The chairman of Rugby Australia, Daniel Herbert, ranks the talent, excitement, and competitiveness showcased in Super Rugby this season as the highest they have been throughout the tournament’s 30-year span.
The ex-Wallaby center who has won the World Cup typically doesn’t seek to boast, but Herbert felt driven to speak out following his observation of another round of Super Rugby Pacific over the weekend.
So far this season, the level of competitiveness has been commendable. Statistics indicate that the average points scored per game have reached an all-time high. Furthermore, the average margin of victory is among the smallest recorded in history.
However, Herbert thinks that the beginning of the 2025 season not only ranks among the finest witnessed in Super Rugby history since its inception in 1996 but stands as the pinnacle.
I simply believe it's the finest the competition has ever appeared," Herbert stated. "Everyone from my era tends to recall past times when these events took place. It's evident that neither football nor rugby at this standard have ever been witnessed before.
Given the numerous exceptional teams and memorable seasons over the last thirty years in Super Rugby, this assertion stands out as quite significant. However, Herbert played during much of the tournament's inaugural ten years, appearing in 120 matches for Queensland, and he feels that today's level of competitiveness and offensive play style has reached "a peak never seen before."
"If you consider the history of this competition, we've consistently seen teams perform strongly...especially early on," Herbert stated.
The Brumbies were darting about during the 1997-98 season with a brand of rugby we hadn't witnessed previously. Whenever the Hurricanes fielded Lomu, Cullen, and Umaga in their back three, it was truly mesmerizing. Later on, the Reds put up an incredible show in the 2010-11 period, followed by the Waratahs clinching victory in 2014.
But I don't believe we've ever witnessed such evenly matched competition, particularly with all Australian teams excelling simultaneously. This tournament showcases a brand of rugby consistency hasn't been universal among our squads until now. The athletes demonstrate a proficiency unseen in recent years. Each player exhibits an adventurous spirit made possible by the revised rules, which favour an offensive approach. Additionally, the officiating has been outstanding.
Herbert’s daring proposition is sure to ignite discussion and likely provoke some surprised reactions; it might be seen as an excess of enthusiasm from Australia during a period when domestic squads are generally faring quite well. Only three times previously have three Australian teams been ranked within the top five after five rounds—first in 1999, then again in 2022, alongside their current standing with the Brumbies, Reds, and Waratahs occupying those coveted spots.
Supporters of New Zealand clubs positioned lower down might disagree with Herbert’s perspective as well. However, he feels that the competitiveness of the league is a major factor contributing to its elevation.
"The match between the Chiefs and Blues from yesterday was incredible. Additionally, several top-notch games involving New Zealand teams have taken place," Herbert commented.
They may not be as dominant as before, which is actually beneficial for the competition.
There’s still ample time ahead, let me assure you. We definitely aren’t jinxing anything, but I believe the contest has never been more intense. It’s thrilling, it’s tight, they’re demonstrating top-notch talent, and everyone seems to be approaching it aggressively. This level of quality hasn’t come around since day one.
The crowds have not yet reached the impressive numbers seen during Super Rugby's early years, but Herbert thinks those figures will rise again.
Reducing to four teams in Australia after the dissolution of the Rebels last year seems to play a crucial role, as spreading out the players enhances the strength of each team. While Herbert chose not to comment due to the ongoing legal disagreement between the Rebels and RA, the chairman stated that improvements in coaching have been pivotal for Australian rugby's enhancement.
"He mentioned how top-tier rugby nations like Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa understand the importance of having good coaches. Similarly, we've realized the benefit of bringing aboard robust Super Rugby mentors," he explained.
You can observe that Australia currently has four teams that are exceptionally well-coached. This is evident. While the talent spread may play a role, I believe the key factor is the robust coaching.
Herbert feels optimistic about the "momentum" in Australian rugby due to the Wallabies' spring tour, the strong performances from Australian teams in Super Rugby, and numerous high-profile players extending their contracts lately.
People are noticing our progress and making commitments," he stated. "A year back, when asked about this, I mentioned, 'I wished the Lions were scheduled for next year since I believe we could be among the best teams globally by 2027.'
“However, if we maintain this intense enthusiasm, I am quite hopeful for the coming years.”
