Super Rugby Pacific Unites for ANZAC Weekend Round

The Super Rugby Pacific community will come together this weekend to pay tribute to the men and women who have served, and those who continue to serve, as part of the competition’s inaugural ANZAC Weekend Round.

ANZAC Weekend Round presents an opportunity for Super Rugby Pacific players, staff and supporters on both sides of the Tasman and across the Pacific to acknowledge and commemorate the service, sacrifice and spirit of the ANZACs.

The powerful bond between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, once forged in times of war, will be celebrated through sport as the five Australian sides face Kiwi opponents, and the Fijian Drua host Moana Pasifika.

ANZAC ceremonies will take place at games in Australia and New Zealand, while the Fijian Drua will provide veterans the opportunity to fundraise for the Annual Poppy appeal at the game in Lautoka.

Kevin Malloy, Super Rugby Pacific Chair is honoured to be able to commemorate the services of veterans across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands through rugby.

“Anzac Weekend Round is an opportunity to acknowledge the ANZAC spirit and the connections that brought all countries in the Pacific closer. It’s really special to be able to bring  teams and our fans together and take a moment to pay tribute to the sacrifices made.”

Anzac Weekend Round kicks off on Friday 26 April as the Crusaders host the Rebels at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch, followed by the Waratahs taking on the Chiefs in Sydney.  

On Saturday, the Fijian Drua play Moana Pasifika at home, in a Pasifika rivalry that’s quickly become a match to mark on the calendar with the first three fixtures of each being decided by a margin of less than three points, the Brumbies welcome the Hurricanes to Canberra, the Highlanders face the Force in Dunedin and the Reds tackle the Blues in Brisbane.