Otago Country will take the field in Wānaka this Saturday (August 2) with a strong local presence, as three Upper Clutha Rams players are named in the squad to face North Otago in a traditional representative clash.

Kick-off is at 2pm at the Upper Clutha Rugby Club, and fans can expect a physical and fast-paced encounter, with a trophy on the line.

"There's a trophy up for grabs ... we haven't beaten North Otago since 2009 I don't think,” Otago Country coach Aidan Winter said.

“The boys are keen, which is good. We're looking to use the width and have a go." 

The team includes loose forwards Jake Burtenshaw and Lachie Garrick, and midfielder Oliver Stirling - all rewarded with selection after helping Upper Clutha win the 2025 Central Otago Premier Rugby Competition.

Aidan said he was thrilled to have a strong core from the Rams in the side and was looking forward to the challenge ahead.

Saturday’s match is Otago Country’s first hit-out of the year and serves as a key warm-up before they begin their campaign for the new Tuppy Diack Shield, where they’ll face two Dunedin Metropolitan teams, Southland Country, and Southland Metro.

North Otago, meanwhile, will arrive with a new head coach - former player Luke Herden - and a refreshed squad as they build toward the 2025 Heartland Championship. Their lineup includes several Dunedin club players, and there are whispers of international recruits from Japan.

Saturday’s game is free to attend and offers Wānaka locals a rare opportunity to see their Rams stars take the field in Otago colours.

PHOTO: Wānaka App