Archive for August 2026

Most know the Pat Smith Trophy is the greatest prize in Canterbury Rugby League, but how much do you know about the man it is named after? As the silverware is polished up and prepared to be awarded for the 60th time on Sunday, to either Eastern or Riccarton after the CRL Whitehead Plumbing &…

The Red and Black Report shines a spotlight on Canterbury Rugby League juniors featuring in Australia’s and Britain’s elite and lower-grade competitions. A host of Canterbury products were in action in the latest round of NRL, NRLW, NSWRL and Super League matches.   Have we missed anyone? Email will@crfl.co.nz to let us know! NRL Burnham…

Mana Whenua – Hapū that has mana over a particular takiwā (area or region) Canterbury Rugby League is extremely proud to welcome Mathias Pitama as our first Mana Whenua Director, appointed to the CRL Board on behalf of Ngāi Tūāhuriri. In 2025, CRL undertook a full review of our constitution in response to changes to…

Riccarton Knights have set up a Pat Smith Trophy Challenge showdown with Eastern Eagles on CRL Snap Fitness Grand Final Day, upsetting Massetti Cup winners and defending champs Linwood Keas in a pulsating CRL Whitehead Plumbing and Gas preliminary final. The Knights snatched a 24-22 victory via a late try and conversion at Linwood Park,…