Dane Gagai consistently elevates his game during crucial matches, as demonstrated in this year’s All-Stars clash. Leading 10-6 with just a minute remaining, Gagai’s Maori All-Stars faced a fierce Indigenous attack. Halfback Niwhai Puru appeared to score, sparking celebrations from his team, only for the Bunker’s review to reveal Gagai’s last-minute intervention, stripping the ball from Puru and preventing the try.
Commentators were quick to praise Gagai’s match-saving play, noting the intensity of the moment. The Indigenous side did regain possession before the final whistle but couldn’t convert their opportunities, securing victory for Gagai’s team.
The match saw both sides battling early-season rust, ending the first half goalless. A potential try from Josh Curran was disallowed due to an obstruction by Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow. After halftime, Indigenous captain Shaquai Mitchell broke the deadlock, but it was the Maori team that responded, with Jesse Arthars finding the try line in the second half. Jacob Laban’s 67th-minute try, assisted by Arthars, ultimately clinched the win, and Arthars was awarded the Preston Campbell Medal for his standout performance.