Canterbury launched their 2025 National Provincial Championship (NPC) campaign in dominant fashion, defeating defending champions Wellington 33-15 at Jerry Collins Stadium in Porirua on Saturday afternoon.
The match began with a sharp strike from Canterbury fullback Johnny McNicholl, who crossed the tryline in just the sixth minute. Wellington responded through winger Losi Filipo, whose powerful fend and sprint brought the scores level at 7-7 in the 27th minute.
Despite consistent pressure and physical exchanges, the first half ended in a stalemate. Wellington lost captain Brad Shields to a failed head injury assessment early on, handing leadership duties to veteran Julian Savea.
A penalty in the 54th minute gave Wellington a temporary lead, but Canterbury immediately responded with a try from loose forward Corey Kellow, followed closely by McNicholl’s second of the afternoon. The momentum continued as new captain Cullen Grace scored the fourth try, sealing the bonus point.
Replacement halfback Nui Muriwai added a late try for Wellington, but any hopes of a comeback were dashed when Canterbury’s Nick Hyde scored in the final minute.
All Black hooker Brodie McAlister left the field with a rib injury scare, while Wellington fullback Ruben Love completed the game unscathed and remains in contention for the All Blacks’ Rugby Championship squad to be announced on Monday.
Wellington travel to Waikato next weekend.