Rugby: Canterbury aim for fifth successive title

16-time champions Auckland will take on Canterbury, who've won the national provincial title nine times and are bidding for a record fifth in succession. Photo / Getty Images.

A number of milestones will be reached in tonight's ITM Cup premiership final at AMI Stadium.

16-time champions Auckland will take on Canterbury, who've won the national provincial title nine times and are bidding for a record fifth in succession.

Auckland captain Daniel Braid will play his 100th match for the province, and with an uncertain future it could also be his last.

Number eight Joe Edwards says Braid is a real inspiration for them.

"For Braid to reach 100 games is a pretty awesome milestone, one day maybe I'll reach that game, pretty emotional man after the Wellington game and it was awesome to see my captain and someone I look up to in that kind of state."

It will also be Alby Mathewson's last game before heading offshore, and Auckland fullback Charles Piutau says it adds to the occasion.

"It was just extra motivation to play for and a few other guy like Alby last game for Auckland so there's a lot to play for out there, it's just a good vibe."

Canterbury utility back Tom Taylor says he knows all about the history of the rivalry without needing consult with his dad, former All Blacks midfield back Warwick Taylor.

"I haven't talked to Dad too much in terms of the history and that sort of thing but it's always a great one over Auckland and it always is a tough one.

"It will just be a great challenge and to be in another final is awesome, we really want to finish this one off."

Kick-off is at 7:35pm at Christchurch's AMI Stadium.