New Zealand Heartland XV squad announced

The New Zealand Heartland XV has been named today, featuring fresh faces and a former All Black in the mix.

Former All Black and Māori All Black Hika Elliot will add another black jersey to his collection after an impressive season with South Canterbury.

He is one of 15 potential debutants named in the 25-man squad, selected by coaches Nigel Walsh and Miah Nikora. A combination of retirements, injuries and break-through performances have resulted in the high number of new faces.

“We’ve had people watching across the Heartland competition and these 15 debutants all played very well throughout the season and deserve the opportunity to put a silver fern on their chest,” said Walsh.

Speaking of Elliot, Walsh said it will add a lot to the Heartland XV environment.

“He’s excited to be part of this squad. He brings leadership on and off the field and knows what it means to wear the black jersey. I know he’ll do whatever he can to help the squad but at the same time, will just be one of the boys.”

Elliot will be one of many leaders in the side, including Willie Wright, in his seventh Heartland XV campaign, his fellow South Canterbury co-captain Tokoma’ata Fakatava and Thames Valley Captain Matty Axtens.

With a short lead in to the first match, Walsh said the focus will be to connect quickly.

“We want to do ourselves and all the Heartland Unions proud – we represent all of them. It will be challenging with so many new players but they are an exciting bunch so we welcome the work we need to do and hopefully will play some exciting rugby,” said Walsh.

Nine of the selected players will vie for the Meads Cup this weekend, with Thames Valley (six) and Mid Canterbury (three), among the seven Heartland Unions represented in the squad.

The squad assembles next week for a two-match series in Whanganui against a New Zealand Māori Selection on October 29, followed by the New Zealand Barbarians on November 2.