2022 has thrown up plenty of storylines in the world of Rugby.
From last-minute finishes, controversy and world-class action, the past 12 months have thrown up plenty of exciting stories across the Rugby landscape.
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With this in mind, Rugby.com.au breaks down the best stories from 2022, starting from 12-7.
12. Crusaders remain on top
The inaugural Super Rugby Pacific season threw up some classic encounters as the Crusaders added to their dominance.
Fijiana Drua and Moana Pasifika were welcome inclusions to the competition, adding a new element to the competition.
Despite this, it was once again the Crusaders who once again found themselves in the Final as Scott Robertson’s men enter in the unfamiliar position as underdogs, travelling to Eden Park to face a rampant Blues side that had won 15 games straight.
However, the Crusaders thrive under that type of pressure as five-eighth Richie Mo'unga was able to control the game tactically, as well as kick 11 points.
Outside of a late Finlay Christie try, the visitors were dominant as they claimed their 13th title, sealed by a late Sevu Reece try.
11. Fijiana make instant impact
Fijiana Drua were the big inclusions in Super W in 2022, aligning with Drua’s entry in SRP, as they shook up the competition.
From the first game, it was clear the Drua meant business as they demolished the Melbourne Rebels 66-5 in their debut.
In a competition dominated by the Waratahs and Reds, Fijiana provided a fresh challenge that possessed the fast-flowing, offload-heavy style of Rugby that brings fans through the gates.
They were given the perfect platform to shine in the Super W Final against the defending champion Waratahs in Super Round, holding on for their first title in emotional scenes.
10. Future secured
Months of speculation surrounding Super Rugby has been put the rest with Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby confirming a partnership until 2030.
Threats of breakaway, national competitions and discussions surrounding revenue shares continued to pop up throughout the year.
However, the deal secured the future of the competition for the next eight years, building off the platform set in 2022.
The introduction of an independent Chair and board to govern the comp is a nice step to ensuring Super Rugby continues to innovate and find ways to make the game quicker.
9. Building the runway
Whilst on the topic of stability
The confirmation Rugby World Cup 2027 and 2029 will be hosted in Australia is a big boost to the game in Australia.
It solidifies the ‘Golden Decade’ for Australian Rugby, with the Lions set to visit in 2025 along with a chance for the conquering Sevens sides to compete in a home Olympics in 2032.
The prospect of playing in a home World Cup is a huge bargaining chip for the next generation of athletes to either choose or remain in Rugby Union, with RA looking to learn the lessons from 2003 in setting up the sport for the future.
8. The Millenium Miracle
It was the game the Wallabies looked dead and buried, but typified the ‘never saw die’ attitude that binds the team together as they stunned Wales.
Even getting to Cardiff with a full team was a struggle, drawing on just 25 fit players with arguably a stronger XV watching from home.
When they went down 34-13 with 25 minutes to go, it looked like the frustrating season had took its toll on the team before the ultimate comeback got underway, largely thanks to a double by breakout star Mark Nawaqanitawase.
Lachlan Lonergan had to win the game twice for the Wallabies. The hooker scored the match-winner before giving up a crucial penalty as the visitors looked to close out the game, rectifying it with the game-winning turnover.
The win alleviates pressure on Dave Rennie heading into 2023, giving a major boost to a side that struggled in 2022.
7. The drought ends
The Wallaroos ended their long wait between Tests as they welcomed Fijiana to Suncorp Stadium, 956 days between Tests
It was clear to see what the moment meant to the plethora of players handed their long-awaited debuts, brought to tears by a moving anthem.
They embraced the moment, powering to victory despite a spirited effort from the Fijians, taking the 36-19 victory.
It was the first step towards Rugby World Cup 2021, with the Wallaroos winning plenty of fans after a competitive defeat to the Black Ferns followed by wins over Scotland and Wales.
They would depart in the quarter-finals to world number one England in torrential conditions, showing just how far the program has come whilst the steps necessary to compete with the best.
