Chiefs name 2027 DHL Super Rugby Pacific squad featuring 14 All Blacks
The Gallagher Chiefs have named their 2027 DHL Super Rugby Pacific squad, combining 11 All Blacks with fresh arrivals and emerging talent to write the club’s next chapter.
Anton Lienert-Brown returns after a one-year sabbatical in Japan, are joined in the Chiefs’ All Blacks group by Quinn Tupaea, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Tupou Vaa’i, Josh Lord, Simon Parker, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie and Leroy Carter.
Head Coach Gibbes said the group blends international experience with a strong connection to Chiefs Country.
“There’s a lot to be excited about in this group. We’ve got players who understand this club and what it means to represent our people, as well as new faces bringing their own experiences.
“I’m confident in the foundation we’ve built, this is a new team and a new season. It’s about what we do next and everyone has a part to play in that.”
All Black experience across the park
Up front, seasoned All Black Samisoni Taukei’aho leads a hooking group that also welcomes back Taine Kolose and NPC-winning captain Brodie McAlister. Tyrone Thompson will unfortunately miss the season through injury.
All Blacks Tupou Vaa’i and Josh Lord anchor the locks, where Vaa’i and Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi will both be looking to reach a 100th Chiefs cap in 2027, adding to the club’s growing centurion list.
The loose forwards feature All Blacks Simon Parker, Wallace Sititi and Luke Jacobson. Corey Kellow arrives following the departure of All Black Samipeni Finau.
Recently announced Highlanders centurion Daniel Lienert-Brown and Hurricanes forward Tevita Mafileo add substantial Super Rugby experience to the prop group.
In the backs, All Blacks Cortez Ratima and Damian McKenzie direct play, with Quinn Tupaea and Anton Lienert-Brown in the midfield alongside Daniel Rona and Kyle Brown. All Black Leroy Carter provides pace out wide.
Watch: All Black #1153 Anton Lienert-Brown
Fresh faces
Six previously unannounced players join the squad.
Bay of Plenty halfback Richard Judd has played across four provincial teams, made 21 appearances for the Hurricanes, and spent time with Suntory Sungoliath and San Diego Legion. He is set to bring composure and firepower to the halves.
Fellow BOP halfback Charlie Sinton, a New Zealand Under 20 representative, joined the Chiefs Pathways on a National Development Contract in 2026 and signs for two years.
Out wide, 21-year-old All Blacks Sevens representative Frank Vaenuku brings footwork, aerial ability and powerful carrying. He has signed a long-term agreement that will see him available for the 2028 Olympics before returning in 2029.
Corey Kellow spent four years with the Crusaders and arrives after helping Canterbury win the 2026 NPC.
Lock Jai Knights, a member of the 2026 Wider Training Group, steps up to a full contract.
Tongan international Paula Latu, a tighthead prop who has played for Southland and Welsh club Dragons RFC, and six games for Moana Pasifika in 2026, replaces Benet Kumeroa, who joins the Highlanders for 2027.
Gibbes said the new arrivals are at different stages of their careers, which he sees as a strength.
“Some bring experience from other Super Rugby teams, while others have been developing within our pathways and are ready for their next challenge.
“We want them to bring what makes them different. They’re here to contribute, compete and help this group move forward.”
Looking ahead
2027 is shaping up as another season of strong performances on the field and deep connection off it. For returning players and newcomers alike, the opportunity is the same: to earn their place, contribute to the group and help shape what comes next for the Gallagher Chiefs.
Fans can get behind the team with a 2027 membership
Watch: Hail To The Chiefs | 2012 Chiefs
Chiefs squad for 2027 DHL Super Rugby Pacific
All Blacks are shown in bold. Brackets denote Chiefs caps. * denotes Chiefs rookie. ** contracted but unavailable for 2027 due to injury.
Props: George Dyer (69), Paula Latu* (0), Daniel Lienert-Brown* (0), Tevita Mafileo (7), Ollie Norris (81), Jared Proffit (37)
Hookers: Taine Kolose (0), Brodie McAlister (23), Samisoni Taukei’aho (121), Tyrone Thompson** (31)
Locks: Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi (94), Jai Knight* (0), Josh Lord (46), Fiti Sa (6), Jayden Sa (0), Tupou Vaa’i (88), Aisake Vakasiuola (0)
Loose forwards: Kaylum Boshier (49), Jahrome Brown (14), Luke Jacobson (106), Corey Kellow* (0), Simon Parker (50), Wallace Sititi (29)
Halfbacks: Richard Judd* (0), Cortez Ratima (74), Charlie Sinton* (0)
Inside backs: Tepaea Cook-Savage (6), Taha Kemara* (0), Damian McKenzie (151)
Midfield: Kyle Brown (11), Anton Lienert-Brown (126), Daniel Rona (45), Quinn Tupaea (79)
Outside backs: Leroy Carter (26), Isaac Hutchinson (6), Emoni Narawa (54), Daniel Sinkinson (5), Kyren Taumoefolau (13), Frank Vaenuku* (0)
