Corey Evans out to spoil Canterbury’s party ahead of Crusaders move

Northland midfielder Corey Evans is preparing to face defending champions Canterbury in the NPC final on Labour Day Monday. The clash comes ahead of his planned move south, having signed a two-year Super Rugby Pacific contract with the Crusaders starting in 2027. Evans has played in seven consecutive matches for Northland following an injury-hit season with the Blues, aiming to help his province secure its first NPC final win since 1997.

Northland previously defeated Canterbury 36-12 in August to claim the Ranfurly Shield, though Evans missed that fixture. In the upcoming decider, Evans will face Canterbury midfielders Jone Rova and Dallas McLeod while partnering with future Crusaders teammate Rivez Reihana. The match offers Northland a chance to break Canterbury's strong home playoff record and capture their first major provincial title in nearly three decades.