Veteran lock Jimmy Tupou will make his Moana Pasifika debut, when the team hosts the Chiefs at Rotorua International Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Tupou will go up against his former team who he played for during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, bringing his valuable experience and leadership to spark energy off the bench.
Previously he played for the Blues, Crusaders and Japanese club Urayasu D-Rocks. He also played a key role when Counties Manukau won an NPC title in 2012.
Joining Tupou on the bench is hard-working loose forward Semisi Paea who is excited to be back in his hometown.
Paea was raised in Rotorua and attended Rotorua Boys High School. He has played for Ngongotaha Rugby Club, Whakarewarewa and has also been part of the Bay of Plenty Steamers since 2021.
“There is no greater feeling than hearing your name get called in the squad to play in the city that raised you,” Paea said. “This is a dream come true and I’m looking forward to representing my family and this franchise in my hometown.”
For the first time in eight years, a Super Rugby game will be played in the Bay of Plenty city. Moana Pasifika are looking forward to connecting with their fans in the region and showcasing their unique Pasifika hospitality and flair.
Malakai Hala-Ngatai who has ties to Te Arawa earns his first start at loose-head prop. The 23-year-old was part of the New England Free Jacks historic three-peat in 2025.
He also played for the All Blacks Under 20s team at the World Junior Championship and went through the Manawatū Rugby Academy.
Exciting young prospect, Tyler Pulini who made an impact in his debut against the Chiefs five weeks ago, will also get another opportunity to showcase his skills.
Starting XV
1. Malakai Hala-Ngatai
2. Millennium Sanerivi
3. Paula Latu
4. Tom Savage
5. Veikoso Poloniati
6. Miracle Faiilagi (c)
7. Niko Jones
8. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa
9. Augustine Pulu
10. Jackson Garden-Bachop
11. Glen Vaihu
12. Lalomilo Lalomilo
13. Tevita Latu
14. Solomon Alaimalo
15. William Havili
Impact
16. Samiuela Moli
17. Abraham Pole
18. Atu Moli
19. Jimmy Tupou *DEBUT
20. Semisi Paea
21. Melani Matavao
22. Patrick Pellegrini
23. Tyler Pulini
Unavailable Due To Injury: Allan Craig (head knock), Joel Lam (quad contusion), Julian Savea (shoulder), Lolani Faleiva (shoulder), Monu Moli (foot), Ngani Laumape (knee), Simon Peter Toleafoa (knee), Tevita Ofa (finger), Tito Tuipulotu (thumb), Tupou Afungia (neck).
ENDS
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