Chiefs vs Fijian Drua Preview: Pre-Season Showdown at Blake Park — How to Watch, Team Form, and Prediction

Rugby fans will be treated to an exciting Chiefs vs Fijian Drua pre-season fixture as the Gallagher Chiefs host the Fijian Drua at Blake Parkin Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Kick-off is scheduled for 3.00 pm NZT, and this encounter offers supporters an early look at how both sides are shaping up ahead of the Super Rugby Pacific 2026 season.

This fixture promises action, flair and a clash of contrasting styles — the structured power of the Chiefs against the dynamic, ball-in-hand rugby the Drua are known for. In this full preview, we break down how you can watch the game, examine what each team brings, and offer Chiefs vs Fijian Drua match prediction.

How to Watch Chiefs vs Fijian Drua (30 Jan 2026)

Super Rugby Pacific pre-season matches are increasingly accessible around the world via both free-to-air and digital streaming platforms. For this pre-season clash:

• In New Zealand: Streaming and broadcast information is usually confirmed by local rights holders closer to match day. Historically, Spark Sport and Sky Sport NZ have shown Super Rugby and trial matches. Check their schedule in the days before the game.

• In Australia & Asia: Platforms like Stan Sport often hold broadcast rights for Super Rugby content.

• Live Streaming (International): Rugby-focused streaming services such as FloRugby / FloSports often carry Super Rugby pre-season and regular season fixtures live, with subscriptions available on smart devices, web browsers and connected TV apps.

• Mobile & Digital: Some teams and rugby unions release live audio streams and real-time updates on social media.

• Replays & Highlights: If you miss the live stream, full replay and highlights are frequently posted shortly after the match on official team channels and major rugby media outlets.

Remember to verify local broadcast rights closer to kick-off as Chiefs vs Fijian Drua pre-season coverage sometimes differs from the regular season.

Read More: Watch Super Rugby Pacific 2026: When does it start, how to watch

Chiefs vs Fijian Drua Match Context & Stakes

This fixture is a Chiefs vs Fijian Drua pre-season match, not part of the Super Rugby Pacific regular season ladder, but it’s a valuable opportunity for both squads:

Chiefs

The Chiefs are coming off a strong 2025 campaign where they posted an 11-3 regular-season record, finishing as one of the competition’s top sides before falling short of the title.
Under new head coach Jono Gibbes, expectation in the Waikato camp is high. This match gives fans a glimpse at how new combinations might look, how coaches balance experience with emerging talent, and how key players like Damian McKenzie (if fit) will influence game momentum.

Fijian Drua

The Drua arrive in New Zealand looking to build on the growth they showed in 2025. After finishing lower in the standings in 2025, they remain a team capable of flashes of brilliance when their structure meets their trademark attacking style.
With leaders like Meli Derenalagi guiding the side, the Drua will be eager to test their systems against quality opposition.

For both teams, this game is as much about player evaluation and game rhythm as it is about the scoreboard.

Key Players to Watch Chiefs vs Fijian Drua

Chiefs

• Damian McKenzie – When he plays with tempo and vision, the Chiefs can unlock defences at speed.

• Luke Jacobson – Provides physicality in the forwards and leadership around the park.

• Emerging talent – Pre-season is a chance for younger players to stake a claim for regular season selection.

Fijian Drua

• Meli Derenalagi (Captain) – Strong ball-carrier and influential in leadership.

• Backline threats – The Drua’s back three and midfield runners are always dangerous in broken play and counter-attacks.

• Set-piece growth – A key area against tier-1 sides where improvement will show.

Fijian Drua v Chiefs Head-to-Head History

In recent Super Rugby Pacific meetings between these teams, results have been close. In 2025, the Fijian Drua recorded a shock 28-24 victory over the Chiefs in Lautoka, showing their potential to defeat top-tier opponents. This pre-season match should be entertaining rather than one-sided.

 Tactical Matchups to Watch Fijian Drua v Chiefs

• Chiefs Forward Battle: Expect the Chiefs to aim for dominance up front — strong carries, controlling rucks, and disciplined defence.

• Drua Attacking Flair: The Drua will look to use width, support play, and unpredictable offloads to unsettle the Chiefs defensive line.

• Kicking Game: Territory through tactical kicking could play a huge part, especially if the pre-season conditions test ball handling.

• Bench Impact: Pre-season matches often hinge on squad depth — coaches will want to see their second-string players perform under pressure.

Prediction: Who Wins?

Predicting pre-season matches is tricky — teams use them for experimentation rather than pure competition. However, based on squad depth, experience and overall quality:

Prediction: Chiefs 29 – Fijian Drua 24
The Chiefs should edge this one thanks to superior set-pieces and structured play. But if the Drua’s instinctive attack clicks, they could run the Chiefs close or even steal a late lead.

Expect a high-tempo game with momentum swings, spirited defence, and flashes of attacking rugby that will excite fans ahead of Super Rugby Pacific proper.

The Chiefs vs Fijian Drua match at Blake Park on 30 January 2026 is more than just a pre-season fixture — it’s a preview of the battles to come in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of the Chiefs, a fan of Pacific flair in the Drua camp, or a neutral who loves fast, skillful rugby, this clash is unmissable.

Before kick-off, check local TV listings or streaming apps like FloSports to confirm coverage in your region. And whether you’re watching live or catching highlights after the final whistle, this game promises to set the tone for an exciting Super Rugby year.