Get ready for a rugby league showdown like no other! The 2026 Harvey Norman All Stars is set to ignite the field in Aotearoa New Zealand, marking the 15th edition of this iconic cultural event that kicks off the rugby league season with a bang. But here's where it gets exciting: this year’s clash promises to be more thrilling than ever, as Indigenous and Māori stars collide in a battle of skill, pride, and heritage.
On Sunday, February 15, FMG Stadium Waikato will host both the Men’s and Women’s fixtures, showcasing some of the biggest names in the sport. In the Men’s game, Indigenous legends like Josh Addo-Carr, Nicho Hynes, and Jack Wighton will face off against the Māori might of Warriors captain James Fisher-Harris, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, and the electrifying Casey McLean. And this is the part most people miss: the Women’s match is equally star-studded, with Titans superstar Jaime Chapman and Dragons playmaker Taliah Fuimaono leading the Indigenous side against a Māori lineup featuring Warriors recruit Gayle Broughton and Eels powerhouse Kennedy Cherrington.
Controversy alert: While the event celebrates unity, it also sparks debates about representation and cultural significance. Are these matches doing enough to honor Indigenous and Māori heritage? We’ll let you decide in the comments.
Adding to the excitement, the event will also feature a high-octane clash between the Indigenous and Māori Touch Football teams, showcasing the diversity and talent of both cultures. Below are the squads, listed alphabetically for your convenience:
Indigenous All Stars (Men): Josh Addo-Carr, Jayden Campbell, Tallis Duncan, Jamal Fogarty, Trai Fuller, Nicholas Hynes, Alofiana Khan-Pereira, Josh Kerr, Kaiden Lahrs, Shaquai Mitchell, Oliver Pascoe, Joshua Patston, Hohepa Puru, Jesse Ramien, Ethan Roberts, Blake Steep, Braydon Trindall, Connor Watson, Jack Wighton, Brent Woolf. Coach: Ronald Griffiths
Māori All Stars (Men): Jesse Arthars, Joe Chan, Zach Dockar-Clay, JoJo Fifita, James Fisher-Harris, Mawene Hiroti, Royce Hunt, Keano Kini, Jacob Laban, Casey McLean, Te Maire Martin, Trey Mooney, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Briton Nikora, Adam Pompey, Leo Thompson, Trent Toelau, Manaia Waitere, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak. Coach: Adam Blair
Indigenous All Stars (Women): Essay Banu, Shaylee Bent, Krystal Blackwell, Rhiannon Byers, Jaime Chapman, Bree Chester, Kirra Dibb, Quincy Dodd, Taliah Fuimaono, Tallisha Harden, Caitlan Johnston-Green, Keilee Joseph, Grace Kemp, Ella Koster, Lailani Montgomery, Mahalia Murphy, Jasmine Peters, Phoenix-Raine Hippi, Jada Taylor, Caitlin Turnbull. Coach: Jess Skinner
Māori All Stars (Women): Shakira Baker, Corban Baxter, Gayle Broughton, Harata Butler, Rima Butler, Kennedy Cherrington, Rueben Cherrington, Laikha Clarke, Zali Fay, Fane Finau, Matekino Gray, Mya Hill-Moana, Raecene McGregor, Shanice Parker, Ash Quinlan, Jasmin Strange, Payton Takimoana, Chante Temara, Zahara Temara, Tenika Willison. Coach: John Strange
Tickets are now available at nrl.com/tickets, starting at just $19 for adults and $59 for families (two adults and two children). Can’t make it in person? Catch all the action live on the Nine Network, Fox League, SKY New Zealand, or Watch NRL.
The Harvey Norman All Stars is proudly supported by the New Zealand Government through the Major Event Fund and the Hamilton City Council. But here’s a thought-provoking question: As this event grows, how can we ensure it remains a true celebration of Indigenous and Māori culture, rather than just a sporting spectacle? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your perspective!
