Though this is the first official Champions Final, the two teams have already gone head-to-head in the 2025 pre-season, with that game ending in a 36-36 draw.
Three Blues players will run out for their 20th Super Rugby Aupiki appearances in this game:
- Chryss Viliko
- Maama Vaipulu
- Jaymie Kolose
Blues v NSW Waratahs:
Blues (1-15): Chryss Viliko, Atlanta Lolohea, Aldora Itunu, Maiakawanakaulani Roos (c), Maama Vaipulu, Holly Greenway, Taufa Bason, Elizabith Moimoi, Tara Turner, Ruahei Demant, Jaymie Kolose, Sylvia Brunt, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Katelyn Vahaakolo, Braxton Sorensen-McGee
Impact: Grace Gago, Awhina Tangen-Wainohu, Harano Te Iringa, Cheyenne Tuli-Fale, Dajian Brown, Kerri Johnson, Krysten Cottrell, Patricia Maliepo
Unavailable due to injury: Liana Mikaele-Tu'u (foot)
Due to a red card in the Super Rugby Aupiki Grand Final, Eloise Blackwell is subject to judicial proceedings and unavailable for selection
NSW Waratahs (1-15): Bridie O’Gorman, Britt Merlo, Falika Pohiva, Kaitlan Leaney, Annabelle Codey, Nicole Nathan, Emily Chancellor (c), Ruby Anderson, Tatum Bird, Arabella McKenzie, Desiree Miller, Katrina Barker, Georgia Friedrichs, Jade Sheridan, Caitlyn Halse
Impact: Millie Parker, Emily Robinson, Seneti Kilisimasi, Jayjay Taylor, Anahera Hamahona, Martha Harvey, Amelia Whitaker, Waiaria Ellis
Unavailable due to injury: Maya Stewart (concussion), Leilani Nathan (knee), Piper Duck (shoulder), Adiana Talakai (shoulder), Atasi Lafai (knee)
Referee: Maggie Cogger-Orr
Assistant Referees: Erin Doherty, Andy Morton
TMO: Estelle Whaiapu
Where to watch:
Thursday 17 April, 7:05pm NZT | 5:05pm AEST: Blues v NSW Waratahs – North Harbour Stadium, Auckland Buy Tickets
New Zealand: Sky Sport 1
Australia: Stan Sport
All other markets including US, UK and Ireland, Canada: NZR+ (sign-up free here).