Line up set for milestone game at Te Ohaere-Fox Cocksedge Park

Head Coach Blair Baxter has named a strong side to host this weekend’s Premiership Final, with Pip Love and Kendra Cocksedge in line to start for Canterbury, bringing up 50 and 100 games respectively for the province.

Alongside those milestones, the match also signals the end of two Canterbury legend’s careers, with centurion Stephanie Te Ohaere-Fox joining Cocksedge in playing her final game for Canterbury.  

“It’s a truly special weekend, not only because we are in the final, however it’s great to also have the chance to celebrate three legends.” said Baxter. 

“Having Rugby Park renamed after Steph and Kendra, it’s pretty humbling and great recognition for two centurions.” 

“Pip Love has been an absolute stalwart of our game and she’s now racked up close to 80 FPC games (for both Canterbury and Otago). We know the mahi she has put in to be in the position she is in today, and it’s an awesome opportunity to celebrate her this weekend too.” 

Alongside Love, the return of Amy Rule sees Canterbury name a Black Ferns front row, with Georgia Ponsonby also packing down the scrum.  

Marcelle Parkes returns from illness to rejoin a physical forward pack, one that is determined to continue the hard work they put in against Wellington in last week’s semifinal. 

The backs remain unchanged from the weekend, with leading try scorer Martha Mataele remaining a threat on the right wing.  

“Martha has worked extremely hard and she’s not the top try scorer for no reason. She’s a powerful woman with great energy and is a great asset to our side.” said Baxter. 

Those named on the bench will be looking for a similar second half push to the one that they provided against Wellington, with the return of Emma Dermody a welcome addition.  

Tickets are available at the gates of Te Ohaere-Fox Cocksedge Park at $5 for adults and free for kids.