NZRFU demands NPC teams in advance

Provincial rugby unions will have to name their NPC teams at least two days before each match under regulations the national body plans to introduce.

A similar rule is also expected to be introduced for the Super 12 when the Sanzar unions meet this month.

The moves follow a decision by Canterbury to name only a squad in the lead-up to each of their NPC games, with the starting XV confirmed just before kickoff.

Canterbury's initiative has infuriated NZRFU officials, including chief executive David Rutherford, and the TAB betting agency, which yesterday said it might wait until match day before offering any odds on Canterbury.

"It's a real mess and has serious implications for us," TAB sports betting manager Neil Sorenson said.

"We're going to have to guess what the team is, which is not ideal for us or our punters."

The reason given for naming only a squad is that it will give Canterbury an edge by not letting their opponents tailor their tactics against any one player.

The expected changes will also bring the NPC and Super 12 into line with international regulations, which state that teams must be named 48 hours before kickoff.

Meanwhile, up to 2000 Nelson Bays fans are expected to travel to Christchurch to join a crowd predicted to top 10,000 for the Ranfurly Shield clash tomorrow night.

Canterbury coach Steve Hansen said most "if not all" of his squad would get some game time.

- NZPA