Ranfurly Shield

The Ranfurly Shield, colloquially known as the Log of Wood, is perhaps the most prestigious trophy in New Zealand's domestic rugby union competition. First played for in 1904, the Ranfurly Shield is based on a challenge system, rather than a league or knockout competition as with most football trophies. The holding union must defend the Shield in challenge matches, and if a challenger defeats them, they become the new holder of the Shield.

Related Topics:
New Zealand - Rugby union - 1904

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The Shield is currently held by Canterbury, who won it from Bay of Plenty in the fourth round of the 2004 National Provincial Championship.

Related Topics:
Canterbury - Bay of Plenty - National Provincial Championship

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Although the professional era of rugby has seen competitions such as the NPC and the Super 12/14 detracting from the pre-eminence of the Ranfurly Shield, many still regard it as the greatest prize in New Zealand rugby, thanks to its long history, the fact that every challenge is a sudden-death defence of the Shield, and that any team, no matter how lowly, has a chance to win.

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