Breaking it down: Can the Blues go back to back

The Auckland Blues have showcased several strengths throughout the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, as they look to defend their title having won the competition last season. They will take on the chiefs in a qualifying final and we have idendtified and here are some of the focus areas where the Blues stand to dominate, to influence the decision falling into their favour. 

Forward Pack Dominance

The Blues' forward pack, led by All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu remains a cornerstone of their success.  Also featuring standout players like Hoskins Sotutu and Ricky Riccitelli, the team has maintained a formidable presence in set-pieces and physical confrontations.

Midfield Playmaking Depth

The team will be boosted and excited at the return of All Black Beauden Barrett adds significant depth to the Blues' backline. His experience and playmaking ability complement the talents of Harry Plummer and Stephen Perofeta, providing the team with multiple options at first-five and fullback.

Versatile Backline Threats

The Blues' backline is rich with versatile and dynamic players. Caleb Clarke offers aerial dominance and power, while Mark Tele’a brings deceptive elusiveness.

Defensive Solidity

Defensively, the Blues have maintained a strong record, holding opponents to an average of 16.6 points per game during the 2024 regular season. Although there's been a slight increase in missed tackles in 2025, the team's defensive systems remain robust, with players like Dalton Papali’i leading the charge with over 200 tackles and 12 dominant tackles.

Offensive Performance

• Tries Scored: The Blues have demonstrated a potent attacking game, scoring 5 tries in a single match against the Chiefs, showcasing their offensive capabilities.

• Metres Gained: In the same match, they accumulated 554 metres, indicating a strong ball-carrying performance.

• Carries: However, there has been a decline in their carry statistics compared to the previous season, ranking 9th in 2025 with an average of 111 carries per game, down from 135.3 in 2024.

🔹 Defensive Metrics

• Tackles Made: The Blues have averaged 216 tackles per game, reflecting their defensive efforts.

• Missed Tackles: There's been an increase in missed tackles, with the team averaging 31.5 per game in 2025, compared to 18.6 in 2024.

• Tackle Success Rate: Their tackle success rate has dipped slightly to 86.1%, down from 88.3% in the previous season. 

🔹 Set-Piece and Discipline

• Lineouts and Scrums: The Blues have maintained solid set-piece performances, winning 13 lineouts and 3 scrums in their match against the Brumbies

• Penalties Conceded: Discipline has been an area of concern, with the Blues conceding 10 penalties in the same match. 

🔹 Key Players

• Beauden Barrett: Continues to be a pivotal figure in the backline, contributing significantly to the team's attacking strategies.

• Ricky Riccitelli: Has been instrumental in the forward pack, especially in maul situations, scoring in consecutive matches. 

• Caleb Clarke: Provides a significant aerial threat and power on the wing, contributing to the team's attacking prowess.