Ranfurly Shield 2020–2029
The Ranfurly Shield, colloquially known as the Log o' 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 defends the Shield in challenge matches - which are their home games - and if a challenger defeats them, they become the new holder of the Shield.
| Ranfurly Shield | |
|---|---|
| Countries | New Zealand |
| Champions | Hawke's Bay |
| Matches played | 27 |
| Tries scored | 222 (average 8.2 per match) |
| Top point scorer | Lincoln McClutchie (Hawke's Bay) 172 points |
| Top try scorer | Neria Fomai (Hawke's Bay) 9 tries |
| Official website | |
| www | |
The Shield is currently held by Hawke's Bay, who won it back from Wellington in a 20–18 victory on 30 September 2023. Wellington had held the Shield since 17 September 2022 when the Lions took the Shield off Hawke's Bay and successfully defended it 7 times.
Hawke's Bay has the third best record with 72 defences, behind Auckland (148) and Canterbury (139).