Waikato celebrate their 2024 Farah Palmer Cup triumph. Photo: Photosport
The Farah Palmer Cup kicks off this weekend for its 26th season and could be one of the closest competitions to date.
Although most eyes will be on New Zealand's quest to go back-to-back at the Women's Rugby World Cup, a new crop of rising stars, as well as veterans out to prove they still have what it takes, will take centrestage back home.
Former Black Ferns captain Les Elder said the 2025 FPC would mark a a return to the roots of the domestic competition.
"It will just return to the purpose that it was originally, right? FPC is a completely amateur competition, so it allows the opportunity for our next wave of players to come through."
She said the competition was crucial, not only for gaining Super Rugby Aupiki contracts, but also for potential national call-ups, if injuries struck in England.
"It is through the FPC that talent is identified. That's why I love the Farah Palmer Cup, it's where you see the new talent."
With the competition wide open, Manawatū have been tipped as dark horses. Fresh off promotion from the championship, they return to the premiership with most of their squad intact.
"They haven't lost a significant amount of Black Ferns, so they're going to be a force to be reckoned with," Elder said.
Counties Manukau are another side expected to contend, boasting a star-studded roster that includes Ruby Tui, Mererangi Paul and Hazel Tubic.
"Counties will remain strong," Elder said. "A lot of their Black Ferns didn't make the World Cup, so they're available."
Defending champions Waikato will look to go back-to-back, while traditional powerhouses Auckland and Canterbury lose nearly 10 players apiece to World Cup duties.
Auckland have historically dominated the FPC, winning 16 titles, with Canterbury next closest with five.
"They'll be impacted, but knowing how good their systems are, I think they'll still be competitive."
This year's matches will mostly kick off at 2.35pm, with some 11.35am and 4.35pm starts, a move designed to better suit the competition's fanbase.
"When you look at the fanbase for women's rugby, it's families - it's mums and daughters, dads and daughters," Elder said. "I've got three kids and I want them to see female rugby players in New Zealand, so I think it's a smart move."
Despite the growing interest in women's rugby, Elder believed promotion of the Farah Palmer Cup still fell short.
"Honestly speaking, I do think there's a lack of promotion. Not so long ago, Sport NZ did a study that showed only about 11 percent of sports coverage is dedicated to women's sport."
Elder said players would need to stay sharp in the event of an injury crisis in England.
"There'll be a group of players told to stay ready in the event of an injury, so they'll definitely all be playing."
FPC Round One Fixtures
Saturday, 9 August
All games at 2.05pm
Auckland Storm v Waikato Women
Taranaki Women v Northland Women
Tasman Women v Wellington Pride
Sunday, 10 August
11.35am Counties Manukau Heat v Bay of Plenty Volcanix
1.05pm Canterbury Women v Manawatū Cyclones
2.05pm Otago Spirit v North Harbour Hibiscus
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