Canterbury announce Ranfurly Shield challenges

Canterbury are set to defend the Ranfurly Shield against Buller and North Canterbury in July.
Canterbury are set to defend the Ranfurly Shield against Buller and North Canterbury in July.
Canterbury will play two mandatory pre-season Ranfurly Shield challenges in July.

Chief executive Tony Smail confirmed the province has accepted challenges from Buller and North Otago.

The first challenge against Buller will be played in Westport on Saturday, July 11.

Said Mr Smail: “It's great to be taking the Ranfurly Shield on the road and to be able to share the excitement of a shield game with the people of Westport.

"We are sure they'll put on a great event and will present a good challenge for us early in the campaign.”

Said Buller manager Andrew Duncan: “Buller is delighted to have had our challenge accepted - 2001 was our last challenge, so after 19 years we are excited about the opportunity to host Canterbury in Westport.

"This will be a great occasion for the entire community to get behind and celebrate."

If Canterbury retain the shield against Buller, the second match will be played at Rugby Park in Christchurch against Meads Cup champions North Otago on Friday, July 17.

Said Mr Smail: “This will be the first time the Canterbury men’s team has played a first class fixture at Rugby Park since 2011, so this game provides a fantastic opportunity for us to welcome the local community to enjoy top level rugby right here at our Rugby Park headquarters.”

Said North Otago chief executive Colin Jackson: “North Otago rugby is thrilled to be given the opportunity to challenge for the Ranfurly Shield in Christchurch.

"Having experienced the thrill of a challenge in 2019, we are sure the North Otago community will get behind us and make the trip to Christchurch for what promises to be a great occasion.”

  • Pre-season Ranfurly Shield matches:

Canterbury v Buller
Saturday July 11, 2020
Victoria Square, Westport
Kick off 2.05pm
 
Canterbury v North Otago
Friday, July 17, 2020
Rugby Park, Christchurch
Kick off 2.05pm