Leading the way is the return of one of Canterbury's greats in Richie Mo'unga. Back in the red and black after his time overseas, the world-class first five brings unrivalled experience, game management and attacking brilliance to a squad already overflowing with talent. His return is a major boost for the reigning champions as they look to defend their NPC crown.
Mo'unga is joined by an enviable group of seasoned campaigners with Jermaine Ainsley, Johnny McNicholl, Manasa Mataele, Daniel Lienert-Brown and Dallas McLeod add further experience and quality across the park.
That experience is complemented by an exciting group of emerging talent. Players such as Gus Brown, Jamie Hannah, Finn McLeod, Louie Chapman, James White and Toby Bell continue to build impressive reputations, while Chay Fihaki and Xavier Treacy add further youthful quality to a squad with genuine strength in every position.
The season also marks an exciting new chapter for Canterbury Rugby, with the team set to play its first campaign at One NZ Stadium. After lifting the NPC trophy in 2025, Canterbury now has the opportunity to defend its title in a new home, with supporters set to play a vital role throughout the season.
Canterbury has built its success on a proud provincial culture and a production line of world-class talent. With Mo'unga back pulling the strings, a squad boasting international pedigree and depth across the park, the reigning champions will once again be among the teams to beat in the race for the 2026 NPC title.
The Canterbury squad is;
Jermaine Ainsley, Finlay Brewis, Gus Brown, Seb Calder, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Fletcher Newell, Lewis Ponini, Tamaiti Williams, George Bell, Nick Hyde, Cheviot Manumaua Letiu, Brodie McAlister, Codie Taylor, Tahlor Cahill, Sam Darry, Jamie Hannah, Liam Jack, Xavier Treacy, Torian Barnes, Dominic Gardiner, Cullen Grace, Corey Kellow, Finn McLeod, Tyson Belworthy, Ollie Burra, Louie Chapman, Andrew Knewstubb, Richie Mo’unga, James White, Toby Bell, James Cameron, Tevita Latu, Dallas McLeod, Jone Rova, Chay Fihaki, Issac Hutchinson, Kurtis MacDonald, Manasa Mataele, Johnny McNicholl, Ngatungane Punivai.