Highlanders v Force

The 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season rolls on with a trans-Tasman contest as the Highlanders welcome the Western Force to Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, on Saturday, 7 March. With both sides searching for consistency and vital competition points, this matchup is set to be a closely fought battle in the south.

The Highlanders will take confidence from playing at Forsyth Barr Stadium, where the enclosed conditions suit their direct, physical style of rugby. Built around strong forward effort, disciplined defense, and high work rate, the Dunedin-based side will look to dominate the contact area and control possession through the set piece.

The Western Force travel to New Zealand aiming to challenge on the road. Known for their resilience, physicality, and structured approach, the Force will seek to disrupt the Highlanders’ rhythm and stay in the contest through smart kicking, solid defense, and breakdown pressure.