Author: G&GR Media

The ACT Brumbies have confirmed that prop Allan Alaalatoa will continue as team captain for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, marking his sixth consecutive year in the role.Alaalatoa, who made his Brumbies debut in 2014, has been a cornerstone of the team, earning over 75 caps. His leadership extends beyond the club, having captained the Wallabies in international fixtures. Expressing his commitment, Alaalatoa stated, “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to continue my career in Australian Rugby… The chance to continue to build a life for me and my family in Canberra and come to work every day at…

As the 2025 Six Nations Championship approaches, several law trials and technological innovations are set to be introduced, aiming to enhance the game for players, officials, and fans alike.20-Minute Red Card VariationOne of the most talked-about changes is the introduction of a 20-minute red card for technical offences. Under this trial, a player receiving a red card for a non-deliberate offence will leave the field for 20 minutes, after which they can be replaced. However, deliberate and dangerous foul play will still result in a permanent red card, ensuring that serious infringements are appropriately sanctioned.Referees ‘On Mic’In an effort to…

The Crusaders have announced a new long-term partnership with Marlborough-based Moa Brewing Company, a pioneer in New Zealand’s craft beer movement.As the official beer, cider, and RTD (Ready to Drink) partner, Moa Brewing Company will provide a range of beverages at Crusaders home games and events starting this season. Fans can anticipate exclusive promotions, tasting events, and unique giveaways that celebrate the synergy between exceptional rugby and quality beverages.The partnership coincides with the launch of Moa’s new cold-filtered ultra-low-carb lager, Southern Alps, brewed using southern hops and malt to produce a crisp lager. This beverage pays homage to the Southern…

In a move that solidifies the Crusaders’ forward pack for years to come, towering lock Jamie Hannah has extended his contract with the franchise through to 2028.Standing at an imposing 200cm, Hannah, affectionately nicknamed ‘Stilts’ by his teammates, has been a product of the Crusaders Academy. He made his Super Rugby debut in 2023 and has since accumulated 16 caps, including five starts in the 2024 season.Crusaders RugbyReflecting on his decision, Hannah said, “We talked about what was right for me, but it didn’t take long to come to the conclusion that staying here is the best option. This is…

The Highlanders Rugby Club is excited to bring back the popular “Kids Free” program for the 2025 season, made possible through their partnership with Delivereasy.This initiative allows children under 13 to attend Highlanders home games at Forsyth Barr Stadium for free when accompanied by a paying adult.Amanda Gould, Highlanders Marketing Manager, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We’re excited to bring this initiative back and make rugby more accessible for our young fans and families.”Tim Robinson, Delivereasy Co-Founder, added, “Big cheers, little fans! Delivereasy’s amped to be shouting ‘Kids Go Free’ – because the only thing better than watching the Lander’s play is…

The NSW Waratahs Under 20s are set to face NSW Pasifika Under 20s this Saturday at Eric Tweedale Stadium in Granville, kicking off a rugby-packed triple-header.WaratahsHead Coach Shannon Fraser has named a 25-man squad, featuring three players who’ve been mixing it up with the senior squad during pre-season: lock and captain Eamon Doyle, scrumhalf Hwi Sharples, and flyhalf Joey Fowler.The day’s lineup includes:Fraser is keen to see his young guns in action, stating, “This is a great opportunity for our players to showcase their skills and stake a claim for higher honours.”With a blend of emerging talent and seasoned campaigners,…

Tickets for the Western Force’s 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season are officially on sale, offering fans the chance to experience the excitement live at HBF Park.Home Game Highlights:Six Saturday twilight games and a Sunday afternoon fixture offer a great opportunity for families and supporters of all ages to enjoy the action.Membership Deals:Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, with fans encouraged to secure their seats early and be part of the excitement as the Western Force celebrates its 20th season. HBF Park is set to be a fortress in 2025.Read more: https://westernforce.rugby/news/tickets-on-sale-2025-super-rugby-pacific-force-2025123

The Crusaders have announced that tickets for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season are now on sale.Home Game Highlights:With seven home games, including three afternoon kickoffs, fans have ample opportunities to catch the action live.Individual tickets and membership packages are available through the Crusaders’ official website.Don’t miss the chance to be part of the Crusaders’ final season at Apollo Projects Stadium.Read more: https://crusaders.co.nz/latest/news/2025-crusaders-tickets-on-sale-now/

Meet Massimo De Lutiis, the Queensland Reds’ latest front-row sensation whose journey from a self-imposed basement training regime to the professional rugby arena is nothing short of inspiring.The Basement TransformationBefore his Year 11 term at The Southport School, De Lutiis was determined to emulate his future teammate, Zane Nonggorr, who had just led a dominant GPS rugby campaign. Lacking athletic prowess, he invested in a home gym, relocated his bed to the basement, and committed to twice-daily workouts, surfacing only for bi-weekly beach runs. This intense eight-week regimen paid off, as he returned to school noticeably transformed, earning a spot…

The ACT Brumbies have unveiled ‘The Stables,’ a fresh initiative aimed at rallying student support for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.Taking inspiration from the former ‘rUCkus Crew,’ The Stables is set to be the new hub for student fans, offering discounted tickets at just $20. This dedicated section, located in bay 64 at GIO Stadium, will feature its own DJ booth and various game day giveaways, aiming to create a lively and engaging atmosphere for young supporters.Gavin Hunt, General Manager of Business Operations at the ACT Brumbies, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “It was really important for…

In a move that brings recruitment and rugby closer than ever, the Highlanders have announced Stellar Recruitment as their official sponsor for the 2025 and 2026 Super Rugby Pacific seasons.The Stellar logo will feature prominently on the front of the team’s playing and training shorts, symbolizing a partnership rooted in shared values and community engagement.Robbie McIlraith, General Manager of Stellar Recruitment NZ, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Partnering with the Highlanders is an exciting opportunity to give back to the community that has supported us from the start. This sponsorship feels like a true homecoming for us.”The local Dunedin branch of…

The NSW Waratahs are gearing up for their first trial match of 2025, taking on NSW Pasifika at Eric Tweedale Stadium in Granville, Sydney, this Saturday.Head Coach Dan McKellar has named a 27-player squad, opting to give game time to those who’ve been slogging it out during pre-season. Notably, winger Darby Lancaster is the sole returnee from the Wallabies’ Spring tour to make the lineup.McKellar emphasized the importance of rewarding hard work, stating, “We want to provide an opportunity for the players who have done the majority of pre-season, who have worked hard here, a chance to get game time.”…

In a move that’s sure to suit both shoppers and rugby enthusiasts, the Blues have teamed up with Dress Smart Auckland as their official retail shopping centre partner for the next three Super Rugby seasons.Dress Smart Auckland, the city’s premier outlet shopping destination, is set to offer exclusive perks to both their shoppers and the Blues’ dedicated fanbase. Lauri Solecki, Centre Manager of Dress Smart Auckland, expressed her excitement, noting the shared history and community presence between the two organizations. She emphasized their commitment to creating memorable experiences for all involved.Blues CEO Andrew Hore echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the mutual…

As the 2025 Guinness Men’s Six Nations approaches, Italy’s rugby squad is gearing up to make a significant impact, marking the 25th anniversary of their inclusion in the tournament.A Historic Launch in RomeThe official launch event took place at the iconic Colosseum in Rome, symbolizing Italy’s rich history and their aspirations in the rugby world.Quesada’s Vision for the AzzurriHead coach Gonzalo Quesada, entering his second Six Nations with Italy, emphasized the importance of building on the previous year’s performances. He stated, “With the last Six Nations, we have certainly earned the respect of our opponents once again. We are ready…

The Queensland Reds have announced a formidable 34-man squad for their upcoming UK tour, featuring 17 Wallabies.Squad Highlights:Full Squad:The Reds will face the Bristol Bears on January 31 and Ulster Rugby on February 7, providing valuable preparation ahead of their Super Rugby Pacific opener against Moana Pasifika on February 21 at Suncorp Stadium.Read more: https://reds.rugby/news/queensland-reds-name-17-wallabies-in-stacked-uk-tour-squad-for-bristol-ulster-2025121

The Queensland Reds have unveiled a 34-man squad set to embark on a pre-season tour of the United Kingdom, featuring matches against Bristol Bears on January 31 and Ulster Rugby on February 7.Squad List:Head Coach Les Kiss emphasized the tour’s significance, stating, “It took a lot of planning to get everything in place to play two of Europe’s top clubs… We see all the upsides of touring together and playing in different conditions against varied opponents as giving us a strong prep for our first game against Moana Pasifika at Suncorp Stadium.”The Reds’ 2025 Super Rugby Pacific campaign kicks off…

The ACT Brumbies are inviting businesses to join their ‘Game Day 23’ sponsorship program for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.Sponsorship Benefits:This initiative allows businesses to align their brand with a specific jersey number, gaining significant visibility and connecting with a passionate fan base.Join the Brumbies family and let your brand shine both on and off the field.Read more: https://brumbies.rugby/news/game-day-23-sponsorship-opportunity-2025121

Moana Pasifika is thrilled to announce that they will host the ACT Brumbies at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe on Saturday, 19 April 2025.This match marks the first time Moana Pasifika will play in South Auckland, a region renowned for its vibrant culture and as a breeding ground for rugby talent.Head Coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re looking forward to taking Super Rugby to South Auckland, with many of our players from there and many of our fans based there too.”The Round 10 match is scheduled for a 1:05 pm kickoff, making it an ideal family-friendly event.This…

In a move that surprises absolutely no one, Jake Gordon has been reappointed as the NSW Waratahs captain for the 2025 season. Head Coach Dan McKellar made the announcement at the team’s Daceyville training base, stating, “Jake has led the NSW Waratahs really well over the last few years, which at times, has been difficult.”Gordon, who has been with the Waratahs since 2017 and took on the captaincy in 2021, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “It’s a great honour to be named Captain for the 2025 season… We have been training really hard and can’t wait for the season to start.”With…

French rugby maestro Antoine Dupont is set to make a much-anticipated return to the Six Nations Championship after a year-long absence dedicated to Olympic sevens glory. Reflecting on his time away, Dupont admitted, “It wasn’t easy watching the guys on TV last year, but I had other goals, and now I’m really looking forward to returning to this wonderful Tournament.”During his hiatus, Dupont captained the French sevens team to Olympic gold at the Paris 2024 Games, further cementing his status as one of rugby’s elite.France’s head coach, Fabien Galthié, emphasized the significance of Dupont’s return, stating, “He carries around him…