METRONEWS
© New Zealand Broadcasting School 2025

by New Zealand Broadcasting School students

Christchurch set to host historic touch rugby tournament for the first time.

Sport

Madaleine Mansfield

The excitement is building as New Zealand prepares to host the highly-anticipated Open Trans-Tasman Test Series against Australia at the Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub April 25 to 27.

Touch Poster
Touch New Zealand

The series marks the first international test in New Zealand since 2018 and will feature a thrilling rematch of all three open grade finals from the Touch World Cup. 

Fourteen debutants have been given the nod in the black jersey, in hopes of bringing something new to the competition. 

Rahul Das, the Touch Blacks Open Men’s coach, is excited for the challenge ahead.

“We will be playing in the black singlet, knowing it is more than just fabric.

"It carries legacy, humility, and a commitment to something greater than ourselves.”

Whilst Australia have had the upper hand over the Kiwis in the series’ history, Das is confident his team has what it takes this year on home soil.

“This squad will bring a fearless mix of youthfulness, skill, experience, and heart—driven by a certain hunger to chase excellence,” he says.

The New Zealand Open Women’s Coach, Peter McIntyre, brings a wealth of experience to his team, recently being honoured for coaching 100 test caps. 

“It’s not what you say, but what you do that matters.

"I’m confident we can leave it all out there and come away with a result we’re proud of."

This series will also mark the debut of Damien Burden as Head Coach of the New Zealand Touch Blacks Mixed Open team. 

“As a group, we are keen to respect the legacy of the Touch Blacks Mixed jersey by putting our best foot forward and adding our own part to this legacy,” Burden says.

This Open Trans-Tasman Test Series not only promises high-quality sport but also offers a platform to celebrate and honour the rich history of touch in New Zealand, with players eager to create their own legacy while respecting those who have come before them. 

Players to watch: 

Raiki Willison (Men’s) 

  • A standout playmaker from Waikato, Willison will bring his experience and composure to clutch moments. Expect Willison to take on the Aussies in the middle. 

Zoe Sosich (Women’s)

  • A proven finisher from North Harbour, Sosich has speed to burn and the smarts when it matters most. Expect her to be heavily involved down both ends of the field playing as a middle. 

Molly Wheeley (Mixed)

  • A player with exceptional leadership and a proven success record, Wheeley is definitely on to keep an eye on. Look for her to take on a link role for this series. She was recently named Otago Female Player of the Year after a standout season in the blue jersey.

Fans can catch all the action live via Touch New Zealand’s YouTube channel.