Matatū name side for historic ‘All In’ Round in Pukekohe
Matatū have named their side to face nib Blues Women in a landmark round three clash, with all four Super Rugby Aupiki teams set to come together for the competition’s first ever “All In” Round in Pukekohe.
In a new format for the 2026 season, Navigation Homes Stadium will host a double header this weekend – bringing all teams and fans into one venue in a celebration of the women’s game.
Head Coach Blair Baxter says the group has carried strong momentum into the week.
“The team’s looking good. We’ve had a really good week – it’s a condensed one with just two trainings, but sometimes that freshens things up,” says Baxter.
“We’re coming off the back of a physical performance against the Poua, so it’s exciting to now turn our focus to the Blues.”
Saturday’s match up sees a 2025 grand final rematch and a top of the table clash.
There are a number of changes to the starting side this week, with Marcelle Parkes moving into start, while Alena Saili and Maia Davis have both earned starting opportunities after last week’s debut performances.
Saili will line up on the left wing, while Davis is named at fullback after impressing since joining the environment.
“What we’ve seen from Maia right from day one is her raw skill set – her catch and pass, her vision and decision making,” says Baxter.
“Sevens players bring that speed, acceleration and ability to play at pace, and that’s something really exciting for us.”
Matatū captain Grace Brooker says the team is looking forward to another physical contest against a familiar opponent.
“I love playing against the Blues. They’re such a quality team and when we come up against them, you know it’s going to be a good game. That’s what gets us excited,” says Brooker.
“There’s definitely a rivalry there, but also a lot of mutual respect. We’ve got good mates across the teams and a lot of us play together with the Black Ferns, but that doesn’t mean we’ll go easy on each other. It’s going to be physical and it’s going to take a full 80 minutes.”
The “All In” Round format is another element adding to the occasion, with all four teams competing at the same venue across the weekend.
“It’s a cool experience having everyone in one place playing great rugby and I think the quality across the board is going to be awesome,” says Brooker.
It will also be a special day for one of Matatū’s own, with Maia Joseph set to reach her Aoraki Buttercup milestone, marking the equivalent of three seasons at Matatū.
Matatū head into round three with confidence and belief, knowing there is still growth to come.
“The world’s our oyster at the moment. We’re really passionate about the rugby we put out there and we know there’s more in us,” says Brooker.
“It’s about taking it one game at a time and putting out a performance we’re proud of.”
Matatū team to face nib Blues Women:
Marcelle Parkes
Nat Delamere
Pip Love
Laura Bayfield (VC)
Emma Dermody
Paris Lokotui
Elinor-Plum King
Kaipo Olsen-Baker
Maia Joseph
Hannah King
Alena Saili
Grace Brooker (C)
Amy du Plessis
Winnie Palamo
Maia Davis
Impact
16. Holly Greenway
17. Maddi Robinson
18. Santo Taumata
19. Sophie Kerr
20. Fiaali’i Solomona
21. Kelsyn McCook
22. Binky Muamua
23. Poppy Baxter