The theory says teams get better once Nines experience is banked. Reborn can’t say that’s been true yet. A semi-final exit was followed by a quarterfinal loss last year, despite a roster that looked stronger on paper.
They still fly under the radar. Few teams talk about Reborn as their biggest threat coming into the Nines, which is strange once you actually look at the list.
On the field, Reborn look like a professional outfit. Big, fit, and built through the Reborn Athletic Hub, they arrive conditioned and organised on the field. They also pull from outside the traditional pathways to add unpredictability. Leigh Bristowe crossed over from rugby built like a prop but moving like a winger. Abele Atunaisia caused problems throughout 2024 with speed and power through the middle or out wide.
This is where Brad Takairangi matters. Reborn aren’t just big and fit. They’re structured. Takairangi consistently assembles squads filled with players who have lived inside professional systems. They understand roles, repetition, and how to operate within a plan.
All of it makes Reborn a dangerous proposition once the weekend settles and teams start to thin out.
That’s also where the tension sits. Reborn have often treated the Nines like something you grow into. Pool One doesn’t allow that. Early games last year were enough to leave them chasing rhythm instead of controlling it.
There won’t be time to wait this weekend. The opening rounds arrive fast, against young teams built to run and keep running. Reborn have the size, the structure, and the experience. Pool One will test whether they can bring it immediately, or whether it still arrives later than the competition allows.
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