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Full squads announced for The ANZAC Day Classic rugby match at Stadium Taranaki

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PUBLISHED: 14 APR 2026
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Full squads have been confirmed for The ANZAC Day Classic, with The Classics of New Zealand set to face Classic Australia at NPDC’s Stadium Taranaki in New Plymouth on Saturday 25 April.

Presented by Taranaki Like No Other, the ANZAC Day Classic will bring together some of the most recognisable names in rugby for a one-off match marking ANZAC Day through sporting connection, remembrance and respect.

The fixture is expected to draw strong interest from both local supporters and rugby fans nationwide, showcasing high-profile former internationals and crowd favourites from both sides of the Tasman.

“The ANZAC Day long weekend provides the perfect setting for a family day out. The family activation zone opens from 1pm, where fans can enjoy games, entertainment and player meet-and-greets before settling in for the match. We’re also excited to see this exceptional line-up of players take the field for what promises to be a standout ANZAC Day occasion.” Said Chade Julie manager venues and events, New Plymouth District Council.

Squads are listed alphabetically and is accurate at time of sending.

THE CLASSICS (New Zealand): 
Forwards: Michael Bent; Colin Bourke; Mitchell Crosswell; Nick Crosswell; Jason Eaton; Charlie Faumuina; Mike Kainga; Faifili Levave; Chris Masoe (C); Hoani Matenga; Joe Royal; Jason Rutledge; Mose Tuiali’i.
Backs: Orene Ai’i; Toby Arnold; Stephen Donald; Jordan Hyland; Brendon Leonard; Alby Mathewson; Nehe Milner-Skudder; Waisake Naholo; Charlie Ngatai; Bryce Robins; Andre Taylor; Isaea Toeava; Anthony Tuitavake.
Management: Chris Haden; Laura Haden.

CLASSIC AUSTRALIA:
Forwards: Curtis Browning; Nathan Charles; Pek Cowan; Tom Cusack (tbc); Makoni Mafi; Siaosi Mafi; Pat McCutcheon; Jesse Parahi (tbc); Beau Robinson; Jimmy Tuivaiti; Jordan Tuapou; Laurie Weeks.
Backs: Alofa Alofa; Simon Bartley; Kris Burton; Tom English; Pama Fou; Mike Harris; Richard Kingi; Arthur Little; Curtis Rona; Paul Sheedy; Henry Speight; Nick Stirzaker; Brendan Williams.
Management: David Campese, Matt Kassulke.

Match day officials: Conrad Smith, Cam Stone, Trent Mischefski, Ollie Knowles.

The ANZAC Day Classic is presented by Taranaki Like No Other, with the support of New Plymouth District Council (NPDC).

 

At a glance

  • Venue: Stadium Taranaki, New Plymouth
  • Date: Saturday 25 April
  • Gates open: 1pm | Kick-off: 2.35pm
  • General admission tickets: Adults from $10.00* | Children (13 and under) from $6.00*
  • Stand tickets from: Adults from $32.50* | Children $27.50*
    *Includes service fee; credit card charges apply.
  • Tickets available from Ticketek or can be purchased on the day at Gates 1 and Gate 4.

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Page last updated: 10:00am Tue 14 April 2026

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