Round 2 of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season belonged to the ACT Brumbies, who delivered a historic statement of intent in Christchurch, while the Hurricanes and Waratahs flexed their offensive muscles to remain at the top of the ladder.

 

Friday’s Fireworks: Moorby’s Magic and Tahs’ Dominance

• Hurricanes 52–10 Moana Pasifika: After sitting out Round 1 with a bye, the Hurricanes made up for lost time in Wellington. Josh Moorby announced his return to New Zealand with a blistering hat-trick, while Fehi Fineanganofo and Brayden Iose each bagged doubles. It was a baptism of fire for Tana Umaga's seven Moana debutants, who struggled to contain the Hurricanes' transition play.
• NSW Waratahs 36–13 Fijian Drua: In Sydney, Max Jorgensen once again proved why he is the league’s most exciting prospect, scoring two electric tries. Bench hooker Ioane Moananu added a late double to secure the bonus point against a Drua side that suffered from a lack of discipline.

 

Saturday: Derby Grit and Joondalup’s Debut

• Highlanders 23–26 Chiefs: This was the "arm-wrestle" of the round. In a physical Dunedin derby, the Chiefs’ set-piece dominance proved the difference. Samisoni Taukei’aho scored twice from the rolling maul, and while the Highlanders fought back through late tries from Caleb Tangitau and Veveni Lasaqa, the Chiefs held on to maintain their unbeaten start.
• Western Force 32–42 Blues: The Force hosted their first-ever match at Joondalup’s HIF Health Insurance Oval. Despite a heroic performance from Ben Donaldson, who scored 22 points (including a try), the Blues' power game was too much. Stephen Perofeta and Zarn Sullivan controlled the tempo to ensure the Aucklanders bounced back from their Round 1 loss.

 

A Historic Sunday in Christchurch

• The weekend concluded with a performance for the history books as the ACT Brumbies (50) dismantled the Crusaders (24) at Apollo Projects Stadium. On a day that marked the 15-year anniversary of the Christchurch earthquake, the Brumbies spoiled the occasion for the hosts by securing their first victory in the city in 25 years. James Slipper, celebrating his 200th Super Rugby appearance, led a clinical forward pack, while Charlie Cale continued his try-scoring tear with another brace.