Canterbury secured a quarter-final victory in a Bunnings NPC classic against Waikato, with a penalty from close to halfway.
Dylan Pledger impressed against Waikato and is likely to be on the tour, with arguments that he's New Zealand's third or fourth best halfback.
Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch hosted the quarter-final between Canterbury and Counties Manukau, with Canterbury booking their place in the last four for 2025 after a strong extra-time performance.
He hasn’t even played for the Highlanders yet.
Author's summary: Canterbury wins semi-final berth.