All Blacks curtain-raiser set for U85s National Club Cup final

Under 85-goers have plenty to be excited about for 2024 as New Zealand Rugby (NZR) have confirmed an All Blacks curtain-raiser for the National Club Cup final and a shift in the competition’s roll out.  

Broadcasted LIVE on Sky Sport, the final will be played on September 28 at Sky Stadium in Wellington leading up to the All Blacks v Australia match, kick-off time to be confirmed.  

NZR Participation Manager Mike Hester said securing an opportunity to have the final as a curtain-raiser to the All Blacks is a major recognition of the grade’s importance and the competition’s growing profile.   

“All finals are special but to play at a ground such as Sky Stadium on an occassion like it will be a truly memorable experience for all those involved,” Hester said.  

The U85kg National Club Cup will see its fifth year in action, and unlike last year it will be played after the community club rugby season, to enable an increase in participation and provide a more focused competition with less gaps in between matches.  

Hester said it’s exciting times for Under 85s as the competition continues to grow interest.   

“Over the past four years, our national weight-restrcited competition has offered lot of epic matches across the country and we’ve had to adapt to the demand,” Hester said.  

“Weight-restricted rugby also remains as a key component of our teenage approach. Providing more opportunities and profile in the adult space through initiatives such as the U85 National Competition and the underlying Provincial Union competitions really leverages off that.  

“It also gives participants a chance to play longer in the game they love.”  

Entires for the U85kg National Club Cup 2024 competition will open in late May, with more details to come.  

Final match details 

September 28, 2024  

Sky Stadium, Wellington  

Kick-off time (TBC)  

Broadcasted LIVE on Sky Sport