The Yarrows Taranaki Bulls are pleased to announce the conclusion of the wider squad training, a crucial phase in preparing for the upcoming Bunnings NPC season. This intensive period has now culminated in a refined squad of 48 players, with key work-ons identified for fringe players to focus on during the remaining week(s) of the CMK Club Rugby competition.
Over the course of the training period, more than 70 Premier players participated, receiving technical skills and integration into our Yarrows Taranaki Bulls systems, aimed at furthering their development and enhancing their prospects of donning the Amber & Black jersey in the future. The coaching staff has been thoroughly impressed with the calibre of play and effort displayed in the CMK Club Rugby.
Head coach Neil Barnes, describes the value he sees with the process:
“The wider squad training has been immensely valuable. We’ve seen a tremendous level of skill and commitment from our local players, which bodes well for the future of Taranaki rugby. Players are showing they can put their hand up and that a genuine pathway exists for them. Those who have made the cut into the final 48 have shown potential this season and know what's required of them to get over the final hurdle.”
Fringe Yarrows Taranaki Bulls players have been given specific work-ons to address in the remaining week(s) of CMK Club Rugby, with the goal of showcasing their improvements over the season and that individual feedback has been taken onboard. Meanwhile, our Super Rugby players will take a much-needed two-week break to refresh, before getting back into training.
Coach Barnes added:
“We’ve given a hand full of players some key messages for the next two weeks and we’re hoping they will rise to the challenge.”
The final squad selection will be influenced by several factors, including players returning from inury and the outcomes of the Teams in Black selections post-July tests. The definitive squad will be named following the CMK Club Rugby Semi-Finals.
“Some of our position selections are contingent on injuries and national team selections,” said Coach Barnes. “We will be making our final decisions based on the best available information at the time.”
Players not making the final Yarrows Taranaki Bulls squad will have the opportunity to represent Taranaki in various other squads, including the Taranaki Māori, Taranaki Pasifika, Taranaki Trojans, and Taranaki U19s, ensuring players stay ready, should they be called upon.
“The depth of talent in our region means that there are plenty of opportunities for players to continue their development and contribute to Taranaki rugby,” said Barnes. “We are committed to providing these pathways and supporting our players at every level.”
The Yarrows Taranaki Bulls will have an historic preseason fixture for the Firstgas Urenui Showdown vs Bay of Plenty on the 2nd of August. Get your tickets before it sells out!