Hastings set to host Magpie's Ranfurly Shield defence
The first Ranfurly Shield fixture for 2024 will be played at the Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park (Mitre 10 Park) in Hastings, Hawke's Bay Rugby has announced this morning.
Hawke's Bay Rugby have confirmed that the fixture against neighbours King Country scheduled for Wednesday 26 June at 3 pm will be hosted in Hastings, with McLean Park unavailable due to turf maintenance.
This will be the eleventh time in histry that Hawke's Bay has played a Ranfurly Shield defence ourside of their traditional home in Napier, with it happening eight times at Nelson Park in Hatings from 1922 to 1926 as well as taking it on the road to Wellington in 1925 and Canterbury in 1926.
Hawke's Bay Rugby Commercial Manager Dan Somerville was excited about the opportunity to have Ranfurly Shield rugby back in Hastings.
"We are really looking forward to having the Ranfurley Shield back and putting it on the line against King Country," says Somerville. "Whilst we did have options to hold this fixture at other venues, including in Taupō, we wanted to host this is Hawke's Bay with our members, sponsors, and local fans front of mind."
With some Magpies still committed to their Super Rugby franchises for this match, Magpies assistant coach Sam McNicol was excited at the prospect of a number of up-and-coming players being able to show their ability for the first time in the black and white jersey.
"This Shield game against King Country gives us the chance to see some of our top performing club rugby talent play alongside our more experienced Magpies and show the depth that has been developed over the last few years," says McNicol. "Our wider training group has been working hard and playing well as we best prepare for this opportunity and provilege to defend the Ranfurly Shield."
