Rugby: Barnes confirms squad ahead of NPC

Taranaki Rugby

Photo: Stratford-Eltham halfback Leone Nawai has been selected in the Taranaki squad for this year's domestic competition. Photo by PIXL.

The Yarrows Taranaki Bulls are thrilled to announce the final squad for the Bunnings Warehouse NPC season for 2024. This year’s squad includes a mix of seasoned veterans, promising young talent, and exciting new signings. As the defending champions of the 2023 NPC season, the Yarrows Taranaki Bulls are determined to build on last year’s success and defend our title. 

Our selection process has also recognised the players who have shone during the CMK Premier Rugby competition. These players have been rewarded for their consistency throughout the season and their potential to shine on a bigger stage, earning their spot in the final squad.

“We are extremely excited about the squad we’ve assembled for the 2024 season. The mix of uncapped players, new signings, and returning talent gives us a strong foundation to build on. The performances in CMK Premier Rugby have been outstanding, and it’s a testament to the depth of talent in Taranaki. We know the job in front of us in 2024 and we can't wait to get stuck in,” said Head Coach, Neil Barnes.

We are proud to introduce several uncapped players who have shown a lot of promise and earned their spots through outstanding performances in CMK Premier Rugby:

•        Perry Lawrence (Prop, New Plymouth Old Boys): A young and dynamic prop with a bright future ahead.

•        JJ Pokai (Hooker, New Plymouth Old Boys): A promising hooker known for his strength and ball-carrying ability.

•        Leone Nawai (Halfback, Stratford Eltham): A live wire halfback with speed and skill.

•        Obey Samate (Utility, Stratford Eltham): A standout playmaker with excellent game management skills.

We are excited to welcome several new signings who are capped Yarrows Taranaki Bulls players, but will bolster our squad for the upcoming season with full contracts in 2024:

•        Jackson Morgan (Lock, New Plymouth Old Boys)

•        Arese Poliko (Loose Forward, Spotswood United)

•        Ethan Reti (Utility Back, Spotswood United)

•        Josh Setu (Outside Back, Clifton)

The selection of the All Blacks side for the Rugby Championship will have significant implications for our contracted players, particularly the availability of Josh Lord and Stephen Perofeta. Their selection will have an impact on the squad balance and we will adjust accordingly once the new All Blacks squad is known.

Balancing the demands of All Black selections with the needs of our squad is a crucial aspect of our season planning. Head Coach Neil Barnes commented:

“Navigating the challenges posed by All Black selections requires careful management and strategic depth. We have a robust squad that allows us to adapt and maintain a high level of performance regardless of player availability. The additional players stepping up from our pathways ensure we have the necessary cover and talent to compete at the highest level.”

Additionally, Nathanial Peters and Brad Kooman are awaiting specialist injury assessment regarding their availability for the 2024 season. We remain hopeful for their swift recovery and return to the field. Both players have suffered late-season injuries in CMK Club Rugby and will receive contracts subject to medical clearance. 

The pre-season kicks off at Rugby League Park in Wellington on July 26, followed by the highly anticipated match in Urenui against Bay of Plenty on August 2.

2024 Yarrows Taranaki squad

Outside backs: Kini Naholo, Josh Setu, Stephen Perofeta, Vereneki Tikoisolomone, Brad Kooman, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Obey Samate.

Midfield: Daniel Rona, Brayton Northcott-Hill, Jordie Barrett, Meihana Grindlay.

First five-eighths: Josh Jacomb, Jayson Potroz, Beauden Barrett, Ethan Reti.

Halfbacks: Logan Crowley, Adam Lennox, Leone Nawai.

Loose forwards: Hemopo Cunningham, Scott Jury, Michael Loft, Kaylum Boshier, Arese Poliko.

Locks: Josh Lord, Scott Barrett, Tupou Vaa’i, Tom Franklin, Fiti Sa, Jesse Parete, Jackson Morgan.

Hookers: Ricky Riccitelli, Bradley Slater, JJ Pokai.

Props: Jared Proffit, Mitchell O’Neill, Reuben O’Neill, Michael Bent, Perry Lawrence.