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* $12,997 deposit based on XV 2.0i manual at $38,990. Simply pay one third deposit, one third in 12 months and one third in 24 months with 0% interest. Offer valid on NZ new Subaru XV models. Vehicle must be sold at RRP and is not available in conjunction with any other special, discount or promotional offer. Normal fi nance company lending criteria applies. Offer excludes lease, government and rental purchases. Excludes on-road costs and accessories. A document fee of $385 incl GST applies. Valid until 30 September 2014 or while stocks last. SUB6566R YNZ8736_Loaded_Bolt_FP_curves.indd 1 25/07/2014 3:02 pm WINNING MOMENT: Canterbury's head coach Scott Robertson, left, and captain celebrate winning the RUGBY ITM Premiership after last year’s final victory MANAGING EDITOR 2014 over . Oliver Lee CONTENTS EDITOR PETER WHITE A heads-up on what’s PROOFREADING inside this issue including Elise McDoweLL competition draws and team profiles. PHOTOGRAPHY photosport www.photosport.co.nz The INVESTEC RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP...... 6 ITM CUP FIXTURE LIST...... 16 We preview the 2014 Investec Rugby Cham- ITM CUP CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEWS cover design & art pionship featuring the All Blacks, Wallabies, manawatu...... 20 ONTIME ASSOCIATES LTD Springboks and Pumas. hawke’s bay...... 20 PRINTING ITM CUP SEASON Preview...... 8 NORTH HARBOUR...... 22 Webstar What’s ahead in the ITM Cup Premiership SOUTHLAND...... 22 and Championship. NORTHLAND...... 25 PUBLISHER ITM CUP PREMIERSHIP PREVIEWS ...... 25

AUCKLAND ...... 10 ...... 26 TASMAN...... 11 Box 331-667, Takapuna, ...... 28 0740, WELLINGTON...... 12 Will Counties Manukau retain the Ranfurly Shield? COUNTIES MANUKAU...... 12 We look ahead to this season’s challenges. T: 09 486 6966 PINK® BATTS® CANTERBURY...... 14 E: [email protected] Fixtures.... 30 W: www.oliverlee.co.nz ...... 15 All you need to know about this year’s ...... 19 Pink® Batts® Heartland Championship.

COPYRIGHT: Reproduction in whole or in part by any means is prohibited. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although all material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine. the 2014 investec RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP The Investec Rugby Championship kicks off on August 16 with a clash between the All Blacks and Wallabies in . BY PETER WHITE

The All Blacks total dominance of , Austra- McKenzie seems to have unified the inter-state rivalries lia and Argentina continued unabated in 2013 with an- that often hold them back. other clean-sweep of the Investec Rugby Championship. The Wallabies have won seven tests straight, their best The tone was set in the opening fixture against the winning run since they were last world champions in hopeful Wallabies in Sydney; the All Blacks ran in six 1999, and impressed with a 3–0 whitewash of tries to two during an emphatic 47–29 victory. in June. made a major impact with three tries, while captain The All Blacks had a profitable June themselves, beat- Richie McCaw crossed for a try to become the first ing a cocky side 3–0 in a series at home. They New Zealand forward to score 100 test points. will have a lot of motivation for the opening test in Although the All Blacks marched on unbeaten with six Sydney as victory will give them a world-record 18th- wins from as many starts, the remaining games after consecutive test win. the Sydney opener were much more competitive. Home tests against Australia and Argentina follow for Winning scores of 27–16 over Australia, 28–13 over the All Blacks before things get much tougher. Fierce Argentina and 38–27 over South Africa attest to that. rivals South Africa take them on in Wellington, then two The All Blacks finished on 28 points, comfortably ahead daunting away matches follow; the first against Argen- of South Africa (19), Australia (9) and Argentina (2) to tina in La Plata, and the second versus South Africa in defend their title. . Of great intrigue to rugby followers were Argentina’s Senior All Blacks Richie McCaw, and Kieran performances. While inconsistency is likely to be an Read are all back in the fold after time on the sideline, ever-present factor for a few seasons to come, they can and there is an exciting look to the attacking balance of be a difficult team to beat at home. the team. New centre , Ben Smith and Winning their first game in this third Investec Rugby proved irresistible against England. Championship will be their goal, but a poor build-up in South Africa thumped a World XV 47–13 before taking on the June window will not help in this regard. The Pumas ’s Wales in June. The first test was a lost both tests against Ireland, before a 21–19 loss to conclusive 38–16 win, but Wales can consider them- Scotland, who are coached by Kiwi Vern Cotter. selves unlucky to lose the second test 31–30. The Spring- SIMPLY THE BEST: This year’s Investec Rugby Championship kicks off boks then thrashed Scotland 55–6. The All Blacks will on August 16 with another mouth-watering clash in The All Blacks finish the year off in November with a test hope , the Sydney between the Wallabies and All Blacks. There is against USA in Chicago, on their way to the UK for a tough 2013 IRB Player of the Year, greater confidence within Australian rugby following the finale against England,S cotland and Wales; this will also is back to full fitness. competition, and Wallabies coach Ewen serve as a dress rehearsal for next year’s Rugby WorldC up.

2014 investec rugby championship & bledisloe cup draw DATE MATCH VENUE KICK OFF NZ TIME AUGUST 16: Australia v All Blacks (BC) Sydney ...... 10.05 pm AUGUST 17: South Africa v Argentina Pretoria ...... 3.05 am AUGUST 23: All Blacks v Australia (BC) Auckland ...... 7.35 pm AUGUST 24: Argentina v South Africa Salta ...... 7.40 am SEPTEMBER 06: All Blacks v Argentina Napier ...... 7.35 pm SEPTEMBER 06: Australia v South Africa Perth ...... 10.05 pm SEPTEMBER 13: All Blacks v South Africa Wellington ...... 7.35 pm SEPTEMBER 13: Australia v Argentina Gold Coast ...... 10.05 pm SEPTEMBER 27: Argentina v All Blacks La Plata ...... 12.00 am SEPTEMBER 28: south Africa v Australia ...... 4.05 pm OCTOBER 05: south Africa v All Blacks Johannesburg ...... 4.05 am OCTOBER 05: Argentina v Australia Mendoza ...... 11.40 am (BC) = Bledisloe Cup match. 2014 BLEDISLOE CUP GAME 3 DATE MATCH VENUE KICK OFF NZ TIME OCTOBER 18: All Blacks v Australia ...... 9.00 pm 2014 END-OF-YEAR TOUR DATE MATCH VENUE KICK OFF NZ TIME NOVEMBER 2: All Blacks v USA Chicago ...... 8.30 am NOVEMBER 9: All Blacks v England ...... 3.30 am NOVEMBER 16: All Blacks v Scotland Edinburgh ...... 6.30 am november 23: All Blacks v Wales Cardiff ...... 6.30 am

6 RUGBY 2014 www.ALLBLACKS.coM Over 20 years we’ve seen a lot of different things, but one thing that hasn’t changed is our loyal support for the greatest team in the world. THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE ALL BLACKS FOR 20 YEARS.

ford.co.nz

FOR 3952 Super Rugby Ad.indd 1 30/07/14 3:22 PM PROVINCIAL PRIDE ON the LINE IN THE ITM CUP Last year’s competition saw Canterbury claim their sixth consecutive national title, Bay of Plenty relegated and Tasman promoted to the ITM Premiership. BY PETER WHITE

SIXPEAT: The ITM Cup is rightly regarded as the world’s best Perhaps the biggest issue facing all the other unions is The Canterbury provincial rugby championship and every season sees how to get over the psychological advantage Canterbury players celebrate after new names thrown around of players destined to be our has at finals time because of their remarkable record. winning their sixth next All Blacks. Head coach Scott Robertson does have his own distinc- consecutive title It is a breeding ground of excellence the rest of the tive style, but expect to see Canterbury continue with last season. rugby world can only dream about. the no-nonsense tactics and defensive might that has Over the course of 11 weeks, and more than 70 match- served them so well. es, 14 teams battle for provincial pride; then, the pulsat- In the ITM Championship, the Bay of Plenty Steamers ing play-offs begin where the prospect of both promo- could be the team to beat after they slipped through the tion and relegation between the ITM Premiership and relegation trap door last year. the ITM Championship adds late-season drama. Head coach Kevin Schuler has assembled a handy team Plus, there is the iconic Ranfurly Shield, which over the that will be hard to beat at their dual home venues last few seasons has clearly proven to be just as impor- of and . But, the key to tant today as it was in its inception in 1904. success in such a competitive competition is winning on Canterbury began last year’s ITM Cup season as the the road. team to beat after winning their fifth consecutive title. Hawke’s Bay, Otago and Southland also loom as real Despite providing more All Blacks than any other union, promotion contenders with this year’s ITM Champion- Canterbury still had a remarkable depth of players to ship set to be one of the most evenly contested. win title number six. is rightly proud of the way the The final against Wellington, who topped the round ITM Cup has come through some difficult teething prob- robin ahead of Canterbury, was held at Westpac Stadi- lems with many unions living way beyond their means um and long-suffering Wellington supporters were with player payments. confident they could win their first title since 2000. Chief Executive Steve Tew announced late last year that But, Canterbury scored four tries to Wellington’s one to all unions were set to record surpluses for 2013, which give yet another rugby lesson. is a clear indicator of the healthy state of the provincial Auckland have twice won four titles in succession, in the game. 1980s and 1990s, but Canterbury’s six straight is a record Crowd numbers outside the Super Rugby host cities for all ages. were up last season and that trend is expected to con- Looking ahead to the 2014 ITM Cup, the obvious ques- tinue this year. tion is can any team stop the marauding Cantabs from With Counties Manukau such enthusiastic Ranfurly Shield making it seven in a row? Auckland and Wellington will holders and the usually intense Heartland Champion- fancy their chances, but the red-and-blacks will go into ship also set for another memorable campaign, there is the campaign as red-hot favourites. much to look forward to over the coming rugby months.

8 RUGBY2014 www.ITMCUP.co.nz IMMERSEYOURSELF IN THEGAME

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AUCKLAND

Placed third in 2013: Auck- land started superbly winning their opening five games, but then won just two more in the second- half of the season. Inexperience and injuries played a part in that, and their eventual third-place finish was a reasonable result considering how young their key www.aucklandrugby.co.nz players were.

Key players: First-five had a superb debut season in the ITM Cup, and then step- ped up for the . Gareth Ans- combe is another top class first- five who will be keen to impress txt before he goes to Wales. Fullback Lolagi Visinia also had a fine Blues campaign and has rare attacking talents. Loose forwards Steven Luatua, Sean Polwart and Peter Saili are as good as any in the com- petition, lock Liaki Moli continues to improve and Angus Ta’avao is an nose underrated scrummager. Young gun: , at 18, was to the youngest player in last year’s team and he made a huge impres- sion in his seven games. Power- fully built, and at around 100kg, 933 Aso is a formidable presence in the midfield and can also play to donate $3 winger and fullback. He made quite an impression with his standout performances for New Zealand and download Under-20s and with that experi- ence should excel in the ITM Cup.

our hongi app Season prospects: Last year they fielded one of the youngest : BACKLINE GENERAL teams in the competition, but they Hongi celebrates the breath of life and Blues first-five will be stronger for the experience. Simon Hickey will be a represents sharing hands, hearts and minds. There is so much talent in the key player for Auckland. squad that on paper they appear to Share your support for Red Nose Day with be the biggest threat to Canterbury a photo of your hongi uploaded to your winning another title. A new coach- ing duo of Paul Feeney and form- Facebook, Twitter or Instagram account. Go on! er Auckland captain Xavier Rush Put your best nose forward to cure kids! should bring added enthusiasm. Luke Braid (out to recover from App is available for Android and iOS devices. shoulder surgery) will be missed.

10 RUGBY2014 www.ITMCUP.co.nz Eva lives with gastrointestinal failure

CUR_7221_Sunday Star Times Red Nose Ad_v3.indd 1 29/07/14 5:21 PM TEAM PR EVIEWS for 2014 The top seven teams will contest the Premiership.

TASMAN

Promoted in 2013: Promotion to the Premiership was the end result of a truly outstanding season of attacking rugby by the Makos. They scored more than 40 points five times and beat every team that held the Ranfurly Shield www.makos.co.nz in 2013 – sadly none in direct challenges. Key players: Tom Marshall, James Lowe, and Tevita Koloamatangi all benefited from playing for the . High- landers Joe Wheeler and will be key men for the Makos, while record point-scorer is a key figure. Form- er Southland and All Blacks half- back has joined the Makos after a two-year stint with Aviva Premiership side Glouces- ter. At a bruising 1.93m and 110kg, Jeff Lepa prefers blindside flanker but can also play number eight, while is a promis- ing 19-year-old outside back, who Get Training played for New Zealand Under-20s this year. Young gun: Tasman has picked up athletic loose-forward Peter for the Rugby Samu from the Waratahs’ wider training group. The 22-year-old has been quite a revelation in club rugby and his athletic ball-run- ning style and speed should be well suited to the up-tempo approach of the Makos. His brother Lua Vai- Take the train to loaloa played 20 games for Tasman in 2007 and 2008. All Blacks, Super Season prospects: Coaches MR RELIABLE: Kieran Keane and Leon MacDonald Marty Banks set new have 10 Super Rugby players in Rugby and ITM Cup point-scoring records their well-balanced squad. Tasman for the Makos last year. always plays an expansive game at . 3068 AB 07.14 and this campaign they move up to the Premiership with consis- tently harder opposition to combat than they had last season. If they can recreate their winning form at home, they will enjoy their first season in the top grade. AT.govt.nz/events

www.oliverlee.co.nz RUGBY2014 11

3068_All Blacks Rugby Ad.indd 1 16/07/14 8:13 AM ITM PREMIERSHIP TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 11

IntroCOUNTIES BYLINE MANUKAU

Placed fourth in 2013: The Steelers started slowly in the top division after being promoted the season before. They lost three of their four opening games, but then came that history-making Ranfurly Shield win over Hawke’s Bay and everything changed. An away loss to Canterbury was the only blip on an otherwise wonderful second-half of the season that saw three successful www.steelers.co.nz defences of the Shield. Key players: has assembled a quality squad with top-class Super Rugby players Baden Kerr, Tim Nanai-Williams, Frank Halai, and in the star-studded backline. Former Blues flanker Onasai’i Auva’a, and Chiefs prop Pauliasi Manu are new to the pack. Young gun: US-college-based South African lock Mike Lawrenson, at 112kg and 2-metres tall, has the size to hold his own in the top grade. He has impressed with his athletic ability and will be worth watching. Season prospects: The Steelers should get off to a flying start with the Ranfurly Shield on the sideline at PLAYMAKER: home. There is a better than evens chance they will First-five Baden Kerr be riding high up until round six when they meet Canter- is a key player for bury at home. Wellington follow a week later and Auck- Counties Manukau. land in round nine, but ITM Premiership status should be safe by then.

WELLINGTON

Placed second in 2013: Until the final at Westpac Stadium against Canterbury, it was shaping up as season to remember for the Wellington Lions. They lost just one game in 10 pool games, thrashed Counties Manukau 41–10 in the semi-final, only to fall at the final www.wrfu.co.nz hurdle losing 29–13. Key players: Utility Riki Flutey will play for Wellington in this year’s ITM Cup. He last played for Wellington in 2005, before making his name with England and the British and Irish Lions. He is likely to slot into midfield. Multi-talented loose forwards , Victor Vito and should dominate the tackled ball area, while TJ Perenara will look to claim an All Blacks berth from halfback. Young gun: Fullback Jason Woodward is an excellent addition to the Lions back-three talent depth. Woodward, at 24, has some experience under his belt, but in the last 12 months particularly has lifted his performance levels to a career high with the . Season prospects: Nothing changes in the capital city. Every season is an expectant one for the Lions GREAT TALENT: supporters, but so often the team falls at the crucial Wellington flanker Ardie time. The same high-tempo game will be played and Savea is set to make a there is no reason why the Lions cannot go all the way to major impact. the final again in 2014.

12 RUGBY2014 www.oliverlee.co.nz Don’t just cross the Strait. Cruise it.

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Book today at interislander.co.nz ITM PREMIERSHIP TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 12

Champions in 2013: Canterbury claimed their sixth CANTERBURY consecutive ITM Cup title – a national record – after beating home-team Wellington 29–13 in the final. They scored the most tries (48) in the round-robin play and blooded many new players who will go on to be house- hold names in years to come. www.crfu.co.nz Key players: Kaveinga Finau, Richie Mo’unga and Tom Sanders showed out at the recent Junior World Champion- ships. is set for a big season at number eight, fullback Johnny McNicholl has rare attacking skills, and is a world-class first-five, who is a dom- inant figure on attack and kicking for goal, at this level. Young gun: First-five Richie Mo’unga scored 27 points on debut against Manawatu last year. It put the 19-year- old on the rugby map and he played consistently well in his seven other appearances in the ITM Premiership. This year he played every game for New Zealand at the Junior World Championship. Season prospects: The bad news for the other teams is Canterbury will be as strong as ever this campaign. The systems in place within the union are followed religious- ly from age-group rep teams through to Scott Robert- son’s ITM Premiership champions, meaning a continuity of style unique to Canterbury. This is why new faces slot into the top team so seamlessly, as they grow-up within WORLD CLASS: this system of playing. Robertson will blood the Under- Colin Slade will 20 boys he coached at the World Championship but will drive the Canterbury rely on a core of experienced players. Canterbury will backline from first-five. take some beating.

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VOD2695 Marble Arch PRESS 1/2 Page Portrait_Landscape.indd 2 31/07/14 4:45 PM Placed fifth in 2013: For the second consecutive season, Waikato finished a disappointing fifth. Just four wins from 10 games was a poor return for such a signi- WAIKATO ficant union. Defence was the major problem with the Mooloos conceding the most tries (36). Key players: Halfback will captain the squad. It features 13 uncapped players, including full- back Albert Nikoro and centre Jordan Payne from Auckland. Chiefs prop Josh Hohneck returns home from Bay of Plenty, while Maori All Black Luke Katene and www.mooloo.co.nz David Morgan are quality locks. Chiefs and New Zealand Under-20 midfielder/winger Anton Lienert-Brown is highly regarded. Young gun: Damian McKenzie was one of seven Wai- kato-registered players in the New Zealand Under-20 squad this year. The Southlander became one of the major attacking weapons for New Zealand from full- back, and thrilled crowds with his courageous catching of the high ball. He has all the attributes to be a star of the ITM Premiership. Season prospects: The cow bells are ringing loud and clear from supporters that they expect to be in action come semi-finals time this year.C oach John Walters will need to get his team fired-up with a tough start against Wellington (away) and Canterbury (home). The return to NEW LEADER: the Mooloo colours of prop Josh Hohneck, and locks Halfback Brad Weber Luke Katene and David Morgan, will be hugely beneficial will captain Waikato. to Walters, as they are proven performers at ITM Cup level.

Focused, Committed and Relentless Gallagher is a proud sponsor of the Mooloos and we look forward to a successful ITM Cup season with the team that shares the same values. www.gallagher.co ITM CUP PREMIERSHIP & CH AMPIONSHIP DRAW 2014 The 14 teams involved in the ITM Cup will play 70 matches before the pla yoffs in just nine weeks... visit www.itmcup.co.nz to keep up with all the action.

ITM CUP EXPLAINED WEEK 1: Thursday AUGUST 14 – Sunday AUGUST 17 2014 ITM CUP DATE MATCH VENUE TIME PREMIERSHIP Thursday August 14 Taranaki v Counties Manukau , 7.35 pm Auckland Canterbury Friday August 15 Southland v Bay of Plenty , 7.35 pm Counties Manukau Taranaki Saturday August 16 Otago v North Harbour , 2.35 pm Tasman Canterbury v Auckland AMI Stadium, Addington 4.35 pm Waikato Wellington Wellington v Waikato Westpac Stadium, Wellington 6.35 pm The 7th placed team is Sunday August 17 Tasman v Hawke's Bay Lansdowne Park, Blenheim 2.35 pm automatically relegated to the Northland Manawatu 2015 ITM Cup Championship. v Toll Stadium, Whangarei 4.35 pm

2014 ITM CUP WEEK 2: THURSDAY august 21 – SUNDAY august 24 CHAMPIONSHIP Bay of Plenty Thursday August 21 North Harbour v Southland QBE Stadium, Albany 7.35 pm Hawke’s Bay Friday August 22 Waikato v Canterbury , Hamilton 6.05 pm Manawatu North Harbour Hawke’s Bay v Taranaki McLean Park, Napier 8.05 pm Northland Otago Saturday August 23 Northland v Wellington Toll Stadium, Whangarei 2.35 pm Southland Counties Manukau v Otago (RS) ECOLight Stadium, Pukekohe 4.35 pm The winner of the ITM Cup Championship Sunday, August 24 Manawatu v Auckland FMG Stadium, 2.35 pm is automatically promoted to Bay of Plenty v Tasman ASB Stadium, Baypark, Tauranga 4.35 pm the 2015 ITM Cup Premiership. All premiership teams will play each other once, and all WEEK 3: WEDNESDAY AUGUST 27 – Sunday AUGUST 31 championship teams will play Wednesday August 27 Waikato v Taranaki Waikato Stadium, Hamilton 7.35 pm each other once (three home, three away matches). Thursday August 28 Canterbury v Northland AMI Stadium, Addington 7.35 pm In addition, all 14 teams will Friday August 29 Wellington v Manawatu Westpac Stadium, Wellington 7.35 pm play four crossover matches (two home, two away matches) Saturday August 30 Counties Manukau v Hawke’s Bay (RS) ECOLight Stadium, Pukekohe 2.35 pm where premiership and championship teams meet. Southland v Otago Rugby Park, Invercargill 5.35 pm All matches will carry North Harbour v Waikato QBE Stadium, Albany 7.35 pm full competition points. FOR UP-TO-DATE Sunday August 31 Taranaki v Bay of Plenty Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth 2.35 pm information go to Auckland v Tasman Eden Park, Auckland 4.35 pm www.itmcup.co.nz WEEK 4: WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 3 – SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 7 Wednesday Sept 3 Manawatu v Bay of Plenty FMG Stadium, Palmerston North 7.35 pm Thursday Sept 4 Otago v Canterbury Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin 7.35 pm Friday Sept 5 Tasman v Waikato Trafalgar Park, Nelson 6.05 pm Northland v Hawke’s Bay Toll Stadium, Whangarei 8.05 pm Saturday Sept 6 Auckland v Wellington Eden Park, Auckland 2.35 pm Taranaki v Southland Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth 4.35 pm Sunday Sept 7 Manawatu v Counties Manukau FMG Stadium, Palmerston North 2.35 pm Bay of Plenty v North Harbour International Stadium, Rotorua 4.35 pm

WEEK 5: WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 10 – SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 14 Wednesday Sept 10 Otago v Northland Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin 7.35 pm Thursday Sept 11 Tasman v Taranaki Trafalgar Park, Nelson 7.35 pm Friday Sept 12 North Harbour v Manawatu QBE Stadium, Albany 6.05 pm Canterbury v Wellington AMI Stadium, Addington 8.05 pm Saturday Sept 13 Bay of Plenty v Auckland International Stadium, Rotorua 2.35 pm Southland v Northland Rugby Park, Invercargill 4.35 pm Sunday Sept 14 Waikato v Counties Manukau Waikato Stadium, Hamilton 2.35 pm Hawke’s Bay v Otago McLean Park, Napier 4.35 pm

WEEK 6: WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 – SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 21 Wednesday Sept 17 Southland v Tasman Rugby Park, Invercargill 7.35 pm Thursday Sept 18 Northland v Taranaki Toll Stadium, Whangarei 7.35 pm

16 RUGBY2014 www.ITMCUP.co.nz ITM CUP PREMIERSHIP & CH AMPIONSHIP DRAW 2014 The 14 teams involved in the ITM Cup will play 70 matches before the pla yoffs in just nine weeks... visit www.itmcup.co.nz to keep up with all the action.

WEEK 6 CONTINUED: WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 17 – SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 21 DATE MATCH VENUE TIME

Friday Sept 19 Counties Manukau v Canterbury (RS) ECOLight Stadium, Pukekohe 7.35 pm Saturday Sept 20 Hawke’s Bay v Bay of Plenty McLean Park, Napier 2.35 pm Auckland v North Harbour Eden Park, Auckland 5.35 pm Manawatu v Southland FMG Stadium, Palmerston North 7.35 pm Sunday Sept 21 Otago v Waikato Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin 2.35 pm Wellington v Tasman Westpac Stadium, Wellington 4.35 pm

WEEK 7: wednesday SEPTEMBER 24 – sunday september 28

Wednesday Sept 24 North Harbour v Canterbury QBE Stadium, Albany 7.35 pm Thursday Sept 25 Bay of Plenty v Northland ASB Stadium, Baypark, Tauranga 7.35 pm Friday Sept 26 Taranaki v Auckland Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth 7.35 pm Saturday Sept 27 Waikato v Manawatu Waikato Stadium, Hamilton 2.35 pm Counties Manukau v Wellington (RS) ECOLight Stadium, Pukekohe 5.35 pm North Harbour v Hawkes Bay QBE Stadium, Albany 7.35 pm Sunday Sept 28 Tasman v Otago Trafalgar Park, Nelson 2.35 pm Canterbury v Southland AMI Stadium, Addington 4.35 pm

WEEK 8: WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 1 – SUNDAY OCTOBER 5

Wednesday October 1 Hawke’s Bay v Wellington McLean Park, Napier 7.35 pm Thursday October 2 Auckland v Waikato Eden Park, Auckland 7.35 pm Friday October 3 Northland v North Harbour Toll Stadium, Whangarei 7.35 pm Saturday October 4 Southland v Counties Manukau Rugby Park, Invercargill 2.35 pm Bay of Plenty v Otago ASB Stadium, Baypark, Tauranga 5.35 pm Canterbury v Tasman AMI Stadium, Addington 7.35 pm Sunday October 5 Manawatu v Hawke’s Bay FMG Stadium, Palmerston North 2.35 pm Wellington v Taranaki Westpac Stadium, Wellington 4.35 pm

WEEK 9: WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 8 – SUNDAY OCTOBER 12

Wednesday October 8 Counties Manukau v Auckland (RS) ECOLight Stadium, Pukekohe 7.35 pm Thursday October 9 Waikato v Bay of Plenty Waikato Stadium, Hamilton 7.35 pm Friday October 10 Otago v Manawatu Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin 7.35 pm Saturday October 11 Wellington v North Harbour Westpac Stadium, Wellington 2.35 pm Hawke’s Bay v Southland McLean Park, Napier 5.35 pm Auckland v Northland Eden Park, Auckland 7.35 pm Sunday October 12 Taranaki v Canterbury Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth 2.35 pm Tasman v Counties Manukau Lansdowne Park, Blenheim 4.35 pm

semi-finals:: FRIDAY OCTOBER 17 – sunday OCTOBER 19 Friday October 17 ITM CUP PREMIERSHIP semi-final one TBC Saturday October 18 ITM CUP CHAMPIONSHIP semi-final one TBC Saturday October 18 ITM CUP CHAMPIONSHIP semi-final TWO TBC Sunday October 19 ITM CUP PREMIERSHIP semi-final TWO TBC

F INALS: Friday OCTOBER 24 – Saturday OCTOBER 25

Friday October 24 ITM CUP Championship Final 7.35 pm

Saturday October 25 ITM CUP Premiership Final 7.35 pm

www.ITM.co.nz RUGBY2014 17 AvAilAble FRee ONliNe oliverlee.co.nz ITM PREMIERSHIP TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 15

Placed sixth in 2013: With only three wins from 10 games, and an inability to get across the try-line, TARANAKI it was hardly a vintage season for Taranaki. The team only stayed up in the ITM Premiership because Bay of Plenty was even worse. It was a disappointing season as 11 Super Rugby players were in the squad. Key players: Captain Kane Barrett had limited game- time with the Blues but is a proven leader and fearless number eight for Taranaki. Chiefs hooker Rhys Marshall and lock Blade Thomson are set for a big season, while highly regarded forward Riki Hoeata joins from Tasman. Chiefs midfielderC harlie Ngatai and Blues www.trfu.co.nz prop Angus Ta’avao are quality players who have joined the fold. Young gun: Iopu Iopu, 22, was Taranaki Development’s most promising player last year and has played for the All Blacks Sevens and Samoa Under-20s. He is a specialist number eight, but can play both flanker posi- tions and at lock. Season prospects: Reliable performers over sev- eral seasons and Jarrad Hoeata will be sorely missed, but there is still a good percentage of Super Rugby players in the squad. Regaining the team’s attacking mojo will be paramount for head coach Colin Cooper; last year Taranaki scored just LEAD BY EXAMPLE: 14 tries, which is the lowest recorded by the union since Taranaki captain 1921. Avoiding relegation will be the first objective Kane Barrett this season. in full cry.

We take concussion seriously. So should you.

Concussion can occur after any impact to the body that causes the brain to shake inside the skull. It doesn’t have to be an impact to the head. Players, referees and coaches must do everything they can to minimise or avoid situations that puts players at risk of concussion. But it’s also really important to take the aftercare seriously. Here’s how:

Level Activity Undertaken Time Post Concussion 1 No activity, complete rest 2 – 3 days Once symptom free and cognitive recovery is demonstrated, proceed to level 2 2 Light aerobic exercise such as walking or stationary cycling 4 – 10 days 3 Sport-specific training (e.g. running activity, ball-handling activity) 11 – 15 days 4 Non-contact training activities 16 – 20 days 5 Full-contact training after medical clearance 21 days 6 Game play 21 + days

The minimum stand-down period for concussed players is three weeks plus a medical clearance - this applies at all levels of New Zealand community rugby. Don’t compare this with what you might see when the All Blacks are playing. They play in a professional environment and have trained specialists around them. So, unless you’ve got a neurologist on hand, ready to put you through heaps of tests, stick to these return to play guidelines. It could save your life. ITM CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM PREVIEWS Automatic promotion up to the ITM Premiership next year is the goal for these seven unions.

MANAWATU

Placed fifth in 2013: It was a bizarre season for the Turbos. At home they were very good, winning four games and nearly beating Auckland, but they were shocking on the road, conceding more than 40 points per game. Key players: First-five Jade Te Rure, centre and hooker/prop Nick Grogan all made New Zealand www.manawaturugby.co.nz Under-20s last year, and proved they are more than capable playing at ITM Cup level. Auckland number eight So’otala Fa’aso’o, 19, has joined on loan; at 117kg and 1.95m tall, he is a powerful ball runner and tackler. Much will depend on how well the returning Super Rugby players perform. Young gun: Jade Te Rure impressed in his debut sea- son in the ITM Championship. The talented first-five kicked accurately for goal, scoring 72 points from 10 games, and proved to be an elusive attacking runner. His game has developed along with his confidence after making the New Zealand Under-20 team. Season prospects: Popular head coach Jason O’Hallo- ran decided to stay with Manawatu Rugby and turned GOOD SKILLS: down a contract with the Hurricanes as a skills coach Young Manawatu first-five under new head coach . The Turbos have lost Jade Te Rure in action 62-game flanker Hamish Gosling to Bay of Plenty but for the Turbos. should be worth watching, especially in Palmerston North.

HAWKE’S BAY

Placed second in 2013: In Ihaia West’s sideline conversion attempt, it was the width of the post that was the difference between promotion and another season in the ITM Championship for the Magpies, during their dramatic final loss to Tasman. The Ranfurly Shield was www.hbmagpies.co.nz won off Otago, but lost in the first defence to Counties Manukau.

Key players: Midfielder Robbie Fruean could be the signing of the year. First-five Ihaia West had a stunning ITM Cup season last year and starred for the Blues when finally selected. Matt Berquist and Jason Shoemark return from overseas, and Brendon O’Connor have strong Super Rugby experience, while Canadian tighthead prop Jason Marshall will strength- en the front row.

Young gun: Blindside flanker/lock GeoffC ridge show- ed his mettle for New Zealand Under-20s at the recent IRB Junior World Championship. The 18-year-old came north to Hawke’s Bay last season from Boys’ High and is definitely seen as a player of the future.

INSPIRATIONAL: Season prospects: Last year, the Magpies won the Flanker Brendon Ranfurly Shield for the first time in 44 years, played O’Connor will be some wonderfully inventive rugby and were oh-so-close a key player for to pro-motion. Head coach Craig Philpott and his quality Hawke’s Bay. squad should make the promotion final again this year.

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IntroNORTH BYLINE HARBOUR

Placed seventh in 2013: Once again Harbour finish- ed dead last out of all teams in the ITM Cup, with just one win and one draw to offset the losses. The catch- ment pool of players is relatively strong, with a success- ful development side, so it remains a mystery why the top team cannot perform better. Key players: Harbour’s Super Rugby players have to www.harbourrugby.co.nz deliver. , Tevita Li, Pita Ahki, Nafi Tuitavake, plus new signing of Southland’s Robbie Robinson, are an awesomely talented backline. James Parson, Ben Afeaki and Greg Pleasants-Tate form a top class front row, while Blues lock Hayden Triggs is an experienced campaigner. Y oung gun: Blues Development first-five Matt Mc- Gahan has a chance in Harbour’s talented backline. The 20-year-old has returned after three successful sea- sons playing for the Melbourne Storm Under-20s. He also played for New Zealand Schools against Australia in 2010. Season prospects: The new coaching duo of Steve NATURAL LEADER: Jackson and Alex O’Dowd will try to turn around the Halfback Bryn Hall recent forgettable period in the union’s history. The had a fine campaign backline looks very strong, so if the pack can secure a with the Blues. good supply of front-foot ball, they will be dangerous. It surely is time for the “harbourmaster” to roar.

SOUTHLAND

Placed fourth in 2013: The Stags made the semi- finals after finishing fourth, exactly as they did in 2012, with a four win – six loss ratio. They were unlucky to run into a red-hot Tasman team in the semi-final in Blen- heim, which Tasman won 49–28. Key players: The signing of Highlanders’ first five- www.rugbysouthland.co.nz eighth for two years is highly significant, as he has real international class about him. Sopoaga has represented Wellington in the ITM Cup since 2010 and the Highlanders in Super Rugby since 2011. Other Highlanders Josh Bekhuis, John Hardie and will form the nucleus of an exciting Stags outfit that should threaten in 2014. Y oung gun: The battle of the 20-year-old halfbacks, in Tayler Adams and Scott Eade, will again be intense, as it was last season for the Stags. Adams has made quite an impact after moving south, after captaining national champions Kelston Boys’ High School. Last season he made the New Zealand Under-20 side. Season prospects: The Stags are renowned for their FEARLESS: forwards, but it may be their backline that drives them Southland’s Elliot Dixon to their play-offs goal. New signing Lima Sopoaga is top is one of New Zealand’s class and will play outside halfbacks Scott Eade and top number eights. Tayler Adams, and join up with midfielders Willis Hala- holo and Cardiff Vaega. Good promotion chances.

22 RUGBY2014 www.oliverlee.co.nz GET OFF YOUR COUCH & GET TO A GAME For as little as $60 you can purchase a North Harbour Rugby season membership to see all ve ITM Cup home games at QBE Stadium. Purchase your season membership at www.harbourrugby.co.nz. QBE Insurance is the Principal Major Sponsor of North Harbour Rugby www.qbe.co.nz

Get your tickets online at www.harbourrugby.co.nz

ITM Cup QBE North Harbour home games:

Thursday 21st August 7.35pm Saturday 30th August 7.35pm Friday 12th September 6.05pm vs. Southland vs. Waikato vs. Manawatu

Wednesday 24th September 6.05pm Saturday 27th September 7.35pm vs. Canterbury vs. Hawkes Bay

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NORTHLAND

Placed sixth in 2013: Northland started the season well with a win and a draw from their opening three games but did not win again until the last game of the season. The depth of players with ITM Cup experience was just too thin, which particularly showed on defence, but they scored some cracking tries. Key players: Young hookers Matt Moulds and Robbie Abel, and useful props in Welshman Will-Griff John and www.taniwha.co.nz Ross Wright will give the Taniwha a solid front row. High quality flanker and halfback Sonatane Taku- lua were good value last year. Dan Hawkins is a capable first-five and Winston Stanley will bring plenty of experience to the midfield. Young gun: Australian Under-20 lock Tom Murday played 10 games in last year’s ITM Championship and impressed everyone who saw him play. At 2m tall and 112kg, Murday has the physical attributes to take on all comers. Season prospects: Head coach Derren Witcombe has pulled off a master stroke in attracting former Northland coaching guru Bryce Woodward into the ITM Cup group as a technical adviser. The Taniwha will need all the help GOOD PROSPECT: they can get as they lack playing resources and continue Sonatane Takulua with a locals-first selection process, which deserves has all the attributes plaudits as it is helping to develop talent in the region. to be a top halfback.

BAY OF PLENTY

Relegated in 2013: For the Steamers, it was a season to forget. One win was all they could manage, and sever- al games were lost in the final 10 minutes. They lost key Super Rugby players at the start with season-ending injuries and further injuries knocked the stuffing out of Kevin Schuler’s squad. UNION Key players: The Steamers have recruited well. Auck- land midfielder Teddy Stanaway, Manawatu flanker www.boprugby.co.nz Hamish Gosling and ex-New Zealand Under-20 halfback Jono Kitto have all excelled in club rugby. Highlanders prop Kane Hames and Chiefs hooker Nathan Harris should star in a solid pack, led by new captain Culum Retallick. Young gun: First-five Dan Hollinshead was a star for Tauranga Boys’ College last year; he has an excellent work ethic and has made the transition to the bigger stage with composure. He played for Schools, Chiefs Development and enjoyed a profitable club season outside new halfback Kitto. Season prospects: Expectations are high within the union’s far-flung borders of an immediate return to the top division. The squad has greater depth to it than last year, and will not be short of possession from a HARD RUNNER: top-quality forward pack. Both first-fives and four mid- Steamers winger fielders selected have not worn the Steamers jersey so Tino Nemani is a how they settle in to the competition may dictate the proven try-scorer. final outcome. www.ITM.co.nz RUGBY2014 25 ITM CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 25

OTAGO

Placed second in 2013: For the second consecutive year, Otago finished runners-up in pool play with a six win – four loss result. They had home semi-final advantage at their indoor stadium against Hawke’s Bay, but despite scoring three tries to two, they lost 24–29 in a hugely disappointing result. www.orfu.co.nz Key players: Hooker , loose forward Lee Allan and first-five will be essential to the success of Otago in 2014. Waikato fullback , a member of the Highlanders’ wider training group this season, has joined Otago and will be a can- didate to play either first five-eighth or fullback. Y oung gun: was one of the standout players in the NZ Under-20 side at the recent IRB Junior World Championship. The 19-year-old came through the Otago Boys’ High School system and is a talented lock who can also play blindside flanker. Season prospects: Otago were unquestionably one of the most attractive attacking sides in the ITM Cup last TOP QUALITY: year under coach . The semi-final loss to Loose forward Hawke’s Bay put a dent in their promotion chances but Lee Allan is one of they will be one of the favoured teams to go up this Otago’s on-field leaders. season. Several younger players have been blooded by the Highlanders, which can only help Otago’s chances.

AvAilAble FRee ONliNe leavingschool.co.nz ITM_cup_print_2014_v04.pdf 1 31/07/2014 1:13:41 p.m.

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K RANFURLY SHIELd 2014 BY PETER WHITE Since 1904 provincial unions have battled for the famous Log o’ Wood. Let’s look ahead to this season’s challenges for Counties Manukau.

At the start of last season, Counties Manukau had never their name when they face Canterbury on Friday once held the Ranfurly Shield in their proud history and September 19. seemed to have a curse hanging over them ruining their Neutral New Zealand will be praying the Steelers can every attempt. overcome the odds in this massive challenge. Indeed it But on Saturday September 7 in Napier, Tana Umaga’s has happened many times before in the unique history boys finally did what no otherS teelers side had achieved. of the Ranfurly Shield. Their 27–24 win over Hawke’s Bay was received with If Counties Manukau manages to get up over Canter- genuine affection by rugby supporters through the bury, their final two defences are against the other country, except Hawke’s Bay, of course. Their win heavyweights of New Zealand rugby – Wellington on continued the revolving door of shield holders losing September 27, and Auckland on October 8. within weeks of their triumph, but Counties Manukau It is Auckland that has the greatest Ranfurly Shield had waited too long to throw it away. Taranaki, Waikato record of any union. and Southland were put away in some style and the There have been three notable shield eras for Auckland. Ranfurly Shield spent the summer happily locked away From 1905 to 1913 they repelled 23 challenges, another in Pukekohe. 25 between 1960 and 1963, and the record unlikely to In July, Counties Manukau warmed up for tougher ever be matched of 61 successful defences from 1983 days ahead with two successful defences at ECOLight to 1995. Stadium. First, the Thames Valley Swamp Foxes travel- Other unions with significant shield reigns are Canter- led the short distance north and were soundly defeated bury, who defended 25 challenges from 1982 to 1985, 68–0. Mid Canterbury’s Hammers made a much longer and Hawke’s Bay who managed 24 victories from 1922 journey a week later, and the Heartland Championship to 1927. winners played with plenty of spirit in the The great thing about the Ranfurly Shield is it still first half to trail 22–10 at halftime. But, any thoughts of means as much to the rugby public today as it ever did. a fairytale result for the ages were dashed in the second Winning it has been a career highlight for players for half, as Counties Manukau ran in 24 unanswered points 110 years. to win 46–10. Who knows what the outcome will be for the brave Counties Manukau have five more shield challenges Counties Manukau team in the season to come, but we scheduled at home, beginning with Otago on August 23, can all be assured that once again the Ranfurly Shield and Hawke’s Bay a week later. The two ITM Cham- will hold the nation’s attention at every home defence pionship teams have recent shield success, but Counties this season. Manukau should have seven successful defences to Just like it always has since 1904.

WINNING FEELING: Counties Manukau celebrate after defending the Ranfurly Shield against Mid Canterbury in July.

2014 RANFURLY SHIELD FIXTURES VENUE TIME SCORE WEDNESDAY JULY 2: Counties Manukau v Thames Valley...... Pukekohe ...... WON 68-0

WEDNESDAY JULY 9: Counties Manukau v Mid Canterbury...... Pukekohe ...... WON 46-10

Saturday AUGUST 23: Counties Manukau v Otago...... Pukekohe ...... 4.35 pm

SATURDAY AUGUST 30: Counties Manukau v Hawke’s Bay...... Pukekohe ...... 2.35 pm

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 19: counties Manukau v Canterbury...... Pukekohe ...... 7.35 pm

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27: counties Manukau v Wellington...... Pukekohe ...... 5.35 pm

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 8: counties Manukau v Auckland...... Pukekohe ...... 7.35 pm

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MAL_Eclipse_brand_advert_275x205mm.indd 1 25/07/14 8:58 AM PINKHEAD® BINAGTT S® HEARTLAND CHHEAAMPDINGIONSHIP DRAW ForIntro all BY up-to-dateLINE information about the Pink® Batts® Heartland Championship please visit www.heartlandchampionship.co.nz

The ninth edition of the hugely popular Pink ® Batts® semi-finals will be played on October 18 Heartland Championship gets underway on August 23 between the top eight placed teams, with the Meads when and Wairarapa Bush meet at Taupo’s Cup final to be played on Saturday October 25, and the Owen Delaney Park. Lochore Cup final on Sunday October 26. It was founded in 2006 as one of two successor The Heartland Championship is an amateur competition, competitions to the country’s former domestic com- and it has galvanised rugby supporters throughout the 12 petition, the National Provincial Championship (NPC), provinces that truly are the heartland of New Zealand rugby. and has gone from strength to strength. The standards are increasing, particularly at the semi- Last year’s competition was the best yet; bumper final stage of both competitions, and so are opportunities crowds attended and the viewer rating figures for the for players to be noticed. Meads Cup and Lochore Cup finals shown live onS ky TV The Marty Banks story is that of a fairytale come true. In were excellent. 2012, Banks was a goal-kicking success story for Buller The evenness of the competition is evident by the as they won the Lochore Cup. He was spotted by judicious number of teams that have won titles. Last year’s talent scouts at Tasman, who signed him for last year’s Championship (Meads Cup) winners Mid Canterbury ITM Championship. won for the first time, but were the fifth province to Banks rewrote the Tasman records with 170 points for the taste success. season and 28 points in one match. In 2014, he was re- It was the third year of the current format, and the cruited by the Hurricanes. He has progressed from Heart- same structure is in place for 2014. The Meads Cup and land Championship to Super Rugby in just three seasons.

MATCH SCHEDULE: Week 6 Saturday SEPTEMBER 27 Home team listed first. Wairarapa Bush v Thames Valley Masterton 2.30 pm Week 1 Saturday August 23 West Coast v Wanganui Greymouth 2.30 pm King Country v Wairarapa Bush Taupo 2.00 pm Buller v Horowhenua Kapiti Westport 2.30 pm Mid Canterbury v West Coast Ashburton 2.30 pm East Coast v Mid Canterbury 2.30 pm Poverty Bay v East Coast Gisborne 2.30 pm Poverty Bay v King Country Gisborne 2.30 pm South Canterbury v Wanganui 2.30 pm North Otago v South Canterbury Dunedin 2.30 pm Buller v North Otago Westport 2.30 pm Week 7 Saturday OCTOBER 4 Horowhenua Kapiti v Thames Valley Levin 2.30 pm Thames Valley v Poverty Bay Paeroa 2.00 pm Week 2 Saturday AUGUST 30 Horowhenua Kapiti v South Canterbury Levin 2.30 pm Thames Valley v King Country Te Aroha 2.00 pm Mid Canterbury v North Otago Ashburton 2.30 pm Wanganui v Wairarapa Bush Wanganui 2.30 pm Wairarapa Bush v Mid Canterbury Masterton 2.30 pm Buller v West Coast Westport 2.30 pm Wanganui v Horowhenua Kapiti Wanganui 2.30 pm East Coast v King Country Ruatoria 2.30 pm West Coast v South Canterbury Greymouth 2.30 pm East Coast v Buller Ruatoria 2.30 pm Week 8 Saturday OCTOBER 11 North Otago v Poverty Bay 2.30 pm King Country v Wanganui Te Kuiti 2.30 pm Week 3 Saturday SEPTEMBER 6 North Otago v East Coast Oamaru 2.30 pm Poverty Bay v Horowhenua Kapiti Gisborne 2.30 pm South Canterbury v Wairarapa Bush Timaru 1.30 pm South Canterbury v Mid Canterbury Timaru 2.30 pm Thames Valley v Mid Canterbury Paeroa 2.00 pm Wairarapa Bush v Buller Masterton 2.30 pm Wanganui v North Otago Wanganui 2.30 pm West Coast v Thames Valley Greymouth 2.30 pm Horowhenua Kapiti v East Coast Otaki 2.30 pm King Country v Buller Te Kuiti 2.30 pm Week 9 SEMI-FINALS Poverty Bay v West Coast Gisborne 2.30 pm Saturday October 18 – Semi-Finals for MEADS Cup Top ranked team from pool round Week 4 Saturday SEPTEMBER 13 Venue tbc 2.30 pm Buller v South Canterbury Westport 2.30 pm v 4th ranked team from pool round 2nd ranked team from pool round East Coast v Thames Valley Ruatoria 2.30 pm Venue tbc 2.30 pm Mid Canterbury v Wanganui Ashburton 2.30 pm v 3rd ranked team from pool round North Otago v King Country Oamaru 2.30 pm Saturday October 18 – Semi-Finals for LOCHORE Cup 5th ranked team from pool round Wairarapa Bush v Poverty Bay Masterton 2.30 pm Venue tbc 2.30 pm West Coast v Horowhenua Kapiti Greymouth 2.30 pm v 8th ranked team from pool round 6th ranked team from pool round Week 5 Saturday SEPTEMBER 20 Venue tbc 2.30 pm v 7th ranked team from pool round Thames Valley v North Otago Paeroa 2.00 pm Wanganui v East Coast Wanganui 2.30 pm Week 10 FINALS Horowhenua Kapiti v Wairarapa Bush Levin 2.30 pm Saturday October 25 – Meads Cup final King Country v West Coast Taupo 2.30 pm Winner Semi-Final 1 v Winner Semi-Final 2 1.35 pm Mid Canterbury v Buller Ashburton 2.30 pm Sunday October 26 – Lochore Cup FINAL South Canterbury v Poverty Bay Timaru 2.30 pm Winner Semi-Final 1 v Winner Semi-Final 2 2.35 pm

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