Blessed with devastating power and pace, 22-year-old loose forward Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (Born 25 November 2003) has delighted rugby fans since the age of 16 when he went viral with a sensational try for Otago Boys’ High School First XV. The uncompromising ball runner toured South Africa with New Zealand Under 19 in 2022, was picked up by Southland in 2023 and graduated to Super Rugby with Moana Pasifika in 2025, coming under the wings of Ardie Savea and coach Tana Umaga. In an electrifying debut season, the number eight made a total of 13 appearances, scored seven tries, played 943 minutes – the most of any player in the squad, topped Super Rugby Pacific’s leaderboard for carries (205), and was named Moana’s Rookie of the Year and Best Defensive Player. Signed to New Zealand Rugby, he has carried his incredible form into 2026.