bench, choosing to start Josh Flook (28) instead.

The OG League Table After Round 11:

Blake (Ofa Tu’ungaFAST) is now nearly double-digits clear at the top (44 pts), looking like the minor premier elect. Nelson (SAMISONIC) is comfortably in 2nd (35 pts). The real dogfight is for 3rd through 6th, where Cargie, Nabung, Sean and Andrew are separated by a single win. Wylie remains at the bottom but scored the highest of the bottom three, suggesting the “Shed” is finally being rebuilt.

With the playoffs approaching, can anyone stop the Blake-Nelson domination, or are the rest of you just playing for the best seat in the fan zone?

Logged-in users can view the full OG League results and detailed breakdowns here.

What’s New on Draft Rugby?

Draft Rugby’s Sudden Death Super Round :

The big story us over the last week was the full launch of our one-week draft sprint. In this special event, the top scorer of the round took out first place.

Did you win your Sudden Death League? Let us know your prizes and punishments on Twitter or Instagram.

Written by Harrison Dale

Super Round in Christchurch lived up to the hype, delivering a high-octane weekend where the leaderboard narrowed and roster management became an extreme sport. While the Crusaders and Waratahs engaged in a heavyweight struggle for the stadium opening, savvy managers were scouring the Trade Window for the high-volume anchors holding their weekly matchups together. With the Casualty Ward now housing Crusaders try scoring machine Sevu Reece and Moana mastermind Patrick Pellegrini, identifying depth beneficiaries is the only way to find that 1% edge over your mates. This week we saw a masterclass in front-row involvement and midfield work-rate that separated the title contenders from the autodrafters.

Team of the Week

1: Chris Apoua – Prop, Moana Pasifika (62 pts)

Apoua provided the absolute blueprint for front-row volume. In 66 minutes, he recorded 8 dominant carries, a metric that is pure fantasy gold for props in our scoring engine. Pair that with 11 total carries and 15 ruck arrivals, and you have a workhorse outscoring most fly-halves.

2: Bradley Slater – Hooker, Blues (72 pts)

Slater continues to prove he is a premier elite-tier asset. A massive 17-tackle shift and 29 ruck arrivals provided a crushing floor for his owners, while his try ensured a high ceiling in the Blues’ physical encounter. He remains a “set and forget” anchor for any front row.

3: Fletcher Newell – Prop, Crusaders (60 pts)

Reliability personified. Newell hit 21 rucks and recorded 11 tackles to anchor the Crusaders’ pack. Under our position-specific scoring, his 10 carries generated a massive points base before his scrum dominance even came into play.

4: Warner Dearns – Lock, Hurricanes (77 pts)

The “engine” of the Hurricanes’ pack was at it again. Dearns secured 15 tackles and two turnovers won, but it was his 18 ruck arrivals and 2 lineout steals that provided the “grit” required to dominate the set-piece. He is a high-volume statistical unicorn in the second row.

5: Sam Darry – Lock, Blues (71 pts)

Darry was immense, stuffing the stat sheet with 12 carries and 14 tackles. His 5 lineout takes and 28 ruck arrivals show he is the true engine of the Blues’ second row, providing a safe scoring floor that anchors a winning head-to-head matchup.

6: Dalton Papali’i – Back Row, Blues (69 pts)

The Blues captain delivered a typical high-involvement shift. Making 19 tackles and hitting 24 rucks is a heroic effort, providing huge consistency for managers who drafted him early. His ability to consistently cross the paint adds that extra scoring edge.

7: Fraser McReight – Back Row, Reds (67 pts)

McReight was a human wrecking ball in the trenches, hitting a round-high 42 rucks! Pair that with 21 tackles and a well-earned try, and you have a relentless backrower who rewards managers through pure physical involvement regardless of the final score.

8: Brayden Iose – Back Row, Hurricanes (61 pts)

Iose showcased his raw athleticism with 6 tackle busts and a clinical try assist. His 23 ruck arrivals and high carry dominance ensure he remains an in-demand backrow option whenever he starts for the season’s final sprint.

9: Noah Hotham – Scrumhalf, Crusaders (53 pts)

Volume is king for Hotham. He registered 63 passes and 10 tackles, facilitating the Crusaders’ attack in the Christchurch cold. His two turnovers won show he is a defensive nuisance who provides consistent secondary scoring streams even when he isn’t scoring tries.

10: Beauden Barrett – Flyhalf, Blues (53 pts)

The veteran used his elite distribution to steer the Blues, racking up 457 kick metres and 3 line-break assists. Fly-halves who command territory and facilitate 2 try assists like this are absolute gold in the Draft format.

11: Glen Vaihu – Outside Back, Moana Pasifika (92 pts)

Vaihu was electric, recording 6 tackle busts and 2 line breaks. His 76 carry metres and clinical try confirm he is a high-volume strike-runner who must be owned as Moana looks to finish their final season with a bang.

12: Dallas McLeod – Centre, Crusaders (82 pts)

McLeod was a nightmare for the defense, recording a staggering 11 tackle busts and 75 post-contact metres. With two tries to his name, he showed he scores even better out on the edge than when he is played in the midfield.

13: Leicester Fainga’anuku – Centre, Crusaders (73 pts)

Leicester showed he can score no matter the number on his back (No. 7 this week for those living under a rock). He delivered a one-man wrecking crew performance, recording 19 carries and 33 ruck arrivals, fitting the statistical mould of a blindside flanker perfectly. His ability to generate massive attacking volume from all over the field is a total game-changer.

14: Fehi Fineanganofo – Outside Back, Hurricanes (88 pts)

The “haul” king does it again. 4 tries and 6 tackle busts, Fehi is the primary strike-runner in a rampant Hurricanes side. If you don’t own this blue-chip prospect yet, you are likely playing for second place in your league.

15: Sid Harvey – Outside Back, Waratahs (88 pts)

Harvey remains a model of consistency, beating 7 defenders and recording 3 line breaks. His role as the Waratahs’ primary kicker adds a secondary scoring stream that makes him the ultimate utility “Draft Hack” for your back three.

Available in your league? (Hidden Gems)

Dallas McLeod (Crusaders - Centre): With Sevu Reece and Chay Fihaki managing illness and injuries respectively, McLeod has secured a mandatory starting role and is thriving. His 11 tackle busts and 75 post-contact metres this week prove he is a high-volume anchor. Secure him before your rivals realize he is a locked-in starter.

Sid Harvey (Waratahs - Outside Back): The rookie fullback is justifying the hype with consistent try-scoring and goal-kicking duties. His 88-point shift in Round 11 suggests he is a mandatory waiver add for managers needing a high-ceiling outside back who also provides a reliable floor from the tee.

Chris Apoua (Moana Pasifika - Prop): In a Super Round where forward grit was essential, Apoua delivered 8 dominant carries and 15 ruck arrivals. Standing out for his relentless work rate, he provides the massive scoring floor that anchors a front-row rotation during the final playoff push. Grab him before he is claimed by your rivals.

Written by Harry Dale

As we enter the final few rounds of the regular season, every result becomes that much more crucial, especially for the 6 or 7 sides still battling to ensure qualification for the Quarter-Finals. This week, the Lions, Bulls, Cardiff, Connacht, Munster and Leinster all did what was required of them while Ulster and the Sharks, whose season is all but over now, could not. The Stormers and Glasgow are tussling for top spot but fell to sides they are expected to beat – their matchup next week will be crucial for playoff seedings.

Team of the Week

OB: Zekethelo Siyaya – Sharks (9 defenders beaten, 3 offloads, 12/14 carries across the gain line)

A dream debut for the teenage sensation. Just 4 months after he graduated high school, Siyaya was the standout performer for a lacklustre Sharks outfit away at the Ospreys. The Sharks, for some weeks now, have been error-strewn on attack. Siyaya, however, rose above the malaise and injected magic into the attack with nearly every touch of the ball. No player beat more defenders (9) and made more post-contact metres (79) across the round than him. A bright future lies ahead – 77 points

OB: Jacob Stockdale – Ulster (1 try assist, 8 defenders beaten, 2 line breaks, 2 line break assists)

Stockdale was part of a gallant, but ultimately futile, Ulster fight back. He contributed valiantly ball in hand showcasing both his play making and strike running skills. He was a menace to defenders, beating 8 Leinsterman. He made Zac Ward’s first try as he collected the ball on the drift, fixed the last man, before passing to his winger for an easy finish – 71 points

OB: Kyle Rowe – Glasgow (2 line breaks, 9 defenders beaten, 13/15 carries across the gain line)

Rowe was one of few who stood up and fought against a Lions side on searing form. He was, as usual, a threat whenever he was given the ball. He beat as many defenders as anyone else and broke the line twice – 68 points

CE: Alex Nankivell – Munster (2 try assists, 2 line breaks, 6 defenders beaten)

Nankivell was crucial to Munster’s fast start against Benetton assisting the first two scores. His first assist came off a lineout turnover; he collects the ball after fast hands from the inside backs before identifying the space out wide and executing a lofted pass to perfectly take advantage of it. His second demonstrated his elusiveness as he beat two defenders from a standing start before feeding his outside man to run in the try – 78 points

CE: Tommaso Menoncello – Benetton (9 defenders beaten, 1 dominant tackle, 49 post-contact metres)

Three players beat 9 defenders this week and all of them earned a spot in the TOTW. Beating defenders is often the difference between a good and great fantasy week. Menoncello has continued his excellent form with the Italian national side with Benetton solidifying his reputation as one of the best centres around – 73 points

FH: Dan Lancaster – Glasgow (1 try, 5 line break assists, 4 offloads)

Even when not entirely at the races, Glasgow’s attack is still accurate and dangerous. Lancaster pulled the strings, creating an astonishing 5 line breaks, by some distance the most across the round. Lancaster also finished off a trademark Glasgow sweeping move, picking up a try of his own – 88 points

SH: Alessandro Fusco – Zebre (1 try, 2 line break assists, 7/7 tackles, 2 defenders beaten)

Fusco is a livewire scrumhalf who does his best to keep his side on the front foot. He created two line breaks while keeping the defence honest with his sniping game. The highlight of his evening was a smartly taken quick tap penalty on the 5-metre line, catching Edinburgh fast asleep – 55 points

BR: James Culhane – Leinster (1 try, 4 defenders beaten, 3 offloads, 1 turnover won)

The young eighth-man made his presence felt in a dominant Interpro performance from Leinster. He carried fiercely with 12 of his 16 carries crossing the gain line, one of which for his try from a quick tap move, bursting through soft Ulster shoulders – 82 points

BR: Ruan Venter – Lions (1 try, 6 defenders beaten, 16/20 dominant carries, 1 turnover won) – Player of the Round

Venter was imperious as the Lions mauled Glasgow at Ellis Park. He carried more ball than any player and beat more defenders than any other forward. His try took advantage of a sleepy Glasgow defence as he stole around the back of the lineout after a dummy maul. He has had an excellent season with numerous TOTW appearances, but this may have been his best – 93 points

BR: Francke Horn – Lions (2 try assists, 3 line breaks, 2 line break assists, 5 defenders beaten)

While Venter was the battering ram, Horn was the glue that kept the Lions attacks going. He is a superb distributer and edge-forward, both of which were showcased by his assists. His first demonstrated his quick hands as he slipped van Wyk through from a quick tap play. On the other hand, his 2^nd was pure class, beating a couple of defenders on the outside before offloading to find van den Berg on a support line. However, his impact was not just limited to those two moments as all 7 of his carries crossed the gain line and made more line breaks than any other player – 78 points

LK: Emile van Heerden – Sharks (14/14 tackles made, 2 dominant tackles, 2 lineout steals)

In yet another game where the Sharks badly misfired, especially on attack, van Heerden was a key component of the one aspect of the game the Sharks dominated: the lineout. He claimed 8 lineout balls on his own ball and stole 2 from the opposition – the joint most along with teammate Vincent Tshituka – 59 points

LK: Ruan Nortje – Bulls (8/8 carries across the gainline, 1 dominant tackle, 1 lineout steal)

Nortje played his part in the physical dominance of the Bulls over the Dragons. All his carries dented the line, and he made one dominant tackle as the Bulls wore the Welsh side down – 60 points

PR: Thomas Clarkson – Leinster (12 carries, 37 metres carried, 2 turnovers won)

Clarkson was a willing ball carrying all game, playing a key role in softening up the Ulster defensive line. He carried more times than any other prop, gaining a critical 34 post-contact metres. He had key moments on defensive too, turning the ball over twice – more than any other forward in Round 15 – 56 points

HK: Ewan Ashman – Edinburgh (2 tries, 11/13 carries cross the gain line, 9/9 tackles)

Ashman was, as usual, a standout performer for Edinburgh as they snatched a late victory away from bottom-dwellers Zebre. The hooker played the full 80 minutes – nearly unheard of for a front rower in the modern game. He made full use of his time, making more carries than any tight-five player. His first try was classic Ashman, cutting a brutal hard line back towards the ruck as the defence shifted to cover the width. His second was a maul try that still required a strong effort to finish – 89 points

PR: SJ Kotze – Lions (1 try, 2 line breaks, 38 metres carried, 10/10 tackles, 1 dominant tackle)

SJ Kotze is a fantastic prop in the loose. In Round 15, he made more metres and post-contact metres than any other prop, despite making only 4 carries. His try came off a wonderful set few phases from the Lions, leaving the defence to fixate on Ntlabakanye, allowing Kotze to crash over the line – 75 points

Written by Ryan

In a round defined by narrow margins, it was the active managers who found gold, while the rest were left wondering where it all went wrong.

What is the OG League? For those newcomers joining us, The OG League is the founding Draft Rugby fantasy league and is in its 14th year of playing Draft Rugby. The OG League is a public and featured league on the draft rugby platform that you can follow along for the season if you have signed up to the platform. You can find it on the public leagues page featured at the top of draftrugby.com/leagues/join

Super Rugby Pacific Round 10 Top Performers

You can read about the full round 10 team of the week here.

Trades

The Round 9 trade session saw some high-stakes gambling as managers tried to outmaneuver their oldest rivals:

• The “Barrett” Gamble: Cargie (David) traded away last week’s hero Franco Molina for Scott Barrett. It’s a bold long-term play, but Barrett sat on the bench this week while Cargie narrowly escaped a scare.

• The Highlanders Heist: Nelson Dale pulled off the move of the round, swapping out Nic Shearer for Adam Lennox (71). This move was pure fantasy alchemy, turning a fringe player into a match-winning 71-pointer.

• Midfield Shuffles: Harrison Dale swapped Pita Ahki for Dallas McLeod (46), while Wylie brought in Patrick Tuipulotu (32) to add some much-needed weight to his engine room.

• The “Lomax” Leap: Nelson also snagged Zac Lomax (27), a move that proved vital in the battle for the top spots.

You can check out the casualty ward updates for rounds 10-11, detailing all Super Rugby Pacific 2026 injuries and returns here.

Round 10 Fixtures:

Leicester We Forget vs. Ofa Tu’ungaFAST & The Furious

Result: 596 - 614 The battle at the summit! Blake (Ofa Tu’ungaFAST) narrowly held onto the #1 spot in a 600-point shootout. Damian McKenzie (75) and Dalton Papali’i (63) were the difference-makers. Harry (Leicester We Forget) put up a valiant fight led by Leicester Fainga’anuku (77) and Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (76), but a nightmare -1 from Taine Robinson, and Chay Fihaki being pulled pregame proved to be the literal difference between a win and a loss.

Roigardians of the Galaxy vs. SAMISONIC THE HEDGEHOG

Result: 524 - 606 The “Hedgehog” has found its prickles! Nelson (SAMISONIC) dismantled Nabung in a high-stakes clash. The story of the match was Nelson’s trade activity: Adam Lennox (71) and Anton Segner (74) were untouchable. Nabung (Roigardians) saw strong returns from Jeremy Williams (63) and Cam Roigard (60), but he was left to rue his selection choices. Nabung has now slumped to three straight losses; the group chat is likely a dark place for the former table-leader right now.

Lam & Order vs. Situti Down

Result: 518 - 533 A classic mid-table grind. Cargie (Situti Down) continued his ascent, edging out Sean in a nail-biter. Timoci Tavatavanawai (63) and Bradley Slater (57) led the charge for Cargie. Sean (Lam & Order) was powered by Pete Samu (61) and Sam Darry (60), but a -3 from AJ Lam acted as a handbrake on his title aspirations.

The Toole Shed vs. Expecto-Pa-TRY-trum

Result: 452 - 499 Andrew (Expecto) secured a vital win to keep his playoff hopes alive. Joey Walton (65) and Dylan Pietsch (49) provided the necessary spark. Wylie (The Toole Shed) saw solid production from David Feliuai (54) and Billy Proctor (51), but he was let down by his outside backs, including a dismal combined 9 points from Fehi Fineanganofo & Liam Coombes-Fabling.

Round 10 OG League Fantasy Facts

• Best Player: Leicester Fainga’anuku (77 points) - Leicester We Forget

• Best Trade: Adam Lennox (71) - Samisonic The Hedgehog.

• Best Free Agent: Melani Matavao (62) - Fijian Drua.

• Biggest Coaching Mistake: Nelson Dale somehow takes this one, leaving Virimi Vakatawa on the bench AGAIN. This time, giving up 48 points.

The OG League Table After Round 10:

Blake (Ofa Tu'ungaFAST) holds a narrow lead at the top, but Nelson (SAMISONIC) has surged into 2nd place on the back of his trade masterstrokes. Nabung slips to 4th after his losing streak, while Cargie is now mathematically within striking distance of the top three. Wylie remains at the bottom, but the gap between 5th and 8th is now just one big weekend away from disappearing.

Logged-in users can view the full OG League results and detailed breakdowns here.

What’s New on Draft Rugby?

Super Round 1 Week League:

This week, we are running a one-week, winner-takes-all, Draft league to celebrate the Super Round in Christchurch. Get your mates together and select your dream teams to maximise your group chat banter. In this one-week shoot-out, the top point scorer of the week will take the crown, so it pays to take some risks!

Just create your league and select “Super Rugby 2026 - Super Round” and you’ll have the sudden death competition ready to go.

Live Match Day Fantasy Scores:

You can now see the live fantasy scores of an entire game day match-up (rather than only your league match-ups). It is just one more way you can enjoy following the fantasy action while watching the game.

Written by Harrison Dale

Round 10 was a weekend of absolute carnage for the ladder leaders, as the Western Force and Fijian Drua delivered two of the biggest upsets of the season to blow the playoff race wide open. While the top sides stumbled, fantasy managers were salvaged by massive defensive shifts and high-volume work rates in the trenches. With the Casualty Ward expanding to include Crusader Chay Fihaki and Drua back Isikeli Rabitu, the Trade Window has never been more important. If you aren't identifying the relentless anchors who reward managers through pure involvement, you’re losing ground in your weekly head-to-head.

Team of the Week

1: Abraham Pole – Prop, Moana Pasifika (53 pts). Pole provided a textbook high-floor performance for a prop. In 70 minutes of work, he recorded a massive 19 tackles and won 6 scrums. In our scoring engine, a prop making 19 tackles is the statistical equivalent of more than two tries before he even carries the ball.

2: George Bell – Hooker, Crusaders (61 pts) Bell continues to prove his worth as an elite “set and forget” hooker. Along with a try, he recorded 14 tackles and 15 ruck arrivals. His high work rate provides a reliable scoring floor that most bench-rotation hookers simply cannot match.

3: Tom Robertson – Prop, Western Force (52 pts) Robertson anchored the Force’s historic upset over the Crusaders with 11 tackles (2 dominant) and a try-saving tackle. These defensive secondary metrics are absolute gold for front-rowers who might not get the flashy carry metres.

4: Jeremy Williams – Lock, Western Force (63 pts) The Force captain delivered a true workhorse shift to lead the engine room. Racking up a round-high 22 tackles for locks and 7 lineout takes, Williams provided the stability required to topple the defending champions.

5: Jamie Hannah – Lock, Crusaders (62 pts) Hannah was everywhere in the trenches, hitting a round-high 36 rucks and making 17 tackles. Under the 2026 scoring engine, this level of relentless involvement from the second row is mandatory for managers looking for that 1% edge.

6: Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa – Back Row, Moana Pasifika (76 pts) The absolute anchor of the round. Ta’eiloa recorded a staggering “double-double” with 21 carries and 24 tackles. Crossing the gain line 16 times is elite-tier volume that breaks head-to-head matchups wide open.

7: Anton Segner – Back Row, Blues (74 pts) Segner performed like a kaiser against the Highlanders, scoring two tries and securing 5 lineout takes. His ability to contest the air and find the try line makes him a premier back-row asset for any title charge.

8: Peter Lakai – Back Row, Hurricanes (69 pts) Lakai was a human wrecking ball in the top-of-the-table clash, pairing a try with 17 tackles. His high ruck involvement (19 arrivals) ensures he remains a consistent scoring threat regardless of the Hurricanes’ result.

9: Adam Lennox – Scrumhalf, Highlanders (71 pts) Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph sent a clear performance message by starting Lennox, and the youngster responded with two tries and 8 tackle busts. A dual-threat 9 with this level of attacking ceiling is a mandatory Trade Window target.

10: Damian McKenzie – Flyhalf, Chiefs (75 pts) McKenzie remains the premier architect of Super Rugby. Beating 9 defenders and racking up 355 kick metres, he used his elite distribution to steer the Chiefs to a thrilling golden-point win over the Hurricanes.

11: Sid Harvey – Outside Back, Waratahs (76 pts) The standout rookie delivered a vibrant display with a brace of tries and 14 individual points. His ability to find ball in space along the sideline makes him an elite-tier asset with a sky-high ceiling.

12: Leicester Fainga’anuku – Centre, Crusaders (77 pts). Leicester was a nightmare for the Force defence, pairing a try with 8 dominant carries. His 15 total carries for 91 metres confirm his status as the primary strike-runner for a reshuffled Crusaders midfield.

13: Joey Walton – Centre, Waratahs (65 pts) Marking his 50th Super Rugby appearance, Walton was a defensive titan with 16 tackles. Pair that with 17 carries, and you have a high-volume midfield anchor who rewards managers through pure relentless involvement.

14: Macca Springer – Outside Back, Crusaders (63 pts) Returning from a long-term quad injury, Springer didn’t miss a beat. He recorded 12 gain-line crosses and 126 carry metres, proving his explosive pace is still a premier weapon for your back three.

15: Dylan Pietsch – Outside Back, Western Force (49 pts) Pietsch celebrated his return from the Casualty Ward with a clinical try and two turnovers won. His defensive grit and ability to create attacking volume make him a priority target in the Trade Window.

Available in your league? (Hidden Gems)

Adam Lennox (Highlanders - Scrumhalf): Elevated to start by Jamie Joseph as a pointed selection for performance, Lennox delivered a masterclass with 2 tries and 8 tackle busts. With both Fakatava and Shearer now looking over their shoulders, Lennox has a clear pathway to consistent high-volume minutes. Secure this high-ceiling playmaker before your league-mates catch on.

Abraham Pole (Moana Pasifika - Prop): In a round where most high-draft-capital props went missing, Pole delivered a massive 19-tackle shift and 6 scrums won. Standing out for his relentless work rate in a physical Moana pack, he provides a safe scoring floor that anchors any front-row rotation. Grab this reliable anchor before he is sniped during the bye rounds.

Lachlan Lonergan (Brumbies - Hooker): After a long road back from an ACL injury sustained during the 2025 Lions tour, the Wallabies hooker officially returned to the field in Round 10. While he is currently providing impact off the bench, his high-volume work rate and clinical finishing at the maul make him a mandatory target as his minutes inevitably increase. Secure this elite front-row anchor now before he challenges Billy Pollard for the starting jersey.

Written by Harry Dale

This week we have an important announcement as we launch the Super Round Sudden Death Draft!

1 week, 2-10 mates, winner takes all! Add some spice to every game as Super Round kicks off for rd 11!

Find us on the socials on all channels @draftrugby and check out our website draftrugby.com

Thank you to all our amazing guests!

Podcast caps:
Harry 181 Caps
Nelson 155 Caps
Cargie 147 Caps
Nabung ‘The Supersub’ - 14 Caps
Mitch ‘Rev’ Evans - 4
Paul Tait - 3
Scotty ‘Sumo’ Stevenson, Squidge Rugby, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick McArdle, Mitch Foster - 2
Nick Frost, Squidge Rugby (Robbie & Will), Morgan Turinui, Blake ‘The Weatherman’, Elite Rugby Banter, Ben Darwin, Brendon Shields, Naca Cawanibuka, Shane Hussein, Michael Atkinson & Chrissy Nabung- 1

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Note: The Casualty Ward will be released Sunday/ Monday for all paid subscribers, and Thursday for all free readers.

New Injuries Round 10:

Isikeli Rabitu (Drua) - Knocked himself out and was stretchered off in making a high tackle himself.
Isikeli Basiyalo (Drua) - Came off after 16 minutes straight after a dash down the sideline. He had his hammy taped up so we are assuming it is a hamstring muscle tear. He jogged off comfortably, but limped when walking which fits this diagnosis as well.
Samu Tawake (Drua) - Off after 34 minutes. We think this was just a tactical sub.
Lawson Creighton (Waratahs) - Came off with a concussion early in the game. Will go through the minimum 12-day return-to-play protocol.

Melani Matavao (Moana) - Hurt his left knee shooting out of the line in defence. Source.
Veikoso Poloniati (Moana) - Came off after 26 minutes with a concussion. Will go through the RTP protocols. Source.
Will Tucker (Crusaders) - Ruled out pregame with a concussion. Return date is TBC. Source.
Chay Fihaki (Crusaders) - Ruled out pregame rd 10 with a hamstring injury. Expected back rd 14-16. Source.
Isaia Walker-Leawere (Hurricanes) - Missing rd 11 with a concussion. Source.
Caleb Tangitau (Highlanders) - Has his head knocked off after setting up a try for teammate Tele’a. Will go through concussion protocols and miss rd 11.
Jona Nareki (Highlanders) - Missing rd 11 with an ankle injury. Expected back in rd 12. Source.
Finn Hurley (Highlanders) - Ruled out of rd 11 with a hamstring injury. Expected back in 4-6 weeks. Source.
Reesjan Pasitoa (Highlanders) - Sustained an ankle fracture requiring surgery and will be sidelined for the remainder for the 2026 Super Rugby Season . Source.
Kaylum Boshier (Chiefs) - Pulled pregame with a concussion. Source.
Samipeni Finau (Chiefs) - Pulled pregame with a quad injury. Expected back rd 13-15. Source.
Reuben O’Neill (Chiefs) - Pulled pregame. Source.
Luke Jacobson (Chiefs) - Ruled out of rd 11 with an undisclosed injury. Source.
Malachi Wrampling (Chiefs) - Ruled out of rd 11 with a hamstring injury. Source.

Likely Back for Round 10:

Harry Potter (Waratahs)- Returned from a quad injury he sustained before rd 7 via the club scene. You would think he is available to play rd 11 for the Tahs.
Treyvon Pritchard (Reds) - Concussed in rd 8 so a standard recovery would have him back this week.
Josh Nasser (Reds) - Concussed in rd 8 so a standard recovery would have him back this week.
Jock Campbell (Reds) - Concussed in rd 9, all going well, he should be available.
George Blake (Reds) - Came off injured in the 79th minute of rd 7. He looked to be holding his left wrist/ thumb, but the coverage said it was for an HIA. No longer listed as injured in rd 11. Source.
Jack Daly (Force) - Came off in rd 9 with a concussion after shooting out of the line and making a tackle. So he could be available this week.

Stephen Perofeta (Blues) - Ruled out pregame rd 4 as a precautionary measure for a “minor injury” that we now know was his calf. Source. Taken off the injury list for rd 10 so he should return soon.
Tupou Vaa’i (Chiefs) - Missed rd 10 with a concussion. Expected back this week. Source.
Lalakai Foketi (Chiefs) - Listed as injured as of rd 7 with a hand injury. Return date is set at rds 11-13. Source.
Kyle Brown (Chiefs) - Pulled up lame after kicking a ball in a counterattack in rd 9. Now listed as a hip injury, to return rd 11. Source.
Siale Lauaki (Hurricanes) - Came off with a concussion in rd 9. Will now go through the 12 day minimum return to play protocol, so could be ready.
Ngane Punivai (Hurricanes) - Listed as having a hamstring injury before rd 5. Return date now listed as rd 11-12. Source.
Kini Naholo (Hurricanes) - Was expected to return from his ACL Recon in rd 6. But suffered a foot injury. Pushed back again to return rd 11-12. Source.
Logan Wallace (Hurricanes) - Has a calf injury. Expected to return in rd 11. Source.
Matolu Petaia (Hurricanes) - Has a leg injury. Expected back in rd 11. Source.
David Havili (Crusaders) - Picked up a Concussion in the rd 9 bye week. Return date is TBC, but you’d think he was a maybe for rd 11 unless he did it late in the week. Source.
Kyle Preston (Crusaders) - Out with a knee injury since rd 8. Returns on the bench this week. Source.
Codie Taylor (Crusaders) - Missed rd 9 and 10 with a hamstring muscle injury. Back starting this week. Source.
Braydon Ennor (Crusaders) - Missed rd 9 and 10 with a hamstring muscle injury. Returning early this week. Source.
Jonah Lowe (Highlanders) - Newly listed with a calf injury before rd 10. To return in 1-2 weeks, so he might return. Source.
Josh Whaanga (Highlanders) - Newly listed with a knee injury before rd 10. To return in 1-2 weeks, so he might return. Source.
Allan Craig (Moana) - Concussed in rd 8. Returning in rd 11.
Lalomilo Lalomilo (Moana) - Pulled pregame rd 9. No word as to why yet. Returning in rd 11.

Returned in Round 10:

Temo Mayanavanua (Drua) - Returned to captain the side for rd 10 after a rd 2 knee injury.
Mesake Vocevoce (Drua) - Pulled pregame rd 9, back off the bench in rd 10. No word as to why.
Darcy Swain (Force) - Returned after missing rd 9 with gastro.
Tom Robertson (Force) - Returned from his rd 8 Cat 1 concussion.
Carlo Tizzano (Force) - Recovered from a rd 7 knee injury to star for the Force.
Nathan Hastie (Force) - Pulled pregame with a rib complaint rd 8. Returned via the bench.
Lawson Creighton (Waratahs)- Recovered from his sore Sternoclavicular joint back in rd 7. Didn’t last long until he was injured again.
Teddy Wilson (Waratahs)- Played this week after coming off early in rd 8.
Tom Wright (Brumbies) - Recovered from an ACL reconstruction in August to start at fullback earlier than expected.

Macca Springer (Crusaders) - Played his first game after recovering from a quad injury.
Wallace Sititi (Chiefs) - Out since rd 4 with a hamstring injury. Played off the bench this week.
Dalton Papali’i (Blues) - Returned from a rd 6 back injury.
Hoskins Sotutu (Blues) - Returned from a knee injury that has kept him out since rd 6.
Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues) - Played his first game since AC (shoulder) surgery in October.
Israel Leota (Moana) - Named fit after recovering from a rd 2 an ankle sprain, but was not selected.
Jonathan Taumateine (Moana) - Returned from a rd 3 knee injury off the bench.
Finn Hurley (Highlanders) - Made his comeback via the bench from a foot stress fracture.

Ongoing Injury List:

AUSTRALIA

Brumbies
Rhys Van Nek - Suffered a thumb injury in rd 4. Consulting a surgeon to determine a RTP time. Source.
Charlie Cale - Injured his shoulder in rd 9. In rd 10 they announced he would be out for 4-6 weeks (Rd 15-16). Source.

Reds
Tate McDermott - Suffered a hamstring injury that required surgery against the All Blacks in late September. Before rd 10 they said he could be back in a month, so mid to late May. Source.
Massimo De Lutiis - Listed as injured since before rd 1. No info on what it is. Source.
Nicholas Conway - Listed as injured in rd 4. Source.
Lachie Anderson - Suffered a serious wrist injury trying to tackle Tualima in rd 4. He went to the hospital and will be out for an extended period of time. Source.
Josh Canham - Right leg injury rd 4. His foot was planted and he twisted over it in a ruck. Needed to be assisted off by two people. We have heard it is actually a serious hamstring injury. Given he was spotted in a brace on the sideline, he may actually have a posterolateral corner (PLC) injury that can include the hamstring and some of the ligaments.
Carter Gordon - Injured his right knee in rd 9. Les Kiss said “It’s a minor knee injury around the cartilage”. He will miss a few weeks but is expected to be back before finals. Source.
Tom Lynagh - We read he should be back for rd 11, but apparently he still has a calf injury. Source.

Waratahs
James Hendren - Unavailable from rd 6 due to a wrist injury. Source.
Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii - Tore his hamstring in rd 4, a 6-8 week return date, but during rd 10 they said he was still a little unlikely to play rd 11. Source.

Western Force
Doug Philipson - Missed the preseason with a knee injury, and is still listed as a medium-term injury in rd 9. Source.
Feao Fotuaika - Missed the first trial with a foot injury. Considered a medium-term injury as of rd 1. Source.
Alex Harford - Left the field in the trial against the Reds on Jan 23rd, holding his arm or shoulder in his jersey. Listed as a long-term injury in rd 9. Source.
Ronan Leahy - Missing rd 9 with a knee injury. Listed as a medium-term injury. Source.
Darby Lancaster - Came down from taking a highball very awkwardly on his ankle in rd 8. The alarm bells rang after he said his “career” was over in a rd 10 interview; this has now been confirmed to be a mistake; he will just miss the rest of Super Rugby 2026. Source.

NEW ZEALAND

Blues
Corey Evans - Missing rd 1 to 7 with an ankle injury. No confirmation on a return date. Source.
Jordan Lay - Missed rd 1 to 7 with a concussion. No return date set yet. Source.
Josh Fusitu’a - Injured his elbow in rd 2. We now know he has had an operation on his bicep, so we assume he ruptured it. They say he is targeting to play this season, but recovery should take at least 4 months (roughly June). Source.
Laghlan McWhannell - Missed rd 6 and 7 with a concussion. All going well he should return anytime now. Source.
Caleb Clarke - Picked up a calf strain before rd 10. Source.
Ofa Tu’ungafasi - Came off for an HIA in rd 9. Didn’t play rd 11 because he was still nursing a calf injury. Source.

Chiefs
Benet Kumeroa - Went down with a right ankle injury in rd 4. Aiming to return rd 12. Source.
Daniel Rona - Injured in his hamstring in rd 6, return date set for rd 14. Source.
Etene Nanai-Seturo - Missed rd 8 with a foot injury. Aiming to return rd 16. Source.
Emoni Narawa - Came off at halftime in rd 8 with a foot injury. Aiming to return rd 16. Source.
Tomás Lavanini - Suffered a dislocated finger in rd 7. Expected to miss 1 week. Source.
Sione Ahio - Newly listed as having a quad injury in rd 9. Return date is rd 13. Source.

Crusaders
Scott Barrett - Still finalising his return date from the sabbatical, but his intention is to return sometime in May. Source. Training with the squad before rd 11, expected back in the next few weeks. Source.
Liam Jack - Out with a hamstring injury. Aiming to return in rd 12. Source.
Cullen Grace - “Busted” his patella in August for Canterbury. Still no set return date yet, but not far from playing some club footy as of rd 11. Source.
Aki Tuivailala - Concussed in rd 4. Return date TBC. Source.
Ethan Blackadder - Out with a calf injury since rd 8. Aiming to return rd 12. Source.
Will Jordan - Missed rd 9 with calf muscle stiffness. Retore it, trying to return and is now expected back on rd 13-15. Source.

Highlanders
Jake Te Hiwi - Returning from surgery, back on the field again but still a little way off by the sounds of it on Feb 3rd. Source.
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens - Rolled his ankle in rd 7. Expected to be out for 3-4 weeks for rd 10. Source.

Hurricanes
Tom Allen - Was expected back from a leg injury for rd 2, but still down as injured. Source.
Jai Tamati - Looks to have picked up an ankle injury after rd 2. Expected back rd 13. Source.
Taine Roiri - Has a hamstring injury. Was aiming for rd 10, now pushed back to Rd 13-15. Source.
Tyrel Lomax - Returned from an ankle injury only to be pulled with a new ankle injury before rd 7. As of rd 10 should be back in 6 weeks. Source.
Hugo Plummer - Has a new ankle injury before rd 9. Aiming to return rd 12-13. Source.
Bailyn Sullivan - Has a new leg injury before rd 9. Aiming to return rd 12-13. Source.
Josh Timu (Hurricanes) - Has an ankle injury as of rd 9. Return date is TBC. Source.

PASIFIKA TEAMS

Fijian Drua
Meli Derenalagi - Expected to miss the bulk of the season due to a 2nd ACL injury he suffered in April 2025. He could return at 9 months (late Jan), but it is more likely he is closer to 12 months, given it is his 2nd ACL injury. Source.
Meli Tuni - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a knee injury. Source.
Aisea Nawai - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a leg injury. Source.
Kavaia Tagivetaua - Listed as having an ankle injury as of rd 5. Source.
Frank Lomani - Came off with a right ankle injury after getting stepped in defence in rd 7. Ruled out for 3 weeks, so should be back by round 11. Source. Now listed as a knee injury so we aren’t sure if it has changed. Source.
Peni Ravai - Limped off after 79 minutes in rd 8 with an injury.
Iosefo Namoce - Pulled pregame rd 9. No word as to why yet. Source.
Haereiti Hetet - Injured his back in the warm-up of rd 9. No details on a return date yet. Source.

Moana Pasifika
Tupou Afungia - Recovered from a neck injury, but suffered a concussion in rd 3. Now listed as a neck injury again in rd 6. Source.
Lolani Faleiva - Has a shoulder injury. No return date announced. Source.
Julian Savea - Came off in rd 6 with a nasty-looking shoulder injury. We suspect he has dislocated it, so he will be out for some time.
Tito Tuipulotu - Missing rd 7 with a thumb injury. Source.
Monu Moli - Has a new foot injury as of rd 9. No further details yet. Source.
Ngani Laumape - Has a new knee injury as of rd 9. No further details yet. Source.
Tevita Ofa - Has a new finger injury as of rd 9. No further details yet. Source.
Niko Jones - Limped off the field in rd 9 with what we think was a calf injury. Source.

Gone for the season:

Dan Nelson (Brumbies) - Fractured his fibula in his lower leg before d 5. Ruled out for the remainder of the season. Source.
Kye Oates (Brumbies) - Fracture dislocation of his ankle before rd 8. He has already had an operation. They said he is aiming to be back in 12 weeks (so won’t play again this season), but I think this is probably being hopeful. Source.
Ponipate Loganimasi (Drua) - Commentary said that Loganimasi came off with a dislocated wrist in rd 7. He has now been ruled out for the season with an arm injury, so we believe this is the reason. Source.
Epeli Momo (Drua) - Ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury before rd 8. Source.

Dylan Pledger (Highlanders) - Ruled out of all rugby for the year following a training ground accident that resulted in a complete rupture of his ACL in January. Source.
Fabian Holland (Highlanders) - Now confirmed he dislocated his right shoulder while trying to pilfer during a ruck on the 6th of Feb. Confirmed he will be out for the full Super Rugby season with an aim to return in the July international window. Source.
Josh Tengblad (Highlanders) - Suffered an ACL injury in rd 5. Out for the season. Source.
Harry Godfrey (Hurricanes) - Expected to miss the 2026 Super Rugby season due to an ACL injury. Source.
Brett Cameron (Hurricanes) - Stretchered off with a right knee injury. They haven’t told us what the injury is, but it was confirmed during rd 3 that he is having surgery and is out for the season. Source.
Cam Christie (Blues) - Hobbled off with a knee ligament injury in the Jan 30th trial. Now confirmed, he is out for the season. Source.
James White (Crusaders) - Suffered a shoulder injury and will be out for the rest of the season. Source.
Tamaiti Williams (Crusaders) - Ruled out after rd 7 for the year with an infection of a disc in his back (Discitis). He will make a full recovery, but won’t play until at least the first international window. Source.
Jayden Sa (Chiefs) - Suffered a new shoulder injury in rd 5. Confirmed he is out for the season. Source.

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Written by your local rugby nerd Harrison Dale.

This week, with only Quentin MacDonald scoring a win in the bottom four, we saw the buffer widen between the First XV and the tackle-bag holders.

To see how the Super Rugby experts play the game (James & Tom Marshall, Johnny McNicholl, Tino Nemani, Quentin MacDonald, Ben Searle, Jake & the Stats Man), navigate to the leagues menu and select the “What A Lad” League, or click HERE.

Round 9 Matchup Reviews

Jmacsmen’s vs. Jakeabernethy14’s Team

Result: 485 - 575
Jakeabernethy14 joyride continues, moving to a staggering 8-1 record. He did it with a clinical display from his Chiefs muscle Tyrone Thompson (88) and Quinn Tupaea (85). Jake identified the Moana defensive frailties and took full advantage.

It was a momentous occasion for Jmacsmen’s (Johnny McNicholl). He is officially the first ever Super Rugby player to both play fantasy and in a real-world starting 15 at the same time. He put up a brave 485, led by a vintage 70 from Cam Roigard, but Johnny’s lack of trade activity was a clear case of 'don't believe your own hype.' He essentially brought a knife to a gunfight. A solid score, but in the “What a Lad” penthouse, “solid” is just a polite word for relegation fodder.”

Rams Nation vs. What a Lad

Result: 495 - 507
A genuine “Squeaky-Bum Time” finish! James Marshall (What a Lad) proved why he’s the busiest man in the trade window. He swapped Treyvon Pritchard for Dylan Pietsch (33), a move that proved statistically vital in a 12-point win. George Bell (63) and Jamie Hannah (51) did the heavy lifting up front, with Warner Dearns (70) breaking the game open off his bench.

Rams nation will be absolutely sick, leading all weekend only to be pipped by a man who checks the trade window more often than his own Crusaders team sheet. Despite Callum Harkin (65) and Rob Valetini (51) showing heart, the “Rams” lacked the late-game trade-inspired bench depth to hold off the charge.

Onit26’s Team vs. Tojos Troops

Result: 259 - 443
Tino Nemani (onit26’s Team) was the only manager besides James to actually open the trade app this week, but even his masterstroke of snagging Filipo Daugunu couldn’t save him as he stumbled at the final hurdle. Daugunu put up a massive 80 points on the bench, with Nemani’s decision to start Codemeru Vai (2) haunting him as the final results came in.

Tom Marshall (Tojos Troops) didn’t even bother fielding a full XV. Starting with only 10 men and still winning by nearly 200 points is the ultimate 'sit down' to the rest of the league. Jeremy Williams (88), Kyren Taumoefolau (82), and Xavier Numia (74) feasted on a weakened opponent, securing a comfortable win that keeps him securely in the top four. If Tom can stop his roster from becoming a permanent resident of the Casualty Ward, he might just hunt his brother down for the title.

Qmix02’s Team vs. Searleytalkssport’s Team

Result: 457 - 354
In the “Battle of the Basement,” Quentin MacDonald’s (Qmix02’s) Team finally found some breathing room. Miracle Faiilagi (76) and Damian McKenzie (65) provided the spark.

Ben Searle (Searleytalkssport) remains winless at 0-9; proving that talking about sport and actually managing a roster are two very different skill sets. Despite a 45 from his draft-day darling Johnny McNicholl, the team is looking more like a provincial curtain-raiser than a First XV contender. He managed to leave Xavi Taele (55) on the bench, a move so strategically bankrupt he is now under permanent TMO review for 'Lack of Intent.' With league leader James Marshall now just 69 points away from doubling Ben’s total season score, we have to ask: Is Ben trying to win, or is he just auditioning for a pity interview on the What A Lad podcast?

Round 9 Fantasy Facts

• Round MVP: Jeremy Williams/ Tyrone Thompson (88 points) – Tojos Troops/ Jakeabernethy14’s Team.

• Best Free Agent: Liam Coombes-Fabling (88 points) - Chiefs.

• Super Sub: Kyren Taumoefolau (82 points) - Tojos Troops.

• The Bench Nightmare: Onit26’s started Codemeru Vai (2), leaving newly signed Filipo Daugunu (80 points) on the bench.

Suggested Rule Change:
With Johnny McNicholl taking the field for the first time, we think he should get double points if he can manage to get into his own fantasy team. What do you think?

The Table:

Written by Harrison Dale

In the OG League, we saw a weekend defined by massive point totals and the immediate impact of mid-week trades. Some managers look like geniuses, while others are left staring at their benches in despair.

What is the OG League? For those newcomers joining us, The OG League is the founding Draft Rugby fantasy league and is in its 14th year of playing Draft Rugby. The OG League is a public and featured league on the draft rugby platform that you can follow along for the season if you have signed up to the platform. You can find it on the public leagues page featured at the top of draftrugby.com/leagues/join

Super Rugby Pacific Round 9 Top Performers

You can read about the full round 9 team of the week here.

Trades

The trade session for Round 8 was arguably the most active of the season:

• The Hooker Shuffle: Cargie traded away Josh Nasser for Tyrone Thompson (88), a massive upgrade that fueled his round-high score.

• The "Miracle" Deal: In a Friday afternoon special, Sean (Lam & Order) sent Pete Samu to Cargie in exchange for Miracle Faiilagi (76). Faiilagi's monster game helped Cargie clear the 700-mark, but Sean won't be complaining after his win.

• Blues Reinforcements: Nelson Dale was busy, snagging Xavi Taele (55) and Zarn Sullivan (51) to bolster his backline.

You can check out the casualty ward updates for rounds 9-10, detailing all Super Rugby Pacific 2026 injuries and returns here.

Round 9 Fixtures:

Roigardians of the Galaxy vs. Lam & Order

Result: 506 - 561 The “Nabung Curse” continues! For the second week in a row, the defending champ has been taken down. Sean’s Lam & Order utilized a balanced attack led by Ethan de Groot (61) and Ben Donaldson (54). Nabung’s Roigardians were powered by an 88 from Jeremy Williams, but the decision to play with 14 men proved costly.

The Toole Shed vs. Situti Down

Result: 525 - 720 TOTAL CARNAGE. Cargie (Situti Down) put up the score of the season, a monstrous 720. It was a “Chiefs & Canes” clinic: Tyrone Thompson (88), Xavier Numia (74), and trade-in Miracle Faiilagi (76) were untouchable. Wylie (The Toole Shed) actually put up a very respectable 525, led by Liam Coombes-Fabling (88), but he was simply standing in the way of a freight train this week.

SAMISONIC THE HEDGEHOG vs. Leicester We Forget

Result: 537 - 490 Nelson’s SAMISONIC keeps the pressure on the top two after making another 6 trades to sneak a second unlikely win in a row, this time against his arch nemesis (a.k.a. his brother). Filipo Daugunu (80) and Anton Segner (68) provided the fireworks, while trade-ins Xavi Taele (55) and Zarn Sullivan (51) paid immediate dividends. Harry (Leicester We Forget) struggled with a nightmare -14 from Etonia Waqa, which completely offset the good work of Augustine Pulu (52).

Note: Nelson left 83 points from Virimi Vakatawa on the bench! If he’d started him, he would have been pushing for the round high.

Expecto-Pa-TRY-trum vs. Ofa Tu’ungaFAST & The Furious

Result: 448 - 590 Blake (Ofa Tu’ungaFAST) is officially the king of the hill. Capitalizing on Nabung’s loss, Blake solidified himself in 1st place with a dominant win. Quinn Tupaea (85) and Kyren Taumoefolau (82) were electric. Andrew (Expecto) had a solid outing from Ryan Lonergan (61) but was let down by a complete lack of other players contributing heavily.

Round 9 OG League Fantasy Facts

• Best Player: Tyrone Thompson, Jeremy Williams, Liam Coombes-Fabling (88 points) - Situti Down, Roigardians of the Galaxy, Toole Shed

• Best Trade: Tyrone Thompson (88) - Situti Down.

• Best Free Agent: Will Harris (52) - Western Force.

• Biggest Coaching Mistake: Nelson Dale leaving 83 points (Virimi Vakatawa) on the bench.

The OG League Table After Round 9:

Blake (Ofa Tu’ungaFAST) finally has some clear air with over a BP win from 2nd spot! Nabung slips back to the pack after his second straight loss. Sean and Nelson are neck-and-neck for 3rd, while Cargie continues his meteoric rise, now sitting comfortably in 5th and threatening the top four. Wylie remains at the bottom, but his 500+ score suggests he’s not dead yet.

Is it time for Nabung to panic-trade, or can the Roigardians find their Galaxy-conquering form again in Round 10?

Logged-in users can view the full OG League results and detailed breakdowns here.

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Written by Harrison Dale

Round 9 was a weekend of statement wins and record-breaking hauls. The Hurricanes firmly established themselves as title favorites by dismantling the Blues in a top of the table clash, while the Chiefs treated the Rotorua turf like a training run against Moana Pasifika. For fantasy managers, the Trade Window has become a high-stakes environment as the Casualty Ward continues to swallow elite assets like Will Jordan (calf), Codie Taylor (hamstring), and Tyrel Lomax (ankle). If you aren't scouring the free agency for "Next Man Up" replacements, you’re essentially handing your league-mates a win on a silver platter.

Team of the Week

1: Xavier Numia – Prop, Hurricanes (74 pts) Numia provided the absolute blueprint for a high-volume prop shift. With 13 carries, he banked 26 points on carry volume alone under our refined scoring engine. Pair that with 9 scrums won, a line break, and 18 ruck arrivals, and you have a front-rower outscoring most mid-tier fly-halves.

2: Tyrone Thompson – Hooker, Chiefs (88 pts) With Samisoni Taukei’aho given a rest week, Thompson stepped into the vacuum and delivered a masterclass. Along with a brace of tries, he recorded 4 tackle busts and 20 ruck arrivals. High-work-rate hookers are the ultimate fantasy floor-boosters in the head-to-head format.

3: Ethan de Groot – Prop, Highlanders (61 pts) De Groot was a defensive titan in a losing effort against the Brumbies. 14 tackles (2 dominant) and a try-saving tackle provided a massive floor, while his 3 turnovers won showed a breakdown nuisance level rarely seen from a loosehead.

4: Jeremy Williams – Lock, Force (88 pts) The Force captain was immense, stuffing the stat sheet with a try, 8 lineout takes, and 2 turnovers won. His 10 scrums won and carry dominance (2) ensure he remains one of the most reliable blue-chip locks to anchor your engine room.

5: Warner Dearns – Lock, Hurricanes (70 pts) The “engine” of the Hurricanes’ pack was at it again, hitting a round-high 28 rucks. Dearns secured 16 tackles and 2 lineout steals, providing the “grit” that allowed the Wellington backline to run riot against the Blues.

6: Miracle Faiilagi – Back Row, Moana Pasifika (76 pts) The Moana captain continues to be a multi-category monster. 2 line breaks and 73 post-contact metres from 9 carries show an attacking ceiling that most back-rowers can’t touch. He remains a “set and forget” asset regardless of Moana’s results.

7: Anton Segner – Back Row, Blues (68 pts) Segner showcased his transition to a frontline workhorse with 2 line breaks and 81 carry metres. His 7 lineout takes add a secondary scoring stream that makes him a premier target in the Trade Window for those needing work rate consistency.

8: Malachi Wrampling-Alec – Back Row, Blues (68 pts) Malachi is officially experiencing a breakout campaign. Against a physical Hurricanes pack, he recorded 14 tackles and 7 tackle busts to go along with a well-earned try. His high involvement rate is quickly turning him into a mandatory starter.

9: Cam Roigard – Scrumhalf, Hurricanes (70 pts) Roigard remains the premier 9 in The Draft. 76 passes and 5 tackle busts facilitate the Hurricanes’ attack, but it’s his try and 316 kick metres that provide the massive fantasy ceiling that breaks matchups wide open.

10: Damian McKenzie – Flyhalf, Chiefs (65 pts) A historical afternoon for DMac, who became the Chiefs’ all-time leading try-scorer with a double against Moana Pasifika. Beyond the points, his 4 line-break assists show he is the primary architect of the competition’s most dangerous offense.

11: Liam Coombes-Fabling – Outside Back, Chiefs (88 pts) LCF was the beneficiary of the Chiefs’ Rotorua rout, recording 4 line breaks and 3 try assists. 108 carry metres and 6 tackle busts confirm he is a high-volume strike-runner who must now be owned in all formats with the Chiefs outside back injury list.

12: Quinn Tupaea – Centre, Chiefs (85 pts) Quinn is back to his wrecking-ball best. 2 tries, 2 try assists, and 3 line breaks, this is midfield dominance personified. His 5 tackle busts and physical directness make him a top-tier center to hold for the rest of the season.

13: Virimi Vakatawa – Centre, Drua (83 pts) The French international is settling into life in Fiji with a dominant 16-carry shift. 2 line breaks and 2 assists show he is finding his feet in unstructured play, while his 10 tackles provide a reliable floor for Drua owners.

14: Kyren Taumoefolau – Outside Back, Chiefs (82 pts) The 21-year-old flyer is the immediate fantasy beneficiary of the Chiefs’ injury reshuffle. A brace of tries and 95 carry metres show he is finding his feet at his new club; he must be secured ASAP before his ownership sky-rockets.

15: Filipo Daugunu – Outside Back, Reds (80 pts) Daugunu was the hero of Suncorp, crossing for a try in the Reds’ historic win over the Crusaders. 13 carries for 120 metres and 3 line-break assists show he is the primary creative spark in a resurgent Queensland side.

Available in your league? (Hidden Gems)

Liam Coombes-Fabling (Chiefs - Outside Back): With Emoni Narawa (foot) and Daniel Rona (hamstring) both entering the Casualty Ward, LCF has a clear runway to starting minutes in a team that scores tries for fun. His Round 9 explosion for 88 points, featuring 4 line breaks and 3 try assists, proves he is a high-volume strike-runner who can anchor your back three during the Chiefs' injury crisis.

Virimi Vakatawa (Drua- Centre): The former European Player of the Year is finding his rhythm in the Pacific. His 10-tackle floor provides a reliable scoring base, while his ability to ignite unstructured play through offloads makes him a mandatory high-ceiling target. Secure this elite distribution threat while league-mates are still evaluating his adaptation to the Drua system.

Xavi Taele (Blues - Centre): This 21-year-old standout has demanded a starting jersey yet again over the more experienced Pita Ahki. His direct carrying was a focal point against the Hurricanes, where he consistently bent the line to ignite the Blues' attack. Grab this long-term centre prospect in the Trade Window before his value becomes untouchable.

Written by Harry Dale

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New Injuries Round 9:

Iosefo Namoce (Drua) - Pulled pregame. No word as to why yet. Source.
Haereiti Hetet (Drua) - Injured his back in warm-up so didn’t take the field. Source.
Mesake Vocevoce (Drua) - Pulled pregame. No word as to why yet. Source.
Jack Daly (Force) - Came off after 21 minutes after shooting out of the line and making a tackle. It wasn’t clear what the injury was, we suspect it was either a concussion or shoulder injury.
Charlie Cale (Brumbies) - Was pulled midway through the first half due to shoulder soreness. They are still waiting on scan results, but he could be back next week as they stay hopeful. Source.
Nick Frost (Brumbies) - We thought he went off for an HIA after 71 minutes. The great man has confirmed it was just a blood bin, so he will be fighting fit next week.
Declan Meredith (Brumbies) - Came off after 63 minutes with an obvious limp as he tried to chase a kick moments earlier. There was no obvious cause so at a stretch we are guessing he has a muscle strain.
Carter Gordon (Reds) - Injured his right knee. Was seen in a knee brace and crutches on the sideline. Apparently, it is a suspected “Medial Knee injury”. We can only assume this is an MCL which would be roughly 4-6 weeks in most cases. Source.
Jock Campbell (Reds) - Came off after 60 minutes with a concussion. Will go through the minimum 12 day return to play protocol

Lalomilo Lalomilo (Moana) - Pulled pregame. No word as to why yet.
Niko Jones (Moana) - Limped off the field after 16 minutes with what we think was an ankle injury.
Tom Savage (Moana) - Failed an HIA so will go through the concussion 12-day return to play protocol.
Kyle Brown (Chiefs) - Pulled up lame after kicking a ball in a counterattack. Now listed as a hip injury, to return rd 11. Source.
Sione Ahio (Chiefs) - Newly listed as having a quad injury. Return date is TBC. Source.
Reuben O'Neill (Chiefs) - The Chiefs went to uncontested scrums late in the match because they had no tightheads available to scrum (Tyrone Thompson instead came back on). We got no confirmation about what had happened but we assume this means Reuben and Sione were both injured.
Sione Ahio (Chiefs) - The Chiefs went to uncontested scrums late in the match because they had no tightheads available to scrum (Tyrone Thompson instead came back on). We got no confirmation about what had happened but we assume this means Reuben and Sione were both injured.
Ofa Tu’ungafasi (Blues) - Came off for an HIA after 20 minutes. Will now go through the 12 day minimum return to play protocol.
Caleb Clarke (Blues) - Picked up a calf strain before rd 10. Source.
Siale Lauaki (Hurricanes) - Came off with a concussion. Will now go through the 12 day minimum return to play protocol.
Logan Wallace (Hurricanes) - Has a calf injury. To return in rd 11. Source.
Josh Timu (Hurricanes) - Has an ankle injury. Return date is TBC. Source.
David Havili (Crusaders) - Picked up a Concussion in the bye week. Return date is TBC. Source.
Jonah Lowe (Highlanders) - Newly listed with a calf injury. To return in 1-2 weeks. Source.
Josh Whaanga (Highlanders) - Newly listed with a knee injury. To return in 1-2 weeks. Source.

Likely Back for Round 10:

Temo Mayanavanua (Drua) - Suffered a right knee injury in rd 2. Originally aiming to pla rd 9, so we think he could return this week. Source.
Sairusi Ravudi (Drua) - Concussed in rd 8 so a standard recovery would have him back this week.
Darcy Swain (Force) - Missed rd 9 due to gastro, so we think he will be back. Source.
Tom Robertson (Force) - Came off as a category 1 concussion in rd 8. Will go through the concussion protocols and miss at least 12 days, meaning he might play this week.
Carlo Tizzano (Force) - Came off in rd 7. Was spotted in a knee brace on the sideline. Now listed as a short term injury from rd 9. Source.
Nathan Hastie (Force) - Pulled pregame with a rib complaint rd 8. Listed as a short term injury. Source.
Treyvon Pritchard (Reds) - Concussed in rd 8 so a standard recovery would have him back this week.
Josh Nasser (Reds) - Concussed in rd 8 so a standard recovery would have him back this week.
Tom Lynagh (Reds) - Should be back for the Reds for their next match. Source.
Austin Durbidge (Waratahs) - Did have a forearm injury. Changed to appendicitis in rd 5. No longer injured. Source.
Harry Potter (Waratahs)- Listed as having a quad injury as of rd 7. No longer injured. Source.
Lawson Creighton (Waratahs)- Came off in rd 7 with a sore Sternoclavicular joint. Back this week. Source.
Teddy Wilson (Waratahs)- Came off at half time in rd 8, back this week.
Tom Wright (Brumbies) - Recovering from an ACL reconstruction in August. Back a little earlier than expected and straight into the starting side. Source.

Will Jordan (Crusader) - Missed rd 9 with calf muscle stiffness. Retore it trying to return and is now expected back ni rd 13-15. Source.
Macca Springer (Crusaders) - Was expected back from a quad injury in rd 9, so might be back. Source.
Cooper Roberts (Crusaders) - Aiming to return in rd 9 from a Fibula injury. Source.
Sam Nock (Blues) - Suffered a concussion from an Augustine Pulu diving coat hanger in rd 6. Not confirmed yet, but he is likely to have recovered if all went well.
Isaac Hutchinson (Chiefs) - Recovering from a knee injury. Was aiming to return in round 8 so we might see him this week. Source.
Wallace Sititi (Chiefs) - Out since rd 4 with a hamstring injury. His return is expected between rounds 8-10, so he should return. Source.
Dalton Papali’i (Blues) - Back from a rd 6 back injury. Source.
Hoskins Sotutu (Blues) - Returning from a knee injury that has kept him out since rd 6. Source.
Flyn Yates (Blues) - Listed as injured from rd 3 with a neck injury. Taken off the injury list this week. Source.
Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues) - Missed the All Blacks’ northern tour as he recovers from AC (shoulder) surgery in October. His current return is aimed at rd 9. Source.
Joel Lam (Moana) - Has a quad contusion (cork) from rd 7. No longer listed as injured.
Simon Peter Toleafoa (Moana) - Has a new knee injury as of rd 9. No longer listed as injured. Source.
Israel Leota (Moana) - Came off in rd 2 with an ankle sprain. Back this week. Source.
Jonathan Taumateine (Moana) - Picked up a knee injury in rd 3. Back this week. Source.
Finn Hurley (Highlanders) - Coming back from his foot stress fracture off the bench. Source.

Returned in Round 9:

Lachlan Lonergan (Brumbies) - Tore his ACL on the 9th of July playing for the Brumbies against the Lions. Has been playing for the development squad since rd 5, and will now take his spot on the bench.
Allan Alaalatoa (Brumbies) - Missed the start of the Super season due to a back injury that has plagued him since the back end of last year. Making his first start again this week.
Jeremy Williams (Force) - Going through HIA protocols from rd 7, back this week. Source.
Zac Lomax (Force) - Pulled pregame with a tight hamstring. Given it is just hamstring tightness, he has been named to play rd 9.
Simione Kuruvoli (Drua) - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a shoulder injury. Before rd 8 they said he would be back within the next few weeks. Source.

Ethan de Groot (Highlanders) - Pulled from the side for rd 7 for paternity leave as he became a father for the first time. We would think that means he is back this week. Source.
Mitch Dunshea (Highlanders) - Suffered a calf injury in rd 5. Back starting again this week. Source.
Cam Millar (Highlanders) - Came off for a concussion in rd 5. Aiming to return this week. Source.
Saula Ma’u (Highlanders) - Recovered from a shoulder injury to play for the dev side in rd 7. back on the bench this week. Source.
Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders) - Scratched from the side late pregamae rd 7 with a foot injury. Source.
Devan Flanders (Hurricanes) - Failed his HIA in rd 7, so he will go through the concussion protocol and could be back this week.
Josh Timu (Hurricanes) - Has been out with a foot injury but was expected back between rd 9-11. Source.
Callum Harkin (Hurricanes) - Has a concussion and missed rd 7, hopefully returning now after the rd 8 bye. Source.
Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (Moana) - Concussed in rd 6, back this week. Source.
Tom Savage (Moana) - Missed rd 7 with a concussion, back this week. Source.
Nico Jones (Moana) - Suffered a concussion in rd 7 so might be available again this week.
Augustine Pulu (Moana) - Was given a red card for the high tackle on Nock. Banned for 3 weeks, but could return after two if he goes to tackle school. This puts him at rd 9-10. Source.
Jimmy Tupou (Moana) - Recovered from an elbow & calf injury to be named on the bench for the fisrt time for Moana.
Lalomilo Lalomilo (Moana) - Came off early rd 7 with what looked like a left shoulder injury. Surprisingly has recovered to start this week.
Melani Matavao (Moana) - On the bench after recovering from a rd 3 calf injury. Source.
David Havili (Crusaders) - Limped off early with a heel injury in rd 5. Expected to be back rd 10. Source.
Johnny McNicholl (Crusaders) - Out with a hamstring injury. Was aiming to return in rd 5, now listed as rd 9. Source.
Noah Hotham (Crusaders) - Pulled pregame rd 8. Named to return in rd 9.
Zarn Sullivan (Blues) - On his comeback from a concussion, before rd 8 he suffered a PCL tear (in his knee). Was expected to be out for 6-8 weeks but made a speedy recovery to be named in rd 9. Source.
Damian McKenzie (Chiefs) - Missed rd 8 with a concussion. Back this week. Source.

Ongoing Injury List:

AUSTRALIA

Brumbies
Rhys Van Nek - Suffered a thumb injury in rd 4. Consulting a surgeon to determine a RTP time. Source.

Reds
Tate McDermott - Suffered a hamstring injury that required surgery against the All Blacks in late September. Before rd 10 they said he could be back in a month, so mid to late May. Source.
Massimo De Lutiis - Listed as injured since before rd 1. No info on what it is. Source.
Nicholas Conway - Listed as injured in rd 4. Source.
Lachie Anderson - Suffered a serious wrist injury trying to tackle Tualima in rd 4. He went to the hospital and will be out for an extended period of time. Source.
Josh Canham - Right leg injury rd 4. His foot was planted and he twisted over it in a ruck. Needed to be assisted off by two people. We have heard it is actually a serious hamstring injury. Given he was spotted in a brace on the sideline, he may actually have a posterolateral corner (PLC) injury that can include the hamstring and some of the ligaments.
George Blake - Came off injured in the 79th minute of rd 7. He looked to be holding his left wrist/ thumb, but the coverage said it was for an HIA. We aren’t sure which is correct.

Waratahs
James Hendren - Unavailable from rd 6 due to a wrist injury. Source.
Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii - Tore his hamstring in rd 4, a 6-8 week return date means he could be back as early as rd 10-12. Source.

Western Force
Doug Philipson - Missed the preseason with a knee injury, and still listed as a medium-term injury in rd 9. Source.
Feao Fotuaika - Missed the first trial with a foot injury. Considered a medium-term injury as of rd 1. Source.
Alex Harford - Left the field in the trial against the Reds on Jan 23rd, holding his arm or shoulder in his jersey. Listed as a long-term injury in rd 9. Source.
Ronan Leahy - Missing rd 9 with a knee injury. Listed as a medium term injury. Source.
Darby Lancaster - Came down from taking a highball very awkwardly on his ankle in rd 8. Had to be helped off the field. Apparently it is considered a “Medium Term” injury, which would keep him out for roughly 4-6 weeks in our opinion. Source.
Albert Alcock - Listed as having a short term quad injury as of rd 9. Source.

NEW ZEALAND

Blues
Corey Evans - Missing rd 1 to 7 with an ankle injury. No confirmation on a return date. Source.
Jordan Lay - Missed rd 1 to 7 with a concussion. No return date set yet. Source.
Josh Fusitu’a - Injured his elbow in rd 2. We now know he has had an operation on his bicep, so we assume he ruptured it. They say he is targeting to play this season, but recovery should take at least 4 months (roughly June). Source.
Stephen Perofeta - Ruled out pregame rd 4 as a precautionary measure for a “minor injury” that we now know was his calf. Given this has been such a big issue for him in the past, hopefully, it is nothing too serious. Source.
Laghlan McWhannell - Missed rd 6 and 7 with a concussion. All going well he should return anytime now. Source.

Chiefs
Benet Kumeroa - Went down with a right ankle injury in rd 4. Aiming to return rd 12. Source.
Daniel Rona - Injured in his hamstring in rd 6, return date set for rd 14. Source.
Lalakai Foketi - Listed as injured as of rd 7 with a hand injury. Return date is set at rds 11-13. Source.
Etene Nanai-Seturo - Missed rd 8 with a foot injury. Aiming to return rd 16. Source.
Emoni Narawa - Came off at halftime in rd 8 with a foot injury. Aiming to return rd 16. Source.
Tomás Lavanini - Suffered a dislocated finger in rd 7. Expected to miss 1 week. Source.

Crusaders
Scott Barrett - Still finalising his return date from the sabbatical, but his intention is to return sometime in May. Source.
Liam Jack - Out with a hamstring injury. Aiming to return in rd 12-14. Source.
Cullen Grace - Currently has a knee injury. Still no set return date yet. Source.
Aki Tuivailala - Concussed in rd 4. Return date TBC. Source.
Kyle Preston - Out with a knee injury since rd 8. Aiming to return rd 11-12. Source.
Ethan Blackadder - Out with a calf injury since rd 8. Aiming to return rd 11-12. Source.
Codie Taylor - Missing rd 9 with a hamstring muscle injury. His return date is TBC. Source.
Braydon Ennor - Missing rd 9 with a hamstring muscle injury. His return date is set at 12-14. Source.

Highlanders
Jake Te Hiwi - Returning from surgery, back on the field again but still a little way off by the sounds of it on Feb 3rd. Source.
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens - Rolled his ankle in rd 7. Expected to be out for 3-4 weeks for rd 10. Source.

Hurricanes
Tom Allen - Was expected back from a leg injury for rd 2, but still down as injured. Source.
Jai Tamati - Looks to have picked up an ankle injury after rd 2. Expected back rds 11-13. Source.
Matolu Petaia - Has a leg injury. Will be back in 1 weeks (rd 11). Source.
Taine Roiri - Has a hamstring injury. Was aiming for rd 10, now pushed back to Rd 13-15. Source.
Ngane Punivai - Listed as having a hamstring injury before rd 5. Return date now listed as rd 11-12. Source.
Tyrel Lomax - Returned from an ankle injury only to be pulled with a new ankle injury before rd 7. As of rd 10 should be back in 6 weeks. Source.
Hugo Plummer - Has a new ankle injury before rd 9. Aiming to return rd 12. Source.
Bailyn Sullivan - Has a new leg injury before rd 9. Aiming to return rd 13-14. Source.
Kini Naholo - Was expected to return from his ACL Recon in rd 6. But suffered a foot injury. Pushed back again to return rd 11-12. Source.

PASIFIKA TEAMS

Fijian Drua
Meli Derenalagi - Expected to miss the bulk of the season due to a 2nd ACL injury he suffered in April 2025. He could return at 9 months (late Jan), but it is more likely he is closer to 12 months, given it is his 2nd ACL injury. Source.
Meli Tuni - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a knee injury. Source.
Aisea Nawai - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a leg injury. Source.
Kavaia Tagivetaua - Listed as having an ankle injury as of rd 5. Source.
Frank Lomani - Came off with a right ankle injury after getting stepped in defence in rd 7. Ruled out for 3 weeks, so should be back by round 11. Source. Now listed as a knee injury so we aren’t sure if it has changed. Source.
Peni Ravai - Limped off after 79 minutes in rd 8 with an injury.

Moana Pasifika
Tupou Afungia - Recovered from a neck injury, but suffered a concussion in rd 3. Now listed as a neck injury again in rd 6. Source.
Lolani Faleiva - Has a shoulder injury. No return date announced. Source.
Julian Savea - Came off in rd 6 with a nasty-looking shoulder injury. We suspect he has dislocated it, so he will be out for some time.
Tito Tuipulotu - Missing rd 7 with a thumb injury. Source.
Monu Moli - Has a new foot injury as of rd 9. No further details yet. Source.
Ngani Laumape - Has a new knee injury as of rd 9. No further details yet. Source.
Tevita Ofa - Has a new finger injury as of rd 9. No further details yet. Source.
Allan Craig - Concussed in rd 8. No return date set.. Source.

Gone for the season:

Dan Nelson (Brumbies) - Fractured his fibula in his lower leg before d 5. Ruled out for the remainder of the season. Source.
Kye Oates (Brumbies) - Fracture dislocation of his ankle before rd 8. He has already had an operation. They said he is aiming to be back in 12 weeks (so won’t play again this season), but I think this is probably being hopeful. Source.
Ponipate Loganimasi (Drua) - Commentary said that Loganimasi came off with a dislocated wrist in rd 7. He has now been ruled out for the season with an arm injury, so we believe this is the reason. Source.
Epeli Momo (Drua) - Ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury before rd 8. Source.

Dylan Pledger (Highlanders) - Ruled out of all rugby for the year following a training ground accident that resulted in a complete rupture of his ACL in January. Source.
Fabian Holland (Highlanders) - Now confirmed he dislocated his right shoulder while trying to pilfer during a ruck on the 6th of Feb. Confirmed he will be out for the full Super Rugby season with an aim to return in the July international window. Source.
Josh Tengblad (Highlanders) - Suffered an ACL injury in rd 5. Out for the season. Source.
Harry Godfrey (Hurricanes) - Expected to miss the 2026 Super Rugby season due to an ACL injury. Source.
Brett Cameron (Hurricanes) - Stretchered off with a right knee injury. They haven’t told us what the injury is, but it was confirmed during rd 3 that he is having surgery and is out for the season. Source.
Cam Christie (Blues) - Hobbled off with a knee ligament injury in the Jan 30th trial. Now confirmed, he is out for the season. Source.
James White (Crusaders) - Suffered a shoulder injury and will be out for the rest of the season. Source.
Tamaiti Williams (Crusaders) - Ruled out after rd 7 for the year with an infection of a disc in his back (Discitis). He will make a full recovery, but won’t play until at least the first international window. Source.
Jayden Sa (Chiefs) - Suffered a new shoulder injury in rd 5. Confirmed he is out for the season. Source.

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Written by your local rugby nerd Harrison Dale.

This week, we got to see who had been planning ahead and who was left with their fantasy pants down. The top 4 all bagged wins, with a clear buffer now starting to separate the Test Match animals from the Midweek battlers.

To see how the Super Rugby experts play the game (James & Tom Marshall, Johnny McNicholl, just to name a few), navigate to the leagues menu and select the “What A Lad” League, or click HERE.

Round 8 Matchup Reviews

Qmix02’s Team vs. What a Lad

Result: 332 - 427
What a Lad (James Marshall) managed to navigate the bye-week chaos to secure a crucial victory by stacking his side with his own Crusaders players. The hero of the hour was undoubtedly Leicester Fainga’anuku, who put on a clinical display for 120 points. With Sevu Reece (75) also firing, the Crusaders’ blowout win over the Drua was the primary engine for this victory. Interestingly, even James didn’t see the Noah Hotham late withdrawal coming, with him going scoreless in his starting side.

Qmix02 (Quentin MacDonald’s Team) will be kicking themselves. Despite an anchoring 104 from Codie Taylor, and a solid 50 from Joey Walton, fielding 8 men just wasn’t enough to mount a serious contest against one of the league favourites.

Onit26’s Team vs. Jmacsmen’s

Result: 199 - 322
In what was effectively a “ghost-town” matchup, jmacsmen (Johnny McNicholl) did just enough to claim the points. Samisoni Taukei’aho (70) was the difference-maker, providing the only real scoring punch in a lineup riddled with “zeros” due to the byes.

Onit26’s Team (Tino Nemani) struggled immensely, becoming the first team this season to fail to break the 200-point barrier with only 6 active players. While Haereiti Hetet (59) fought hard, the lack of a fly-half and multiple missing backs made this an impossible mountain to climb. Sitting just outside the top 4, it’ll be interesting to see if he can break into the top echelon before the season gets away from him.

Rams nation vs. Tojos Troops

Result: 247 - 305
Tojos Troops (Tom Marshall) secured a gritty win in a low-scoring affair. Pete Samu (56) was the standout, proving his value as a consistent worker even when the flashier backs are on holiday. This win keeps him firmly in the top four and within striking distance of the leaders.

Rams nation (Self-titled “Stats Man”) actually had a few decent performers with Tupou Vaa’i (51) and Antonio Shalfoon (53), but a catastrophic -7 from Jock Campbell and a sea of missing Hurricanes and Brumbies players halted his momentum. If you’re going to call yourself 'Stats Man,' you’d better hope those stats aren’t binary. He’ll be scrolling through enough zeros this week to rewrite the Matrix.

Searleytalkssport’s Team vs. Jakeabernethy14’s Team

Result: 181 - 340
The juggernaut rolls on. Jakeabernethy14’s Team (Jake - the What A Lad editor) moves to an incredible 7-1 record, remaining the only undefeated side in the league. Quinn Tupaea (66) and Samipeni Finau (67) led a Chiefs-heavy charge that capitalized on the few matches available, editing out the hopes of yet another Draft fantasy rival.

Searleytalkssport’s Team (Ben Searle from Searley Talks Sport) remains rooted to the bottom of the table at 0-8. Elia Canakaivata (77) was a bright spot, but with only five other players registering scores in their starting XV, the “Wooden Spoon” is looking more certain by the week. We all know Searley’s a League man at heart, but at 0-8, Searley is showing the kind of loyalty to the bottom of the ladder that only a true Wahs fan could sustain. He’s going to need a miracle, or at least a full starting lineup, to climb out of the basement from here.

Marshall V Marshall - Rd 7 Throwback

Most importantly, this blog can’t leave out that Tom got the ‘W’ and family bragging rights over his older brother James in the round 7 grudge match. The upset cost the What A Lad Commissioner the top spot in the league.

Round 8 Fantasy Facts

• Round MVP: Leicester Fainga’anuku (120 points) – What a Lad.

• Best Free Agent: Franco Molina (122 points) - Western Force.

• Super Sub: Codie Taylor (104 points) - Qmix02’s Team - Leave it to a former Crusaders Hooker to bench the current one, only for him to still deliver.

• The Bench Nightmare: Jmacsmen's started Rivez Reihana (-2), leaving Taha Kemara (32 points) on the bench despite literally being in the room (we assume) when their team was announced midweek.

The Table:

Written by Harrison Dale

Managers were forced into desperate trades, bench-scraping, and playing with half-empty rosters. It was a weekend where owning a Crusader or a Chief was like holding a golden ticket, while those heavily invested in the “Canes” or “Brumbies” could only watch from the sidelines as their season leads evaporated.

What is the OG League? For those newcomers joining us, The OG League is the founding Draft Rugby fantasy league and is in its 14th year of playing Draft Rugby. The OG League is a public and featured league on the draft rugby platform that you can follow along for the season if you have signed up to the platform. You can find it on the public leagues page featured at the top of draftrugby.com/leagues/join

Super Rugby Pacific Round 8 Top Performers

You can read about the full round 8 team of the week here.

Trades

With half the league unavailable, the trade session was a frenzy:

• The “Molina” Masterstroke: David (Cargie) grabbed Franco Molina (91) from the waiver wire. The Force lock rewarded him with a hat-trick of tries in a shock upset over the Reds, proving that Cargie’s “building for the future” strategy occasionally has a massive “now” payoff.

• Teamwork makes the dream work: Andrew Pisani sent Josh Nasser (29) and Feleti Sae-Ta'ufo'ou to Cargie for George Dyer (30) and Folau Fainga'a. This trade effectively cancelled itself out in points, but gave both managers much-needed "warm" bodies.

• Winners & Losers: Wylie sent Antonio Shalfoon (53) and Lawson Creighton to Nelson for Cadeyrn Neville and Jack Debreczeni (11). Unfortunately for Nelson, Shalfoon’s Crusaders dominated, while Debreczeni’s Waratahs struggled against the Chiefs.

You can check out the casualty ward updates for rounds 8-9, chronicling all Super Rugby Pacific 2026 injuries and returns here.

Round 8 Fixtures:

Roigardians of the Galaxy vs. Situti Down

Result: 479 - 482 The upset of the year. Nabung’s Roigardians, the undisputed league leaders, have finally been dethroned! Cargie’s Situti Down pulled off a 3-point heist that will go down in OG League history. Nabung had big games from Haereiti Hetet (59) and Elia Canakaivata (77), but Cargie’s decision to grab Franco Molina (122) off the wire was the difference.

The Heartbreak: Nabung actually left 104 points from Codie Taylor on his bench. Had he started the 150 game legend he would have won comfortably.

The Toole Shed vs. Ofa Tu’ungaFAST & The Furious

Result: 325 - 426 Blake’s Ofa Tu’ungaFAST continues to hunt the top spot, dispatching Wylie with ease. Blake navigated the byes perfectly, led by Quinn Tupaea (66) and a revitalized Samipeni Finau (67). Bringing in Kyren Taumoefolau proved to be a master stroke. Wylie’s The Toole Shed was left in the dust despite a solid 53 from new man Antonio Shalfoon. A 4 from Dan Botha really summed up Wylie’s weekend, when it rains, it pours in the Shed.

Lam & Order vs. Leicester We Forget

Result: 311 - 491 The “Order” was well and truly dismantled. Sean (Lam & Order) was hit harder by byes than anyone else, fielding a team that featured a combined zero from his backrow. The result came as no surprise though, with Sean chosing Bye-mageddon to build for the future, swooping on Finlay Christie and Isaac Henry to build his bench depth. Harry (Leicester We Forget) didn’t show any mercy, putting up a massive 491 points. The victory was anchored by a jaw-dropping 120 from Leicester Fainga’anuku and a clinical 84 from Chay Fihaki.

Expecto-Pa-TRY-trum vs. SAMISONIC THE HEDGEHOG

Result: 423 - 345 Andrew (Expecto) found his magic again, taking down Nelson with only 10 men. Brandon Paenga-Amosa (75) and Joe Brial (62) provided the bulk of the scoring for Andrew. Nelson (SAMISONIC) struggled with a backline that failed to ignite, with only Samisoni Taukei’aho (70) and Aidan Ross (54) providing any real resistance.

Round 8 OG League Fantasy Facts

• Best Player: Franco Molina (122 points) – Situti Down.

• Best Trade: Naitoa Ah Kuoi for Franco Molina- Situti Down.

• Best Free Agent: Sef Fa’agase (53) - Western Force.

• Biggest Coaching Mistake: Nabung leaving 104 points (Codie Taylor) on the bench in a 3-point loss.

The OG League Table After Round 8

Blake is back on top of the table, but the top two are still a cut above. Sean and Nelson are losing ground to a surging Harry & Cargie. While Wylie remains 8th, but after such a chaotic round, the mid-table is wide open.

Logged-in users can view the full OG League results and detailed breakdowns here.

What’s New on Draft Rugby?

Draft Rugby’s Major League Rugby:

This past week has been heads down, focusing on the launch of our MLR game! We are expecting to make an announcement very soon.

Given there are only 6 teams, it should be a fun one to play with small leagues (2-6 managers ideally), so get in and give it a go!

Written by Harrison Dale

If the first half of the season was a battle of attrition, Round 8 was a total statistical explosion. While the "big name" assets returned to form, the Casualty Ward continues to be a busy place, with Noah Hotham and Darby Lancaster (knee) the latest to face a stint on the sidelines. For managers, the Trade Window is the only way to navigate this mid-season chaos. Whether it was a historic lock hat-trick or a hooker bagging four tries, those who prioritized high-volume work-rate in the trenches found the winning edge this week.

Team of the Week

1: Ollie Norris – Prop, Chiefs (65 pts) Norris delivered a masterclass in front-row playmaking, recording two line-break assists and a try assist. With 21 ruck arrivals and a dominant tackle, he provided the high-scoring floor that saves managers during low-try-scoring weeks.

2: Codie Taylor – Hooker, Crusaders (104 pts) A legendary performance from the 150-game veteran. Taylor crossed for four tries in just 52 minutes of work. Adding 10 successful lineout throws to that haul, he remains the ultimate “set and forget” elite asset for your front row.

3: Haereiti Hetet – Prop, Drua (59 pts) Hetet was a force in the trenches, hitting 21 rucks and winning 8 scrums. Under our scoring engine, his 10 carries generated a massive points base before his three tackle busts even came into play.

4: Franco Molina – Lock, Force (122 pts) Player of the Round. A historical day for the Argentinian. A hat-trick from the second row is fantasy gold, but pairing that with 31 ruck arrivals, 5 tackle busts, and two lineout steals makes him an absolute tier-1 anchor for any pack.

5: Antonio Shalfoon – Lock, Crusaders (53 pts) Filling the void left by injuries in the Crusaders’ engine room, Shalfoon recorded 19 tackles (3 dominant) and a try assist. His 80-minute engine is quickly making him a mandatory high-floor starter.

6: Elia Canakaivata – Back Row, Drua (77 pts) Canakaivata continues to be a volume machine. He crossed for two tries and led all forwards with a staggering 12 gain-line crosses in a well-beaten pack. His physical directness is breaking head-to-head matchups wide open.

7: Samipeni Finau – Back Row, Chiefs (67 pts) Finau showcased his raw athleticism with two line breaks and 49 post-contact metres. His 23 ruck arrivals and 80-minute shift provided the consistent involvement Draft managers crave.

8: Joe Brial – Back Row, Reds (62 pts) Brial stepped up with 13 tackles and 6 lineout takes to go with his try. With the Reds’ back-row rotation opening up minutes, his multifaceted scoring makes him a priority target in the Trade Window.

9: Henry Robertson – Scrumhalf, Force (49 pts) Volume is king for Robertson. He registered 112 passes, the highest of the round, facilitating the Force attack. His 251 kick metres show he is taking full tactical control at the base.

10: Ben Donaldson – Flyhalf, Force (69 pts) Donaldson remains a premier playmaker, contributing 12 points from the tee and three line-break assists. Flyhalves who challenge the line and kick for 353 metres provide a safe ceiling every week.

11: Chay Fihaki – Outside Back, Crusaders (84 pts) Fihaki was electric out wide, recording 127 carry metres and 4 line breaks. His brace of tries proved he is a primary strike runner for a reshuffled Crusaders backline.

12: Leicester Fainga’anuku – Centre, Crusaders (120 pts) A one-man wrecking crew performance. Leicester paired 15 tackles (2 dominant) with 11 gain-line crosses and three line-break assists. He is the ultimate multi-category weapon for a title run.

13: Quinn Tupaea – Centre, Chiefs (66 pts) Tupaea is back to his bruising best, pairing two tries with 9 dominant carries. His 20 ruck arrivals indicate a level of involvement that stabilizes any midfield fantasy slot.

14: Sevu Reece – Outside Back, Crusaders (75 pts) Reece remains a nightmare for defenders, crossing the gain line 13 times and providing 4 offloads. His brace of tries ensures he stays at the top of the all-time Super Rugby scoring charts.

15: Max Jorgensen – Outside Back, Waratahs (66 pts) Jorgensen was everywhere for the Tahs, recording 3 line breaks and 6 tackle busts. His ability to create from the back makes him a reliable asset with huge upside regardless of the final game score.

Available in your league? (Hidden Gems)

1. Henry Robertson (Force - Scrumhalf): Now emerging as the Force’s first choice scrumhalf, His 112 passes and high kick volume in Round 8 suggest he is a mandatory waiver add for managers needing service at the base.

2. Joe Brial (Reds - Back Row): Brial has locked down a starting role and is thriving, recording 13 tackles and a try this week. Brial’s high involvement rate makes him a perfect long-term anchor for your back row.

3. Antonio Shalfoon (Crusaders - Lock): The locking rotation has meant Shalfoon has struggled to get consistent game time. But if this week was anything to go by, he might just demand a starting jersey moving forward. His 19-tackle shift proves he has the engine to provide a safe scoring floor. Secure him now before his ownership climbs.

Written by Harry Dale

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Note: The Casualty Ward will be released Sunday/ Monday for all paid subscribers, and Thursday for all free readers.

New Injuries Round 8:

Sairusi Ravudi (Drua) - Failed his HIA. Will go through the concussion protocols and miss at least 12 days.
Peni Ravai (Drua) - Limped off after 79 minutes with an injury.
Allan Craig (Drua) - Suffered a concussion, going through his return to play protocols. Source.
Nathan Hastie (Force) - Pulled pregame with a rib complaint. Listed as a short term injury. Source.
Darcy Swain (Force) - Missed rd 9 due to illness. Source.
Ronan Leahy (Force) - Missing rd 9 with a knee injury. Listed as a medium term injury. Source.
Zac Lomax (Force) - Pulled pregame with a tight hamstring. Given it is just hamstring tightness, he has been named to play rd 9.
Tom Robertson (Force) - Came off as a category 1 concussion. Will go through the concussion protocols and miss at least 12 days.
Dylan Pietsch (Force) - Subbed at halftime. No confirmation if it was an injury or tactical but he has been named again in rd 9.
Darby Lancaster (Force) - Came down from taking a highball very awkwardly on his ankle. Had to be helped off the field. Return date is TBC. Source.
Albert Alcock (Force) - Listed as having a short term quad injury as of rd 9. Source.
Treyvon Pritchard (Reds) - Failed his HIA so will go through the concussion protocols and miss at least 12 days.
Josh Nasser (Reds) - Failed his HIA so will go through the concussion protocols and miss at least 12 days.
Teddy Wilson (Waratahs) - Came off at halftime, no word as to why.

Noah Hotham (Crusaders) - Pulled pregame. Named to return in rd 9.
Will Jordan (Crusader) - Missing rd 9 with calf muscle stiffness. His return date is TBC but we assume it shouldn’t be long. Source.
Codie Taylor (Crusader) - Missing rd 9 with a hamstring muscle injury. His return date is TBC. Source.
Braydon Ennor (Crusader) - Missing rd 9 with a hamstring muscle injury. His return date is set at 11-13. Source.
Emoni Narawa (Chiefs) - Came off at halftime with a foot injury. His return date is TBC. Source.
Tomás Lavanini (Chiefs) - Suffered a dislocated finger. Expected to miss 1-2 weeks (including rd 9). Source.
Hugo Plummer (Hurricanes) - Has a new ankle injury. Aiming to return rd 12. Source.
Bailyn Sullivan (Hurricanes) - Has a new leg injury. Aiming to return rd 13-14. Source.
Monu Moli (Moana) - Has a new foot injury. No further details yet. Source.
Ngani Laumape (Moana) - Has a new knee injury. No further details yet. Source.
Simon Peter Toleafoa (Moana) - Has a new knee injury. No further details yet. Source.
Tevita Ofa (Moana) - Has a new finger injury. No further details yet. Source.

Likely Back for Round 9:

Lachlan Lonergan (Brumbies) - Tore his ACL on the 9th of July playing for the Brumbies against the Lions. Has been playing for the development squad since rd 5, and will now take his spot on the bench.
Allan Alaalatoa (Brumbies) - Missed the start of the Super season due to a back injury that has plagued him since the back end of last year. Making his first start again this week.
Jeremy Williams (Force) - Going through HIA protocols from rd 7, back this week. Source.

Ethan de Groot (Highlanders) - Pulled from the side for rd 7 for paternity leave as he became a father for the first time. We would think that means he is back this week. Source.
Mitch Dunshea (Highlanders) - Suffered a calf injury in rd 5. Back starting again this week. Source.
Cam Millar (Highlanders) - Came off for a concussion in rd 5. Aiming to return this week. Source.
Saula Ma’u (Highlanders) - Recovered from a shoulder injury to play for the dev side in rd 7. back on the bench this week. Source.
Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders) - Scratched from the side late pregamae rd 7 with a foot injury. Source.
Devan Flanders (Hurricanes) - Failed his HIA in rd 7, so he will go through the concussion protocol and could be back this week.
Josh Timu (Hurricanes) - Has been out with a foot injury but was expected back between rd 9-11. Source.
Callum Harkin (Hurricanes) - Has a concussion and missed rd 7, hopefully returning now after the rd 8 bye. Source.
Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (Moana) - Concussed in rd 6, back this week. Source.
Tom Savage (Moana) - Missed rd 7 with a concussion, back this week. Source.
Nico Jones (Moana) - Suffered a concussion in rd 7 so might be available again this week.
Augustine Pulu (Moana) - Was given a red card for the high tackle on Nock. Banned for 3 weeks, but could return after two if he goes to tackle school. This puts him at rd 9-10. Source.
Jimmy Tupou (Moana) - Recovered from an elbow & calf injury to be named on the bench for the fisrt time for Moana.
Lalomilo Lalomilo (Moana) - Came off early rd 7 with what looked like a left shoulder injury. Surprisingly has recovered to start this week.
Melani Matavao (Moana) - On the bench after recovering from a rd 3 calf injury. Source.
Macca Springer (Crusaders) - Out with a Quad injury. Was meant to return for rd 3, now extended to rd 9. Source.
David Havili (Crusaders) - Limped off early with a heel injury in rd 5. Expected to be back rd 10. Source.
Johnny McNicholl (Crusaders) - Out with a hamstring injury. Was aiming to return in rd 5, now listed as rd 9. Source.
Cooper Roberts (Crusaders) - Out with a Fibula injury. Aiming to return in rd 9. Source.
Sam Nock (Blues) - Suffered a concussion from an Augustine Pulu diving coat hanger in rd 6. All going well he should return this week.
Zarn Sullivan (Blues) - On his comeback from a concussion, before rd 8 he suffered a PCL tear (in his knee). Was expected to be out for 6-8 weeks but made a speedy recovery to be named in rd 9. Source.
Damian McKenzie (Chiefs) - Missed rd 8 with a concussion. Back this week. Source.
Isaac Hutchinson (Chiefs) - Recovering from a knee injury. Was aiming to return in round 8 so we might see him this week. Source.

Returned in Round 8:

Isaac Kailea (Waratahs) - Took his place on the bench after recovering from a concussion.
Matt Faessler (Reds) - Recovered from his knee ligament injury to take his place on the bench. Came on early as an injury replacement.
Josh Flook (Reds) - Recovered from a rd 5 hip/thigh injury.
Carter Gordon (Reds) - Started after missing last week with a minor injury
Dylan Pietsch (Force) - Returned on the wing for his first minute of the season after recovering from a plantar fascia injury. Only played 40 minutes.

Tupou Vaa’i (Chiefs) - Recovered from a knee injury that cost him a game last week.
Taha Kemara (Crusaders) - Returned from a rd 4 concussion.
Rivez Reihana (Crusaders) - Returned from a rd 5 concussion via the bench.
Dom Gardiner (Crusaders) - Picked up an ankle and knee injury in rd 4. Expected back rd 8-9. Source.

Ongoing Injury List:

AUSTRALIA

Brumbies
Tom Wright - Expected to be sidelined until at least May as he recovers from an ACL injury he suffered against South Africa in August. A standard return to play date would be 9 months, although it can vary between 6-12 months. Source.
Rhys Van Nek - Suffered a thumb injury in rd 4. Consulting a surgeon to determine a RTP time. Source.

Reds
Tate McDermott - Suffered a hamstring injury that required surgery against the All Blacks in late September. In an interview during rd 3 he said he had a little setback and would be back in 2-3 months (so sometime in May). Source.
Massimo De Lutiis - Listed as injured since before rd 1. No info on what it is. Source.
Nicholas Conway - Listed as injured in rd 4. Source.
Lachie Anderson - Suffered a serious wrist injury trying to tackle Tualima in rd 4. He went to the hospital and will be out for an extended period of time. Source.
Josh Canham - Right leg injury rd 4. His foot was planted and he twisted over it in a ruck. Needed to be assisted off by two people. We have heard it is actually a serious hamstring injury. Given he was spotted in a brace on the sideline, he may actually have a posterolateral corner (PLC) injury that can include the hamstring and some of the ligaments.
George Blake - Came off injured in the 79th minute of rd 7. He looked to be holding his left wrist/ thumb, but the coverage said it was for an HIA. We aren’t sure which is correct.

Waratahs
Austin Durbidge - Did have a forearm injury. Changed to appendicitis in rd 5. Source.
Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii - Ruled out of action for six-to-eight weeks due to a hamstring injury in the warm-up before rd 4. Source.
James Hendren - Unavailable from rd 6 due to a wrist injury. Source.
Harry Potter - Listed as having a quad injury as of rd 7. Source.
Lawson Creighton - Came off in rd 7 with a sore Sternoclavicular joint. No clarity on the severity but a severe injury is pretty rare, so we are guessing he is out for 1-2 weeks. Source.

Western Force
Doug Philipson - Missed the preseason with a knee injury, and still listed as a medium-term injury in rd 9. Source.
Feao Fotuaika - Missed the first trial with a foot injury. Considered a medium-term injury as of rd 1. Source.
Alex Harford - Left the field in the trial against the Reds on Jan 23rd, holding his arm or shoulder in his jersey. Listed as a long-term injury in rd 9. Source.
Carlo Tizzano - Came off in rd 7. Was spotted in a knee brace on the sideline. Now listed as a short term injury from rd 9. Source.

NEW ZEALAND

Blues
Corey Evans - Missing rd 1 to 7 with an ankle injury. No confirmation on a return date. Source.
Jordan Lay - Missed rd 1 to 7 with a concussion. No return date set yet. Source.
Josh Fusitu’a - Injured his elbow in rd 2. We now know he has had an operation on his bicep, so we assume he ruptured it. They say he is targeting to play this season, but recovery should take at least 4 months (roughly June). Source.
Flyn Yates - Listed as injured from rd 3 with a neck injury. Source.
Stephen Perofeta - Ruled out pregame rd 4 as a precautionary measure for a “minor injury” that we now know was his calf. Given this has been such a big issue for him in the past, hopefully, it is nothing too serious. Source.
Dalton Papali’i - Came off at halftime for a back niggle that had flared up too much in rd 6. Missed rd 7 and 9. Source.
Hoskins Sotutu - Missing since rd 6 with a knee injury. Source.
Patrick Tuipulotu - Missed the All Blacks’ northern tour as he recovers from AC (shoulder) surgery in October. His current return is aimed at rd 9. Source.
Laghlan McWhannell - Missed rd 6 and 7 with a concussion. All going well he should return anytime now. Source.

Chiefs
Benet Kumeroa - Went down with a right ankle injury in rd 4. Aiming to return rd 12. Source.
Daniel Rona - Injured in his hamstring in rd 6, return date set for rd 14. Source.
Lalakai Foketi - Listed as injured as of rd 7 with a hand injury. Return date is set at rds 11-13. Source.
Etene Nanai-Seturo - Missed rd 8 with a foot injury. Was expected back in rd 9 but now his status has been changed to TBC. Source.
Wallace Sititi - Out since rd 4 with a hamstring injury. His return is expected between rounds 10. Source.

Crusaders
Scott Barrett - Still finalising his return date from the sabbatical, but his intention is to return sometime in May. Source.
Liam Jack - Out with a hamstring injury. Aiming to return in rd 12-13. Source.
Cullen Grace - Currently has a knee injury. Still no set return date yet. Source.
Aki Tuivailala - Concussed in rd 4. Return date TBC. Source.
Kyle Preston - Out with a knee injury since rd 8. Aiming to return rd 11-13. Source.
Ethan Blackadder - Out with a calf injury since rd 8. Aiming to return rd 12-13. Source.

Highlanders
Jake Te Hiwi - Returning from surgery, back on the field again but still a little way off by the sounds of it on Feb 3rd. Source.
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens - Rolled his ankle in rd 7. Expected to be out for 4-6 weeks. Source.
Finn Hurley - Has a “stress around his foot”, which sounds like a stress fracture. Was originally expected back in rd 5, now pushed back to this week. He also played club footy in rd 8. Source.

Hurricanes
Tom Allen - Was expected back from a leg injury for rd 2, but still down as injured. Source.
Jai Tamati - Looks to have picked up an ankle injury after rd 2. Expected back rds 11-13. Source.
Matolu Petaia - Has a leg injury. Will be back in 2 weeks (rd 11). Source.
Taine Roiri - Has a hamstring injury. Was aiming for rd 10, now pushed back to Rd 14-16. Source.
Ngane Punivai - Listed as having a hamstring injury before rd 5. Return date now listed as rd 11-12. Source.
Kini Naholo - Was expected to return from his ACL Recon in rd 6. But suffered a foot injury. Aiming to play rd 10. Source.
Tyrel Lomax - Returned from an ankle injury only to be pulled with a new ankle injury before rd 7. He has been given a 7-week return date. Source.

PASIFIKA TEAMS

Fijian Drua
Meli Derenalagi - Expected to miss the bulk of the season due to a 2nd ACL injury he suffered in April 2025. He could return at 9 months (late Jan), but it is more likely he is closer to 12 months, given it is his 2nd ACL injury. Source.
Meli Tuni - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a knee injury. Source.
Simione Kuruvoli - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a shoulder injury. Before rd 8 they said he would be back within the next few weeks. Source.
Aisea Nawai - Listed as out as of rd 2 with a leg injury. Source.
Kavaia Tagivetaua - Listed as having an ankle injury as of rd 5. Source.
Frank Lomani - Came off with a right ankle injury after getting stepped in defence in rd 7. Ruled out for 3 weeks, so should be back by round 11. Source.
Temo Mayanavanua - Suffered a right knee injury in rd 2. Originally aiming to pla rd 9 but hasn’t been named yet. Source.

Moana Pasifika
Israel Leota - Came off in rd 2 with an ankle sprain. Source.
Jonathan Taumateine - Picked up a knee injury in rd 3. Source.
Tupou Afungia - Recovered from a neck injury, but suffered a concussion in rd 3. Now listed as a neck injury again in rd 6. Source.
Lolani Faleiva - Has a shoulder injury. No return date announced. Source.
Julian Savea - Came off in rd 6 with a nasty-looking shoulder injury. We suspect he has dislocated it, so he will be out for some time.
Tito Tuipulotu - Missing rd 7 with a thumb injury. Source.
Joel Lam - Has a quad contusion (cork) from rd 7. Looked to be pretty severe.

Gone for the season:

Dan Nelson (Brumbies) - Fractured his fibula in his lower leg before d 5. Ruled out for the remainder of the season. Source.
Kye Oates (Brumbies) - Fracture dislocation of his ankle before rd 8. He has already had an operation. They said he is aiming to be back in 12 weeks (so won’t play again this season), but I think this is probably being hopeful. Source.
Ponipate Loganimasi (Drua) - Commentary said that Loganimasi came off with a dislocated wrist in rd 7. He has now been ruled out for the season with an arm injury, so we believe this is the reason. Source.
Epeli Momo (Drua) - Ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury before rd 8. Source.

Dylan Pledger (Highlanders) - Ruled out of all rugby for the year following a training ground accident that resulted in a complete rupture of his ACL in January. Source.
Fabian Holland (Highlanders) - Now confirmed he dislocated his right shoulder while trying to pilfer during a ruck on the 6th of Feb. Confirmed he will be out for the full Super Rugby season with an aim to return in the July international window. Source.
Josh Tengblad (Highlanders) - Suffered an ACL injury in rd 5. Out for the season. Source.
Harry Godfrey (Hurricanes) - Expected to miss the 2026 Super Rugby season due to an ACL injury. Source.
Brett Cameron (Hurricanes) - Stretchered off with a right knee injury. They haven’t told us what the injury is, but it was confirmed during rd 3 that he is having surgery and is out for the season. Source.
Cam Christie (Blues) - Hobbled off with a knee ligament injury in the Jan 30th trial. Now confirmed, he is out for the season. Source.
James White (Crusaders) - Suffered a shoulder injury and will be out for the rest of the season. Source.
Tamaiti Williams (Crusaders) - Ruled out after rd 7 for the year with an infection of a disc in his back (Discitis). He will make a full recovery, but won’t play until at least the first international window. Source.
Jayden Sa (Chiefs) - Suffered a new shoulder injury in rd 5. Confirmed he is out for the season. Source.

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Written by your local rugby nerd Harrison Dale.

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New Injuries Round 11:

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As the “Race to the Eight” heats up, all matches in Round 14 went as expected. Nearly every fixture had a clear favourite, and every one of those favourites delivered. Connacht’s late victory over Ospreys kept them in the playoff hunt for another week while most likely condemning the Welsh side to Challenge Cup rugby next season. Elsewhere, all four South African teams backed up wins from the last round with another full house this weekend. Of the four touring sides, Munster will be the most pleased after picking up two crucial bonus points.

Team of the Week

OB: Warrick Gelant – Stormers (2 try assist, 3 defenders beaten, 2 offloads, 7 line break assists)

In nearly every game Gelant features in, he will produce moments of magic and moments of madness. A mark of a good performance is in their ratio. Against Edinburgh, this fell firmly in favour of magic. Gelant created an astonishing 7 line breaks for teammates, 2 of which directly resulting in tries, this is more than double the next player. His try assists, in particular, were crucial for the Stormers who struggle to unlock a set defence without moments of individual brilliance. His assist for Mchunu highlighted his ability to get defenders to focus on him before a deft piece of skill sets a teammate away – 77 points

OB: Quan Horn – Lions (1 try assist, 102 carry meters, 3 defenders beaten)

Horn carried for the most meters of any player in Round 14. He routinely ran back long Dragons’ kicks in an attempt to start counter attacks beating 3 defenders in the process. His most impactful moment came in his assist for Richard Kriel’s try as he did superbly well to get his pass away, over the head of the on rushing defender – 62 points

OB: Tommy O’Brien – Leinster (2 tries, 1 line break, 1 line break assist, 2 turnovers won)

O’Brien was, as ever, involved in many aspects of Leinster’s victory over the Scarlets. He ran in two tries, that while did not require him beat any defenders, showcased his positional and support line acuity. For his first try, he held his width well needing just a looped Gibson-Park pass to give him a clean run to the try line. 2 turnovers won is also always worth mentioning from a back – 75 points

CE: Erich Cronje – Lions (1 try, 71 carry meters, 1 offload, 1 turnover won, 3 line breaks)

Cronje has had a blockbuster two weeks filling in on the wing for the Lions. He was influential throughout the encounter carrying for 71 meters and making 3 line breaks, the most of any back, in the process. He picked up a well-deserved try towards the end of the game as he stormed down the left wing beating a handful of defenders before crashing over the line – 68 points

CE: Aneurin Owen – Dragons (2 tries, 1 try assist, 2 line break assists, 1 turnover won)

Owen was crucial to the Dragons’ tries, fulfilling critical roles on set piece attack. His rugby IQ allowed him to score what looked like 2 easy tries; however, both came from clever positioning. For his first try he turned a dummy line into a support run while for his second he played a one-two with his inside man before strolling in again. Owen also showed up on defence with a crucial turnover – 74 points

FH: Chris Smith – Lions (1 try, 2 line breaks, 50 meters carried)

The URC top-scorer enters the TOTW for the first time this season. Perhaps surprisingly, he achieves this in a week where he was less than perfect with the boot rather than earning points for his running game. His try was a touch fortuitous as he latched onto a dropped ball to claim an easy 5 pointer – 54 points

SH: Embrose Papier – Bulls (2 tries, 89 carry meters, 6 defenders beaten, 1 turnover won)

Papier issued another sharp reminder to Springbok management with a performance full of x-factor and searing pace. Papier’s attacking stats are impressive (2 tries, 89 carry metres, and 6 defenders beaten) but they take on a new light when coupled with an additional fact: He only made 2 carries all game. His entire attacking output came from just 2 runs with the ball – efficiency – 80 points

BR: Evan Roos – Stormers (2 tries, 5/12 carries dominant, 3 line breaks, 63 carry meters)

Roos has really grown into this season, truly putting his body on the line week after week. He made 12 carries which led to 3 line breaks and 63 meters gained. Roos’ nose for the try line was on full show this past weekend with his 2 tries this week bringing him level with Joshua Kenny and Sean Jansen at the top of the leading try scorer charts – 80 points

BR: Fletcher Anderson – Scarlets (25 carries, 3 offloads, 6 defenders beaten, 14/14 tackles made)

An astounding points haul in a losing effort for Anderson who has been nothing short of a revelation for the Scarlets after his arrival from Super Rugby. Anderson carried gainfully making 25 carries, 8 more than the next player in the round, for 71 post-contact metres - Additionally, he made 4 dominant tackles – the most across the round – 97 points

BR: Phepsi Buthelezi – Sharks (2 tries, 10 dominant carries, 9 defenders beaten) – Player of the Round

Only one word is needed to summarise this Buthelezi performance: Boomfa! He made an impressive 10 dominant carries from just 59 minutes on the field. He runs with purpose and intent – frequently putting defenders back on their arse. His 9 defenders beaten was also the highest of any player in the round. Both of his tries came from messily set-up mauls that required mongrel and awareness to finish off – 98 points

LK: Thomas Ahern – Munster (2 tries, 1 defender beaten, 1 dominant tackle, 1 lineout steal)

Ahern was a key part of Munster’s ability to stay in the fight, and ultimately come away with 2 bonus points, in their tough outing in the heat of the Highveld. He was disruptive at lineout time and made his physicality felt on both attack and defence. Both his tries finished off well put together attacking sets. For his first, he valuably held his width off a huge line break by Alex Kendellen, leaving only the diminutive Kurt-Lee Arendse in his path to the try line – 63 points

LK: Max Williamson – Glasgow (1 try, 1 offload, 1 turnover won, 10/10 tackles made)

It can’t possibly be a URC TOTW without a Glasgow player, can it?! This week they will have to settle for the single feature with Williamson being a standout performer. He stood up gainfully on defence, when Benetton were having the run of play in the first, making all 10 of his tackles and forcing 1 turnover. His try was smartly taken as he found a soft shoulder in the Benetton defensive line allowing him to slip through from less than 5 meters out – 68 points

PR: Ntuthuko Mchunu – Stormers (1 try, 1, try assist, 1 line break)

An early yellow card was not enough to deny Mchunu a spot in this week’s TOTW as he produced an excellent performance in both the tight and loose. The Stormers’ scrum was as dominant as ever but Mchunu’s real impact on the game came ball-in-hand. He showed back-like pace to race in for a crucial score – there can’t be many props with his pace in World Rugby currently – 62 points

HK: Rob Herring – Ulster (1 try, 1 try assist, 1 line break, 32 ruck arrivals, 16/16 lineouts won)

A solid outing for the Ulster hooker in a tough away fixture against Zebre. He was flawless with his darts (making more than any other hooker) and cleaned more rucks than any other front rower in Round 14. He picked up a well-taken maul try, breaking away at just the right moment to ensure minimal resistance from the Zebre defence – 58 points

PR: Kemsley Mathias – Scarlets (1 dominant tackle, 1 offload, 5/11 carries cross the gain line)

The second Scarlet forward to make TOTW 14 in what was an admirable performance in defeat for the men from Swansea. While perhaps not producing the flash of Mchunu, he was solid all round. He made 1 dominant tackle, and was a go-to carrying option making 11 carries – the most of any prop – 62 points

Available in your league? (Hidden Gems)

1. Finn Treacy (Connacht - Wing/Centre): With Connacht’s Casualty Ward currently housing the likes of Mack Hansen, Hugh Gavin, and Shayne Bolton, Treacy has secured a mandatory starting role and is thriving. His 80-point breakout featured clinical attacking volume, including 106 carry metres and 3 line breaks. If he is still a Free Agent in your league, secure him now before his ownership climbs.

2. Gregor Hiddleston (Glasgow Warriors - Hooker): 88 points from the hooking slot is elite production usually reserved for the top-tier names. Hiddleston provided an immense floor in Round 13, recording 28 ruck arrivals and 15 successful lineout throws. With Glasgow rotating their squad heavily around international windows, he is a perfect high-volume anchor for your front row.

3. Ruan Venter (Lions - Back Row): Returning from a four-match ban, Venter immediately reminded managers why he is a multi-category monster. He hits everything that moves, banking 14 tackles (2 dominant) and 3 lineout takes for a 79-point haul. With the Lions hitting their straps in the South African Shield, he is a priority target in the Trade Window.

Written by Ryan

In the OG League, the table is beginning to split. The top two have established a buffer, while a single point separated triumph from tragedy in the most talked-about matchup of the weekend.

What is the OG League? For those newcomers joining us, The OG League is the founding Draft Rugby fantasy league and is in its 14th year of playing Draft Rugby. The OG League is a public and featured league on the draft rugby platform that you can follow along for the season if you have signed up to the platform. You can find it on the public leagues page featured at the top at draftrugby.com/leagues/join

Super Rugby Pacific Round 7 Top Performers

You can read about the full round 7 team of the week here.

Trades

Managers were aggressive this week, with several blockbusters shifting the league’s balance:

• The Darcy Swain Swap: Andrew Pisani and Nelson Dale pulled off a massive three-for-three deal. Andrew brought in Declan Meredith (25), Darcy Swain (34) and Joe Brial (24), while Nelson secured Carlo Tizzano (22), Antonio Shalfoon (DNP) and Lawson Creighton (25)

• The “Funaki” Find: Cargie continues his hunt for scrumhalf gold, trading for Taufa Funaki (28) against the Drua.

• Return of the King: Andrew swapped in Angus Ta’avao (29) for Fletcher Newell (DNP) with Blake, looking to stabilise his front row for the title charge.

• The “Kellaway” Coup: Sean (Lam & Order) swapped Triston Reilly for Andrew Kellaway (68), a move that would prove mathematically vital.

You can check out the casualty ward updates for rounds 7-8, chronicling all Super Rugby Pacific 2026 injuries and returns here.

Round 7 Fixtures:

Situti Down vs. Ofa Tu’ungaFAST & The Furious

Result: 534 - 662 Blake’s Ofa Tu’ungaFAST bounced back from last week’s loss with a clinical demolition of Cargie. The scoreline was dominated by Lachlan Shaw (93) and Quinn Tupaea (89). Blake’s roster depth is becoming a problem for the rest of the league; even with Jock Campbell having a “human” game (58), he blew past the 600-mark with ease.

Cargie’s Situti Down fought hard, led by a massive 80 from Rob Valetini and 61 from Bradley Slater, but was ultimately undone by a “zero” from Timoci Tavatavanawai and a lack of scoring punch in the outside backs.

Leicester We Forget vs. Roigardians of the Galaxy

Result: 478 - 514 Nabung’s Roigardians keep their grip on 1st place, but Harry made them sweat for it. Luke Jacobson (65) and Jeremy Williams (62) provided the engine room for Nabung. Harry (Leicester We Forget) saw great returns from Tom Lambert (64) and Caleb Clarke (58), but the “zeros” from Tyrel Lomax and Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa were too much to overcome.

• Note: Harry actually had 40 points from Mesake Vocevoce on the bench that could have made this a one-score game!

SAMISONIC THE HEDGEHOG vs. The Toole Shed

Result: 566 - 543 A classic mid-table dogfight! Nelson (SAMISONIC) relied on the consistency of Anton Segner (63) and Clement Halaholo (59) to hold off a surging Wylie. The Toole Shed got a massive 67 from Fehi Fineanganofo and 64 from Josh Jacomb, but was left 23 points short. Wylie’s climb out of the basement continues to be hampered by narrow losses despite high totals.

Expecto-Pa-TRY-trum vs. Lam & Order

Result: 503 - 504 The “Matchup of the Year” candidate. One. Single. Point. Sean (Lam & Order) escaped with the victory thanks to his trade acquisition Andrew Kellaway (68) and a massive 78 from Charlie Cale.

Andrew (Expecto) will be seeing Joey Walton’s 59 points in his nightmares. He did everything right, with Seru Uru (54) and Caleb Tangitau (54) playing out of their skins, but a “zero” from Dylan Pietsch in the 15 shirt proved to be the fatal blow. Had Andrew started Brandon Paenga-Amosa (50) over any of his front row, he would have walked away with the points.

Round 7 OG League Fantasy Facts

• Best Player: Lachlan Shaw (93 points) – Ofa Tu'ungaFAST & The Furious

• Best Trade: Andrew Kellaway (68) – Won the game for Lam & Order

• Best Free Agent: Iosefo Namoce (79) - Fijian Drua

• Biggest Coaching Mistake: Andrew leaving Brandon Paenga-Amosa (50) on the bench for Josh Nasseer (29) in a 1-point loss.

The OG League Table After Round 7

Nabung (Roigardians of the Galaxy) remains at the summit with a 6-1 record, but Blake (Ofa Tu'ungaFAST & The Furious) is breathing down his neck with a superior total points tally (4137!). Sean (Lam & Order) and Nelson (SAMISONIC) are locked in a battle for 3rd. At the tail end, Wylie is still searching for that elusive second win to ignite a late-season charge.

Logged-in users can view the full OG League results and detailed breakdowns here.

What’s New on Draft Rugby?

The guys have been hard at work to keep rolling out the updates week in and week out!

CSV/Excel Exports:

The Excel exports for the team lists and real-life team lineups are here!

Draft Rugby’s Major League Rugby:

Draft Rugby is currently building out the MLR! We are hoping to have this up and running very very soon! It’s a niche 6-team competition staged in the home of fantasy sports. Can’t get enough

Draft Sports? Sign up to a league when it opens soon!

Written by Harrison Dale

If Round 7 was about tactical patience, Round 8 was a return to pure, unadulterated volume. While the "flash" players grabbed the highlights, savvy managers were watching the Trade Window for the high-work-rate anchors keeping their seasons alive. With the Casualty Ward currently a crowded place, housing the likes of Tate McDermott (Hamstring) and David Havili (heel), the ability to identify the workhorse in the trenches has never been more vital. This week, we saw a masterclass in ruck dominance and gain-line persistence that separated the contenders from the autodrafters.

Team of the Week

1: Tom Lambert – Prop, Waratahs (64 pts)

Lambert provided a blueprint for front-row involvement this week. 16 tackles is two tries’ worth of points in defense alone, and when you pair that with 21 ruck arrivals and a line break, you have a prop performing like a blindside flanker. In our scoring engine, this level of “grit” is pure fantasy gold.

2: Bradley Slater – Hooker, Blues (61 pts)

Slater continues to justify his move to the Blues with a blue-chip performance. A brace of tries and 13 tackles provided a massive ceiling, while his 14 successful lineout throws ensured a safe floor for his owners.

3: Darcy Breen – Prop, Brumbies (54 pts)

Efficiency and volume. Breen hit a staggering 31 rucks and crossed the gain line 6 times. Under the 2026 scoring engine, those “Tight Five” metrics provide the high-floor reliability that wins head-to-head matchups.

4: Lachlan Shaw – Lock, Brumbies (93 pts)

Player of the Round. Shaw delivered one of the most complete engine-room performances of the season. 45 ruck arrivals is a level of relentless involvement we rarely see. Add in two tries, 13 tackles, and 7 lineout takes, and you have a statistical freak in the second row.

5: Isoa Nasilasila – Lock, Drua (65 pts)

A typical workhorse shift from the Drua general. 12 carries and 12 tackles kept the engine room firing, while his line-break assist showed the offensive upside that makes him a Tier-1 lock.

6: Du’Plessis Kirifi – Back Row, Hurricanes (85 pts)

The ultimate breakdown pest was everywhere this week. 21 tackles (2 dominant) and 7 tackle busts show a level of physical dominance that breaks matchups wide open. His 72 post-contact metres demonstrate he is fighting for every inch.

7: Rob Valetini – Back Row, Brumbies (80 pts)

“Bobby V” was a human wrecking ball, recording a round-high 16 dominant carries. 20 total carries for 76 metres is elite-tier volume for a back-rower, ensuring a massive score even without crossing the try line.

8: Charlie Cale – Back Row, Brumbies (78 pts)

Cale remains a certified “cheat code” in the Draft format. Beyond his try and 16 carries, his 7 lineout takes and 2 steals add a secondary scoring stream that most No. 8s simply cannot match.

9: Nic Shearer – Scrumhalf, Highlanders (65 pts)

Shearer was the primary architect of the Highlanders’ attack, racking up 3 try assists and a clinical try of his own. His 11 kicks from hand show he is taking full tactical control of the game.

10: Josh Jacomb – Flyhalf, Chiefs (64 pts)

With the Chiefs rotating their playmakers, Jacomb stepped up with 3 line breaks and a try. His 87 post-contact metres show a physical directness that rewards managers through pure attacking volume.

11: Andrew Kellaway – Outside Back, Waratahs (68 pts)

Kellaway provided a masterclass in work-rate from the edge. 11 tackles and a clutch try-saver provided a massive floor, while his try and 2 line breaks ensured a high ceiling for the Tahs’ veteran.

12: Quinn Tupaea – Centre, Chiefs (89 pts)

Tupaea is back to his bruising best. 15 carries (10 dominant) and 13 tackles, this is the kind of midfield volume that stabilizes a fantasy roster. He is currently one of the most consistent centres in the competition.

13: Iosefo Namoce – Centre, Drua (79 pts)

Namoce was a nightmare for defenders, recording 3 line breaks and 10 gain-line crosses. His 64 post-contact metres indicate a level of physical dominance that makes him a priority target in the Trade Window.

14: Fehi Fineanganofo – Outside Back, Hurricanes (67 pts)

The “haul” king does it again. 3 tries and 132 carry metres, Fehi is the primary strike-runner in a rampant Hurricanes side. If you don’t own him yet, you are likely playing for the spoon.

15: Caleb Clarke – Outside Back, Blues (58 pts)

Clarke remains a volume machine for the Blues. 2 line breaks and 67 carry metres show he is constantly seeking work, providing a reliable high ceiling at the back.

Available in your league? (Hidden Gems)

1. Iosefo Namoce (Drua - Centre): 10 gain-line crosses and 3 line breaks. Namoce could well trend toward elite status in the Drua midfield. If he is sitting in your Free Agent pool, grab him before his ownership skyrockets.

2. Clement Halaholo (NSW Waratahs - Back Row/Lock): Injuries to Charlie Gamble and Austin Durbidge have turned Halaholo into a frontline workhorse. A 193cm hybrid who can slide into the engine room, he proved his clinical edge with a try against the Brumbies in Round 7. Secure this high-involvement anchor before your league-mates catch on.

3. Darcy Breen (ACT Brumbies - Prop): While Allan Alaalatoa and Rhys Van Nek manage a back and thumb injury respectively, Breen is the ultimate target for front-row volume. His Round 8 performance featured 13 carries and 31 ruck arrivals, elite involvement that provides a massive scoring floor. Claim him now while the veteran Brumbies props are in a rotation cycle.

Written by Harry Dale