3 Sides that could end Canterbury's dominance

The Mitre 10 Cup is back! Defending Champions Canterbury will be aiming to win their fourth successive title and their 10th title since 2012. Canterbury have dominated the tournament in recent times, so we have identified three sides most likely to upset Canterbury this season.

Taranaki

Despite a number of Taranaki players representing the All Blacks and the likes of Charlie Ngatai heading abroad, the current Ranfurly Shield holders still boast an impressive squad.

The likes of Angus Ta'avo and Jarrad Hoeata will strength the pack up front while youngsters Xavier Roe and Kini Naholo are set for big debut seasons in the competition.

Scrumhalf Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi is set to spend the majority of the tournament with the All Blacks and former All Black Brendon Leonard is likely to lead the attack with younger first five Stephen Perofeta.

North Harbour

Harbour will want to continue their metric rise after making the Premiership semi-finals having just earned promotion the previous year.

Tom Coventry will look to take his side one step further this year with a number of his players returning to the side following impressive Super Rugby seasons.

Bryn Hall and Gatland will be the starting halfbacks throughout the competition while Harbour has one the best back threes in Tevita Li, Matt Duffie and Shaun Stevenson. 

Dillon Hunt's return to the province will certainly increase their chances with James Parsons leading the pack from hooker. 

Tasman Mako

The Mako have fallen just short in three of the last four Mitre 10 Cup Finals losing to Canterbury twice and Taranaki once. 

Tasman boast a formidable pack with Wyatt Crockett, Andrew Makalio and Tyrel Lomax all set to start in the front row.

Tasman's backline is dangerous as well, with Crusaders David Havili, Will Jordan and Mitchell Hunt are in joining Solomon Alaimalo who signed with the side from Northland.