With week six of Super Rugby Pacific already here, attention is turning to a group of players who are not only making an impact now but look ready to define the competition as the season unfolds.
From hard-carrying forwards to electric backs, this next wave of talent is starting to take centre stage across the Southern Hemisphere.
Charlie Cale: The Engine Room Enforcer
Charlie Cale brings size, power and serious work rate to the ACT Brumbies pack, and that combination has quickly made him one to watch.
At 195cm and over 100kg, he offers the physical edge every forward unit needs, but it’s his mobility that really sets him apart.
He carries hard, hits rucks consistently and keeps turning up defensively, giving his side a reliable presence in every phase.
In a competition that demands all-action back-rowers, Cale continues to grow into a well-rounded option, and if his current trajectory holds, he could become a key figure for the Brumbies this season.
Ben Donaldson: The Playmaker Finding His Feet
Ben Donaldson is starting to take control of games in a way that suggests he’s ready for a bigger role.
Whether he lines up at fly-half or fullback for the Western Force, he brings composure, a strong kicking game and the confidence to attack the line when space opens up.
With over 200 points already for the Force, his value from the tee is clear, but his running threat adds another layer to his game.
Defences can’t afford to sit back, and that keeps him dangerous.
Having already stepped into the international arena with the Australia national rugby union team, Donaldson now looks like a player ready to turn promise into consistency.
Vaiuta Latu: The Next Big No.8
With Harry Wilson sidelined, Vaiuta Latu has a real opportunity to step up — and his rise suggests he’s ready.
He dominated the 2025 reserve grade final with Brothers, earned his shot in Super Rugby AU, and hasn’t looked out of place since.
Latu thrives on contact. He carries aggressively, wins collisions and brings the kind of physicality needed at this level.
If he can add consistent try-scoring to that, he won’t stay under the radar for long.
Caleb Tangitau: Sevens Speed Meets 15s Instinct
Caleb Tangitau has transitioned from the All Blacks Sevens setup to the 15-man game with ease.
In just eight games for the Highlanders in 2025, he racked up 676 metres and 13 clean line breaks before injury cut his season short.
His pace makes him a constant threat in open play, while his defensive instincts help him create turnovers and intercept chances.
At 22, and working under Jamie Joseph, he looks set for a big 2026 if he stays fit.
Semisi Tupou Ta’elou: The Barnstorming Loose-Forward
Semisi Tupou Ta’elou was one of the most effective ball carriers in 2025, leading the competition with 205 carries for the Southland Stags.
He backed that up with seven tries in 13 games while working alongside Ardie Savea at Moana Pasifika.
With Savea now on sabbatical, Tupou Ta’elou will take on even more responsibility.
He drives over the gain line, beats defenders and puts in a serious defensive shift, with 137 tackles last season.
Expect him to be central to everything Moana Pasifika do this year.
Max Jorgensen: Wallabies Speedster Ready to Shine
Max Jorgensen only played six times for the Waratahs in 2025, but he still stood out.
His ability to cover both wing and fullback gives his side flexibility, and his attacking instincts make him dangerous whenever he gets the ball.
He recorded seven line breaks despite limited minutes, and his try against South Africa at Ellis Park showed exactly what he can do on the big stage.
Now fully fit, and working under Dan McKellar alongside Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i, he looks ready to take another step forward.
