(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Canada Rugby: Canucks Eye Pacific Nations Cup 2025
Canada’s men’s rugby team is preparing for Pacific Nations Cup 2025, aiming to bounce back after missing out on the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France. Under head coach Stephen Meehan, the team will focus on building a strong foundation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, while testing their mettle against regional and international rivals.
Quick Facts – Canada Rugby
-
PNC Tournaments Played: 5
-
Best Finish: 2nd (2013)
-
Most Points in a Match: 36 (36-25 vs Tonga, 2013)
-
Biggest Win: 9 points (same match)
-
Kit Colours: Red and White
-
Nickname: Canucks / Les Rouges (unofficial)
-
Playing Style: Direct, physical, no-fuss rugby
Did You Know?
Canada’s first-ever international rugby match was played against Japan in Osaka in 1932.
Current Form & World Ranking
-
World Ranking: 25
-
Recent Form (tests only): L L L L L
PNC 2025 Pool Matches
-
22 August: Canada vs USA – McMahon Stadium, Calgary
-
30 August: Japan vs Canada – Yurtec Stadium, Sendai
Head Coach: Stephen Meehan
Formerly of Bath and Toulon, Meehan took over as Canada’s head coach in December, succeeding Kingsley Jones. This marks his first international appointment, although he brings extensive experience from French Top 14 (Stade Français), Super Rugby (Western Force, Queensland Reds), and Japan’s Top League (Kintetsu).
Meehan’s mission is to introduce a more expansive style to Canadian rugby while keeping the World Cup 2027 as the ultimate goal.
Key Player: Jason Higgins
Irish-born scrum-half Jason Higgins qualifies for Canada through his Montreal-born father. Higgins played in the competitive Munster schools system, followed by Ireland’s AIL before moving to Major League Rugby (MLR) in 2021.
-
Clubs: Toronto Arrows → San Diego Legion → Chicago Hounds
-
International Caps: 22
-
Will likely combine with fly-half Shane O’Leary for a strong midfield partnership during PNC 2025.
Legend: Eddie Evans
Rugby Canada Hall of Famer Eddie Evans earned 50 caps and played in three Rugby World Cups between 1985–1999. He achieved wins over Argentina, France, Scotland, Fiji, England, and Wales, and remains a benchmark for Canadian forwards.
Squad Overview
Meehan has balanced experience with youth, including four uncapped players:
-
Forwards (selected): Callum Botchar, Austin Creighton, Alexandre Janlin, Dewald Kotze, Lucas Rumball
-
Backs (selected): Jason Higgins, Shane O’Leary, Spencer Jones, Kainoa Lloyd, Stephen Webb
Several players missed the pre-tournament training camp in Edmonton, including Evan Olmstead (returning after six years), Tyler Ardron, Andrew Coe, Andrew Quattrin, and Brock Webster.
Coach’s Vision
“We’re building a solid foundation in our efforts to qualify for the Rugby World Cup. We’ve invited a mix of experienced players and new talent, and we’re excited to see what each of them brings.” – Stephen Meehan
What to Watch
Canada’s direct, physical style combined with Meehan’s expansive approach could make them a tough opponent in the Pacific Nations Cup 2025. Fans should keep an eye on Jason Higgins, Shane O’Leary, and rising uncapped talents, as Canada looks to make a statement against regional rivals like USA and Japan.
