The 2026 Super Rugby Pacific playoffs begin with a blockbuster Qualifying Final as the Hurricanes welcome the ACT Brumbies to Wellington on Friday, June 5. With a place in the next stage of the competition on the line, both teams will be aiming to start their finals campaign with a statement victory.
The match will take place at Hnry Stadium in Wellington, New Zealand, with kickoff scheduled for 7:05 PM NZST (5:05 PM AEST). Rugby fans can expect a fast-paced contest between one of New Zealand’s most consistent sides and Australia’s top-performing franchise.
Hurricanes vs Brumbies Match Details
| Match | Hurricanes vs Brumbies |
|---|---|
| Competition | Super Rugby Pacific 2026 Qualifying Final |
| Date | June 5, 2026 |
| Venue | Hnry Stadium, Wellington |
| Kickoff Time | 7:05 PM NZST / 5:05 PM AEST |
| Live Streaming | Stan Sport |
| Broadcast Start | 4:30 PM AEST |
How to Watch Hurricanes vs Brumbies Live
Fans in Australia can watch the Super Rugby Pacific Qualifying Final live and ad-free on Stan Sport. Coverage begins at 4:30 PM AEST, providing pre-match analysis, team news, and expert commentary before kickoff.
Viewers in New Zealand and other international regions should check local rugby broadcasters for live coverage and streaming availability.
Hurricanes Team News and Lineup
The Hurricanes enter the playoffs as one of the strongest teams in the competition after an outstanding regular season. Several key players were rested during their final-round defeat to the Crusaders, meaning the Wellington side heads into the finals refreshed and close to full strength.
Hurricanes Starting XV
15. Callum Harkin, 14. Josh Moorby, 13. Billy Proctor, 12. Jordie Barrett (CC), 11. Kini Naholo, 10. Ruben Love, 9. Cam Roigard, 8. Peter Lakai, 7. Du’Plessis Kirifi (CC), 6. Brad Shields, 5. Warner Dearns, 4. Caleb Delany, 3. Pasilio Tosi, 2. Asafo Aumua, 1. Xavier Numia
Bench: Raymond Tuputupu, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Tyrel Lomax, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Brayden Iose, Ereatara Enari, Jone Rova, Ngane Punivai.
The return of experienced stars such as Jordie Barrett, Cam Roigard, Asafo Aumua, and Tyrel Lomax gives the Hurricanes a powerful advantage heading into the knockout stage.
Brumbies Team News and Lineup
The Brumbies arrive in Wellington looking to bounce back after a surprising defeat to Moana Pasifika in the final round of the regular season. Despite that setback, the Canberra-based franchise remains Australia’s biggest hope in the playoffs.
History is against them, however, as Australian teams have traditionally struggled to win finals matches in New Zealand.
Brumbies Starting XV
15. Tom Wright, 14. Andy Muirhead, 13. Hudson Creighton, 12. David Feliuai, 11. Corey Toole, 10. Declan Meredith, 9. Ryan Lonergan, 8. Charlie Cale, 7. Luke Reimer, 6. Rob Valetini, 5. Cadeyrn Neville, 4. Lachlan Shaw, 3. Allan Alaalatoa (C), 2. Lachlan Lonergan, 1. James Slipper
Bench: Billy Pollard, Blake Schoupp, Rhys van Nek, Nick Frost, Rory Scott, Klayton Thorn, Tane Edmed, Ollie Sapsford.
The inclusion of Lachlan Lonergan and Luke Reimer strengthens the Brumbies’ forward pack as they attempt to create a major upset on New Zealand soil.
Hurricanes vs Brumbies Live Score Updates
Stay tuned for live score updates, key moments, tries, conversions, and major match events as the Hurricanes take on the Brumbies in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Qualifying Final. Follow along for real-time scoring, halftime and full-time results, standout player performances, and all the latest action from Hnry Stadium in Wellington as both teams battle for a place in the next round of the playoffs.
Match Preview and Prediction
The Hurricanes have been one of the most balanced teams throughout the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season. Their attacking style, strong set-piece, and home-ground advantage make them deserved favourites entering the playoffs.
The Brumbies possess plenty of experience and physicality, led by veterans James Slipper, Allan Alaalatoa, and Rob Valetini. If they can control possession and limit the Hurricanes’ quick attacking transitions, they have the ability to stay competitive deep into the contest.
However, Wellington has been a difficult destination for visiting teams, especially during finals rugby. With several key stars returning and a passionate home crowd behind them, the Hurricanes appear well-positioned to advance.
Prediction
Hurricanes 32-22 Brumbies
Expect a physical opening half before the Hurricanes’ depth and attacking quality help them pull away in the final quarter.
Stay tuned for live score updates, key moments, and post-match reaction from this highly anticipated Super Rugby Pacific Qualifying Final.