After missing consecutive finals, the Waratahs have ventured back to the future in pursuit of Super Rugby Pacific success, signing the two experienced playmakers for the 2027 season. Sure to raise eyebrows, 36-year-old Foley and Phipps, 37, were the halves in the Waratahs' one and only Super Rugby championship-winning team way back in 2014 under Michael Cheika. Phipps bristled when noting how older players were hugely respected in England and Japan while often maligned in Australia. The Tahs released 22-year-old flyhalf Jack Bowen, who was presented with few opportunities during a three-season stint, after missing the 2025 and 2026 Super Rugby Pacific finals. The veterans both made their Super Rugby debuts in 2011 and boast a combined 253 appearances for NSW and 147 Tests for Australia.