Fantasy Super Rugby Pacific: Ten cheapies to consider after a chaotic opening round of teams

Wed, Feb 12, 2025, 4:53 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Marley Pearce is set to be the big benefactor out of early Force injuries. Photo: Getty Images
Marley Pearce is set to be the big benefactor out of early Force injuries. Photo: Getty Images

The first Team List Wednesday has thrown Fantasy Super Rugby Pacific managers into chaos after several shocks and surprises.

The two top-priced players in the game, Damian McKenzie and Beauden Barrett, were named out of position, whilst the fifth highest-priced, Tom Wright, is one of several big names either not named or on the bench.

Watch every game of Super Rugby Pacific live and on-demand via Stan Sport.

With this, it opens up the door for a host of players to take advantage and come into serious consideration for selection.

Rugby.com.au looks at the biggest winners.

Prop: Marley Pearce - Western Force ($2.5 million)

As cheap as you can get, Pearce is set to play a major role in the Force's season after ACL injuries to Harry Hoopert and Harry Johnson-Holmes.

Former Chief Ata Moli may eventually take his spot in the starting side, named on the bench.

But at bottom dollar price, Pearce opens the door for whoever else you want to start.

Hooker: Soane Vikena - Highlanders ($3.0 million)

Vikena gets the start for a Highlanders side filled with cheapies.

The Waratahs have struggled in the past to stop rolling mauls, so Vikena could be a sneaky option to crash over for a try or two.

The Blues recruit is one of several to consider from the Otago based side, such as loose forward Lui Naeata, scrumhalf Nathan Hastie and flyhalf Taine Robinson (all $3.5 million)

Lock: Naitoa Ah Kuoi - Chiefs ($3.5 million) and Lachlan Shaw - Brumbies ($2.5 million)

Ah Kuoi was the big winner in the Chiefs' tight five with Tupou Vaa'i named on the bench.

Only Scott Barrett was selected more than Vaa'i (37.2%), opening the door for the cult hero Ah Kuoi to cement a starting spot long-term.

As for Shaw, he takes advantage of Nick Frost's absence and can press his claims for a regular spot in the 23 after strong trial form.

Loose forwards: Cameron Suafoa - Blues ($3.5 million)

Suafoa starts in the Grand Final rematch with Hoskins Sotutu on the sidelines with a knee injury.

There's a prime opportunity for the backrower to reclaim his spot after Akira Ioane's departure to Japan.

If so, it'll be one of the feel good stories of 2025 following his battle with cancer.

Scrumhalf: Xavier Roe - Chiefs ($5.0 million)

Another surprise from the runners-up, with Roe named over Cortez Ratima.

It's a new look backline for the Chiefs, with Daniel Rona ($4.5 million) and Leroy Carter ($4.0 million) also named.

Flyhalf:  Isikeli Rabitu - Fijian Drua ($4.5 million)

Rabitu is the big winner out of the Drua's decision to name two playmakers, selected at fullback.

It's a big chance for the 20-year-old to stamp his name on Super Rugby Pacific after debuting last year for the Drua.

Rabitu has plenty of weapons outside of him and will look to take advantage of a weakened Brumbies side.

Midfield: Divad Palu - Western Force ($3.0 million)

Another young gun named out of position, Palu will slot in on the wing for the Force.

With Dylan Pietsch on the sidelines, the former Rebel needs to impress to keep his spot in the backline.

If he can, he has great Fantasy potential with his strong ball-carrying and ability to break a tackle.

Back Three: Solomon Alaimalo - Moana Pasifika ($3.0 million) and Harry Godfrey ($6.5 million)

Alaimalo returns instantly after his stint in the NRL with the Wests Tigers.

The hulking winger comes up against Palu and will be out to take advantage of the rookie in his 50th game.

As for Godfrey, the Hurricane has been highlighted in past articles as a must-watch, with his status confirmed as he looks set to take the goal-kicking at flyhalf.

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