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 passion. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the rugby; it’s a celebration of heritage, unity, and the spirit of the game.
On Sunday, 15 February, FMG Stadium Waikato will host the Men’s and Women’s fixtures, featuring some of the biggest names in rugby league. In the Men’s game, Indigenous legends like Josh Addo-Carr, Nicho Hynes, and Jack Wighton will face off against the Māori All Stars, led by Warriors captain James Fisher-Harris, star back Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, and the dynamic Panthers centre Casey McLean. Here’s where it gets controversial: with both teams boasting such talent, who will emerge victorious? Is it the speed and finesse of the Indigenous side or the strength and strategy of the Māori team?
The Women’s fixture is equally electrifying, with Titans superstar Jaime Chapman and Dragons playmaker Taliah Fuimaono leading the Indigenous Women’s All Stars against a formidable Māori lineup featuring Warriors recruit Gayle Broughton and Eels powerhouse Kennedy Cherrington. And this is the part most people miss: the women’s game has been gaining momentum, and this match could be a turning point in showcasing their incredible skill and impact on the sport.
Adding to the excitement, the event will also feature a clash between the Indigenous and Māori Touch Football teams, highlighting the diversity and inclusivity of the sport. Below are the squads listed in alphabetical order:
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? No worries! The matches will be broadcast live on the Nine Network, Fox League, SKY New Zealand, and Watch NRL, so you won’t miss a moment of the action.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: As the Harvey Norman All Stars continues to grow, how do you think it impacts the representation and recognition of Indigenous and Māori cultures in rugby league? Let us know in the comments below! The event is proudly supported by the New Zealand Government through the Major Event Fund and the Hamilton City Council, ensuring this celebration of sport and culture continues to thrive.
