Super Rugby Pacific 2025 Begins with Blues as Team to Beat

The Auckland Blues aim to defend their title as Australian teams look to break an 11-year drought in a season shaped by key player moves and law changes.

• The Auckland Blues, led by coach Vern Cotter, are favorites to retain their title after a dominant 2024 season, with Beauden Barrett returning and a stacked squad featuring All Blacks talent.
• Australian teams, boosted by former Melbourne Rebels players, aim to end an 11-year title drought, with the Waratahs, Reds, and Brumbies seen as strong contenders under experienced coaches.
• Key law changes, including faster conversion times and reduced lineout stoppages, are expected to increase game speed and favor attacking play across the competition.
• The Chiefs, last year's runners-up, face challenges with the loss of All Blacks loose forward Wallace Sititi but remain strong contenders with Damian McKenzie leading their backline.
• The competition also sees rebuilding efforts from the Crusaders and Highlanders, while the Fijian Drua and Western Force are poised for potential upsets in a highly competitive field.

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