International Rugby League Photo: April 7, 2026

Super Rugby Pacific has expanded its celebration of the competition’s 30-year history through the Legends XV campaign, a fan-driven initiative to assemble the greatest starting lineup from three decades of professional rugby. The campaign, which launched on January 12, 2026, allows supporters to vote for the players they believe define the legacy of the tournament, which began as Super 12.

The initiative seeks to resolve long-standing debates regarding the most influential players in the competition’s history. This includes considerations of players who represented multiple franchises, such as Adam Ashley-Cooper’s time with both the Brumbies and the Waratahs and whether the lineup can accommodate multiple legendary figures like Richie McCaw and George Smith.

First Inductee Confirmed

The first position in the historic side was finalized on February 16, 2026, with the selection of the loosehead prop. Wyatt Crockett, a mainstay of the Crusaders, became the first official member of the Legends XV.

Crockett, who holds the record as the most capped player in Super Rugby history, secured the position after a fan vote. According to official competition data, Crockett finished the vote with 23% of the total, placing him ahead of James Slipper, who finished second in the polling.

Competition Evolution

The Legends XV campaign coincides with a broader reflection on the professionalization of the sport. The competition has evolved significantly since its inception, transitioning from the original Super 12 format through various name changes and structural adjustments to the current Super Rugby Pacific era.

The current 2026 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season continues to integrate new leadership, and talent. Moana Pasifika has named Miracle Faiilagi as captain for the 2026 season. Faiilagi holds a distinct place in the league’s history as the first player to sign a Super Rugby contract directly from Samoan club rugby after entering the professional scene in 2023.

The ongoing search for the Legends XV remains a central part of the league’s engagement strategy as it honors the players who shaped the competition from its early days in the mid-1990s to the modern professional era.