Payton Spencer’s debut set
Payton Spencer — son of All Blacks great Carlos Spencer — has been named to make his Super Rugby debut for the Blues against the Waratahs, a high-profile first cap for the 21‑year‑old (rugbypass.com). The call-up puts a young playmaker into a big spotlight and adds an intriguing subplot to the Blues–Waratahs clash this weekend (rugbypass.com).
Spencer is named at No.23 on the Blues’ match-day sheet for the Allianz Stadium fixture scheduled for March 21, 2026. (waratahs.rugby)) Blues head coach Vern Cotter confirmed the inclusion when he unveiled the side for the Waratahs game. (rugbypass.com)) The 21‑year‑old is listed as a fullback on the Blues’ official player profile after signing his first full contract with the club ahead of the 2025 season. (blues.rugby)) Spencer has prior international experience in the shorter format, making his New Zealand Sevens debut on 27 January 2023 and scoring two tries against Uruguay. (en.wikipedia.org)) His elevation to the match-day 23 comes with a stretched Blues backline, where players including Sam Nock and Stephen Perofeta were cited on the club’s injury list. (rugbypass.com)) The Waratahs clash is a Round 6 Super Rugby Pacific fixture and arrives with the Blues sitting level on 15 competition points at the top of the table. (scoop.co.nz)) Spencer’s route to the top squad followed his signing for the Blues ahead of the 2025 campaign and a run of standout school and development-grade performances noted by the club. (rugbypass.com))
