ITM Cup season launched for 2010

New trophy to recognise provincial rugby supremacy

With 14 teams, 94 matches, more than 400 players, the Ranfurly Shield and a new trophy up for grabs, the 2010 ITM Cup season is ready to kick off in six days' time.

The ITM Cup 2010 season was launched today, with the new ITM Cup unveiled at a function at North Harbour Stadium.

To mark the launch of the ITM Cup 2010 season, New Zealand Rugby Union General Manager of Provincial and Community Rugby Brent Anderson and ITM Chief Executive Gordon Buswell unveiled the new ITM Cup silverware to captains from the Northland, Auckland, North Harbour and Counties Manukau provincial teams.


“The ITM Cup represents provincial pride and passion, and the best in provincial rivalry. It brings out the diverse cultures of our communities and also the tribalism where fans proudly wear their provincial colours,” Mr Anderson said.

“That kind of pride and support from fans was a large part of what inspired teams last year, and we are looking forward to seeing more of that in 2010, and a lot of exciting rugby again this year.

“The ITM Cup is a competition that captures the imagination because it's where players and administrators can shine and be noticed. It's fitting that we are launching the season at North Harbour, as North Harbour Rugby is one of the success stories of modern provincial rugby,” he said.

North Harbour Rugby Union celebrates its 25th Jubilee this year. Since its formation in 1985, the Union has enjoyed growth and success on and off the field, including divisional titles, several All Blacks and New Zealand representative players.

North Harbour features in one of the highlight matches of the ITM Cup opening round as they host the annual "Battle of the Bridge" against Auckland at North Harbour Stadium on Sunday, 1 August. Week One also sees Taranaki at home against Northland, Canterbury host Hawke's Bay, Manawatu host Ranfurly Shield holders Southland, Counties Manukau play Otago at Pukekohe, Waikato face Bay of Plenty in Hamilton and Wellington play at home against Tasman.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE ITM CUP SCHEDULE FOR 2010