Canterbury ended their eight-year National Provincial Championship title drought with a thrilling 36–28 victory over Otago in Christchurch, reclaiming their long-held dominance in New Zealand rugby.
After falling behind early, Canterbury’s forwards took control, with tries from Dallas McLeod, Brodie McAlister, Manasa Mataele, Braydon Ennor, Louie Chapman, and Gus Brown turning the tide.
Otago fought hard through Thomas Umaga-Jensen and Benjamin Lopas, but Canterbury’s relentless attack and composure under pressure sealed their first championship since 2017, capping off a stellar season in which they finished top of the ladder.
