The inaugural Tangiwai Shield will be contested during the upcoming two-match Test series between New Zealand and South Africa, beginning February 4 in Mount Maunganui. This new trophy is named in honor of the victims of New Zealand’s deadliest rail disaster, which occurred on Christmas Eve in 1953, claiming the lives of 151 people. Among the victims was Nerissa Love, the fiancée of New Zealand fast bowler Bob Blair, who was participating in the second Test against South Africa at Ellis Park in Johannesburg when the tragedy struck.
On the morning following the disaster, the New Zealand team, then in South Africa, learned of the catastrophic event that had unfolded back home. Despite initially withdrawing from the match to mourn, Blair made a poignant appearance during the game’s first innings, joining Bert Sutcliffe at the crease after New Zealand had lost its ninth wicket for 154 runs. Their partnership added 33 runs, bringing New Zealand’s total to 187, in a moment that has since been etched into New Zealand sporting lore for its emotional depth and demonstration of resilience.
Scott Weenink, the Chief Executive of New Zealand Cricket (NZC), described the series of events surrounding the match as a deeply moving narrative of courage, resilience, and the compassionate response from the South African team and its supporters. The Tangiwai Shield, crafted by carver David Ngawati (Ngati Hine) from the native New Zealand timber puriri and featuring an inlaid mere made from pounamu sourced from the Tangiwai region, symbolizes this historic bond and shared history. The NZC announced that the shield would be officially blessed and presented to the teams in Tauranga.
Pholetsi Moseki, the Chief Executive of Cricket South Africa (CSA), expressed his condolences to those affected by the 1953 disaster and highlighted the importance of remembering cricket’s historical context. He noted the significance of the Tangiwai Shield in educating current and future teams about their heritage and fostering a sense of continuity and respect for the past.
The introduction of the Tangiwai Shield not only commemorates a tragic event in New Zealand’s history but also celebrates the enduring spirit and camaraderie that sport, particularly cricket, can foster between nations.
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