Taranaki Faces Crucial NPC Match Against Canterbury on Sunday

Taranaki will face a pivotal match against Canterbury in Christchurch on March 17, 2024, with significant implications for their standing in the National Provincial Championship (NPC). A victory would secure a home quarterfinal for Taranaki, currently sitting in third place. Conversely, a loss could see them fall to as low as sixth, depending on other match outcomes.

Taranaki’s head coach, Neil Barnes, has reason to be optimistic ahead of this clash against the competition’s top team. His squad recently showcased their potential with a decisive 39-20 win over Wellington, highlighted by a strong scoring spree in the second half. This momentum could prove vital as they prepare to take on Canterbury.

The team is likely to welcome back centre Daniel Rona, who missed the previous match due to a knee injury. However, Rona’s participation hinges on a late fitness test, alongside openside Michael Loft, before the final team selection.

In addition to the potential returns from injury, Taranaki will benefit from the inclusion of Taniela Rakuro, a Fiji wing returning from the Pacific Nations Cup. Meanwhile, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens has made the reserves after a lengthy recovery from an ankle injury. Throughout the campaign, Barnes and his management team have been cautious about rushing players back from injury, which they hope will pay off as they aim for their second NPC title in three years.

The form of several senior players, including captain Kaylum Boshier and halfback Logan Crowley, remains a source of confidence for Taranaki. Their performances have been commendable, as has the all-round game of first five-eighth Josh Jacomb, who is increasingly attracting attention for higher honours.

Kick-off for the match is scheduled for 16:35 local time. The Taranaki lineup includes: Brayton Northcott-Hill, Adam Lennox, Daniel Rona, Meihana Grindlay, Vereniki Tikoisolomone, Josh Jacomb, Logan Crowley, Kaylum Boshier (c), Michael Loft, Arese Poliko, Hemopo Cunningham, Fiti Sa, Reuben O’Neill, Bradley Slater, Jared Proffit. The reserves will feature JJ Pokai, Perry Lawrence, Marika Parker, Jesse Parete, Sage Walters-Hansen, Ben Dufficy, Taniela Rakuro, and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens.

As Taranaki prepares for this crucial match, the stakes are high, and the outcome could significantly impact their championship trajectory. With home advantage on the line, the team will be eager to deliver a strong performance against their formidable opponents.