Ross leads Bay of Plenty to final
Gallagher Chiefs prop Aidan Ross will captain Bay of Plenty in this weekend’s Mitre 10 Cup Championship final. The 23-year-old loosehead prop has had a formidable season to date, in only his fifth season with the Bay of Plenty Steamers and the first season as team captain.
Ross debuted for the Bay of Plenty Steamers in 2015, since his debut he has been a loyal player for the blue and gold hoops. Following two strong seasons for the Bay of Plenty Steamers, the then 21-year-old was called into the Gallagher Chiefs as a replacement player. Later that season he debuted for the Gallagher Chiefs against the Western Force. Since then, Ross has continued to develop both on and off the field now having 25 caps to his name for the Gallagher Chiefs.
Joined by fellow Gallagher Chiefs Mitchell Karpik, Nathan Harris and Liam Polwart, the Bay of Plenty Steamers have had an outstanding season. Their road to the final has seen them deliver comprehensive victories over their championship counterparts, only falling short to premiership sides Auckland and Wellington. The side has an exceptionally powerful forward pack which sets a solid foundation for front foot ball for their talented backline. Their clinical semi-final performance over Manawatu last weekend has ensured the Chiefs Country side hosts this weekend’s Mitre 10 Cup Championship final, the sides first home final since 2000.
Ross said the Bay of Plenty Steamers are all set for their final fixture of the season.
“There is no doubt this is a great group; we have some talented guys and plenty of good work horses as well. Together we have worked hard to get this far but we know the job is not yet finished. Hawke’s Bay are a strong side and are going to step up again from last week. It is always a battle against them but one we are ready for.”
Mitre 10 Cup Championship Final:
Bay of Plenty Steamers v Hawke’s Bay Magpies
Game Details:
Friday, October 25
Rotorua International Stadium
Kick-off: 7.35pm
Note: Sam Cane is a current Bay of Plenty Steamers squad member but is currently playing for the All Blacks at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.
