The match, which kicks off at 3.15pm at Rotorua Boys High School, is a trial encounter that will match players chasing Steamers selection in head to head combat. The match at the Rotorua secondary school continues a BOPRU move this season, to play a number of representative matches at grassroots venues.

For the second year in a row the BOP Wasps have given their support to the selection process of the Steamers. The Wasps Club is a group of former Bay players and administrators who foster and support rugby in the region.

The trial encounter will see a number of last years Steamers stars, make their first Bay representative appearance of the season. Dynamic loose forward Luke Braid and lock Cullum Rettalick, both played a big part in last season’s team that finished fourth in the round robin play of the Air New Zealand Cup.

Another player to make a real impression last year was Nigel Hunt, who will have his first Bay of Plenty outing of the season in the Bay VX colours.

One of the real success stories of Bay of Plenty rugby is the emergence of genuine young talent. Two former Tauranga Boys College youngsters have been making a real impression for Tauranga Sports in Baywide rugby this year. Hohepa Goebel who will wear number six in the Wasps side has been in outstanding form from the side of the scrum, while Steven Honey is equally at home at either wing or fullback.

BOP Wasps
Forwards: Ted Tuaroa, Marcel Cummings-Toone, Rob Rewi, Cullum Rettalick, Aiden Kuka, Hohepa Goebel, Zach Hohneck, Luke Braid.
Backs: Steven Wallace, Nic McCashin, Sikele Bola, Cory Aporo, Hinemona Marr, Clinton Toopi, Lance MacDonald.
Reserves: Ngarimu Simkin, Andre Ellison, Adam Robinson, Simon Kolo’ofai, Chris Van der Vlught, Gray Gardiner, Timito Gardiner.
Coach: Clayton McMillan

BOP VX
Forwards: Kane Hames, Dean Elmiger, Josh Hohneck, Mata McGrath, Josh Olsen, James Riddell, Matt Vant Leven, Tim Henwood.
Backs: Chad Tuoro, Kelly Haimona, Jason Hona, Nigel Hunt, Wayne Hughson, Hayden Baird, Toby Arnold.
Reserves: Lawrence Marsh, Simon Chisholm, Bruce Olsen, Chris Elvin, Ruki Tipuna, Josevata Tawaki, Steve Honey.
Coach: Steve Axtens