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'Real optimism': Glenn Taylor backs Northland’s Ranfurly Shield bid
Sport Nation • August 19th, 2026 1:22 pm
Glenn Taylor | Photo: Photosport
Glenn Taylor knows exactly what the Ranfurly Shield means to Northland.
The former Taniwha captain grew up watching the province chase the famous log of wood, before making his own debut in a Shield challenge against Auckland in 1990.
Now, with Northland preparing to face Canterbury in Christchurch tomorrow night, Taylor believes the current side has a genuine chance of ending a 48-year wait.
“I think we’re a real chance,” Taylor told Sport Nation Mornings.
The Taniwha delivered a stunning 42-0 win over Taranaki last week, marking a 2-1 record to open their campaign.
Taylor has been impressed by the squad’s continuity, forward depth and growing leadership.
“The squad we’ve got assembled is largely intact from last year. We’ve got some real depth in our forward pack,” he said.
“I think there’s real optimism that this is probably our best opportunity for a long time.”
Taylor knows the challenge ahead will be significant, but says Northland’s connection with the Shield runs deep.
He vividly remembers Eddie Dunn taking the trophy to his primary school after North Auckland won it in 1978, giving local children the chance to see and touch a piece of rugby history.
“One can only dream of what it would do for us,” Taylor said.
Taylor also looked back on his remarkable career, including playing alongside Northland great Rupeni Caucaunibuca, whom he described as “probably the best rugby player I’ve ever seen”.
And with the All Blacks preparing for their first test in South Africa, Taylor reflected on his own involvement in the historic 1996 tour.
All Blacks v Western Transvaal. New Zealand tour of South Africa, 1996. | Photo: Photosport
He was part of the unbeaten midweek side before earning a place on the bench for the final Test at Ellis Park.
“To get on at Ellis Park, 75,000 people, it was amazing,” he said.
Taylor also shared the special story of the All Blacks’ midweek team celebrating the series win with the test side, and why Northland’s Shield challenge carries such significance.
Listen to the full interview below:
