Super Rugby Aupiki is BACK! Team Naming: Preseason Clash Against Hurricanes Poua
Matatū are set for the first preseason match of the Super Rugby Aupiki 2025 season, taking place against Hurricanes Poua at NZCIS in Upper Hutt on Saturday, 22 February at 12pm.
The match will see all squad members getting valuable game time, with the exception of Tegan Hollows and Kaipo Olsen-Baker, who are being rested but are expected to be available for selection in round one against Chiefs Manawa in Hamilton on March 1.
"We're bringing the whole squad up to Wellington for the game so it's going to be a really good opportunity to get everyone on the field and get some combinations going before we get to round one, " says Captain Alana Bremner.
"We're really looking forward to testing where we're at."
Bremner will start in the number 6 jersey while the front row features the experienced trio of Pip Love, Georgia Ponsonby, and Amy Rule.
In the second row, Laura Bayfield and Chelsea Bremner will start, with Lucy Jenkins and Fiaali'i Solomona completing the forward pack.
Maia Joseph will be at halfback, with new signing Hannah King starting at first five.
On the wings, Hollyrae Mete and Winnie Palamo will look to make an impact, while Grace Brooker and Amy du Plessis will form the centre pairing.
Chey Robins-Reti will take on the fullback role, providing stability from the back.
With a blend of seasoned players and fresh talent, the squad will look to build momentum and make sold connections ahead of what promises to be a thrilling Super Rugby Aupiki season.
Matatū starting lineup:
Pip Love
Georgia Ponsonby
Amy Rule
Laura Bayfield
Chelsea Bremner
Alana Bremner
Lucy Jenkins
Fiaali'i Solomona
Maia Joseph
Hannah King
Hollyrae Mete
Grace Brooker
Amy du Plessis
Winnie Palamo
Chey Robins- Reti
Rotation: Marcelle Parkes, Eilis Dyle, Jett Hayward, Moomooga Palu, Emma Dermody, Tayla Simpson, Sarah Jones, Kelsyn McCook, Abigail Paton, Kaea Nepia, Fia Laikong, Charlotte Va’afusuaga
Unavailable for Selection: Kaipo Olsen-Baker, Tegan Hollows
Both are on track to be selectable for Round 1 v Chiefs Manawa on March 1st.
