Super Rugby Pacific Quarter-Finals: Team Lineups Revealed

As the Super Rugby Pacific quarter-finals approach, exciting matchups are set to captivate rugby enthusiasts worldwide. This weekend's games showcase the formidable skills of rising star Tom Lynagh for the Reds and the unwavering trust in Braydon Iose by the Hurricanes. Fans eagerly await the clash between the Blues and the Waratahs on Friday, followed by the battle between the Chiefs and the Reds on Saturday. Lastly, the Crusaders will take on the Fijian Drua, while the Brumbies face off against the Hurricanes.

Friday's action kicks off at Auckland's Eden Park, where the Blues will host the Waratahs. The Blues' lineup includes Zarn Sullivan, Mark Telea, and Rieko Ioane forming a powerful backline. Bryce Heem and AJ Lam join them, while Beauden Barrett leads the charge at fly-half. In the forwards, Dalton Papalii takes up the captain's role alongside Akira Ioane, providing a formidable force. The Waratahs, on the other hand, will rely on the skills of Mark Nawaqanitawase, Izaia Perese, and Joey Walton in their backline, while Michael Hooper captains the team from the flank.

On Saturday, the Chiefs will face the Reds at FMG Stadium in Waikato. With Jock Campbell, Suliasi Vunivalu, and Filipo Daugunu in the backline, the Reds aim to create havoc for their opponents. Tom Lynagh, son of rugby legend Michael Lynagh, will showcase his talent at fly-half. Tate McDermott captains the team from scrum-half, while Fraser McReight and Harry Wilson bring their skills to the back row. The Chiefs, led by co-captains Brad Weber and Sam Cane, feature a dynamic lineup with Damian McKenzie and Anton Lienert-Brown forming a lethal center pairing.

Meanwhile, the Crusaders will battle the Fijian Drua at Christchurch's Orangetheory Stadium. The Crusaders boast a star-studded lineup, including the electrifying Will Jordan in the fullback position. With Richie Mo'unga as the playmaker, the Crusaders look to dominate the game. Scott Barrett leads the pack as captain, with strong support from Quinten Strange and Codie Taylor. The Fijian Drua, on their historic journey in Super Rugby, showcase their talent with Ilaisa Droasese and Selestino Ravutaumada in the backline.

In Canberra, the Brumbies are set to clash with the Hurricanes at GIO Stadium. The Brumbies feature an exciting backline, with Tom Wright and Andy Muirhead providing attacking flair. Nic White leads the team as captain from the scrum-half position, while Pete Samu and Jahrome Brown offer their skills in the loose forwards. The Hurricanes, captained by Ardie Savea, will rely on the talents of Jordie Barrett and Kini Naholo in the backline.

Fans are eagerly anticipating these quarter-final clashes, which promise exhilarating rugby action. With an array of talent on display and intense competition expected, these matches are sure to captivate audiences worldwide.