“CANTERBURY’S BEST”

Press, Volume CVII, Issue 31394, 13 June 1967, Page 15

“CANTERBURY’S BEST”

The flow of letters to “The Press” naming the best wings to have played for Canterbury since the war seems likely to exceed the number of letters from readers who chose the full-back position. Interest in the competition to pick “Canterbury’s Best” Rugby team since the Second World War has not been confined to Canterbury. Letters have been received from as far afield as Masterton and Levin in the North Island. The response from places outside Canterbury in the South Island has been very large so that almost all of the South Island has been covered in the letters received by “The Press.” Already ft is apparent that the selection of the wings is causing more trouble to entrants than the fullbacks. And no wonder— Argus, Dixon, Elsom, Morrissey, Birtwistle. McPhail, Smith and Steel are Canterbury wings who have represented the All Blacks since the war. It is possible that some entrants were unable to purchase a copy of “The Press” on Saturday. For those who have not already filled in the coupon which appeared on the feature sports page on Saturday, a further coupon is included on this page. Many Inquiries have been received by “The Press” whether failure to enter in the selection for the

full-back position would disbar an entry. Persons who did not put in the first coupon can still enter but a vote for a fullback cannot be recorded. But, because of the divergence expected from entrants’ views it is quite possible that an entrant with 14 players correct could win the competition. The final “Canterbury’s Best” team will be choser by a seven-man panel. The entrant whosi team is closest to that of the panel of experts will win the first prize of £7O. There also have been many inquiries from readers asking what will be the basis of the panel’s selection. This will be decided on form shown while playing for Canter-

bury only. There have been some noted players who, after representing Canterbury, went on to greater prominence for other provinces. The panel will take cognisance only of performances for this province. Readers who will use the coupon on this page are reminded that ft is not necessary to nominate a right or left wing. All that is required is the two best wings to have represented Canterbury since the war. Entries should be addressed, “Canterbury’s Best,” c/o. P.O. Box 1005, Christchurch. Only one entry can be re. ceived from any one person and the entry must be post-marked on or before June 14.