
Dalton Papali’i
Dalton Papali’i is a professional rugby player from New Zealand, known for his dynamic play as a loose forward for the Blues in Super Rugby. After a challenging 2024 season marred by a hamstring injury, he is focused on leading the Blues in their title defense while embracing his new role as a father-to-be with partner Marty Puketapu. Papali’i's dedication to the sport is evident as he aims to balance personal and professional aspirations, emphasizing hard work and commitment to his team.
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Recent news mentions
Holland’s arrival in Auckland next year will mark the start of a new era, though, with a host of experienced figures including Dalton Papali’i in their final season for the Blues.
Super Rugby Pacific: Former All Blacks assistant coaches to join forces amid Blues shake-upDalton Papali’i was one of the Blues players missing from the match against the Chiefs.
Blues crash to heavy Chiefs defeat, face daunting Crusaders quarterfinalDalton Papali’i gave away a couple of ruck penalties but did what he needed for his side.
Blues v Crusaders: Player ratings and All Blacks watch, young stars shine as veterans struggleCaptain Dalton Papali’i again leads the side as the Blues look to build momentum.
Blues v Force live updates: Super Rugby round two clashDalton Papali’i to depart New Zealand Rugby.
More concerts, Origin coming: What Eden Park’s big shift means for Auckland
Dalton Papali’i is a significant loss for the Blues as he starts this season as captain in Patrick Tuipulotu’s injury absence.
Dalton Papali’i: Blues coach Vern Cotter laments skipper’s exit – ‘He could have been an All Blacks captain’Dalton Papali’i to depart New Zealand Rugby.
Flooding, power cuts and downed trees as wild weather hits Lower North Island
Dalton Papali'i, captain of the Blues, will depart the club after the 2026 Super Rugby season to take up an opportunity with French Top 14 team Castres Olympique.
Dalton Papali’i: Blues captain to depart after 2026 seasonBlues skipper was potent on both sides of the ball.
Blues vs Chiefs player ratings: Player ratings and All Blacks watchStand-in captain Dalton Papali’i was exceptional.
Blues v Chiefs result: Visitors claim ‘battle of the Bombays’ honours to open 2026 with victoryDalton Papali'i is understood to have been very impressive for the All Blacks XV last year.
All Blacks: Winners and losers from Scott Robertson’s shock coaching exit – Alex PowellDalton Papali’i appeared once off the bench.
Assessing the All Blacks depth and best starting teamRobertson has, this year at least, proven his capacity to make difficult calls by passing over Dalton Papali’i.
Richie Mo’unga: All Blacks return is more complex than it seems - OpinionDalton Papali’i was pressed into service during the French series.
Paul Lewis: The bolter that would add depth to All Blacks packDalton Papali’i featured off the bench in a widely changed All Blacks team in the third French test.
All Blacks squad: Scott Robertson considers changes for Rugby ChampionshipDalton Papali’i could feature for Counties Manukau.
All Blacks midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown ruled out of season-opening NPC clash with shoulder injuryDalton Papali’i could feature for Counties Manukau in the NPC.
All Blacks: Key players set to return for Argentina leg of Rugby ChampionshipWhile Dalton Papali’i was on the fringe of the July squad.
All Blacks’ squad depth analysed after French series sweepPerformed well in the match.
All Blacks player ratings: How they rated in third-test win over FranceInstead, they’ve named two loose forwards, Dalton Papali’i and Du’Plessis Kirifi, to deny Naitoa Ah Kuoi his test debut.
All Blacks v France: Chiefs-dominated All Blacks should avoid form fade – Liam NapierPromoting Dalton Papali’i and running with Samipeni Finau as lock cover.
All Blacks v France: Scott Robertson shows first signs of future-proofing in side for third test – Gregor PaulDalton Papali’i is part of the All Blacks reserves.
All Blacks team naming: Scott Robertson names squad for third test against FranceBlues loose forward Dalton Papali’i replaces Lio-Willie as injury cover for Luke Jacobson.
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson talks squad selections, answers listeners’ calls ahead of first testDalton Papali’i will now fill the role previously held by Luke Jacobson.
All Blacks v France: Wallace Sititi ruled out of series, Christian Lio-Willie called inPapali’i's merits are being evaluated against those of Kirifi and Lakai by the selectors.
All Blacks selection: Balancing gut instinct with data analysisPapali’i could be sweating on his inclusion in the All Blacks after injuries.
All Blacks squad: The rookies who could make it into Scott Robertson’s sidePapali’i has gone under the radar this year as his Blues side have struggled.
Ardie Savea, Wallace Sititi and who? Analysing the All Blacks loose forward options – Tight FiveDalton Papali’i's example helped the Blues settle during the game.
The best half of Super Rugby this season: Phil GiffordDalton Papali’i praised Suafoa’s resilience in battling cancer while participating in Super Rugby.
Blues loose forward Cameron Suafoa announces recurrence of rare cancerDalton Papali'i made key turnovers to relieve pressure for the Blues.
Blues v Force: Blues get season back on track with bonus point win


























































































































