Rutledge becomes the third generation of his family to represent the Stags, following grandfather Leicester and father Jason, whose 143 appearances remain a Southland record. The 20-year-old's selection continues a remarkable family tradition and is one of several interesting storylines in a squad that blends proven performers with emerging local talent.
Head coach Matt Saunders has named a squad featuring strong continuity from last season, bolstered by a number of key recruits and players ready to make the step into provincial rugby.
The forward pack features experienced campaigners in Mitch Dunshea, Sean Withy and Jack Taylor, while Super Rugby players Jack Sexton, Paula Latu and Semisi Tupou Ta'ieloa add further quality to a powerful group.
Experienced prop Sef Fa’agase will add further strength to the Stags’ front row, bringing more than 100 Super Rugby appearances across the Queensland Reds, Highlanders, Melbourne Rebels and Western Force, as well as valuable leadership to a developing forward pack.
Rutledge is joined by several young players continuing their rise through the Rugby Southland pathway, with Jackson Hughan and Josh Augustine earning full squad selection after impressive development through the academy. Mika Muliaina returns after making his Stags debut last season, while Tayne Harvey continues to build on his early NPC experience.
The backs feature plenty of excitement with no less than three All Blacks Sevens players set to bring international experience to the NPC in Scott Gregory, Fletcher Morgan and Michael Manson.
With established leaders, Super Rugby experience and a new generation of homegrown talent pushing through, the Stags will be looking to build on last season and make their mark when the 2026 Bunnings NPC gets underway.
2026 Southland Stags squad
Forwards: Ethan de Groot, Jack Sexton, Jack Barrett, Paula Latu, Sef Fa'agase, Jack Taylor, Shaun Kempton, Aukusitino Salanoa, Mitch Dunshea, Alefosio Aho, Clem Halaholo, Sam Fischli, Caleb Karangaroa, Sean Withy, Gregor Rutledge, Konrad Toleafoa, Semisi Tupou Ta'ieloa.
Backs: Nic Shearer, Charlie Marsh, Jackson Hughan, Mika Muliaina, Jimmy Taylor, Takaya Saito, Tayne Harvey, Fletcher Morgan, Scott Gregory, Hayata Taniyama, Josh Augustine, Michael Manson, Denzel Samoa, Glen Vaihu.