Jimmy Tupou is the last Steeler to win the Shield ahead of Ranfurly challenge

Counties Manukau captain Jimmy Tupou is the sole remaining active player from the Steelers squad that won the Ranfurly Shield against Hawke’s Bay in 2013. Counties will challenge current holders Northland in Whangarei on Saturday. Northland enters the fixture at the top of the table with a 6-2 record, having successfully defended the Shield against Tasman and Waikato.

Counties Manukau sits in 13th place this season with just two wins, recently suffering a 50-21 defeat against Otago. Tupou, who started at lock during the historic 27-24 victory in 2013, highlighted that Counties must minimize mistakes, rely on team flair, and match Northland's strong set pieces and defense to pull off an upset.