Sam Doyle came into the Hurricanes side in 1996 as a replacement player and played in two matches at fullback against the Highlanders and the Reds in place of Christian Cullen, scoring a try in the 44-15 win against the Highlanders.

Doyle played for Wellington between 1994-1997, but was hampered by injuries in 1997 and was unable to recapture his place the following year. Doyle ended up playing 30 games for Wellington, scoring 64 points.

Exciting utility back- halfback-first five-eighth, Doyle could play anywhere in the backline and as recently as 2007 he was still playing senior rugby for the Rahui club in Levin.