After reaching the quarter-finals in each of the past two NPC seasons, Counties Manukau enter a new chapter with a squad that reflects the strength of the province's club competition and the depth of talent continuing to emerge across the region.
Head coach Reon Graham has retained a strong core of experienced Steelers while rewarding a host of players who impressed throughout a fiercely contested McNamara Cup season.
Former All Black prop Atu Moli headlines the forward pack after returning to the province through Karaka, joining returning front rowers Vainikolo Fifita, Tom Polo and Ezekiel Lindenmuth. Ardmore Marist prop Kurene Luamanuvae earns his first Steelers selection, while Pukekohe's Jarred Adams returns after outstanding club form.
The second row is anchored by veteran captain Jimmy Tupou, with Tongan international Veikoso Poloniati, Moana Pasifika representative Ola Tauelangi, Sione Takai and former Waikato lock Joshua Balme adding further size and experience.
The loose forwards remain a key area of strength, with Cam Church, Adam Brash, Jonty Short and Alamanda Motuga all returning, while Karaka captain Aporosa Vuniyayawa and exciting Manurewa prospect Joey Taumateine add further depth.
In the backs, Jonathan Taumateine and Cohen Brady-Leathem return at halfback, joined by McNamara Cup standout Melani Matavao, while AJ Alatimu and Jackson Rainsford provide continuity at first five.
The midfield combines experience and fresh talent, with Gibson Popoali'i and Tevita Ofa joined by Samoan international Tuna Tuitama after an impressive club campaign with Karaka.
Out wide, the Steelers have no shortage of athleticism and versatility.
Experienced All Blacks Sevens representative Sione Molia brings a wealth of big-match experience alongside returning outside backs Peniasi Malimali, Blake Makiri, Josh Gray, Simon-Peter Toleafoa and Antonio Popoali'i.
Patumahoe pair Adam Morrison and Tim Brady round out the backline after earning their first NPC opportunities through strong club form.
Graham said the squad had embraced the opportunity to build on the province's recent success while creating opportunities for the next wave of Steelers.
"I'm really excited with the group we have assembled this season, and I can't wait to get to work with everyone.
"We have a really balanced squad and despite losing so much talent offshore, I am really encouraged with the amount of talent we have to work with here.
"We look forward to a season where we make our supporters and community proud."
2026 Steelers Squad
Jarred Adams, AJ Alatimu, Joshua Balme, Tim Brady, Cohen Brady-Leathem, Adam Brash, Cam Church, Vainikolo Fifita, Josh Gray, Ezekiel Lindenmuth, Kurene Luamanuvae, Blake Makiri, Peniasi Malimali, Melani Matavao, Ioane Moananu, Atu Moli, Sione Molia, Adam Morrison, Alamanda Motuga, Tevita Ofa, Tom Polo, Veikoso Poloniati, Antonio Popoali’I, Gibson Popoali’I, Jackson Rainsford, Cam Roigard, Jonty Short, Sione Takai, Joey Taumateine, Jonathan Taumateine, Simon-Peter Toleafoa, Ola Tauelangi, Tuna Tuitama, Jimmy Tupou, Aporosa Vuniyayawa, Ian West-Stevens.