S.I. eyes Tooth Cup

Press, 14 September 1981, Page 25

S.I. eyes Tooth Cup

The South Island, as winner of the New Zealand Rugby League’s inter-districts championship, will definitely be New Zealand's entry in the 1982 Tooth Cup tournament in Australia — provided the sponsors invite a team from this country. Reports from Australia have indicated that this would be so. and the two new sides in the Sydney premiership. Canberra and lilawarra. would boost the entries to 18. This information has been relayed to the Canterbury Rugby League by its national council member, Mr John Bray. The N.Z.R L. will suggest that Canterbury and West Coast meet as early as late March to form the South squad. A regional coaching school is also scheduled for Easter week-end. If the pressure will be on the leading players early in the season, there will also be much

at stake for club combinations late in the winter. Mr Bray said that nominations for the new and lucrative Wrangler Cup contest would be required about August 23. Canterbury, Auckland and Wellington will be permitted two entries, with one from each of the other 12 provinces. A preliminary round will whittle the survivors down to 16. and the first round proper will be on a regional basis. The last eight clubs will then go into an open draw and the final — in Auckland if an Auckland club is involved — is expected to be held in late September or early October. The New Zealand club champion will receive prize money of about $5OOO. with about $2500 for the runner-up. Travelling expenses will be met by the sponsor and from gate receipts and possible television fees.