Blazer day for Bay’s Chrisp

Better late than never . . . Poverty Bay loosehead prop Campbell Chrisp will receive a blazer for having played 30 games for the Bay before Saturday's Heartland Championship opener against Wairarapa at Rugby Park. Picture by Paul Rickard

NGATAPA and Poverty Bay loosehead prop Campbell Chrisp is set to be presented a blazer a couple of years after playing his 30th game for the Bay.

Chrisp, who has worn the Bay colours on 41 occasions, is in the match-day 22 for Saturday’s opening Heartland Championship clash against Wairarapa Bush at Rugby Park.

Bay coaches Mana Otai and Dwayne Russell, who were happy with last weekend’s training camp and last night’s session, will release the starting 15 tonight.

Barring injury between now and Saturday, Chrisp will make an appearance as the Bay attempt to retain the Jeremy David Memorial Trophy.

“I’m hoping to reach the 50 mark this season,” said the 31-year-old, who did not make the Heartland squad in 2017.

“Losing my place last season helped motivate me to get fit over summer.

“You don’t realise how much you miss not being involved until you’re not in the squad.”

BNZ agribusiness partner Chrisp began the season in style — winning the Tiny White Memorial medal on the opening day of the Poverty Bay premier club championship.

Chrisp inspired Ngatapa to a 26-25 win against YMP after the men from Patutahi trailed 20-0 after 24 minutes.

He continued his outstanding form, scrummaging superbly and making big metres with ball in hand, including scoring tries.

Chrisp also fought back from a serious hand injury, which required 16 stitches, which prevented him from playing against Ngati Porou East Coast in Poverty Bay’s Queen’s Birthday derby win at Tolaga Bay.

However, when Otai named his team to face Ranfurly Shield holders Taranaki, Chrisp’s name was first on the list.

While Chrisp will celebrate his 42nd outing on Saturday, OBM openside flanker Callum McDonald could get his first taste of Heartland rugby.

McDonald made his Poverty Bay premier club debut for OBM in the second round of the competition, having returned from playing in Spain.

He made an immediate impact and set his sights on making the Bay team.

“I’ve heard all about playing Heartland rugby and can’t wait,” said the 27-year-old, who was born in Rotorua but moved to the Gold Coast when he was 10.

McDonald was the Bay’s best players in their 78-0 loss to Taranaki, when he picked up a knee injury.

However, the feisty No.7 came through a tough training session last night with no ill-effects.

“The intensity from the camp and tonight (last night) was good,” Otai said.

“It’s good preparation for Saturday and we’ll look to build on it between now and Saturday.

“Saturday is a huge game for us.

“It’s the first of the championship and it’s at home . . . you have to win your home games.”