Whanganui also gets shot at Shield

Taranaki’s second Ranfurly Shield defence for 2012 has been confirmed for Saturday, August 4, against Whanganui.

Providing Taranaki retain the shield against King Country in Inglewood on July 24, Whanganui will head north for the match at Yarrow Stadium.

Under the rules set by the New Zealand Rugby Union, the Heartland Championship winner gets an automatic challenge the following year.

Whanganui have made several unsuccessful challenges for the Log ‘o Wood in recent years, the last of which was in 2010 when they lost 6-62 to Southland.

Whanganui Rugby Chief Executive Dale Cobb said the challenge would be part of a significant year for the union, which will celebrate its 125th jubilee.

“I could not think of a more fitting occasion that recognises our joint rugby history and values,” he told the Taranaki Rugby Union website.