Leroy Carter starts as Chiefs lose star rookie for Super Rugby final

Chiefs head coach Jono Gibbes has made two changes to his starting XV for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific final, with two stars of the semi-final win ruled out due to injury.

Ex-Wallaby Lalakai Foketi and star rookie Isaac Hutchinson will watch the final from the stands, having suffered calf and knee injuries, respectively, in last weekend’s win over the Crusaders.

All Black Leroy Carter and rookie centre Kyle Brown will step up in the injured pair’s absence, assuming the No.14 and No.13 jerseys. It will be Carter’s first start in nearly two months, after making a barnstorming return from a hamstring injury off the bench last time out. Reon Paul comes onto the Chiefs’ bench as Liam Coombes-Fabling shifts to fullback.

The remaining matchday 23 that produced a statement win over the reigning champions has been retained, with seven All Blacks in the starting forward pack and four in the starting backline.

“You work hard to be given this opportunity, and it is satisfying to be in this position, but we also know there is one more game to win,” said Gibbes.

“The Hurricanes have been the pace setters throughout the season, and it will be a terrific challenge playing them at their home, but it is one we are looking forward to.

“Playing in front of a full house is always stimulating, and we know there will be plenty of Gallagher Chiefs supporters in the crowd, ringing their cowbells loudly.”

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

3

Draws

0

Wins

2

Average Points scored

25

22

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

60%

Chiefs team for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific final

1. Ollie Norris
2. Samisoni Taukei’aho
3. Sione Ahio
4. Josh Lord
5. Tupou Vaa’i (vc)
6. Samipeni Finau
7. Luke Jacobson (c)
8. Simon Parker
9. Cortez Ratima
10. Damian McKenzie
11. Kyren Taumoefolau
12. Quinn Tupaea (vc)
13. Kyle Brown
14. Leroy Carter
15. Liam Coombes-Fabling

Reserves

16.  Brodie McAlister
17. Jared Proffit
18. George Dyer
19. Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi
20. Kaylum Boshier
21. Xavier Roe
22. Josh Jacomb
23. Reon Paul

Injury list

Reuben O’Neill – Concussion
Lalakai Foketi – Calf
Taine Kolose – Laceration
Isaac Hutchinson – Knee
Wallace Sititi – Concussion
Daniel Rona – Hand
Emoni Narawa – Foot
Etene Nanai-Seturo – Foot
Jayden Sa – Shoulder