NPC gets snowed in
Adverse weather and airport closures has forced the postponement of the Round 10 NPC match between Otago and Manawatu, which was scheduled to be played at Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium on Wednesday.
The Manawatu Turbos were due to fly to Dunedin via Christchurch on Tuesday, but their flight out of Palmerston North was cancelled.
NZRU General Manager Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said the NZRU team had worked with both the Otago and Manawatu Rugby Unions to consider options to ensure the match went ahead as planned.
“With adverse weather set to continue overnight across much of the South Island, it’s become increasingly clear that Manawatu could still face problems getting into Dunedin in time to play the fixture,” Sorensen said.
“This decision has not been made lightly. We have spent much of today [Tuesday] in direct consultation with both teams, the MetService, Air New Zealand and SKY TV.
“To ensure the least disruption to other fixtures for remaining rounds, the Otago vs Manawatu game will now be played on Tuesday August 30 at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
“Given that both teams are in the hunt for NPC Championship Final spots, we have agreed to move the Championship Final to Sunday, September 4,” he said.
The NPC Premiership Final will be played as scheduled on Saturday, September 3.
