The Yarrows Taranaki Bulls have named an experienced squad for the 2026 Hilux NPC, with the return of former All Black Seta Tamanivalu adding further class to a side expected to again challenge for honours.
Captain Kaylum Boshier will again lead the Bulls, with Bradley Slater and Logan Crowley named vice-captains, as Taranaki look to build on the consistency that has made them one of the competition's benchmark teams in recent seasons.
Tamanivalu headlines a squad stacked with proven performers, returning to provincial rugby in New Zealand after several seasons playing overseas. The powerful midfielder joins an experienced backline featuring Daniel Rona, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Kini Naholo and Josh Jacomb.
The forward pack is equally well credentialled, led by Boshier and Slater alongside the experienced Reuben O'Neill, Jared Proffit, Perry Lawrence and Jesse Parete, giving the Bulls a strong core of players with extensive Super Rugby experience.
Six players have earned their first Taranaki squad selection for 2026, with Suli Pahulu, Josefa Namosimalua, Quintony Ngatai, Chris Vunipola, Rocky Olsen and Indiha Saotui-Huta rewarded following standout CMK Premiership campaigns.
Head coach Jarrad Hoeata said the squad combines a settled core with players who have forced their way into contention through strong club form.
"It's a settled group with a strong spine. Kaylum, Bradley and Logan set the standard, and the new faces have all earned their shot on the back of CMK Club Rugby form.
"The early rounds may test our depth, but we've planned for exactly that. It means we carry a bigger squad in the opening weeks, but it will only help with ensuring we get every player confident and connected so we're firing from round one, whoever runs out in the amber and black."
The Bulls begin their campaign away to Counties Manukau on 1 August, carrying high expectations after assembling another squad with the experience and depth to compete with the competition's best.