Highlanders Edge Crusaders 25-23 in Super Rugby Opener

In a thrilling opener to the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, the Highlanders edged out the defending champion Crusaders 25-23 at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin on Friday night, kicking off the competition's 30th anniversary celebrations with a classic South Island derby.

The match showcased a gritty battle between two southern rivals, with the Highlanders holding firm despite a late surge from the visitors. Trailing early, the home side built a lead through disciplined defense and opportunistic scoring, including tries from their backline. The Crusaders, captained by David Havili, struggled to break through the Highlanders' back three of Jona Nareki, Caleb Tangitau and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, who combined for several key turnovers and counterattacks. Highlanders co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai marked his 50th Super Rugby appearance with a solid performance in the midfield alongside Jonah Lowe, helping to stifle the Crusaders' outside backs until the final quarter.

The turning point came around the 50-minute mark when the Crusaders unleashed their bench, featuring All Blacks stars Codie Taylor, George Bower, Fletcher Newell and Will Jordan. Jordan, entering as fullback,...