NZ’s provincial rugby sponsor ITM has been red carded from next year's series.
The building supplies company began its involvement in 2006, backing the national provincial series and the Heartland championship.
That sponsorship rose to competition‑naming rights in 2010 when the company stepped up as major sponsor after the previous group withdrew.
The ITM Cup, as it became known, started its six‑season schedule. That deal ended this season but the company wanted to renew its sponsorship.
ITM put in a bid but has been told by New Zealand Rugby that it has not been successful.
ITM did not get a chance to match the investment from a new sponsor and has not been given any reason why it was overlooked for the twin provincial series next year.
