Fans welcome announcement of the return of the Group 9 v Group 20 Kelly Cup

In Short

• Rivalry Reborn: The prestigious Kelly Cup, the representative fixture between Group 9 and Group 20, is officially back on the calendar for February after a four-year absence.
• Grassroots Victory: The return is the direct result of a tireless two-year campaign by the dedicated community group, Battlers For Bush Footy, proving the depth of passion for the game.
• Selection Stakes: The clash will serve as the crucial selection trial for the Riverina's Country Championships team, giving overlooked Group 20 players a massive opportunity to prove they belong.

After four long years of silence, the pride of the Riverina is set to clash once more.

The Kelly Cup, the prestigious representative fixture between rivals Group 9 and Group 20, is officially back on the calendar for February.

This victory belongs to the local battlers. The fixture's return is the direct result of a tireless two-year, grassroots campaign spearheaded by Tallon Smith, founder of Battlers For Bush Footy, proving that passion for rugby league still runs deep across the region.

More than just bragging rights, the February showdown will serve as the crucial selection trial for the Riverina's Country Championships team.

This is being seen as a win players from Group 20, who have felt overlooked in recent years, with only three Razorbacks making the Bulls team this year.

Group 20 coach, Ben Jeffery (of DPC Roosters fame), is fired up and ready to back his local lads.

"Group 9 has been stronger for years, no denying that, but there's a heap of good players out here," Jeffery said in an interview with Smith.

"I truly think if I can get the best 17 available in Group 20, we can win it."

The history books show a tough road for the Razorbacks, who last hoisted the cup back in 2012.

But the players are hungry for a crack at 'Big Brother' Group 9. Veteran Yenda prop Chris Latu says the excitement is palpable.

"A quick pep talk from the old heads would definitely excite the players. We've got young lads making a statement keen to go up against the quality from Group 9," Latu told Smith.

While Group 9 will likely stroll in as heavy favorites, sporting stars like Nathan Rose, James Morgan, and Zac Masters, Group 20 is ready to unleash their own weapons, including the evergreen Jaden Kelly, game-breaker Brad Pocock, and the unstoppable Guy Thompson.

The final location is still up in the air, with a formal announcement due soon.

While sources suggest a Group 9 venue may host the clash, Battlers For Bush Footy is throwing their weight behind Narrandera - the halfway point between Griffith and Wagga Wagga - to make it a true community centrepiece.