The Blues named a 38-player squad for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, blending returning stars with first-year signings and a strong homegrown core.

Head coach Vern Cotter confirmed hooker Bradley Slater and prop Flyn Yates bolster the front row, with Malachi Wrampling and Terrell Peita adding energy to the loose forwards.

The pack is anchored by Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Darry, Dalton Papali’i, Ofa Tu‘ungafasi, Hoskins Sotutu and 2025 Blues Player of the Year Joshua Fusitu’a.

Darry (shoulder) and Tu‘ungafasi (neck) are set for long-awaited returns after missing most of last season.

In the backs, five newcomers feature.

Midfielder Pita Ahki returns from Toulouse, North Harbour fullback Kade Banks is back after a year away, and youngsters Rico Simpson, James Cameron and Cody Vai sign on.

“All Blacks first-five Beauden Barrett returns to steer a backline with pace, creativity and experience,” Cotter said.

“We’ve retained the core of our forwards unit while adding some exciting young players who will bring real energy and hunger to the group. The mix of talent gives us flexibility in how we want to play.”

Cotter said more than two-thirds of the squad developed within the region, reinforcing continuity and competition for places ahead of the new campaign.

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