Manawatu rugby team is back in the ITM Cup championship final for the second time in four seasons.

Manawatu held off Southland 23-18 in the second semifinal.

Manawatu will host Hawke's Bay in next Friday’s championship final. Hawke’s Bay got a 26‑21 win over Northland last night.

Meanwhile, Taranaki is leading Auckland 27-23 in the first Premiership semifinal.

Tasman will take on Canterbury at 6.05pm in the second semi-final.

Source: Radio New Zealand