NPC team named ahead of season opener against Manawatu

Canterbury heads to Palmerston North looking for a fast start to their Bunnings Warehouse NPC campaign against Manawatu.

“This is where we set the tone for our season,” said new Head Coach Marty Bourke. “We’ve connected really well over the past few weeks, but come Friday night, that’s where the rubber hits the road.”  

After sitting out last year’s campaign with injuries, Tom Christie and Cullen Grace are both looking to go up a gear following strong Super Rugby seasons with the Crusaders, reconnecting to form the loose forward trio with New Brighton’s Billy Harmon (Highlanders}, who will captain the side on Friday.  

“Billy is the type of guy that leads by his actions, he holds a lot of mana within our group, so he’s the perfect guy to lead our team on Friday,” said Bourke.  

Former Christ College captains Sam Darry and Zach Gallagher form the base of the engine room, with Brodie McAlister, Finlay Brewis and Owen Franks up front. “With Fletcher (Newell} called into the AB’s and a couple of injuries, we were on the look out for another prop, so to have a guy like Owey available is fantastic. He still has ambitions of his own, so if we’re able to provide that opportunity, then that’s really exciting!”  

The excitement continues in the back three, with George Bridge, Manasa Mataele and Chay Fihaki re-connecting in the back three to take on the Turbos.  

The return of Willi Heinz for the first time since 2014 is also a real boost for side, offering two experienced half backs in Heinz and Mitchell Drummond to partner with young first fives Fergus Burke and Alex Harford, who’ll come off the bench.  

“Drummy and Willi are ultra-competitive, but they bring a real level of calmness to our side too, they’ve both got a wealth of big game experience, so we’re excited to see it all come together.” Bourke added.  

Continuing their progression through the Canterbury rugby pathway, St Andrew’s Old Boy Seb Calder and Lincoln High’s Wil Gualter are the two debutants in Round 1, making their first NPC appearances for their home province. 

Kick off is at 7.05pm at CET Arena in Palmerston North on Sky Sport 1.