What promises to be an exciting season of premier club rugby kicks off tomorrow with the 10th installment of the Waka Nathan Challenge Cup.

Hosted by Waitemata Rugby Club, 14 premier teams will have the opportunity to test new players and combinations before the round robin competition starts on April 8th.

“The Waka Nathan and Pollard Cups form an important part of our club rugby season,” said Community Rugby Manager Lewis McClintock.

“The pre-season can be a long campaign for many teams so it is good to be able to provide a structured tournament for them to take part in. 

“It also provides a nice recognition for those that have been putting in the hard yards in the form of some early season silverware,” said McClintock.

Clubs are separated into top eight and bottom eight based on 2016 finishing positions to compete for the Waka Nathan Cup and Pollard Cup respectively.

The draw is done at random and presents and some exciting first round clashes.

Pakuranga are the defending champions, after securing a nail-biting win in the 2016 final over Waitemata. Tomorrow they are drawn to face Ponsonby.

Gallaher Shield holders, Suburbs, will have a tough assignment on their hands up against College Rifles while hosts Waitemata face Marist.

University have a first round bye with Te Papapa Onehunga ineligible to play in the pre-season tournament.

Winning teams progress through to round two with rankings decided from first round points differential, while losing teams progress to the appropriate division based on their results. Clubs are joined by their premier development for rounds two and three.

The day promises to be fun for the whole family with bouncy castles and music on site throughout the day. Auckland Rugby will also have some fun giveaways on offer at the #pumpitup challenge.

1.30pm Round
East Tamaki v Otahuhu
Mt Wellington v Eden
Waitakere City v Manukau Rovers

3.15pm Round
College Rifles v Suburbs
Pakuranga v Ponsonby
Papatoetoe v Grammar TEC

5pm Round
Marist v Waitemata