The Tane Norton Cup is back for 2025 – and with it comes one of the most exciting opportunities for club players across the region to take their game to the next level.

Kicking off last Saturday, 2 August, the annual representative tournament brings together five proud teams: Ellesmere, North Canterbury, Waitaha, Canterbury Pasifika, and the Cavaliers. For players, it's a chance to prove themselves at a higher level, and for selectors, it's the perfect platform to identify those ready to take the next step – including earning a spot in the Canterbury B squad.

Canterbury B Head Coach Ben Rhodes says the tournament plays a key role in the representative rugby pathway and offers a real opportunity for club players to make their mark.

“The Tane Norton Cup is a fantastic platform for our club players to take the next step from standing out at club level to competing at a representative level,” Rhodes explains. “What excites me most is that this tournament will be filled with some of the best club players across Canterbury, and myself and the other Canterbury B coaches are looking forward to watching some quality rugby.”

Rhodes and the Canterbury B coaching staff will be out in full force, not only watching each round of the competition, but also attending trainings and engaging with teams behind the scenes.

“We’re committed to giving everyone playing a fair viewing and a real chance to impress,” says Rhodes. “Selection for Canterbury B won’t come down to which club or which team a player’s in, or how far their side goes in the tournament. It’s all about consistent, high-level performance, and players who give everything for the jersey they’re in. That’s what we expect from those who will eventually wear the Canterbury jersey.”

Beyond the on-field performances, Rhodes emphasises the importance of connection and pride in the process.

“The Tane Norton Cup isn’t just about showing off skills – it’s about effort and attitude, both on and off the field. We want players who are hungry to improve, proud to represent, and ready to play their part in our story – and that starts by showing those qualities in this tournament.”

Round 1 saw both North Canterbury and Canterbury Pasifika coming out on top, whilst the rebranded Cavaliers (who previously played under the Cantabrians banner) had a bye. North Canterbury winning five tries, to three against Waitaha and Canterbury Pasifika dominating the Ellesmere Eels with a convincing 50 - 10 victory.

Tomorrows match ups will see Waitaha go head to head with Canterbury Pasifika, 1:00pm kick off at Rawhiti Domain. Lining up at Tane Norton Park at 2:45pm are the Canterbury Cavaliers for their first game of the tournament, taking on North Canterbury.

The Tane Norton Cup is more than just a tournament – it’s a celebration of Canterbury’s grassroots rugby and a key part of the journey for those striving to wear the red and black.

So, get along to support your local side, keep an eye on the emerging stars, and soak up everything that makes community rugby in Canterbury so special.

For the full draw, click here and select "CRFU Tane Norton Cup", you can also check out the squads here!