Magpies Coach Mark Ozich and his forwards coach Josh Syms have named an exciting squad for the upcoming 2018 Mitre 10 Cup.

“The squad has plenty of proven quality intermingled with a number of promising and talented newcomers to this level and they are all very excited about the competition that lies ahead, Magpies Head Coach, Mark Ozich said today”

‘’We believe the team we have assembled is an excellent blend of experience and youthful exuberance.  The greatest commonality between the squad members is they’re hunger for success and they are hungry to prove themselves as individuals and a team.  With that in mind over the last couple of weeks the team has been working hard to get better and improve with each pre-season game’’ Ozich added.

Seventeen of last year’s squad return while all but one of the thirty-five players named, Magpies utility back Stacey Ili, played their club rugby in Hawke’s Bay. Six of last year’s unbeaten national champion Hastings Boys High School 1^st XV have been named in the Magpies for the first time.

Napier Tech prop Tim Farrell, while named, has been ruled out for the season with a shoulder injury while All Black lock Brodie Retallick isn’t expected to suit up any time soon due to his All Black commitments.

MAC loose forward Solomone Funaki has been included as temporary injury cover for Napier Old Boys Marist loosie Hannon Brighouse who is expected to be sidelined for the first month with a knee injury sustained during his club campaign.

The Magpies play Southland and Otago away before their first home game on the newly re-turfed McLean Park against Counties on Sunday, September 2^nd.  Further home games against Bay of Plenty, North Harbour, Northland and Manawatu follow during September and October.

Not Considered due to injury – Hayden Hann and Chris Johnston