NZ will not be represented in PNC

New Zealand will not be represented in this year's IRB Pacific Nations Cup.

Because of budget cuts the New Zealand Rugby Union has decided not to form the Junior All Blacks side this year.

New Zealand sides have won the Pacific Nations Cup every year since it started in 2006.

However the NZRU said they'll be backing the New Zealand Maori this year, which is their centenary year.

The NZRU's Manager of Professional Rugby, Neil Sorenson, said the cut backs are due to the tough financial times.

He said the New Zealand Maori are expected to have an extensive programme this year with a possible match against a top European nation during the June window.

Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and Japan have confirmed their participation again for this year's PNC.