Hurricanes Seal Top Finish with Statement Victory Over Highlanders

The Hurricanes have secured first place in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific regular season after a strong 45 to 28 win against the Highlanders.

Needing only a win to confirm top spot, Clark Laidlaw’s side delivered emphatically, also claiming a bonus point to underline their dominance. Their fast starts continued, with Josh Moorby scoring inside two minutes.

The match turned further in the Hurricanes’ favour when Daniel Lienert-Brown was sent off for a high tackle on Devan Flanders. Down to 14, the Highlanders struggled as tries from Kini Naholo and Du’Plessis Kirifi helped build a 21 to 0 lead.

The visitors responded through Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, but Ruben Love quickly hit back. A late first half try from Timoci Tavatavanawai kept the Highlanders in touch.

Any hopes of a comeback faded early in the second half. Naholo added his second before Brayden Iose created a break that led to a decisive try for Eretara Enari.

A late score to Lucas Casey proved only a consolation as the Hurricanes controlled the contest to claim their 11th win.

They now head into the finals series as the top seed, while the Highlanders’ season concludes with their final ranking still uncertain.