Season 2009 ushered in an exciting new era for ANZ Stadium with the debut of the HSBC Waratahs. 

On Saturday 21 March, captain Phil Waugh led the Waratahs into battle against the Crusaders. The epic struggle which followed, resulting in a nail-biting 17-13 Crusaders victory, was indicitive of the quality of rugby ANZ Stadium has been lucky enough to host over the years.

The HSBC Waratahs' two best games each season will be played at ANZ Stadium until at least 2015. In an added boost for fans, if the Tahs earn the right to host any finals matches they will also be played at the home of the 2003 World Cup final.

Of the deal, then ANZ Stadium CEO and Managing Director Ken Edwards said: "This is the start of an exciting era for both the HSBC Waratahs and ANZ Stadium.

"The Wallabies have enjoyed many history-making moments at ANZ Stadium and now it is time for the Waratahs to create their own memories here."

Season 2011 marked the launch of the revamped Super Rugby competition which includes a 15th franchise, the Melbourne Rebels. 

The three-conference system shifts the focus to local derbies and the Waratahs kicked off their home campaign with an emphatic 30-6 victory over arch-rivals, the Queensland Reds. A convincing 41-7 victory over the Brumbies in Round 18 secured the Tahs' 2011 finals berth.