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Dominico Pulu Returns to Super Rugby with Chiefs

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 28th 2026 at 0:36 GMT by The Straits Times
      Locales: SINGAPORE, JAPAN, NEW ZEALAND

Hamilton, New Zealand - February 28, 2026 - Former Fiji captain Dominico Pulu is making a highly anticipated return to Super Rugby, signing with the Chiefs after a five-year absence. The 34-year-old back-rower joins the Hamilton-based franchise from French club Biarritz, bringing a wealth of international experience and a desire to reignite his career in the fiercely competitive Super Rugby Pacific competition.

Pulu last featured in Super Rugby for the Highlanders in 2019, before embarking on a stint in France in 2020. While he found success and a new lifestyle in Europe, the lure of the intense, fast-paced environment of Super Rugby proved too strong to resist. "I've missed the intensity and the vibe of Super Rugby, and I'm excited to get back involved," Pulu stated upon the announcement of his signing. "I'm really looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity to contribute to the Chiefs' success."

This move isn't merely a homecoming; it represents a strategic decision by Pulu to regain a prominent role within a competitive rugby landscape. His time in France, while valuable, seemingly didn't provide the same platform for leadership and impactful play that he craves. "Sometimes, you've just got to get back to where you feel comfortable and where you can really make a difference," he explained, highlighting his belief that the Chiefs offer the ideal environment for him to thrive.

The Chiefs finished a disappointing 12th in the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season, a result that prompted significant introspection and a reshaping of the squad. The acquisition of Pulu is a clear indication of the Chiefs' intent to bolster their leadership group and add a hardened edge to their forward pack. Pulu's pedigree as a test captain for Fiji - leading the nation in both 2015 and 2016 - speaks volumes about his ability to command respect and inspire those around him. With 46 test caps for Fiji, he's a seasoned international with a proven track record on the biggest stage.

However, Pulu's impact will extend beyond simply filling a positional void. In a modern rugby environment increasingly focused on player welfare and holistic development, experienced figures like Pulu are crucial for mentoring younger players and fostering a positive team culture. He brings a global perspective, having experienced different coaching philosophies and playing styles in both the Southern Hemisphere and Europe.

Chiefs Head Coach Clayton McMillan is understandably thrilled with the signing. "Dominico is a fantastic addition to our team. His leadership and experience will be invaluable," McMillan commented. "We're thrilled to have him on board and excited to see what he can bring to the Chiefs." McMillan is likely envisioning Pulu playing a key role in stabilizing the Chiefs' set-piece, providing dynamic ball-carrying in open play, and leading by example both on and off the field.

The 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet, with all teams investing heavily in player recruitment and coaching expertise. The return of a player of Pulu's caliber adds another layer of intrigue. While he faces the challenge of adapting to a new team and a rapidly evolving game, his experience and determination suggest he is well-equipped to make a significant contribution.

Beyond the immediate impact on the Chiefs, Pulu's return to Super Rugby is a testament to the enduring appeal of the competition. The league continues to attract top talent from around the world, and Pulu's decision to prioritize a return to Super Rugby despite having established himself in Europe speaks to its unique allure. Fans can expect to see a player eager to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level, and a team looking to leverage his leadership and experience to climb back up the Super Rugby Pacific standings. The Chiefs will be hoping Pulu's arrival sparks a resurgence, transforming them from underperformers into genuine title contenders.