Super Rugby Pacific Team of the Week: All Blacks star in ‘blockbuster’ display as talented Fijian produces the ‘performance of the round’

Following a thrilling Super Rugby Pacific round five, Planet Rugby analyses the weekend’s top players.

The Western Force was also recognised for their first-ever victory in the season, and the team features strong Hurricanes and Fijian Drua presence.

Weekly Team of the Week

15 Tom Wright (Brumbies): The full-back is constantly trying to create something, and he succeeded in doing so by scoring two tries, setting up another, and accumulating 130 metres with the ball in hand. He deserves his spot above Hurricanes star Harry Godfrey and Fijian Drua’s Ilaisa Droasese because he was a nuisance to contain.

14 Bayley Kuenzle (Western Force): The wing scored two tries and defeated four opponents with a single clean break during an outstanding performance for the Force. Timoci Tavatavanawai of the Highlanders, always superb, was again engaged in a close combat.

13 Ioesfo Masi (Fijian Drua): In what was perhaps the round’s best performance, the centre scored a spectacular hat-trick in the first half as Fijian Drua defeated the Waratahs in Lautoka. Masi made seven tackles and outran five opponents throughout his deadly performance. Some notable performances came from Blues star AJ Lam and Brumbies player Hudson Creighton.

12 Jordie Barrett (Hurricanes): The legendary centre made a huge comeback from his red card with a stunning display that included 14 tackles on defence and two tries on attack. The All Black, who is still beginning to feel more at home in the 12 channel, made another bold change.

11 Salesi Rayasi (Hurricanes): The electrifying winger scored two tries and helped another as the Hurricanes tormented the Melbourne Rebels. This Wellington team member was another outstanding gem. Winger Corey Toole of the Rapid Brumbies was as outstanding for his group.

10 Ben Donaldson (Western Force): Aidan Morgan of the Hurricanes, Noah Lolesio of the Brumby, and Stephen Perofeta of the Blues all put up strong displays at fly-half, but Wallaby earned the top slot with his three try assists of the day. Donaldson was instrumental in the win as he truly seized command of the match against the Reds.

9 Frank Lomani (Fijian Drua): If there was ever a player who personified being essential to the outcome, it was this Fijian who not only scored a try but also set up three more as he deftly tugged the strings in an unforgettable golden-point victory. His performances put him ahead of Nic White (Western Force) and TJ Perenara (Hurricanes), two seasoned players.

Watch: The Fijian Drua scored a stunning golden point drop goal in traffic to defeat the Waratahs.

Eight Forwards Chiefs Luke Jacobson: The All Black was usually a tireless worker who saw some good carries, but he really made his money in defence, recording a stunning 21 tackles for his team in a close game. His unwavering performance puts him ahead of Hoskins Sotutu, the hot Blues player.

7 Du’Plessis Kirifi (Hurricanes): The flank played one of his best games to date; he was the epitome of hard labour. During his remarkable 14 carries, he not only set up a try but also scored one while carrying the ball. In the meantime, he had two turnovers and 13 tackles on defence.

6 Brad Shields (Hurricanes): The seasoned player has returned to the ‘Canes lineup rather well. He had a great game against the Rebels, crossing the pitch for a try and making valuable defensive contributions all through. He beat Chiefs flank Samipeni Finau to the position with his efforts.

5 Ratu Rotuisolia (Fijian Drua): He had a fantastic performance and was a major contributor to the Drua’s success in the tight. He also showed a strong commitment to defence, recording a game-high 14 tackles. An actual fighter on his side.

4 Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues): The seasoned player celebrated his 100th cap for the club with a genuinely professional showing. He was his team’s go-to ball carrier, racking up an amazing 18 carries in a close and damp game.

3 Tyrel Lomax (Hurricanes): The All Black was the hardest-working tight end with 10 tackles and a turnover won. He was also as reliable as ever in the scrums and made a contribution with the ball in hand.

2 Tevita Ikanivere (Fijian Drua): With his prolific performances, the hooker has established himself as a very reliable member of his squad. He was in the thick of things once more, recording 10 tackles, a try, and a try assist in an outstanding all-around game.

FOR MORE NEWS CLICK HERE