Cameron Millar delivered a nerveless late strike as the Highlanders stunned defending champions the Crusaders 25–23 in a dramatic opening to the 2026 Super Rugby season in Dunedin on Friday.
With just two minutes remaining at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Millar held his nerve to slot a superb 48-metre penalty after the Crusaders were penalized for obstruction. His decisive kick sealed a famous victory and ensured the Highlanders began the competition’s 30th anniversary season in perfect fashion.
Tangitau Magic Sets the Tone
The Highlanders made their intentions clear early, applying pressure through Millar’s tactical kicking and physical intensity. Their breakthrough came courtesy of rising star Caleb Tangitau, who lit up the stadium with the opening try of the season.
Released brilliantly by Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens from a lineout move, Tangitau sliced through three defenders in a dazzling run that showcased his finishing class.
The Crusaders responded through scrum-half Noah Hotham, who exploited space down the blindside to score and help his side edge ahead through penalty goals to carry a narrow halftime advantage.
Highlanders Strike Back After the Break
The hosts surged ahead early in the second half, sparked by a midfield break from Jonah Lowe that led to prop Angus Ta’avao crashing over on debut for his new club.
Moments later, the Highlanders struck again when Jona Nareki broke clear and combined with Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens to create another try, with Millar’s conversion stretching the lead to 22–13.
Sensing danger, Crusaders coach Rob Penney turned to his bench, introducing All Blacks stars including Codie Taylor and Will Jordan.
Jordan Sparks Crusaders Fightback
Jordan made an immediate impact, injecting urgency into the Crusaders’ attack before eventually scoring his 48th try for the club to bring them back into contention.
His influence grew as Crusaders pressure mounted, and when Highlanders discipline faltered late, replacement fly-half Taha Kemara kicked a penalty to hand the visitors a 23–22 lead with nine minutes remaining.
But the Highlanders refused to yield.
Millar Has the Final Say
After sustained late pressure forced a Crusaders error, Millar stepped forward with the match on the line. His long-range penalty sailed between the uprights, sparking wild celebrations among the home faithful.
The Crusaders launched one final attack, but the Highlanders’ defence held firm to secure a memorable victory over the reigning champions.
Highlanders 25 (Tries: Lowe, Tangitau, Ta’avao; Cons: Millar 2; Pens: Millar 2) def Crusaders 23 (Tries: Hotham, Jordan; Cons: Reihana, Kemara; Pens: Reihana 2, Kemara)
Highlanders: 15 Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, 14 Caleb Tangitau, 13 Jonah Lowe, 12 Timoci Tavatavanawai, 11 Jona Nareki, 10 Cameron Millar, 9 Folau Fakatava, 8 Lucas Casey, 7 Sean Withy, 6 Te Kamaka Howden, 5 Mitch Dunshea, 4 Oliver Haig, 3 Angus Ta’avao, 2 Jack Taylor, 1 Ethan de Groot.
Replacements: 16 Henry Bell, 17 Josh Bartlett, 18 Rohan Wingham, 19 Will Stodart, 20 Veveni Lasaqa, 21 Adam Lennox, 22 Reesjan Pasitoa, 23 Tanielu Tele’a
Crusaders: 15 Chay Fihaki, 14 Sevu Reece, 13 Braydon Ennor, 12 David Havili, 11 Leicester Fainga’anuku, 10 Rivez Reihana, 9 Noah Hotham, 8 Christian Lio-Willie, 7 Ethan Blackadder, 6 Dom Gardiner, 5 Jamie Hannah, 4 Antonio Shalfoon, 3 Seb Calder, 2 George Bell, 1 Finlay Brewis.
Replacements: 16 Codie Taylor, 17 George Bower, 18 Fletcher Newell, 19 Tahlor Cahill, 20 Corey Kellow, 21 Kyle Preston, 22 Taha Kemara, 23 Will Jordan
Referee: Angus Gardner
Assistant Referees: George Myers, Matt Kellahan
TMO: Graham Cooper
English