The 2025 Super Rugby Pacific dream team features just one player from the table-topping Chiefs, none from the Crusaders and more Australians than New Zealanders.

Chiefs flyhalf Damian McKenzie is the lone representative from the regular season leaders, while the Crusaders, who finished second with an 11-3 record, were completely overlooked.

More strikingly, Australia has eight selections compared to seven Kiwis, despite four of the six playoff teams being from New Zealand.

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Moana Pasifika captain Ardie Savea, crowned Player of the Year, headlines the group alongside McKenzie, Blues lock Patrick Tuipulotu, Hurricanes scrumhalf Cam Roigard, Highlanders skipper Timoci Tavatavanawai, Blues centre AJ Lam and Hurricanes winger Kini Naholo.

The selection process raised eyebrows, particularly over the crowded back row as Aussies Carlo Tizzano, Fraser McReight and Langi Gleeson all finished with 29 votes.

The team, announced as an “honorary” selection for 2025, was compiled from the top-ranked players based on Player of the Year votes. Super Rugby Pacific confirmed this format will become an official post-season recognition going forward.

Full 2025 Super Rugby Pacific Honorary Team of the Year:
Props: Allan Alaalatoa (Brumbies), Angus Bell (Waratahs).
Hooker: Tevita Ikanivere (Fijian Drua).
Locks: Jeremy Williams (Force), Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues).
Loose forwards: Ardie Savea (Moana Pasifika), Tom Hooper (Brumbies), Carlo Tizzano (Force), Fraser McReight (Reds).
Scrumhalf: Cam Roigard (Hurricanes).
Flyhalf: Damian McKenzie (Chiefs).
Centres: Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders), AJ Lam (Blues).
Wingers: Harry Potter (Force), Kini Naholo (Hurricanes).
Fullback: Joseph Suaalii (Waratahs).

Photo: Getty Images