Taranaki rugby’s still strong

There has been much written about the misery of the recent Taranaki rugby season, but there was a ray of light on Saturday evening that received no publicity, when Taranaki fielded four run-on All Blacks against Japan.

The representation of Jordie Barrett, Waisake Naholo, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi and Angus Ta’avao was the highest number of Taranaki players in an All Blacks test team since 1905.

Yes, 113 years ago, when the All Blacks took on Wales and suffered their only loss of their 35 match tour, Taranaki were represented by Jimmy Hunter (Hawera), Simon Mynott (Tukapa), Frank Glasgow (Eltham) and Jimmie O’Sullivan (Okaiawa).

Throughout those 113 years, Taranaki rugby has endured numerous setbacks, but has survived and thrived.

With strong community support, Taranaki rugby will overcome the Yarrow Stadium debacle and Premiership relegation.

Bruce Lawrence, New Plymouth