Canterbury hammer Marlborough to retain Ranfurly Shield

Canterbury made easy work of their Ranfurly Shield rugby defence in Christchurch today thumping Marlborough 67-3.

The 11-try romp at Jade Stadium was the last game for Canterbury first five-eighth and former All Blacks great Andrew Mehrtens who heads to English club Harlequins next month.

Marlborough rarely threatened the powerhouse province as the hosts racked up 20 points in the opening quarter and never looked back, to farewell Mehrtens - who had strong game - in style.

Mehrtens, who played his 108th game today, landed six conversions to finish with 1056 career points for Canterbury since his debut in 1993.

- NZPA