Opinion
Do All Blacks get shot of 'sheriff' Cane or take him on tour?
There is an argument for taking the All Blacks Test centurion to Europe but the stakes are high for Scott Robertson
Gregor Paul
01 Oct 2024, 11:26
Contributors
Gregor Paul
Gregor is New Zealand's best-read rugby commentator and analyst having been the voice of the Herald's rugby coverage since 2004. He's also written seven books about rugby and edited NZ Rugby World since 2007.
Opinion
Can New Zealand beat the world's best without Barrett at 10?
Even at 33, Beauden Barrett may be the All Blacks' 'franchise quarterback' through to Rugby World Cup 2027.
Gregor Paul
08 Oct 2024, 15:15
Opinion
The rugby world is concerned about Australia but signs of recovery are palpable
It has been a chastening period for Australian rugby but with a Lions tour next summer and World Cup in the distance, hope abounds
Gregor Paul
15 Oct 2024, 15:09
Opinion
Cautious Robertson 'has to produce wins more than next generation players'
The All Blacks coach's selection policy for their northern tour is in sharp contrast to his predecessors.
Gregor Paul
18 Oct 2024, 15:50
Opinion
Rugby fans are about to find out what Robertson's All Blacks are made of
A rebuilding phase for New Zealand has laid the foundations and it is time to see how robust those building blocks really are
Gregor Paul
30 Oct 2024, 10:55
Opinion
Buoyant England travel to New Zealand full of hope but are they walking into an All Blacks ambush?
There is some hope England can pull off their first victory on New Zealand soil since 2003, but the canny All Blacks lie in wait
Gregor Paul
23 Jun 2024, 15:41
Opinion
'Worst-case scenario' leaves All Blacks short of locks to face England
Injuries and retirements have decimated Scott Robertson's second-row options for his first Tests in charge.
Gregor Paul
11 Jun 2024, 7:52
Analysis
All Blacks pursue offshore stars to bolster experience deficit
Scott Robertson hopes to lure the likes of Richie Mo'unga and Shannon Frizell home to cope with a demanding schedule.
Gregor Paul
31 May 2024, 5:14
Analysis
New Zealand Rugby primed for new civil war with players
Domestic chaos could impact the All Blacks as the RPA threatens to form a new entity outside NZR's authority.
Gregor Paul
23 May 2024, 15:37
Opinion
Why Sam Cane's path to retirement is perfect for him and the All Blacks
The brave, dependable New Zealand backrow will slip away from the Test arena at the end of the year after a stellar career
Gregor Paul
18 May 2024, 2:21
Opinion
The pressure is on Razor to find the next All Blacks No 6
The durability and grunt of Jerome Kaino has proven difficult to replace at blindside for the All Blacks
Gregor Paul
13 May 2024, 8:28
Analysis
Speeded-up Super Rugby Pacific provides blueprint for wider game
New data shows that innovations introduced in 2022 are producing less 'dead time' and a faster product.
Gregor Paul
08 May 2024, 15:36
Opinion
Hiring Rob Penney may be the Crusaders' first major mistake in 30 years
The coach's resume had red flags, yet the franchise seemed set on appointing a man with Cantabrian connections at any price.
Gregor Paul
29 Apr 2024, 10:15
Opinion
Who will be Robertson's choice as All Blacks captain?
New Zealand's new coach may have to take a leap of faith given there is 'no perfect choice' available to him.
Gregor Paul
22 Apr 2024, 11:52
Opinion
All Blacks sabbaticals ‘damage Super Rugby Pacific when it is fighting for survival’
Allowing stars to play elsewhere robs the competition of its biggest names and makes a mockery of NZR’s eligibility policy.
Gregor Paul
19 Apr 2024, 3:48
Opinion
Raw talent McKenzie primed to become next All Blacks No.10
Damian McKenzie is in pole position to become the All Blacks' new playmaker if he can polish up his game-management and decision-m…
Gregor Paul
11 Apr 2024, 10:47
Opinion
New Zealand embraces on-field reforms amid angst over balance sheet
Proposals designed to speed up the game will benefit the All Blacks but a bleak financial position is causing concern.
Gregor Paul
08 Apr 2024, 16:52
Opinion
Why the All Blacks are serious about giving Sam Whitelock one last hurrah
Scott Robertson has put out feelers to one of his most trusted Lieutenants in order to hit the ground running as New Zealand coach
Gregor Paul
27 Mar 2024, 10:22
Opinion
Why NZ rugby is primed for renewed battle with league
With rugby league growing in popularity and power, union bosses are fighting another war with a rival code.
Gregor Paul
20 Mar 2024, 9:40
Opinion
Crusaders won't be contenders without a top-class fly-half
The loss of Richie Mo'unga has dealt the serial Super Rugby champions a grievous blow.
Gregor Paul
14 Mar 2024, 6:43
