‘Hunger to keep improving’: Blues re-sign rising star Xavi Taele

The Blues have re-signed “one of the most promising young backs” in New Zealand, with Xavi Taele committing to a one-year extension for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season. Taele has already played three matches for the Blues and has been named to start this week.

As a product of the Blues development pathway and the prestigious Saint Kentigern College, Taele has long been touted as a rising star with a bright future. Taele went on to captain the Blues U20 team and also represented New Zealand at U20 level in 2023 and 2024.

Taele enjoyed an especially impressive campaign with the representative side last year, with the vice-captain starring as New Zealand won the inaugural Rugby Championship U20 tournament on Australia’s Sunshine Coast.

After five impressive performances at World Rugby’s U20 Championship in South Africa, Taele debuted for Auckland in New Zealand’s NPC against eventual champions Wellington Lions, joining a star-studded matchday 23 that included Zarn Sullivan and Caleb Tangitau.

Taele graduated to Super Rugby standard this year after being named to start in a round five derby away to the high-flying Chiefs. The midfielder later started against the Crusaders, came off the bench against the Hurricanes, and has been named to start against the Force.

“Xavi is one of the most promising young backs in the country. He’s a smart footballer with a great feel for the game and a hunger to keep improving,” Blues GM of Rugby Murray Williams said in a statement.

“He’s been part of our environment for a few years now and thoroughly deserves this opportunity. We’re excited to see what he brings.”

On debut for the Blues, Taele was impossible to miss against the Chiefs, while sporting the team’s bright-red Spider-Man-themed jersey. The 20-year-old was busy in both attack and defence, standing out in a midfield pairing with All Black Rieko Ioane.

Taele had a difficult chance to win that match, lining up a sideline conversion from the left sideline with only a few minutes left to play. While that attempt missed the mark and the Chiefs hung on, it was still a successful debut for the former U20s star.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

5

Draws

0

Wins

0

Average Points scored

37

18

First try wins

80%

Home team wins

60%

Coach Vern Cotter has named Taele in the starting side again this week, with the midfielder set to link up with Ioane once again. With Beauden Barrett and Stephen Perofeta in the same backline, there’s plenty of star power around the young talent.

“This club has been a big part of my rugby journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep building here,” Taele explained.

“I’ve learned so much from the players and coaches around me and I’m looking forward to stepping up and contributing more in 2026.”