Ioane Moananu

New Zealand-born flanker Ioane Moananu brings a familiar brand of antipodean physicality to the NSW Waratahs' forward pack. Born in 2001, he is a mobile, hard-hitting loose forward whose game is built on heavy defence and a high work rate across the park. Moananu thrives as a defensive stopper and a disruptive force at the breakdown, the kind of flanker who makes his presence felt through tackles, turnovers and relentless pressure on opposition ball. Having come through New Zealand's age-grade pathways before crossing the Tasman, he adds depth and competitive edge to the Waratahs' loose forward stocks in Super Rugby Pacific. His athleticism allows him to cover ground in support and contest in the wider channels, while his physical approach suits the abrasive demands of provincial rugby. Still establishing himself at the professional level, Moananu is regarded as an energetic, combative forward intent on nailing down a more prominent role in the Waratahs' back row.