Super Rugby clubs are eyeing the recruitment of Ardie Savea and other Moana Pasifika players for the 2026 season.
This shift in roster interest follows a period of instability for Moana Pasifika, including a significant defeat and changes to their player lineup. The availability of elite talent like Savea creates a competitive scramble among clubs looking to bolster their squads.
Savea, who is ranked as the No. 1 player in the world by FloRugby [3], becomes a primary target for teams as he returns from a sabbatical. His status as a top-tier athlete makes him one of the most sought-after players in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
The urgency for recruitment follows a challenging period for Moana Pasifika. On May 24, 2025, the team suffered a shock 85-7 loss to the Chiefs [1, 2]. The defeat occurred during the penultimate round of the 2025 season, highlighting gaps in the squad's current form.
In response to roster needs, Moana Pasifika has already made adjustments, adding Japan rugby's Mamoru Harada to their lineup [4]. However, the movement of players continues as other clubs seek to capitalize on the current roster volatility within the New Zealand-based competition.
Recruitment efforts are expected to intensify as teams prepare for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season [5]. The combination of Savea's high ranking and the team's recent struggles has made several Moana Pasifika players attractive targets for rival clubs.
“Ardie Savea is ranked as the No. 1 player in the world by FloRugby.”
The interest from rival clubs suggests a potential exodus of talent from Moana Pasifika. While the addition of Mamoru Harada shows an attempt to rebuild, the pursuit of world-class players like Savea by other franchises indicates that the 2026 season may see a significant redistribution of power across the Super Rugby Pacific landscape.
