Samipeni Finau

Few forwards bring the same physical edge to the Gallagher Chiefs as blindside flanker Samipeni Finau. Born on 10 May 1999, the New Zealand-developed loose forward came through the national age-grade pathway, featuring for New Zealand at Under-20 level before forcing his way into Super Rugby reckoning. Finau is an athletic, powerful presence who carries strongly and defends with intent. He thrives in the collision, using his frame to make ground for the Chiefs and to fold opposition runners in the tackle. At the breakdown he is a genuine nuisance, capable of slowing ball and forcing turnovers when the contest tightens. Since establishing himself in the Chiefs' pack, Finau has become a trusted source of defensive intensity, particularly in the wide channels where his athleticism allows him to cover ground quickly. His coaches lean on him for the physical confrontation that sets a tone in the forwards, and his ability to combine ball-carrying threat with turnover work makes him a well-rounded blindside. As he matures, Finau continues to grow into one of the Chiefs' key abrasive operators.