In a thrilling development, the legendary Kieran Read is poised to stage a comeback as he graces the field for the Southland Charity Hospital’s Pack the Park 2024 charity clash.
The 36-year-old, renowned for clinching the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year title in 2013 and amassing an impressive 127 Test appearances for New Zealand from 2008 to 2019, headlines the initial star-studded announcement for this eagerly awaited showdown.
Mark your calendars for January 27, when Rugby Park Stadium in Invercargill will play host to this high-profile event. Melissa Vining, the visionary behind the Southland Charity Hospital, is rallying Southlanders to fill the stadium to capacity for an unforgettable experience.
“I’m excited that the cat’s finally out of the bag about him,” she told Stuff. “He’s one of many exciting player announcements.”
A dynamic and skilled number 8, Read captained the All Blacks, leading them to numerous victories, including at the 2015 Rugby World Cup when Richie McCaw was rested.
His leadership and prowess left an indelible mark on rugby history.
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#1. Tom Varndell (Oxford Quins)
Oxford Harlequins welcomed the former premiership record try scorer who will take on a dual role combining his rugby management career with his exceptional rugby talent.
Varndell has agreed to assume the position of Head of Rugby at Oxford Brookes University, which has close links to Oxford Harlequins.
In addition to his management role, he will also become the Head of Community at the club, while still playing for the team.
Marcus Boswell, the student sport manager at Oxford Brookes had the following to say about their star capture;
“To secure someone of Tom’s calibre, as a coach and a mentor, is of great excitement for both our current and prospective students who are looking to play rugby union,
“It goes without saying that the relationship between Oxford Brookes and Oxford Quins continues to go from strength to strength, and this announcement is another indication of that.
“We will continue to work hard in all areas of our sporting delivery and wider area of activity together, and reap the successes both on and off the pitch for our student athletes.”