The only certainty in the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield finale to be played out at the Rotorua International Stadium on Wednesday (14 May 2008) - is that there will be a new champion crowned.

The Te Hurinui Apanui Shield, which is the symbol of Bay of Plenty Sub-Union supremacy, was first contested in 1927. In previous decades the Te Hurinui Apanui trophy ranked second only behind the Peace Cup in stature.

With defending Shield holders Western Bay of Plenty, being defeated by both Eastern Bay of Plenty and Central Bay of Plenty, the guardian for the next twelve months will be decided on Wednesday – when Central hosts Eastern.

The Eastern team will look to target supremacy at the ruck and break down area with a combative loose forward trio spearheaded by Opotiki loose forwards Matt Henwood, Roha Maxwell and 2007 Bay of Plenty Under 20 Representative, Dan Bowater.

Central Bay, who are ably assisted by former All Black Legend Buck Shelford, have a strong back division with a combination of outstanding young Rotoiti 5 Eight, Whakataki Cunningham and Whaka playmaker Kelly Haimona alternating between 1^st and 2^nd Five leading the way.

The encounter to be played under lights at the Rotorua International Stadium also doubles as the third leg of BOPRU trials to select a Bay Fifteen squad for fixtures in June.

While the Shalfoon Shield, which is the symbol of Colts Sub-Union supremacy, has been already won by Western Bay of Plenty, there will still be plenty to play for in the curtain raiser. With a defeat apiece inflicted by Western Bay, both the respective Colts teams will be playing for pride and bragging rights on the night.

BOPRU Sub-Union Program Wednesday 14 May 2008 at Rotorua International Stadium

6.00pm: Central Colts v Eastern BOP