Darby shock Cantab selection

Canterbury's line-up for Friday's Northland ITM Cup match contained the unfamiliar name "Darby, Rhys" when it was read out to the squad at training yesterday.

The comedian, in Christchurch to present his show This Way to Spaceship tonight, thought there were too many Whitelocks in the 15 when he had the honour of naming it at Rugby Park.

Canterbury often have past players or management personalities along to name their match 15s.

Darby followed up by throwing himself vigorously into training with the team, but coach Tabai Matson seemed in no rush to offer him a contract.

Photos Geoff Sloan