(1)  A defendant in an action for the recovery of land who is in possession of the land personally or by tenant is not required to plead title unless –

(a) the defence depends on an equitable estate or right; or

(b) the defendant claims relief on any equitable ground against any right or title asserted by the plaintiff.

(2)  It is a defence for the defendant to state that he or she is in possession of the land.

(3)  A statement that the defendant is in possession of the land is a denial of the allegation of fact contained in the statement of claim.

(4)  A defendant in an action for the recovery of land who is in possession personally or by tenant may rely on any ground of defence.