Local rivalries are key for Wallabies as Super Rugby starts the new season full of hope | Angus Fontaine

"No local side has won the men's competition, or even made the final, since Michael Cheika's NSW Waratahs upset now 13-time champions the Crusaders in 2014. If the Wallabies want to conquer the world, it has got to start with beating the neighbours. The year after his Super triumph, Cheika took the Wallabies to the Rugby World Cup final (losing to New Zealand 34-17) and Rugby Australia will be praying for a repeat act in 2026."

"Ideally it's the Cinderella story of Les Kiss leading the Queensland Reds to glory before he takes the reins from Joe Schmidt as Wallabies coach this July, a feat that would supercharge the Kiss era and ignite home fans before next October's tournament. Australian rugby starts the new year full of hope. The code is finally out of debt after a bumper British & Irish Lions tour. Three prodigal sons are returning from the NRL winger Mark Nawaqanitawase, flyhalf Carter Gordon and utility Angus Crichton."

"Despite the Wallabies losing a record 10 Tests in 2025 their four wins were rich in character, most notably the epic comeback over world champions South Africa from 22-0 down to win 38-22 was vivid proof Australia can blitz the best in the sport on their day. They are still ranked seventh behind the Springboks, All Blacks, England, France, Ireland and Argentina, but have 14 Tests this year to find their mojo again before a cushy World Cup draw."

The 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season begins with Australian provinces needing strong performances to set momentum for the 2027 home Rugby World Cup. No Australian side has won or reached the men's final since the NSW Waratahs beat the Crusaders in 2014. A Super Rugby triumph has previously preceded Wallabies World Cup success, notably Michael Cheika's run to the 2015 final. Queensland hopes that Les Kiss leading the Reds to victory would boost the national team before Joe Schmidt hands over the coaching role. Australian rugby shows signs of recovery: cleared debt, returning NRL stars, competitive women's sevens, Indigenous representation, and a dramatic comeback win over South Africa in 2025. Four Super Rugby teams open with state derbies, making early rounds crucial.

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