The Magpies will now defend the Ranfurly Shield against Whanganui in July after Meads Cup winners South Canterbury was forced to withdraw citing financial constraints the Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union has confirmed this morning.

Hawke’s Bay Rugby CEO Jay Campbell said ‘While disappointing for South Canterbury this is a fantastic opportunity for Whanganui for which for many will be the pinnacle of their rugby careers. We were stoked that they didn’t hesitate in jumping on board when the opportunity presented itself and Hawke’s Bay look forward to hosting their players and wider rugby community in July’’

The Meads Cup winners are afforded a shield challenge and Whanganui, who were beaten by South Canterbury in the final of last years Meads Cup, have stepped up to challenge for the coveted ‘Log of wood’ which is to be played at McLean Park in Napier on Saturday July 27^th.

Whanganui Rugby Chief Executive Bridget Belsham says ‘Having not challenged for the Ranfurly Shield since 2018, this opportunity was too big to turn down and we are thrilled to be able to give our Coaches & Players an opportunity of a lifetime to play in such an iconic game.  Our coaches are already setting their sights on this match, with a wider training squad session scheduled early next week.  The news of this game will undoubtedly excite everyone involved, including our Commercial Partners & community who continue to support us.  We look forward to being in Napier in July’.

Magpies head coach Brock James confirmed ‘Our full focus is solely on King Country right now. But if we are successful, we will start thinking about Whanganui who we know will bring a different challenge than what Sth Canterbury would have and we need to be well prepared and ready as they will chuck the kitchen sink at us’

The Magpies play King Country in their first Shield Defence on Wednesday June 26^th at Hastings Regional Sports Park, kicking off at 3pm.