Tom Vinicombe

Why Aaron Smith had a rusty first half in his 100th All Blacks test

Aaron Smith became just the tenth player to crack 100 tests for the All Blacks in their 33-25 win over the Wallabies on Saturday n…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Aug 2021, 19:54

How Aaron Smith and Sam Whitelock's connection has come full circle

While Aaron Smith may have clocked up his 100th game for the All Blacks on Saturday evening, it was captain Sam Whitelock who led …

Tom Vinicombe

07 Aug 2021, 22:34

Recalled All Black David Havili 'taking steps in the right direction'

Saturday night's battle for the Bledisloe presented the new All Blacks midfield with a second opportunity to build their partnersh…

Tom Vinicombe

08 Aug 2021, 0:01

All Blacks shuffle the backline for Wallabies rematch

Despite securing a 33-25 win last weekend against the Wallabies in their opening Bledisloe Cup match of the season, Ian Foster has…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Aug 2021, 19:44

'It's not TJ's fault': Perenara's fast-track back into the All Blacks

Despite all signs pointing to TJ Perenara enjoying an extended run of matches for Wellington in the NPC ahead of any return to int…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Aug 2021, 23:51

Ian Foster explains the minimal changes to the All Blacks set-up

While there were never any expectations that Ian Foster would make wholesale changes to the All Blacks for this weekend's rematch …

Tom Vinicombe

11 Aug 2021, 23:04

'We talked about it': More nerves for All Black Samisoni Taukei'aho

While Saturday's clash with the Wallabies looms as All Blacks hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho's third test match, it will also mark the…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Aug 2021, 1:11

Sam Whitelock explains the thinking behind McKenzie's monster penalty

While the All Blacks were able to construct a handful of thrilling counter-attacking tries in their 57-22 win over the Wallabies o…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Aug 2021, 19:12

'They said 'Sam Whitelock was huge tonight' and I agree with them'

All Blacks lock Sam Whitelock has gone from strength to strength since taking over as the full-time captain in the absence of the …

Tom Vinicombe

14 Aug 2021, 21:51

Three intercepts in two tests hint at All Blacks' tactical changes

There's a natural inclination to assume that an intercept try is a product of one player making a good read on defence when someti…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Aug 2021, 23:01

The shining light for the Wallabies in record Bledisloe Cup defeat

A 57-22 defeat against the All Blacks is a poor return for the Wallabies but while the team as a whole may have failed to contain …

Tom Vinicombe

15 Aug 2021, 1:10

Where does Rieko Ioane fit in an injury-free All Blacks backline?

One of the biggest movers in the All Blacks' international season to date is wing-cum-centre Rieko Ioane, who was at his destructi…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Aug 2021, 23:15

Exclusive: Sanzaar considering shock Rugby Championship relocation

While the bulk of the Rugby Championship was set to be played in Australia this year due to the ongoing impact of the global pande…

Exclusive

Tom Vinicombe

19 Aug 2021, 3:13

Why Bledisloe I looms as such an important test for Foster's All Blacks

All Blacks coach Ian Foster will, in the final year of his current contract, look to start the season on a high and roll out his t…

Opinion

Tom Vinicombe

04 Aug 2021, 0:10

All Blacks dream not over for Japan-bound Brett Cameron

Brett Cameron's surprise call-up to the All Blacks in 2018 was just the start of his rugby odyssey.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

03 Aug 2021, 20:50

All Blacks release five players for provincial duty ahead of Bledisloe I

While Ian Foster won't reveal his 23 to take on the Wallabies in the opening Bledisloe Cup test of the year until tomorrow, it's a…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Aug 2021, 20:27

Anton Lienert-Brown: 'Not a lot of things ... are going to surprise us'

While the Wallabies may have had the tougher July test schedule, the All Blacks are confident they won't be caught unawares by the…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Aug 2021, 23:26

The Springboks' win over the Lions was a dire promotion for rugby

If the series between the Springboks and the British and Irish Lions is supposed to be the pinnacle of world rugby, the game is in…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Jul 2021, 20:31

Shannon Frizell's 'two-match' ban isn't the punishment it's made out to be

Shannon Frizell won't feature for the All Blacks next weekend when they square off with the Wallabies in the opening Bledisloe Cup…

Exclusive

Tom Vinicombe

29 Jul 2021, 2:24

One-sided World Cup qualifiers highlight World Rugby's hypocrisy

World Rugby's obsession remains with forcing lower-ranked sides to face off in World Cup qualifiers when the outcomes are almost g…

Exclusive

Tom Vinicombe

24 Jul 2021, 20:13

Springboks set to reinforce Japan-led approach to optimum performance

In 2019, ahead of the first World Cup held outside of the traditional rugby nations, Japan took a unique approach to preparing for…

Exclusive

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jul 2021, 0:08

Springboks sealed their own fate with questionable use of bench

Hindsight is a wonderful thing but the Springboks' uninspired final quarter in their 22-17 loss to the British and Irish Lions sho…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jul 2021, 1:00

Bay of Plenty unveil star-studded, recruitment-heavy squad for NPC

Former Bay of Plenty coach Clayton McMillan made it clear a few years ago that the best way to ensure continued success at provinc…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Jul 2021, 20:17

North Harbour recruit former All Blacks trainee, lose capped flanker

North Harbour will likely be without one of their star players for the length of the upcoming NPC season - but they've brought in …

Tom Vinicombe

22 Jul 2021, 18:49

The All Blacks selection that's hardest to wrap your head around

Ahead of Ian Foster unveiling the latest All Blacks squad of the year to contest the Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship, it was …

Tom Vinicombe

21 Jul 2021, 20:06

Marika Koroibete's rescinded red card a lesson for World Rugby

World Rugby need to seriously rethink 20-minute red cards.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

20 Jul 2021, 18:56

Reintroduction of TJ Perenara one challenge of many for All Blacks

On Monday morning, Ian Foster will name a 36-man squad for the All Blacks' upcoming matches, including their first Bledisloe Cup c…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Jul 2021, 0:46

'Outstanding' showing from rookie All Blacks rake raises questions

With Ian Foster set to name a tweaked squad for the All Blacks' upcoming matches against Australia, South Africa and Argentina, Sa…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Jul 2021, 19:45

All Blacks confirm likely return date for captain Sam Cane

All Blacks captain Sam Cane was one of a number of senior players to find themselves sidelined by injury during the highly attriti…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Jul 2021, 23:05

'Probably looking to run around him rather than through him'

For the second time this year - and the second time since he first made the step up to test rugby last season - Will Jordan has be…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jul 2021, 22:54

'I'd give Richie the points': State of All Blacks' No 10 battle

In what could be an indication of who the All Blacks see as their first-choice No 10, Richie Mo'unga has been given the nod to sta…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jul 2021, 21:54

The era of Ardie Savea has arrived

With Sam Cane set to spend plenty of time on the sidelines, Ardie Savea needs to make a statement.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jul 2021, 20:45

Why three Chiefs won't feature for the All Blacks this weekend

The All Blacks have made a host of changes for this weekend's rematch with Fiji, helping to spread the workload across the whole s…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jul 2021, 20:24

All Blacks bring in experienced reinforcements for Fiji clash

Ian Foster has made a handful of changes ahead of the All Blacks' second test against Fiji this weekend, re-introducing some key p…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jul 2021, 19:37

Japan's progress must not cost the Pacific nations

The Rugby Championship can't simply keep absorbing new teams when they reach tier-one status.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

13 Jul 2021, 22:51

'I was warned': How Beauden Barrett earned himself two black eyes

One of the more unusual sights to emerge out of All Blacks training this week was first five-eighth Beauden Barrett sporting two r…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Jul 2021, 23:55

'We're after specialists': Foster issues challenge to David Havili

After what's felt like a lifetime of knocking on the All Blacks selection door, David Havili has finally earned himself a recall t…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Jul 2021, 22:17

'I thought it was pretty bad': The final hit that floored Otere Black

Departing Blues playmaker Otere Black was able to call time on his career with the Super Rugby franchise by guiding them to a Tran…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Jul 2021, 0:29

Maori All Blacks MVP's roadblock to earning higher honours

While one Chiefs midfielder was making his debut for the All Blacks on Saturday, it was another's performance in the curtain-raise…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Jul 2021, 0:19

All Blacks surprise with two new midfield options

Many fans expected to get a look at one new midfield option for the All Blacks on Saturday night. Few realised they'd get a glance…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jul 2021, 0:45

Toutai Kefu explains the 'quick fix' to make Tonga more competitive

While 102-0 doesn't make for pretty reading, Tonga's sizeable loss at the hands of the All Blacks on Saturday night was the expect…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Jul 2021, 22:35

Former All Blacks squad member set for lengthy stint on sidelines

One of the unlucky men to miss out on All Blacks selection in the squad for the coming tests in July won't have any further opport…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Jul 2021, 20:21

'He'll be pretty pumped up to take a few of our heads off'

Hooker Dane Coles has shut down any chatter concerning the relative strength of the Tongan side named to take on the All Blacks on…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Jul 2021, 1:27

Quinn Tupaea one of four new debutants for All Blacks in clash with Tonga

Ian Foster has named four new debutants for the All Blacks' opening game of 2021 against Tonga in Auckland.

Tom Vinicombe

30 Jun 2021, 19:42

Damian McKenzie at a career crossroads

A stint overseas, no matter how short, could spell an end to Damian McKenzie's All Blacks hopes.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

27 Jun 2021, 18:37

The best of the rest: New Zealand's incredible depth on display in second-tier All Blacks XV

Last year, NZR unveiled a new second-tier team that was set to tour North America in the latter stages of the test calendar. If su…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Jun 2021, 22:32

'It was a lot nicer sitting up in the stands': McMillan not too hung up on Maori All Blacks' missed opportunities

The Maori All Blacks may have managed a 25-point win over Manu Samoa on Saturday night, but there were plenty of opportunities lef…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Jun 2021, 23:05

'That's part of the reason why some of us play': The big change coming for the Maori All Blacks next weekend

While the All Blacks may have secured a 35-10 victory over Samoa on Saturday night, captain Ash Dixon wasn't entirely happy with h…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Jun 2021, 20:30

'Maybe I'll have to start practising my long punt': All Blacks star's take on new law changes

For most Super Rugby players, newly adopted law changes won't cause too many issues for the upcoming test season - but they will r…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Jun 2021, 23:49

Recalled All Black David Havili's commitment to being a 'fulltime midfielder'

It's taken a positional change and a run of injury-free rugby, but David Havili has finally fought his way back into the All Black…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Jun 2021, 23:02

All Blacks defence coach Scott McLeod provides update on injured trio, who could fill in at centre

Shannon Frizell and Ardie Savea, who entered the All Blacks camp under injury clouds, could potentially suit up in black next Satu…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Jun 2021, 22:29

All Blacks camp suffers first casualty as already depleted midfield stocks take a further blow

The All Blacks were already digging deep into the nation's midfield stocks thanks to a season-ending injury suffered by Jack Goodh…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Jun 2021, 18:06

'You can often get consumed with things that are out of your control': The philosophy of Maori All Blacks coach Clayton McMillan

The global pandemic continues to throw spanners in the works for professional sport with the Maori All Blacks' game against Manu S…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jun 2021, 22:41

'I'm ready': Tonga and Fiji beware, Brodie Retallick is back

After a one-year absence from test rugby, Brodie Retallick is again set to wear black when New Zealand take on Tonga and Fiji in t…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jun 2021, 19:07

All Blacks exclusion could be the making of Cullen Grace

Paradoxically, being dropped by the All Blacks could kick-start the career of 21-year-old Cullen Grace.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jun 2021, 18:36

Highlanders confirm departure of international star and three other stalwarts

The Highlanders have announced that four players from their 2021 squad have played their finals games for the team.

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jun 2021, 1:35

Certainties, probables, possibles and wild cards: Who will Ian Foster name in the first All Blacks squad of the year?

Ian Foster will name the first All Blacks squad of 2021 on Monday evening. Who will be the lucky men who received the call-up, and…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Jun 2021, 0:31

Highlanders captain Ash Dixon feared the worst after high tackle on Blues pivot Otere Black

Highlanders co-captain Ash Dixon wasn't feeling optimistic after his high tackle on Blues pivot Otere Black in the Super Rugby Tra…

Tom Vinicombe

19 Jun 2021, 22:50

Zarn Sullivan's breakout campaign with the Blues finishes with a flourish as the young fullback draws Beauden Barrett comparisons

Before the Super Rugby Aotearoa season kicked off, many fans were curious how Blues coach Leon MacDonald would utilise new utility…

Tom Vinicombe

19 Jun 2021, 20:46

First five Otere Black one of four players to part ways with the Blues following Super Rugby Trans-Tasman win

Four long-term stalwarts of the Blues have finished their careers with the Auckland franchise following Saturday night's 23-15 win…

Tom Vinicombe

19 Jun 2021, 19:35

The new propping blood gunning for All Blacks selection

The All Blacks will look to rejuvenate their front-row in 2021. Which men are due a call-up?

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

17 Jun 2021, 21:50

Report: New Zealand's unluckiest player heading to Japan

The never-ending depth of New Zealand rugby has apparently claimed another casualty, with one of the nation's most talented player…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Jun 2021, 2:36

All Blacks to be without both first-choice props for July tests

Having already lost first-choice loosehead prop Joe Moody to a plantar fascia injury, the All Blacks will now have to also cope wi…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Jun 2021, 4:31

The newest member of the Maori All Blacks' sudden rise from club rugby loose forward to international prop

It wasn't long ago that new Maori All Blacks recruit Ollie Norris made a decision that changed the trajectory of his career.

Tom Vinicombe

17 Jun 2021, 0:24

Jona Nareki and Pari Pari Parkinson fit for action as Highlanders name team for Super Rugby Trans-Tasman final

For the first time this season, the Highlanders have named an unchanged lineup and the southerners will enter the Super Rugby Tran…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Jun 2021, 20:55

'It wasn't a relief at all': Blues coach Leon MacDonald takes no pleasure in Crusaders' final miss

The Blues will play in their first Super Rugby final in 17 years next weekend when they take on the Highlanders in the Trans-Tasma…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Jun 2021, 23:13

Super Rugby debutant XV: New Zealand's best movers and shakers of 2021

Over 30 New Zealand players made their Super Rugby debuts in 2021. Across the nation, which of this year's newbies had the biggest…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Jun 2021, 20:34

Anton Lienert-Brown unlikely to take the field against Waratahs

Anton Lienert-Brown has shouldered a heavy load for the Chiefs this year, featuring in all but one match for the Super Rugby Aotea…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Jun 2021, 19:10

A crammed roster means ones of the Chiefs' best performers could be on the market for a new team

With only 38 spots on the roster for next year, not all of the Chiefs' 46 representatives from 2021 will have the opportunity to p…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Jun 2021, 22:06

Departing Chiefs coach shares a moment with Anton Lienert-Brown ahead of final match: 'F***, I'm already losing it'

With Chiefs forwards coach Neil Barnes heading off to coach Taranaki after the completion of Super Rugby Trans-Tasman, Sunday nigh…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Jun 2021, 20:43

Brad Weber back to lead Chiefs in final match under Clayton McMillan's tenure as head coach

All Blacks halfback Brad Weber will be back running operations at the base of the ruck on Saturday evening when the Chiefs take on…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Jun 2021, 2:00

Crusaders swap one promising loose forward for another as Rebels clash looms

Such is the depth the Crusaders have at their disposal that the loss of an All Blacks loose forward shouldn't considerably weaken …

Tom Vinicombe

10 Jun 2021, 0:53

'Shucks, I've signed a five-year contract over in Europe': Ardie Savea jokes about undecided future plans

Ardie Savea is off-contract with New Zealand Rugby at the end of the year and the powers that be will be trying desperately to ens…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Jun 2021, 23:31

Hoskins Sotutu returns as one of three All Blacks tweaks to Blues forward pack

Blues coach Leon MacDonald has named a settled team for his side's final regular-season match of Super Rugby Trans-Tasman against …

Tom Vinicombe

09 Jun 2021, 22:18

Ngani Laumape's biggest loss to New Zealand rugby won't be on the field

The All Blacks will go on without Ngani Laumape, but the 28-year-old's candid responses won't be replaced so easily, and that migh…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Jun 2021, 0:32

'I offer something in the midfield that no other midfielder can offer': Ngani Laumape parting shot hits the mark ahead of farewell match

Ahead of Ngani Laumape's final home game with the Hurricanes, the All Blacks midfielder was exceptionally candid when speaking to …

Tom Vinicombe

08 Jun 2021, 21:41

'That's been taken away': The overlooked consequence of shifting the Chiefs' final home game of the year to Sydney

It's not been a great year for Chiefs fans in Hamilton and the news earlier this week that the team's final home game of the year …

Tom Vinicombe

05 Jun 2021, 19:47

'There's no doubt about it': Clayton McMillan makes confident prediction about his new captain

Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan expects plenty from Luke Jacobson after naming the two-test All Black as his captain for the si…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jun 2021, 22:34

Half's time

Promising Chiefs halfback Xavier Roe has finally earned himself a start after an exceptional provincial season.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jun 2021, 5:48

Chiefs bench Brad Weber and promote young halfback for Sydney 'home' game

The Chiefs have made seven changes to the starting lineup for their upcoming match against the Rebels in Sydney, including promoti…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jun 2021, 2:00

Loose ideas

An injury to Shannon Frizell has possibly made the loose forwards selection picture clearer for the All Blacks.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

03 Jun 2021, 22:28

'It's important you don't go over there and overplay': Jason Holland backing rookie first five to lead the Hurricanes to victory

While the Hurricanes have had to deal with their fair share of injury issues this year, they've got a relatively clean bill of hea…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Jun 2021, 23:52

'I can get Browny in the elevator or down the corridor and he can't walk the other way': Why tours are a welcome return for Super Rugby

While two and three-week international tours have been off the menu for Super Rugby since the global pandemic cut short last year'…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Jun 2021, 19:01

'We won with him and we lost with him and we crack on': Old conundrum facing the McKenzie-less Chiefs

After ostensibly settling on Damian McKenzie as their first-choice No 10, the Chiefs have to go back to the drawing board for the …

Tom Vinicombe

01 Jun 2021, 22:33

Who will wear the coveted No 11 jersey when the All Blacks kick off their international campaign?

Heading into the 2021 test season, it's anyone's guess who will slot in on the left wing, with Caleb Clarke putting his career on …

Tom Vinicombe

31 May 2021, 20:26

'Conversations off the field are still the same': The unique connection between Samoa's head coach and most experienced player

Experienced Manu Samoa flanker Jack Lam and new coach Seilala Mapusua share a special connection that's not all too common in the …

Tom Vinicombe

30 May 2021, 0:56

Red mist

The Reds' 40-34 win over the Chiefs breathes new life into a competition that was quickly becoming stale.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

29 May 2021, 22:11

'There are people coming together from all different parts of the world': Samoa coach Seilala Mapusua facing new challenge head-on

With players featuring in competitions around the globe, the Pacific Island sides always face the challenging task of trying to br…

Tom Vinicombe

28 May 2021, 0:30

'It's a constant thing for us': Why the Hurricanes aren't worried about a little bit of niggle

Western Force second-rower Jeremy Thrush laid down the gauntlet last week when he revealed he was going to try "piss a few people …

Tom Vinicombe

27 May 2021, 22:03

All Blacks props return to action as Chiefs eye up former bogey-team Reds

The Chiefs are finally starting to get back some of their forward artillery as they enter the final month of their 2021 campaign.

Tom Vinicombe

27 May 2021, 2:38

'It's a bit overdue': Jason Holland explains the return of Hurricanes half-centurion and sheds light on Jordie Barrett conundrum

There is one player in the Hurricanes that's so integral to the team's success, they simply can't afford to be rested.

Tom Vinicombe

27 May 2021, 0:01

An inexperienced All Blacks XV shows the unprecedented depth of New Zealand rugby in 2021

The gruelling test match intensity of Super Rugby Aotearoa claimed some casualties but it's also prepared the next generation of t…

Tom Vinicombe

22 May 2021, 23:45

Luke Jacobson hitting all the right notes for All Blacks recall but Chiefs coach still has one frustration

Luke Jacobson must have one hand on an All Blacks jersey after another statement performance for the Chiefs in Hamilton on Saturda…

Tom Vinicombe

22 May 2021, 20:39

'When they overplay, it's as a consequence of other players in the side encouraging them to do so': Coach's take on Damian McKenzie's growth at No 10

One of the biggest positives to come out of the Chiefs' victory over the Brumbies on Saturday - for both the team itself and New Z…

Tom Vinicombe

22 May 2021, 22:11

Chiefs' ever-improving locking depth set for huge boost once Brodie Retallick returns to the fold

'Chiefs' and 'locking crisis' are two phrases that seem destined to intertwine throughout the rest of time but the last two years …

Tom Vinicombe

22 May 2021, 21:05

A rock and a hard place

There's no obvious solution to fix Super Rugby Trans-Tasman moving forward.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

22 May 2021, 20:24

Return of travel factor forces Super Rugby Trans-Tasman change-up

While the travel involved in Super Rugby Trans-Tasman pales in comparison to what teams had to undertake in the old Super Rugby co…

Tom Vinicombe

20 May 2021, 23:49

'You always like going up against the best': Brad Weber's one disappointment heading into clash with Super Rugby AU finalists

Chiefs captain Brad Weber knows his side are in for a major challenge at Waikato Stadium on Saturday evening, there's one Brumbies…

Tom Vinicombe

20 May 2021, 23:00

All Blacks prop Atu Moli set for first Chiefs appearance of the year while Liam Messam promoted to start

It's been over a year since Atu Moli last ran out for a game of professional rugby but the talented prop is finally set for some m…

Tom Vinicombe

20 May 2021, 0:34

'It's been frustrating for the players and it's been frustrating for the coaches'

Despite injuries taking their usual toll on the Chiefs, head coach Clayton McMillan has typically refrained from making too many c…

Tom Vinicombe

20 May 2021, 1:02

Shifting tides

Samoa haven't played a test match since 2019 but there's plenty to look forward to for the island nation.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

20 May 2021, 1:00

'He's towelled up a few guys at training': Returning All Black ready for major set-piece battle

New Zealand's propping stocks have just received a huge boost with Atu Moli back on deck for the Chiefs this weekend.

Tom Vinicombe

19 May 2021, 23:55

Running before walking

Bonus points could decide the Trans-Tasman finalists but shouldn't be chased at the expense of a win.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

18 May 2021, 18:48

Damian McKenzie takes over at No 10 as Chiefs prepare for first Western Force encounter in over four years

It's been four years since the Chiefs and Western Force last squared off and while the Australian side have undergone a significan…

Tom Vinicombe

13 May 2021, 0:34

Where the Chiefs lost the Aotearoa final and need to improve if they hope to knock off the Crusaders in their potential Trans-Tasman rematch

At the end of five regular rounds of Trans-Tasman rugby, the top two sides will clash to decide the overall champion. That could m…

Tom Vinicombe

09 May 2021, 0:13

Dynamic duo

The Crusaders had one All Blacks midfield combo before the season started. They've unearthed another.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

08 May 2021, 18:18

Rising son

Isaac Lucas is a once in a generation Australian talent currently making waves in Japan.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

07 May 2021, 18:13

'I don't think there's any pressure on us whatsoever': The big advantage the Chiefs take into the Super Rugby Aotearoa final

The Chiefs may have form on their side heading into Saturday's Super Rugby Aotearoa grand final, but with everyone expecting a win…

Tom Vinicombe

06 May 2021, 22:59

'Bryn played better': How the Chiefs decided on their playmaking combo for their grand final showdown with the Crusaders

The last time that the Chiefs played the Crusaders, coach Clayton McMillan made the somewhat surprising call to start pocket-rocke…

Tom Vinicombe

06 May 2021, 23:43

Luke Jacobson returns for Chiefs while top performers from Blues battle rewarded with grand final berths

The Chiefs coaches have stuck to their word, rewarding two of the most impressive performers in last weekend's dead-rubber loss to…

Tom Vinicombe

06 May 2021, 0:31

Braydon Ennor to make Crusaders return in Super Rugby Aotearoa final

In somewhat of a shock selection, coach Scott Robertson has brought Braydon Ennor into the Crusaders side for their Super Rugby Ao…

Tom Vinicombe

05 May 2021, 22:02

'We aren't going to get a break': How a cruel quirk of the draw has forced massive changes to the Chiefs

Clayton McMillan has made twenty positional changes to the Chiefs' match-day team for this evening's clash from the Blues. It's a …

Tom Vinicombe

30 Apr 2021, 19:36

Pablo Matera to make Super Rugby return with champion Crusaders

In a somewhat surprise announcement on Friday afternoon, the Crusaders have confirmed that Argentina captain Pablo Matera has sign…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Apr 2021, 23:56

How the new golden-point law ruined what could have been a thrilling final round of Super Rugby Aotearoa

Super Rugby Aotearoa's new golden point rule introduced at the start of the 2020 competition was supposed to generate more excitem…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Apr 2021, 20:29

'You're preparing for 80-minute and 85-minute games': Why Super Rugby Aotearoa has been such a mental challenge

The rugby has been thrilling but the injury toll has been high - and even for the players who are still left standing after nine r…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Apr 2021, 19:46

Nehe Milner-Skudder to wear No 15 as Highlanders lose All Black to injury

It's not the worst-case scenario for a team when one international representative can step into fill the void left by another - bu…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Apr 2021, 2:56

Chiefs make wholesale changes to match-day squad, name six debutants for Blues dead rubber

Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan is taking this weekend's clash with the Blues as an opportunity to freshen up his squad ahead of nex…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Apr 2021, 0:30

Hurricanes flanker Du'Plessis Kirifi opens up on 'rough start to the season'

Having fought his way into the All Blacks squad last year, 2021 was shaping up as a massive season in the career of Du'Plessis Kir…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Apr 2021, 21:36

'We're losing two guys a week': All Blacks hopeful out for the season as Highlanders hit by another injury

If ever there were a perfect representation of how brutal Super Rugby Aotearoa has been this year, it's the Highlanders' ever-incr…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Apr 2021, 20:22

Slog or sidelines

There's no middle ground in Super Rugby Aotearoa this year - if you're not a seasoned pro, you're left right out.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

27 Apr 2021, 17:46

Split loyalties may yet play a part with key All Blacks off-contract beyond 2021

While there are few players in recent years who NZR have lost overseas that they would have dearly loved to have kept in NZ, palms…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Apr 2021, 23:21

McMillan hints that Damian McKenzie is set for a Super Rugby rest

Week after week, Super Rugby clubs are having to field their top teams, knowing that every match could be the one that decides the…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Apr 2021, 3:05

'We've probably been lucky': Why the fast-finishing Chiefs can't write off the fifth-placed Hurricanes

Friday night's Super Rugby Aotearoa match in Hamilton will see the second-placed Chiefs take on the visiting Hurricanes, who are w…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Apr 2021, 0:45

Damian McKenzie's positional merry-go-round continues as Chiefs lose All Black to concussion

Damian McKenzie has been shifted once more as the Chiefs chase their fifth win on the trot, with the pocket rocket slotting back i…

Tom Vinicombe

21 Apr 2021, 0:31

Ruben Love retained at No 10 as Hurricanes name one debutant for Chiefs battle

Rookie first five Ruben Love will again be tasked with wearing the No 10 jersey for the Hurricanes this weekend against the high-f…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Apr 2021, 22:10

Chiefs bring in star Under 20s centre as injury replacement

While the Chiefs haven't been hit quite as cataclysmically hard by injuries this season as they were in 2020, they've not escaped …

Tom Vinicombe

20 Apr 2021, 20:48

'How do we know that Warren's not involved?': How the Chiefs have bounced back from their horror season

In the space of a month, Clayton McMillan has taken the Chiefs from an 11-match losing streak to within sniffing distance of a spo…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Apr 2021, 1:22

'They left a bit of cattle at home': Chiefs captain Brad Weber not getting carried away following Crusaders victory

Chiefs captain Brad Weber isn't getting carried away following his side's victory over the table-topping Crusaders on Saturday eve…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Apr 2021, 22:34

Consistent Samisoni Taukei'aho's performance against the Crusaders puts him right in the All Blacks frame

It wasn't too long ago that Chiefs supporters used to hold their breath whenever hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho had the ball in his ha…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Apr 2021, 19:41

That winning feeling

After a torrid year, the Chiefs have finally rediscovered the lost art of winning.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

17 Apr 2021, 19:23

Rise from the ashes

NZ were once unstoppable at Under 20s level but the landscape has changed over the last decade.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

15 Apr 2021, 19:41

Chiefs shift Damian McKenzie for Crusaders clash while Lachlan Boshier makes first appearance for the year

Clayton McMillan has made four changes to his starting Chiefs side for their clash in Hamilton with the table-topping Crusaders, i…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Apr 2021, 0:48

David Havili's form in the Crusaders midfield has made him impossible for Ian Foster to ignore

David Havili has been banging on the All Blacks door for a few years now. Ironically, it could be that his move away from his favo…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Apr 2021, 23:58

New eligibility laws could prevent Folau Fakatava from playing for the All Blacks upon return from injury

Folau Fakatava's ACL injury suffered in the Highlanders' loss to the Chiefs was a blow to the in-form halfback, but it could have …

Tom Vinicombe

13 Apr 2021, 0:59

'I give you guys too much credit!': Crusaders halfback shuts down suggestions of sneaky drop goal ploy in extra-time win

Speaking on the latest episode of the Aotearoa Rugby Pod, halfback Bryn Hall has discussed what extra-time was like for his Crusad…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Apr 2021, 18:10

'He's got energy, he's got an excitement factor, he's got pace': Why the Hurricanes' teenage pivot could cause havoc for the Crusaders

New Hurricanes first five Ruben Love will have a mission on his hands on Sunday afternoon, lining up against on-form All Black Ric…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Apr 2021, 19:51

Advantage over

Quirks of the law were brought to fore in the Chiefs' golden-point win over the Highlanders.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

10 Apr 2021, 19:40

New Under 20s competition shows Blues still struggling to hold onto talent while Crusaders amp up recruitment drive

The unveiling of the squads for the upcoming Super Rugby Aotearoa Under 20s competition has highlighted that the Blues still strug…

Tom Vinicombe

08 Apr 2021, 23:38

Pain, pleasure and patience

Pari Pari Parkinson, one of the most promising physical specimens in New Zealand rugby, is back.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

08 Apr 2021, 19:40

Blues release two future stars for Super Rugby Aotearoa Under 20s competition

The bye week has come at the perfect time, as far as two of the Blues' most promising young stars will be concerned.

Tom Vinicombe

07 Apr 2021, 21:42

Bubble and squeak

A Trans-Tasman Super competition has just gone from doubtful to highly likely. That's good news for everyone.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

06 Apr 2021, 22:46

'He's got so much more to give in that All Blacks jersey': Why Ngani Laumape's rumoured move to France is hopefully nothing more

Reports out of France earlier this week suggested that All Blacks and Hurricanes midfielder Ngani Laumape could be on the verge of…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Apr 2021, 19:33

Chiefs first for fit-again Lachlan Boshier but could he fill Sam Cane's spot in the All Blacks?

While the Chiefs may have lost Sam Cane for the remainder of the Super Rugby Aotearoa season, the return of one of last year's sta…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Apr 2021, 22:41

Why Sam Cane's injury could be a blessing in disguise for the All Blacks

Sam Cane won't feature again in Super Rugby Aotearoa this year and while he'll prove difficult for the Chiefs to replace, it's his…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Apr 2021, 20:32

Why George Bridge has been handed an uncustomary start in the No 14 jersey

Having bided his time on the sidelines, George Bridge is finally ready for a run with the Crusaders and will make his return to fi…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Mar 2021, 23:05

'His performances and desire to get back in there has led to them being better and better each week': Why the All Blacks loose forward race remains wide open

It wouldn't be unfair to suggest that New Zealand has never had a greater trove of talented loose forwards lining up for selection…

Tom Vinicombe

30 Mar 2021, 23:25

'Because the All Blacks skipper's in the 7, you can fall and be forgotten': Under-the-radar Blues flanker pushing for a more prominent All Blacks role

When Richie McCaw wore No 7 for the All Blacks, there were other openside flankers around New Zealand playing out of their skin we…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Mar 2021, 19:20

George Bridge returns for Crusaders in first appearance since opening Bledisloe Cup test of 2021

All Black George Bridge will make his first appearance of the season, having been named to start on the wing for the Crusaders in …

Tom Vinicombe

30 Mar 2021, 23:00

Why Clayton McMillan has resisted the urge to shift Damian McKenzie to No 10

There were numerous calls for Clayton McMillan to shift Damian McKenzie from fullback into the No 10 jersey for this week's match …

Tom Vinicombe

25 Mar 2021, 0:04

'He's going to be someone special': The potentially game-changing selection that could chart the Hurricanes' future

The return of Dane Coles to the Hurricanes for Round 5 of Super Rugby Aotearoa has perhaps overshadowed another selection decision…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Mar 2021, 21:20

'For Richie, there's a specific game plan that works': Why the All Blacks haven't seen the best of Richie Mo'unga

Despite his impressive showings for the Crusaders, Richie Mo'unga has never replicated that form at test rugby level. Could a chan…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Mar 2021, 23:33

Kurt Eklund handed ban for late-game wrestling flip on Sevu Reece

While there'll be some vindication that Blues replacement hooker Kurt Eklund has been handed a ban for an illegal tackle on Crusad…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Mar 2021, 19:32

'Even their class moments in the first half, he was at 10': The case for shifting Damian McKenzie to first receiver

Aotearoa Rugby Pod panellists James Parsons and Bryn Hall are undecided on whether Damian McKenzie should be named at No 10 for t…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Mar 2021, 19:10

Chiefs player ratings vs Hurricanes | Super Rugby Aotearoa

The Chiefs have mounted a massive comeback to break their 11-match losing streak and bested the Hurricanes 35-29 in Wellington. Wh…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Mar 2021, 4:29

Blue blooded

Joe Rokocoko's soft spot for the Crusaders vanished when they beat his beloved Blues in the 1998 Super 12 final.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

18 Mar 2021, 19:27

'I hope he goes well - just not really well': Clayton McMillan's expectations for new Hurricanes pivot

Clayton McMillan won't have been surprised to see former Chief Orbyn Leger named at No 10 for the Hurricanes on Thursday afternoon…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Mar 2021, 0:51

League of his own

Leicester Fainga’anuku is setting Super Rugby Aotearoa alight. But he’s ambivalent about how his career develops.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

14 Mar 2021, 20:09

Crusaders player ratings vs Chiefs | Super Rugby Aotearoa

While it was close in the early stages, the Crusaders showed their class in the second half of their battles with the Chiefs and o…

Tom Vinicombe

13 Mar 2021, 4:33

Asafo Aumua retains No 2 jersey as Hurricanes make five changes for Crusaders battle

Jason Holland has made five changes to the Hurricanes' starting XV for their Round 2 clash with the Crusaders this weekend but top…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Mar 2021, 22:48

Big shoes to fill: How Pita Gus Sowakula's absence has forced a reshaping of the Chiefs forward pack

While Finau will run out wearing the No 6 jersey against the Highlanders on Friday, it seems that the man who he’s really steppi…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Mar 2021, 22:25

Generation X

A new crop of Kiwi 10s are set to make names for themselves in Super Rugby Aotearoa.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

03 Mar 2021, 16:26

Plans for Damian McKenzie revealed as injury-hit Chiefs named for first clash of 2021

As has become a Super Rugby tradition, the Chiefs will kick their new campaign off with a sizeable injury list when they welcome t…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Mar 2021, 18:26

What does New Zealand's greatest-ever halfback's new contract mean for Folau Fakatava?

Aaron Smith's re-signing with New Zealand Rugby will be applauded by all and sundry - and rightly so. How will it impact the natio…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Mar 2021, 19:10

Has Asafo Aumua's freakish performance blocked Dane Coles' return to the Hurricanes starting lineup?

If Dane Coles does call time on his Hurricanes and All Blacks career at the end of the season, as he's previously hinted, then he …

Tom Vinicombe

27 Feb 2021, 21:30

Auditions begin for replacing New Zealand's 'biggest grub' - and first-choice hooker

While Dane Coles hasn't explicitly called said that 2021 will be his final season playing professional rugby, he also hasn't ruled…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Feb 2021, 23:05

The Hurricanes aren't just replacing TJ Perenara as a halfback, but as a No 10

So talented a player is TJ Perenara that the halfback was often called upon throughout last year's competition to shift into the N…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Feb 2021, 22:48

One notable All Black absent from the front row while Hurricanes also make surprise call in the loose forwards

Coach Jason Holland has sprung a surprise for the Hurricanes' opening match of the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa season, in what will …

Tom Vinicombe

24 Feb 2021, 19:59

High-speed half-life

The Hurricanes struggled to replace Beauden Barrett in 2020. How will they fair without TJ Perenara in 2021?

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

24 Feb 2021, 14:55

Pre-season plug or left-field fix? Why Damian McKenzie's move to 10 could be a masterstroke

Damian McKenzie is a natural fullback - that was confirmed a long time ago - but could a shift to first five allow the Chiefs to a…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Feb 2021, 17:01

Surprise positional switch for All Black Damian McKenzie in Chiefs' Super Rugby Aotearoa warm-up match

Utility back Damian McKenzie has been named to start in the Chiefs' final warm-up of the year - but not in his usual fullback posi…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Feb 2021, 19:07

Introducing the Chiefs' latest No 10 prodigy that spent five years playing First XV rugby

At 20 years of age, Rivez Reihana may look like a boy amongst men when he runs onto the park for the Chiefs. It won't take long fo…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Feb 2021, 17:01

Red and black and black and blue

After a year blighted by injury, Quinten Strange is ready to reaffirm his place in the pecking order.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

09 Feb 2021, 22:32

Merit or geography? NZR seek input from fans on future of provincial competition

For the second time in the space of a year, New Zealand Rugby have sought input from fans concerning the future of the game.

Tom Vinicombe

08 Feb 2021, 18:34

For all the tough things Scotland did right, the stupid errors will have Gregor Townsend quietly fuming

Scotland's first win over England at Twickenham since 1983 is reason for celebration but when Gregor Townsend and his troops re-gr…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Feb 2021, 21:04

Final push

Rugged All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick is eyeing the 2023 World Cup as his international swansong.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

08 Feb 2021, 13:18

Report: When France hope to play the All Blacks at RWC 2023

While the pool reveal for the 2023 Rugby World Cup was met with reservations due to the similarities between it and previous years…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Feb 2021, 16:35

Cracking the code

History shows Roger Tuivasa-Sheck's high-profile move from league to union will not be an easy task.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

30 Jan 2021, 23:11

Chiefs confirm signing of Canterbury midfielder following James O'Connor nix

When the Chiefs announced their squad for the 2021 Super Rugby season, they left space in their roster for one additional player. …

Tom Vinicombe

28 Jan 2021, 19:23

Do NZR and RA have back-up plans if Super Rugby Trans-Tasman is put on ice due to travel restrictions?

When Super Rugby Trans-Tasman was first announced in November, six months felt like a long time to have to wait for New Zealand's …

Tom Vinicombe

27 Jan 2021, 23:21

Unburdened and unbowed

Liam Squire sets the record straight on the media storm that was his 2019 season.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jan 2021, 16:41

'The injuries I had, people think of them as career-ending': All Blacks Sevens' new recruit spent 18 months on the sidelines

In 2018, having undergone his fourth major surgery in a little over a year, Moses Leo could have been forgiven for turning his bac…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jan 2021, 23:23

Pre-season power rankings: Why Jordie Barrett is the top fullback in Super Rugby

Ahead of the Super Rugby season, a quintet of RugbyPass' Southern Hemisphere-based writers have attempted to rank the top fullback…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Jan 2021, 21:01

The Top League teams with Super Rugby-level firepower - and why they must feature in the 'South Pacific Championship'

The NZ, Australian and Pacific Super Rugby replacement might not incorporate any teams from Asia, but a number of the Japanese sid…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Jan 2021, 23:20

'My body's never felt better': Former All Black Andy Ellis charts course for rugby's new frontier

Andy Ellis called time on his New Zealand career over half a decade ago, but the former Crusaders and Canterbury halfback is still…

Tom Vinicombe

13 Jan 2021, 22:44

Top League season on the brink, could lead to influx of players to New Zealand, Australia

The 2020 Top League was called to a halt after just six rounds of completed matches last year, with the season terminated due to t…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Jan 2021, 19:31

Fullback gambit

The All Blacks' dual-playmaker strategy requires a demanding skillset from NZ fullbacks.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

11 Jan 2021, 19:41

Warren Gatland's sticky situation: where to for the Kiwi coach if the Lions tour is canned?

The possible postponement of the 2021 British and Irish Lions Tour could create a sticky situation for Warren Gatland and the Chie…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Jan 2021, 21:26

'At least my player rating is good': Joe Rokocoko's take on arguably his crowning rugby achievement

There are some accomplishments in the world of professional rugby that only a minority of players are ever able to achieve. There'…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Jan 2021, 23:11

Annus mirabilis

He started the year a hopeful sevens player but Caleb Clarke ended 2020 as a global superstar.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jan 2021, 17:35

Blessings and boredom: Why repeating history in 2023 won't be the undoing of Kiwi coaches

Rugby’s flagship event likely won’t throw out too many surprises in France - and the many Kiwi coaches across the globe have e…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Dec 2020, 0:01

Fresh start

After four years at the Chiefs, fullback Solomon Alaimalo hopes a move to the Highlanders will reignite his career.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

17 Dec 2020, 17:10

Where the All Blacks' succession planning took a back seat in 2020

The All Blacks played just six matches this year and opportunities for welcoming in a new generation of talent have been few and f…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Dec 2020, 19:32

Mana on mana

The Maori All Blacks holds a special place for those who put on the famous jersey.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

04 Dec 2020, 0:09

Super Rugby 2021: The hapless men who missed out on contracts - and the players who might be counting their lucky stars

Amongst the almost 200 players selected for NZ Super Rugby sides for 2021, there are certainly a few men who will count themselves…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Dec 2020, 23:15

Former Blues star links up with Hurricanes as great redemption arc continues

While the Hurricanes had already revealed many of their key signings for next year ahead of the official squad release, they've st…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Dec 2020, 13:00

Four age-grade stars elevated to settled Crusaders squad for unprecedented five-peat attempt

If there were any uncertainties surrounding whether or not the Crusaders could secure a fifth Super Rugby title on the trot, today…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Dec 2020, 13:01

Home comforts

Bryn Gatland has finally landed his dream contract at the Chiefs.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

01 Dec 2020, 16:36

'I've probably got to do the most work in the team': Dane Coles and All Blacks' discipline set for another harsh examination on Saturday

Were it not for a few soft penalties, the All Blacks may well have escaped from their previous match against Argentina with a win.…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Nov 2020, 22:42

Saturday's test last chance saloon for fringe All Blacks before Super Rugby open season

While South Africa’s withdrawal late in the piece likely curtailed any plans Ian Foster may have had for selecting a bumper squa…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Nov 2020, 18:37

Rethinking the Argentina approach

Argentina's victory over New Zealand showed that more matches don't always lead to better results.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

18 Nov 2020, 19:05

Reds cards on the money in Bledisloe IV but since when is poor tackle technique on par with three punches to the head?

How anyone could determine that three deliberate punches to the head were equal to one collision resulting from poor technique is …

Tom Vinicombe

12 Nov 2020, 21:32

Prop, rock and roll

Taniela Tupou showed in Bledisloe IV exactly what the All Blacks are missing from their propping stables.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

09 Nov 2020, 18:39

The 30-second period that highlighted everything wrong with the All Blacks' 14-man mindset

When Ofa Tuungafasi was handed a red card in the 23rd minute of the Bledisloe Cup battle in Brisbane, the All Blacks should have a…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Nov 2020, 16:54

Tri Nations: New Zealand player ratings vs Australia

After a draw and two solid wins, everyone expected the All Blacks to record another crushing victory over the Wallabies in Brisban…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Nov 2020, 6:11

Perfect prototype

Caleb Clarke may be 110kg of destructive power, but he’s no one-trick pony.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

04 Nov 2020, 17:40

The damning trend that could foreshadow a huge loss for the Wallabies in the final Bledisloe Cup test

As New Zealand fans were reminded during last year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan, the All Blacks sometimes lose. Over a three or fo…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Oct 2020, 22:45

Honeymoon is over

A wave of euphoria swept through New Zealand rugby in June, but the bubble has burst.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

27 Oct 2020, 17:01

Rugby's greatest mismatch

The man set to replace Warren Gatland almost produced one of the greatest upsets of the modern era.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

21 Oct 2020, 19:18

'All-star breaks', a finals series and a host of law changes all under consideration for Super Rugby Aotearoa

In a survey sent out to members of the Team All Blacks fan club, respondents were asked to elect their favourite potential changes…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Oct 2020, 23:22

Taking sides

On Sunday, for the first time in almost three decades, a Kiwi referee took charge of an All Blacks match.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

14 Oct 2020, 23:42

Beauden Barrett injury a blessing for Damian McKenzie and All Blacks playmakers with plenty to prove

Come the end of the 2018 test season, Damian McKenzie was in the driver’s seat to wear the No. 15 jersey at the 2019 World Cup. …

Tom Vinicombe

10 Oct 2020, 19:36

Edge of glory: 'This will be the All Blacks season that you remember Patrick Tuipulotu kicking on'

2019 was a major step forward in Patrick Tuipulotu's All Blacks career but there's potential for the upcoming season to have an ev…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Oct 2020, 22:09

No 'bore of the same' on the cards for next season despite minimal changes to Super Rugby Aotearoa

The 2020 season has been one unlike any other – and it’s likely to never be repeated. New Zealand Rugby have seemingly settled…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Oct 2020, 0:21

South Africa's Super Rugby departure will have impacts far and wide - but the biggest losers won't be known anytime soon

The Bulls, Sharks, Stormers and Lions’ move to Europe will significantly alter the shape of international club rugby in the Sout…

Tom Vinicombe

30 Sep 2020, 0:58

Tales of the unexpected

Tupou Vaa’i didn’t even have a Super Rugby contract at the start of the year. Now he’s an All Black.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

29 Sep 2020, 22:58

Time for All Blacks to re-affirm their standing after disappointing 2019

A win, a draw and a loss doesn’t exactly make for great reading. That’s exactly how New Zealand’s 2019 Rugby Championship ca…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Sep 2020, 19:49

School of hard knocks

Anton Lienert-Brown has fought a long mental battle to become a regular All Black.

FEATURE

Tom Vinicombe

26 Sep 2020, 18:08

'I was pretty stoked to be in the conversation at all': What the selectors told Marino Mikaele-Tu'u following his breakout Super Rugby season

Having lost four international loose forwards from last year, 2020 was always shaping up as a massive challenge for the Highlander…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Sep 2020, 23:30

How Michael Hooper's captaincy appointment impacts the Wallabies loose forward configuration

Michael Hooper’s appointment as Wallabies captain effectively means that the Waratah must be Dave Rennie’s first-choice opensi…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Sep 2020, 0:50

How an Instagram message from Tony Brown changed the trajectory of Jamie Booth's career

For the first four years of Jamie Booth’s Super Rugby career, the Manawatu halfback struggled to lock down anything beyond a one…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Sep 2020, 22:59

The superstar 21-year-old scrumhalf that outplayed TJ Perenara in just his second provincial start

Wellington, with Asafo Aumua, Ardie Savea and TJ Perenara on duty, were expected to have too much firepower for Waikato. In fact, …

Tom Vinicombe

12 Sep 2020, 22:10

Why Liam Squire has made the decision to return to New Zealand

Liam Squire is back in New Zealand and, all going well, could be lining up for a Super Rugby club next year.

Tom Vinicombe

12 Sep 2020, 20:10

Look who's back: All the New Zealand stars that have returned for a supersized Mitre 10 Cup

Every cloud has a silver lining and from a New Zealand rugby point of view, the silver lining of the COVID pandemic is undeniably …

Tom Vinicombe

08 Sep 2020, 18:40

Returning All Blacks complemented by slew of former age-grade representatives for Waikato

‘Something old, something new’ could be the strategy for how Waikato head coach Andrew Strawbridge assembled his squad for the…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Sep 2020, 15:58

What the North v South selections mean for New Zealand's halfback pecking order

If Saturday's North v South clash weren't an All Blacks trial masquerading as the great interisland battles of the past, then the …

Tom Vinicombe

03 Sep 2020, 0:43

Scott and Jordie Barrett set for long-awaited Taranaki debuts as Bulls name experienced squad

The Barrett brothers, Beauden, Scott and Jordie, are arguably three of the greatest ever rugby exports out of Taranaki. Finally, a…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Sep 2020, 20:42

'It adds a bit more fuel to the fire when you're not wanted somewhere': How Bryn Hall reignited his career

Interview: There’s more than a touch of irony to the fact that four seasons on from his departure from the Blues, Bryn Hall is a…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Aug 2020, 18:43

'I was pushing as hard as I could': Ben Smith's tumultuous final season in New Zealand

Interview: On the back of an exceptional career in New Zealand, 2019 was supposed to be Ben Smith’s successful swansong. It’s …

Tom Vinicombe

26 Aug 2020, 20:23

First major challenge of Premiership restart arrives: will Bristol or Exeter regret their approaches?

New breakdown interpretations, empty stadiums and mid-season squad changes – it’s been a massive adjustment for Gallagher Prem…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Aug 2020, 2:10

Barrett-less Blues must avoid going backwards in 2021

2020 was a great year for the Blues, particularly during Super Rugby Aotearoa, but great years have come and gone for the team and…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Aug 2020, 19:45

The key recruitments that could help the Chiefs bounce back from their horror season

Despite a promising start, 2020 was a dud year for the Chiefs and new coach Warren Gatland. The team still has a great backbone fr…

Tom Vinicombe

19 Aug 2020, 19:46

How one of the chief architects of SANZAAR is now trying to revolutionise modern rugby and return it to its roots

With rugby as a sport becoming more "complicated" and "boring" as the years have passed, an ambitious former administrator has his…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Aug 2020, 1:41

Has a superlative showing from Jamie Booth catapulted the halfback into the All Blacks selection frame?

While the NZ Super Rugby sides are laden with talent across the park and there should be no issues recovering from the players los…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Aug 2020, 0:26

'I tried to give it every chance I could': The truth about Luke Jacobson's World Cup concussion

Luke Jacobson, despite having little experience at international or even Super Rugby level, was selected to travel to Japan with t…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Aug 2020, 19:17

Why Jordie Barrett turned down the Crusaders: 'Sitting down in the room with him was like walking down to the principal's office'

When it came time for Jordie Barrett to make a decision about where he wanted to play Super Rugby, it’s fair to say that the tal…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Aug 2020, 20:30

The best way to ruin two highly competitive competitions? Combine them together

New Zealand and Australia’s localised Super Rugby competitions have been widely-regarded as great successes but everything that …

Tom Vinicombe

04 Aug 2020, 20:06

Time nearing for All Blacks star to make decision on Super Rugby future

When Jordie Barrett signed his latest contract with NZR almost a year ago to the day, a clause was included that allowed the 17-ca…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Jul 2020, 19:11

The tough decisions that will define Will Jordan's career: 'I think they knew that they couldn't offer me what I was looking for'

Will Jordan has always been destined for big things. Instead of looking for more action elsewhere, however, the talented outside b…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Jul 2020, 22:13

'It's been good for the soul and the heart': Why Liam Messam has returned to Waikato

Liam Messam will be back for Waikato in this year’s Mitre 10 Cup. Despite the experience that comes with 179 Super Rugby caps, M…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jul 2020, 20:31

In defence of the best defender in NZ: Why the 'Sam Cane problem' doesn't exist

The original apprehension surrounding Sam Cane's appointment as All Blacks captain has now developed into full-blown criticism due…

Tom Vinicombe

21 Jul 2020, 20:11

The blockbusting loosie crowned New Zealand's best performer ahead of Cullen Grace and Quinn Tupaea

When the New Zealand secondary schools side beat their Australian counterparts 34-11 in 2017, five players in the NZ backline crac…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Jul 2020, 22:10

'This is my turn': The next openside flanker set to continue the Crusaders legacy

Exclusive: The Crusaders have a history of producing somewhat handy openside flankers. While it’s still early days yet, it appea…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Jul 2020, 0:57

Super Rugby replacement should grow the game by being an elite competition, not by opening the doors to everyone

When Super 12 was launched, the initial spots for teams were handed out based on merit. SANZAAR has since made the mistake of tryi…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Jul 2020, 0:34

Western Force's successful recruitment drive saves Aussie rules players from being monstered by Richard Kahui

Richard Kahui had all but come to terms with the fact that he was never going to play Super Rugby again. While the coronavirus pan…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jul 2020, 23:51

'Probably my favourite article was when I was named one of the six worst signings in Blues history'

It’s fair to say that Matt Duffie probably didn’t know what he was getting himself into when, in 2016, he made the switch from…

Tom Vinicombe

13 Jul 2020, 1:39

Sorry Australia, there's simply no justification for all five Super Rugby teams joining a trans-Tasman competition without significant changes

Reports suggest that Australia want all five of their Super Rugby AU sides to take part in a mooted trans-Tasman competition but u…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Jul 2020, 20:45

'Winning a World Cup on home turf in a final at Eden Park - that'd be a pretty awesome way to finish my career'

Finally having some rugby locked in for 2020 is especially important to Black Ferns and Canterbury halfback Kendra Cocksedge, give…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Jul 2020, 0:15

Has Rieko Ioane thrust himself into the All Blacks midfield selection debate?

Midfield departures following the 2019 World Cup were set to open the door for Ngani Laumape and Braydon Ennor to make a return to…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Jun 2020, 21:39

All Blacks and Super Rugby stars reveal which team they want to play for in North v South exhibition match

Late on Friday afternoon, All Blacks coach Ian Foster revealed the eligibility criteria for the now confirmed North Island v South…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Jun 2020, 20:59

Caleb Clarke explains the massive contribution Dan Carter has already made to the Blues campaign

Dan Carter has yet to make an appearance for the Blues this year but make no mistake, Carter is already contributing to the cultur…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jun 2020, 19:50

Why the Chiefs' season hangs in the balance as they prepare to face off against the ruthless Crusaders

While taking out the Super Rugby Aotearoa title with just six wins from eight matches is entirely possible, doing so with just fiv…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jun 2020, 0:02

'Whether I played good or bad, I wasn't really afraid': Why Otere Black is the man to lead the Blues to their first title in well over a decade

Otere Black was hailed as a game-changing signing for the Blues when he put pen to paper in 2017 but injury struck before he could…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jun 2020, 19:09

Hoskins Sotutu's take on the Blues' streak-ending season: 'We've been working really hard to try and get Auckland back supporting us'

2020 is shaping up as a record-breaking year for the Blues. In-form loose forward Hoskins Sotutu is hopeful that the fans keep tur…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Jun 2020, 19:54

'There's a chance you might not play rugby again': Bryn Gatland's journey from heartbreak to Highlanders hero

Last year, Bryn Gatland suffered a horrific foot injury so severe that there were very real fears that the first five’s professi…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Jun 2020, 22:46

The drop goal frenzy sweeping the nation: what does Bryn Gatland's clutch kick mean for the future of New Zealand rugby?

Drop goals have never really been in fashion in New Zealand but it looks like the lost art could be making a comeback in 2020 afte…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Jun 2020, 0:30

Time for fans to vote with their feet: How Super Rugby Aotearoa could usher in a new era of rugby in New Zealand

It’s been a challenging time for a number of reasons but fans across the New Zealand – and seemingly around the world – fina…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Jun 2020, 20:06

How Super Rugby Aotearoa's new golden point rule could backfire

Super Rugby Aotearoa will introduce new rules to decrease the chances of draws - but is a 10-minute golden point period really a f…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Jun 2020, 22:36

'I've found that Mojo again': Why Lima Sopoaga is confident he's turned a corner in Europe

Exclusive: Lima Sopoaga won a Super Rugby title with the Highlanders in 2015 but it hasn't been smooth sailing for the former All …

Tom Vinicombe

09 Jun 2020, 22:29

How the Chiefs lured Anton Lienert-Brown away from the all-powerful Crusaders

Exclusive: The Crusaders are a team that, more often than not, get what they want. They have countless international representativ…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Jun 2020, 19:27

Why representing the Blues has never been the goal for All Black Jack Goodhue

Exclusive: Jack Goodhue has long been touted as the 'one that got away' from the Blues - but the Northland, Crusaders and All Blac…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Jun 2020, 19:13

Confirmed: Dan Carter to lace up boots for the Blues

While a leaked message already spilt the beans that All Blacks legend Dan Carter would be joining up with the Blues, the club have…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Jun 2020, 19:55

'He doesn't look too bad in Blue' - Joe Rokocoko's take on the new Carlos Spencer

Joe Rokocoko is one of the most prodigiously talented outside backs that Auckland has produced and he was able to flourish on the …

Tom Vinicombe

02 Jun 2020, 20:43

'If you kick your goals and you put your team in the right parts of the field, everyone loves you over here'

In 2018, former Blues and Hurricanes playmaker made the decision to leave NZ and link up with La Rochelle in France. It's a move t…

Tom Vinicombe

27 May 2020, 22:17

Is this the backline the Blues need to unleash to unravel their Super Rugby rivals?

When Super Rugby Aotearoa kicks off in less than a month's time, Blues coach Leon MacDonald will be wanting his charges to continu…

Tom Vinicombe

28 May 2020, 1:12

Brett Cameron's Crusaders struggle: 'You're going to get an opportunity and it's all going to be worth it if you can take it'

Brett Cameron, still just in the early stages of his career, has experienced the full spectrum of highs and lows that come with be…

Tom Vinicombe

26 May 2020, 18:43

Video interview: Richard Kahui talks 2011 - 'I would have been the slowest winger at the World Cup'

Exclusive: Despite Richard Kahui’s career being blighted by injury, the Tokoroa-born midfielder managed to keep his body mostly …

Tom Vinicombe

25 May 2020, 18:54

'Razor comes over, points at me and says, 'You and Jack in the midfield?' And that was back in 2015.'

Exclusive: Braydon Ennor made the decision to relocate from Auckland to Canterbury in 2015, not knowing what the future would hold…

Tom Vinicombe

25 May 2020, 19:40

Interview - The 'patronising' future of rugby that forced Agustin Pichot's hand

Like many of the world’s most influential people, leadership isn’t necessarily something that Agustín Pichot aspired to but t…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Apr 2020, 1:43

'You're in the 11 jersey, that's Jonah Lomu's jersey' - Jordie Barrett's journey across the All Blacks backline

Exclusive: Jordie Barrett is perhaps the most adept utility back of the modern era, starting matches in four different jerseys for…

Tom Vinicombe

21 May 2020, 1:49

'You can play up to 32 games a year and it's just mental': Colin Slade explains why the Top 14 is on a completely different level to Super Rugby

Exclusive: Colin Slade spent almost half a decade slogging it out in the turgid conditions of France's Top 14 and will now turn hi…

Tom Vinicombe

20 May 2020, 2:19

'There are a lot of comparisons to what happens between us and the men but I always try think about the comparisons between the older Black Ferns and us now'

Exclusive: Advocates of the woman's game in New Zealand rightly spoke out after hearing little noise from NZR regarding the adjust…

Tom Vinicombe

19 May 2020, 21:14

Aaron Cruden reveals the lure of provincial rugby: 'Ngans actually sent me a message to ask me about playing Mitre 10 for Manawatu'

While Aaron Cruden will be pumped to take the field for the Chiefs when Super Rugby Aotearoa kicks off in June, he still needs to …

Tom Vinicombe

19 May 2020, 22:58

'It's always been a dream of mine to play for the Hurricanes': Lima Sopoaga's future ambitions

Exclusive: Lima Sopoaga played 88 matches for the Highlanders over an eight-year career with the men from the deep south of New Ze…

Tom Vinicombe

17 May 2020, 1:12

The massive challenge facing last year's All Blacks bolter: 'That still all seems quite a long way away at the moment'

Exclusive: The last time 2019 All Blacks bolter Luke Jacobson had any substantial professional playing minutes was in September, w…

Tom Vinicombe

16 May 2020, 20:37

Concealed injuries and the luckiest break in the world: The almost unbelievable, untold story of Karl Tu'inukuafe

Exclusive: Everybody knows the basic tale of the bouncer who was called into the Chiefs squad in 2018 and made his All Blacks debu…

Tom Vinicombe

15 May 2020, 18:53

Bryn Hall's biggest regret: 'To this day, it still really hurts because we had such a great team and it's unfortunate that we didn't get the job done'

Bryn Hall has experienced unprecedented success since moving to the Crusaders in 2017 but it's one of his earlier experiences, wel…

Tom Vinicombe

15 May 2020, 0:02

What Ben Smith learned from the sending-off that spear-headed his career in France

Former All Black Ben Smith didn't have the smoothest of starts to his career in France but he certainly learned a valuable lesson …

Tom Vinicombe

12 May 2020, 21:37

Elliot Dixon confirms why he definitely won't feature for the Highlanders in 2020

Exclusive: Rumours have been cropping up that the NZ-only edition of Super Rugby could welcome back some of the country’s former…

Tom Vinicombe

11 May 2020, 20:47

No Brodie Retallick for Chiefs but two other All Blacks ink NZ deals, including a Toulon-bound World Cup winner

While the Chiefs have failed in a bid to bring All Black lock Brodie Retallick into the squad for the upcoming Super Rugby Aotearo…

Tom Vinicombe

12 May 2020, 3:50

A World Cup victory may be the highest honour a player can achieve, but it's not Richard Kahui's career highlight

Richard Kahui's decorated career includes trophies for the All Blacks, Chiefs and Waikato. Despite winning a World Cup with New Ze…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Sep 2019, 23:36

Aaron Cruden sets the record straight: what went wrong in France and why he returned to New Zealand

Exclusive: After two years in France, Aaron Cruden made the decision to move back home to represent the Chiefs side that he won tw…

Tom Vinicombe

10 May 2020, 2:01

One more off-contract All Blacks loose forward could be staying put in New Zealand

After last year's World Cup, New Zealand bid farewell to a number of capped All Blacks, including loose forwards Kieran Read, Matt…

Tom Vinicombe

09 May 2020, 21:22

Why Aaron Cruden will be looking forward to the New Zealand-only Super Rugby competition

Aaron Cruden’s Chiefs homecoming hasn’t exactly gone to plan – but the opportunity for something a little bit different in 2…

Tom Vinicombe

08 May 2020, 23:10

How a former schoolboy sensation has forged an entirely new career pathway for up-and-coming stars

Exclusive: Historically, the path to playing professional rugby has followed a fairly standardised route. Hawke's Bay star Lincoln…

Tom Vinicombe

07 May 2020, 1:05

'I knew I wasn't really in the top 50 rugby players': The circumstances that drove Jordie Barrett off the All Blacks path - then back onto it

Exclusive: Jordie Barrett is a prodigiously talented footballer. At just 20 years of age, he was thrust into his All Blacks starti…

Tom Vinicombe

04 May 2020, 22:46

How New Zealand's reported replacement for the endangered Super Rugby competition might function

A new competition could be in the works in New Zealand involving the current Super Rugby sides - but it will take a fair amount of…

Tom Vinicombe

02 May 2020, 22:35

Money no object, a New Zealand-only replacement for Super Rugby is the way forward

The current, widespread suspension of rugby across the globe is forcing a massive re-think of how the game is administered, organi…

Tom Vinicombe

30 Apr 2020, 1:37

Why Lima Sopoaga left New Zealand and forfeited the chance to play at a Rugby World Cup

Wasps' offer wasn’t the first time the Wellington-born first five received offers from overseas… he had considered a move as e…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Apr 2020, 2:07

The snowball effect that saw Lachlan Boshier named Super Rugby MVP and catapulted him into the All Blacks selection frame

Exclusive: After almost five seasons of Super Rugby experience, Chiefs flanker Lachlan Boshier is finally getting the recognition …

Tom Vinicombe

25 Apr 2020, 23:40

The world reacts to Raelene Castle's resignation: 'A truly dark time in our game'

For as long as Raelene Castle has been Rugby Australia's CEO, she has attracted criticism from around Australia. Fans have been qu…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Apr 2020, 23:39

Matt Giteau reveals why his globe-trotting 20-year odyssey is coming to an end

Exclusive: If you’re looking for a quintessential example of the modern-day rugby professional, then you need look no further th…

Tom Vinicombe

21 Apr 2020, 1:23

'Why does World Rugby have some of the most exhaustive eligibility checks for those who play but apparently no checks for someone wanting to run the game?'

Dan Leo, director of Pacific Rugby Player Welfare (PRPW), has unleashed on World Rugby for not immediately dismissing the nominati…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Apr 2020, 18:53

Ben Smith may never have played for the Highlanders let alone the All Blacks

Ben Smith has been arguably the greatest Test fullback of the last decade and has drawn comparisons to former All Blacks flyer Chr…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Apr 2020, 19:50

The NZ provincial sides that could be unstoppable with their All Blacks available for selection

This year, there's a very real chance that we could see New Zealand's provincial competition take pride of place in the rugby cale…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Apr 2020, 0:49

Big-thinking Argentinian Agustin Pichot to run for World Rugby's top position

One of the more outspoken and open governing figures from recent times, Argentina's Agustin Pichot, has announced a bid to run for…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Apr 2020, 19:54

Five All Blacks that had everyone talking after their maiden matches

Steve Hansen blooded 76 new All Blacks during his eight years in charge of the national side. Some debut performances stood out am…

Tom Vinicombe

05 Apr 2020, 1:01

'If I had my time again, I would've changed a lot': How falling out of favour with Robbie Deans changed Matt Giteau's career

You don’t play over 300 games of professional rugby without having a few personality clashes along the way - that was certainly …

Tom Vinicombe

02 Apr 2020, 1:15

How tomorrow's Wallabies turned the tide against their neighbours and rocketed Noah Lolesio from one state to the next

Noah Lolesio has enjoyed five victories from six matches with the Brumbies - but success hasn't always been so constant for the fo…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Apr 2020, 0:34

The goal-kicking custom that Matt Giteau just can't get his head around

Matt Giteau may have played over 300 first-class professional games of rugby but there’s one European goal-kicking custom that h…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Mar 2020, 1:09

How a schoolboy midfielder transformed himself into the Wallabies' most promising long-term 10 option

Depending on you're the type of person that sees the glass as half full or half empty, you would have entered 2020 with very diffe…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Mar 2020, 0:09

'It's not a holiday for me. I still want to be the best to play this game.'

While there were plenty of pull factors behind Samu Kerevi’s move to Japan, it still wasn’t an easy decision for the Wallabies…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Mar 2020, 23:22

Hoskins Sotutu's small change that may have paved the way for a future with the All Blacks

Hoskins Sotutu could have been another immensely innately talented rugby player who shone like a star then fizzled out as soon as …

Tom Vinicombe

26 Mar 2020, 0:16

The damp farewell for a team that could have helped revolutionise Super Rugby

The Sunwolves' four-and-a-half-year stint in Super Rugby has come to a rather unceremonious end.

Tom Vinicombe

25 Mar 2020, 17:45

Super Rugby's inconclusive season also curtailed any chances of answering a key question for the new All Blacks coach

Between the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, the All Blacks selectors struggled to really settle on a first-choice fullback. There are st…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Mar 2020, 0:03

Japan could be the home of the 'new Super Rugby'

Samu Kerevi knew to expect high-intensity rugby in the Top League, but he still wasn't quite prepared for the pace and fitness req…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Mar 2020, 21:43

With Super Rugby possibly reaching an end, who has done enough to earn selection in Ian Foster's first All Blacks squad?

With Super Rugby potentially over, new All Blacks coach Ian Foster has had considerably less time to scout out new players for the…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Mar 2020, 1:15

How rugby can think outside the box and mitigate its losses during uncertain times

Whatever developments take place later in the season, rugby’s popularity will be impacted its decreased presence on TV screens i…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Mar 2020, 23:36

Building a legacy: Why Samu Kerevi chose to put his Wallabies career on hold and move to Japan

Samu Kerevi, at just 26 years old, made the shock decision to head overseas and forego any further opportunities to play internati…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Mar 2020, 20:27

Could Super Rugby sides split into provincial unions for the coming weeks?

New Zealand’s current travel and isolation requirements mean we’re unlikely to see Super Rugby return for at least the next fo…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Mar 2020, 22:52

If Super Rugby ended today: Sharks win first title while Blues show promise but are pipped by Crusaders for NZ conference champions

The Sharks have done what just one previous South African Super Rugby side have managed in the competition's history: topped the l…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Mar 2020, 17:28

Huge Kiwi contingent in China Lions (and one Scottish international) for Global Rapid Rugby kick-off

As far as unexpected bedfellows go, China teaming up with New Zealand's Bay of Plenty rugby union is one of the more unusual combi…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Mar 2020, 23:17

Brad Weber may be locked in but what about the other off-contract All Blacks?

Brad Weber revealed earlier this week that he had signed a new contract with New Zealand Rugby to take him through to the end of t…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Mar 2020, 20:52

Revealed: How the new All Blacks XV will impact eligibility

When New Zealand Rugby unveiled the new second-tier All Blacks side earlier in the week, wider responses were mixed. One major con…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Mar 2020, 22:09

New Zealand's new second-tier team could have significant ramifications on a global scale

The newly unveiled All Blacks XV is an excellent commercial and rugby-development opportunity for New Zealand but the consequences…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Mar 2020, 0:17

Highlanders' All Blacks return home as team prepares to bounce back against Jaguares

The Highlanders' loss to the Bulls over the weekend has officially consigned the franchise to their worse start to a Super Rugby s…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Mar 2020, 17:38

David Havili undergoes surgery, recovery timeframe unclear

Crusaders vice-captain David Havili underwent surgery late last week to remove a foreign object from his stomach and is expected t…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Mar 2020, 14:27

Former Wallaby Drew Mitchell confirms his retirement is coming to an end

As reported by RugbyPass in January, former Wallabies wing Drew Mitchell’s retirement is now coming to an end with the Queenslan…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Feb 2020, 23:17

How the Crusaders continue to nurture the best athletes in the world

The Crusaders are the best team in Super Rugby - there's no doubt about it. But what's been the recipe to success for a region tha…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Feb 2020, 1:13

Kieran Read's replacements have already been found - but who will win the race to the black jersey?

New Zealand’s traditional post-World Cup exodus saw a number of experienced heads relocate off-shore at the end of 2019 but it's…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Feb 2020, 22:32

The 20-year-old lock tasked with the hardest job in Super Rugby

2020 is shaping up as a mammoth year for the Chiefs’ new prodigy lock, Naitoa Ah Kuoi.

Tom Vinicombe

18 Dec 2019, 22:20

No questions about passion, but New Zealand's stalwart forwards look like spent forces

New Zealand were comprehensively taken apart by an English side that played the game of their lives, but that doesn't mean the All…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Oct 2019, 1:19

How the best club rugby team in the world and one of Australia's most respected universities are pairing up to nurture rugby's upcoming talent

The Crusaders have won 10 Super Rugby titles since the competition’s inception in 1996 and have featured in all but four post-se…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Feb 2020, 1:34

Dane Coles may sometimes cross the line, but channelled aggression is exactly what the All Blacks need

Dane Coles, one of New Zealand's most penalised players, brings something unique to the fold that will be sorely missed when he fi…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Feb 2020, 22:54

Highlanders wing Patelsio Tomkinson learns fate after dangerous tackle

After facing the SANZAAR Foul Play Review Committee over the weekend, Highlanders wing Patelsio Tomkinson has now learned his fate…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Feb 2020, 17:36

British and Irish Lions weighing up three potential opponents for warm-up fixture

Coach Warren Gatland has revealed the British and Irish Lions are weighing up three potential opponents for a warm-up game before …

Tom Vinicombe

17 Feb 2020, 17:12

Blues may have some major work-ons but they've also weathered one of toughest possible starts to Super Rugby

Across New Zealand, the Blues are being tagged as the disappointments of the country – it’s the same old stuff from the Auckla…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Feb 2020, 22:24

Reds fans frothing at hometown refereeing as the Queenslanders fall on the wrong side of a 13-2 penalty count

The absurdity of not using neutral referees has once again been called into question after the final match of Super Rugby's third …

Tom Vinicombe

15 Feb 2020, 21:42

Just one vote stopped former internationals from switching Test allegiances

The chairman of Pacific Rugby Players, Hale T-Pole, has revealed that one of rugby's most discussed potential eligibility law chan…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Feb 2020, 16:55

The search for New Zealand's next top first five has begun

New Zealand have a habit of blooding players in key positions immediately after a Rugby World Cup. Will new coach Ian Foster look …

Tom Vinicombe

12 Feb 2020, 21:54

Cruden, Moli and Reihana named in All Blacks Under 20 training squad

Fifty-two of New Zealand’s top emerging talent in rugby will descend on Palmerston North next month as NZR launches the next pha…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Feb 2020, 19:03

The potential All Blacks that Ian Foster will be expecting big things from in 2020

A new World Cup cycle typically brings with it the introduction of a crop of young new talent to international squads. In New Zeal…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Feb 2020, 23:48

Australia have no option but to look to the future and pick one of their immensely talented 20-year-old playmakers

In the past, Australia's 20-year-olds may have just been playing for a contract renewal. This year, they may well be playing for a…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Feb 2020, 23:52

Super Rugby Power Rankings: Round 1

The first week of Super Rugby's 2020 season had a few surprises in store for viewers, but it was the old guard that got the job do…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Feb 2020, 18:13

Three All Blacks unavailable as Chiefs eye up Crusaders

Bench All Blacks played a big role in the Chiefs' come-from-behind win over the Blues in last weekend's Super Rugby opener, but th…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Feb 2020, 20:30

Miotti masterclass helps Jaguares to bonus point win over Lions in Bueno Aires

It took the Jaguares a little bit of time to find their rhythm but in the end they proved far too good for the Lions.

Tom Vinicombe

01 Feb 2020, 20:28

New faces, returning legends and a four-peat roadblock: what's not to love about Super Rugby 2020?

It may still be January, but the 25th season of Super Rugby will kick off later this week and it’s hard not to get excited about…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Jan 2020, 23:16

The Austin MLR team have rebranded and fans can't get over the absurd new name

Major League Rugby's Austin franchise - known as the Elite from 2017 to 2018 and then as the Herd last year - may have just taken …

Tom Vinicombe

29 Jan 2020, 19:42

Damian McKenzie ruled out of opening Super Rugby fixture

Friday night was supposed to mark Damian McKenzie's much-awaited return to the rugby field after spending the better part of the l…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Jan 2020, 16:54

Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi's quest for redemption

After an All Blacks call-up and a Test debut in 2018, it seemed liked Chiefs halfback Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi had the world at his …

Tom Vinicombe

28 Jan 2020, 20:55

The new requirement for an All Blacks loose forward

The role of a loose forward has grown considerably since the early years of professionalism where specialisation was key. Now, str…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jan 2020, 23:38

Sevens World Series leaders dumped out of Hamilton after double-upset

Changes to the latest leg of the Sevens World Series has led to a disastrous result for South Africa, who entered the tournament s…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jan 2020, 19:46

Sunwolves eyeing up season from hell despite recording 53-point pre-season win

The ugly step-child of Super Rugby, the Sunwolves, have started off their 2020 campaign with a 53-point win in their first and onl…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jan 2020, 17:41

After an almost three-year absence, Sam McNicol is finally ready to do some more damage for the Chiefs

Chiefs outside back Sam McNicol last played a Super Rugby match in May 2017. The flyer is now injury-free and is set to make a mas…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Jan 2020, 22:03

Top League's foreign first fives are killing Japanese rugby

Christian Lealiifano, Bernard Foley and Quade Cooper are all heading to the Top League next season - so what's going to happen to …

Tom Vinicombe

15 Jul 2019, 21:45

Robbie Dean's Panasonic Wild Knights attract record attendance for victory over Steve Hansen's Toyota Verblitz

Rugby popularity has skyrocketed in Japan on the back of an incredibly successful 2019 World Cup.

Tom Vinicombe

19 Jan 2020, 0:22

How Dan Carter's Kobelco Steelers are setting the new standard in Japanese rugby

The Kobe region in Japan is renowned for its exceptionally high quality (and equally as expensive) cuts of beef, but soon the loca…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Jan 2020, 4:05

Return of Damian McKenzie and loss of Rolls Royce pack two career-defining challenges for Richie Mo'unga

2020 is shaping up as potentially career-defining for Richie Mo'unga. The Crusaders pivot has previously been perched behind Super…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jan 2020, 21:04

Glasgow fans left in disbelief at the Warriors lack of luck as bounce of the ball costs three tries and possible finals place

In a match where a combined eight tries were scored, it seems like Glasgow and Exeter's drawn Champions Cup fixture is being talke…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Jan 2020, 20:44

Bristol's season teeters on the edge as Bears struggle to keep up with teams fresh with World Cup talent

Head back to the beginning of December and Bristol fans would have been feeling quietly confident with how their team were coastin…

Tom Vinicombe

08 Jan 2020, 23:32

Crusaders banking on new era of loose forwards after haemorrhaging experience

When the Crusaders announced their squad for the upcoming season of Super Rugby, it was over 1100 caps short of the squad they fie…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Jan 2020, 22:42

What's happened to New Zealand's openside flanker conveyor belt?

It doesn’t take a rugby genius to know that New Zealand have been blessed with talent in the 7 jersey over the years, but someth…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Jan 2020, 20:43

Former All Black Aaron Cruden begins training with the Chiefs

Of all the various signings that took place during the Super Rugby offseason, few New Zealand franchises could boast that they'd l…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Jan 2020, 17:12

Blues can't rely on Beauden Barrett to save their blushes in 2020

Beauden Barrett’s signing with the Blues for 2020 has been hailed as a huge coup for the underperforming franchise. However, the…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jan 2020, 20:42

The Chiefs' new midfield wrecking ball that could take them to the next level

When Quinn Tupaea debuted for Waikato during the 2018 season, it was hard not to be impressed. This year, he will be entering his …

Tom Vinicombe

02 Jan 2020, 18:37

A lack of success in Super Rugby is an outdated measure of what Ian Foster will bring to the All Blacks head coaching role

Ian Foster's time with the Chiefs may not have reaped as many championships as Scott Robertson's with the Crusaders, but that's a …

Tom Vinicombe

12 Dec 2019, 0:28

Was a partnership between Ian Foster and Scott Robertson on the cards for the All Blacks?

Ian Foster and Scott Robertson, two men with plenty of plusses on their respective CVs, were the only two applicants for the All B…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Dec 2019, 20:46

Super Rugby Teams of the Decade: The Chiefs players that built a legacy

There's no question that the decade spanning from 2010 to 2019 has been the most successful period in the Chiefs' short history, w…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Dec 2019, 20:01

Return of Damian McKenzie will be a huge boost to the Chiefs - but where does he fit into the picture?

It's the news every Chiefs fan has been hoping for: Damian McKenzie will be fit for the opening match of the Super Rugby season. W…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Dec 2019, 0:19

Super Rugby's regional rivalry has been sacrificed for the greater good and the Highlanders have been the main benefactors

Super Rugby is no longer a tournament divided by regional lines. Instead, New Zealand's best players all get to show what they’r…

Tom Vinicombe

05 Dec 2019, 21:36

Ardie Savea's injury may be a major hurdle, but there's one player that will be far more difficult for the Hurricanes to replace

Despite the fact that Matt Proctor has been an underrated player over the last few years and Ardie Savea’s absence is coming at …

Tom Vinicombe

02 Dec 2019, 22:59

Crusaders lose All Black-in-waiting for season kick-off

Crusaders loose forward Ethan Blackadder will be out of action in the early stages of the 2020 Super Rugby season due to shoulder …

Tom Vinicombe

02 Dec 2019, 22:44

New Zealand Super sides unveil their new threads for 2020

The New Zealand Super Rugby franchises will take to the field in 2020 with entirely new kits, with all five sides having revealed …

Tom Vinicombe

30 Nov 2019, 20:41

Fans blast new Crusaders logo

Fans have quickly taken to social media to comment on the change to the Crusaders' branding - and the new logo isn't exactly recei…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Nov 2019, 22:24

South America's first professional rugby league will kick off at the end of February

The Súper Liga will kick off on February 28th and bring together teams from across the continent to vie for South American suprem…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Nov 2019, 21:45

USA Rugby's 'severe budget shortfall' prompts major changes

The USA have long been touted a sleeping giant of international rugby, but it appears that off-field issues could cut the nation o…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Nov 2019, 19:51

New Sunwolves signings show exactly why SANZAAR won't be making a U-turn

SANZAAR should feel no obligation to grant the Sunwolves a lifeline given how they've treated Super Rugby in the past, but even if…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Nov 2019, 20:08

How a schoolboy representative, an old stalwart and an All Black in waiting make the Chiefs squad the pick of the bunch

The Chiefs have done well to secure a few key signatures for 2020 – players who could well push on to stake a claim for higher h…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Nov 2019, 15:58

Richard Kahui has no regrets but 'it would be nice to play even just one more Test'

Calling time on an international career when you’ve still got plenty of rugby left in you is a tough decision to make, but it's …

Tom Vinicombe

23 Nov 2019, 22:43

Rumoured French tour to Japan should worry All Blacks and Wallabies fans but might spark good news for Pacific Islands

If rumours out of France are anything to go by, then New Zealand and Australia could be in for underwhelming Test schedules in 202…

Tom Vinicombe

21 Nov 2019, 16:32

Prospective All Blacks coaches aren't shunning New Zealand - they're just taking safer options

Warren Gatland, Dave Rennie, Jamie Joseph and, by extension, Tony Brown, have all ruled themselves out of becoming the next All Bl…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Nov 2019, 21:23

List of Chiefs players' careers curtailed by concussion grows

It's becoming an alarmingly regular occurrence now for Chiefs players to find their playing time cut short due to concussion.

Tom Vinicombe

20 Nov 2019, 18:08

Rassie Erasmus was on the cusp of quitting as Springboks coach after a run of average results

South Africa's inspirational coach may not have been on board to lead the Springboks to their third-ever World Cup win if results …

Tom Vinicombe

05 Nov 2019, 0:14

NZR's unicorn blood solution to the Chiefs coaching conundrum

It was widely considered an excellent signing when Warren Gatland was announced as the Chiefs coach for the next four years, but h…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Nov 2019, 23:07

Scotland lock in Tests against new Rugby World Cup champions

The 2019 Test season may have ended on a dour note for Scotland, but 2020 is promising to be a big year for Gregor Townsend's side…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Nov 2019, 3:13

The strange reason why Siya Kolisi was made Springboks captain

Siya Kolisi's appointment as captain of the Springboks has been widely considered one of the best decisions of coach Rassie Erasmu…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Nov 2019, 1:21

New Zealand player ratings vs Wales

Conjecture in the lead up to the bronze play-off match was that the game was unwanted, but there was still plenty to cheer through…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Nov 2019, 7:04

Waratahs to spread the love in 2020

One of Super Rugby's growing issues is that stadiums in Australia and New Zealand are often awash of empty seats on match day. The…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Oct 2019, 22:48

Cheslin Kolbe returns for South Africa for Rugby World Cup final

Rassie Erasmus had made one change to the Springboks match-day squad for their Rugby World Cup final with England.

Tom Vinicombe

30 Oct 2019, 20:18

Steve Hansen quietens down the rumours: 'Thanks, Eddie. I'm not actually coming to Japan to coach that team'

Following Saturday's match between England and New Zealand, Eddie Jones made a few comments about Steve Hansen's future. It turns …

Tom Vinicombe

30 Oct 2019, 3:32

Expect a Ben Smith swansong on Friday with All Blacks primed to make changes

Steve Hansen as good as confirmed that we shouldn't expect to see the same All Blacks team trotted out against Wales that waged wa…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Oct 2019, 23:34

The act abolished in the seventies that could prevent another semi-final snore-fest

One for the purists', a 'test of attrition', a 'classic slog'. There are many charitable ways to describe Sunday's RWC semi-final …

Tom Vinicombe

28 Oct 2019, 22:24

South Africa left out in the cold for developing 2020 mid-year schedule

The latest 2020 July fixture rumours could spell bad news for South Africa, with the top four European sides all having fairly pac…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Oct 2019, 3:42

Can anyone stop England from scooping the player of the year award?

Next week, rugby royalty from across the globe will gather to see, amongst other awards, who has won the World Rugby Player of the…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Oct 2019, 2:35

The scariest thing about this English side? Three of their best performers won't peak until the next World Cup - at the earliest

Maro Itoje, Sam Underhill and Tom Curry, three of England's best, were also the three youngest players in their 23 and will be ter…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Oct 2019, 4:10

New Zealand sorely missed the unpredictability of one of the game's most elusive players

A fit Damian McKenzie would have given the All Blacks a threatening ball-runner from the backfield and also allowed the nation's m…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Oct 2019, 0:52

New Zealand player ratings vs England

It was the match many were billing as the 'true final' and it didn't disappoint... the All Blacks were bullied across the park, bu…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Oct 2019, 6:09

The rematch they've all been waiting for: age-grade New Zealand and England sides look to get revenge

It's been well documented that the last time England and New Zealand faced off in a World Cup was in 1999, but players from both t…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Oct 2019, 2:13

World Cup over for star fullback as Wales make three changes

Star fullback Liam Williams has been ruled out for the remainder of the Rugby World Cup following an ankle injury sustained in an …

Tom Vinicombe

24 Oct 2019, 23:06

All Blacks spring a surprise for World Cup semi-final

New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen has broken from tradition and made an unexpected change to the All Blacks lineup for their sem…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Oct 2019, 22:34

The best referee in the world won't be in charge of a match this weekend - but what does that mean for the World Cup final?

When Nigel Owens and Jérôme Garcès were announced as the referees for this weekend's World Cup semi-final matches, fans underst…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Oct 2019, 23:04

England set for two-match 2020 tour to Japan?

England will have spent almost two months in Japan by the time the World Cup comes to a close - but it sounds like they're not sic…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Oct 2019, 1:52

All Blacks prepared for penalty shootout: 'Out of the forwards, I'd definitely back myself'

If two semifinalists can't be separated after 110 minutes of high-intensity Test rugby, it will all come down to a penalty shootou…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Oct 2019, 3:50

Why adding Japan to an existing competition is the worst solution to World Rugby's growing problem

After an excellent performance at the 2019 World Cup, calls are growing by the day for Japan to be added to either the Six Nations…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Oct 2019, 1:28

Second half all red as Wales reverse 2011 World Cup semifinal result to conquer erratic French

It may have taken a one-man advantage, but Wales have squashed some of the ghosts of their World Cup past to progress through to t…

Tom Vinicombe

20 Oct 2019, 5:17

New Zealand player ratings vs Ireland

New Zealand have disposed of Ireland 46-14 to get their Rugby World Cup finals campaign off to a successful start. Who were the be…

Tom Vinicombe

19 Oct 2019, 8:18

Gary Ringrose takes over from banned Bundee Aki for Ireland's do-or-die clash with New Zealand

Head coach Joe Schmidt has kept the changes to a minimum for Ireland's first official knockout match of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Tom Vinicombe

17 Oct 2019, 3:23

Springboks showing no charity: 'Japan is the enemy'

Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus, despite himself being a big fan of the Brave Blossoms, won't have any qualms with cutting short J…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Oct 2019, 21:26

Siale Piutau announces retirement - but could return for certain 'special occasions'

As it currently stands, Tongan captain Siale Piatua will play his final Test match on Sunday in Osaka when Tonga go to war with th…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Oct 2019, 3:35

Thomas Ramos, who left the World Cup last week due to an ankle injury, could line up in the Top 14 this weekend

Thomas Ramos, who last week was replaced in France's Rugby World Cup squad because of injury, is set to be named to play for Stade…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Oct 2019, 0:58

Namibia's 20 years of World Cup misery could change this weekend against old foe

Namibia have competed in six Rugby World Cups but they're still yet to record even a sole win in 22 matches. That could all be abo…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Oct 2019, 23:13

Fiji set for massive clash at beginning of 2020 Test season

When the Nations Championship died, it was wrongly assumed that Fiji's chances for a bigger slice of the Test rugby pie were scupp…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Oct 2019, 21:41

Losers all-round in World Cup cancellations - but biggest victims still to be decided

It's the outcome that no one was hoping for, but that many expected: two Rugby World Cup matches have been called off due to the i…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Oct 2019, 1:44

Two matches called off by World Rugby, one still under clouds

Today, World Rugby announced that two major clashes have been called off at the 2019 Rugby World Cup due to the impending threat o…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Oct 2019, 23:10

Has Ben Smith played his final Test? New Zealand's masters of versatility jostling for just one spot in the team

Ben Smith and Jordie Barrett both started for the All Blacks in their most recent Rugby World Cup match against Nambia. Chances ar…

Tom Vinicombe

08 Oct 2019, 1:23

New Zealand player ratings v Namibia

The All Blacks took some time to get into their work but they ultimately cruised to a comfortable victory over Namibia - who were …

Tom Vinicombe

05 Oct 2019, 20:00

Damian de Allende shifts to outside centre as Springboks make 13 changes for final pool game

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has named a hugely changed team for his side's final pool match of the Rugby World Cup but wi…

Tom Vinicombe

05 Oct 2019, 23:57

Argentina first high-profile nation to be knocked out of a World Cup that has now seen a record number of red cards

Argentina head coach Mario Ledesma will be camped out in front of the TV tomorrow praying that Tonga are somehow able to upset Fra…

Tom Vinicombe

05 Oct 2019, 6:05

Steve Hansen on his new playmaker: 'Hopefully we don't see him at 10 too many times'

Jordie Barrett is an exceptionally talented footballer. He's now been given the opportunity to add another string to his bow and w…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Oct 2019, 0:12

Rieko Ioane back on the scoreboard - but will it be enough to usurp George Bridge?

Rieko Ioane's fall from grace has been almost as sudden as his emergence as a rugby superstar. In his first start in almost two mo…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Oct 2019, 3:28

All Blacks prop Atu Moli puts in mammoth 80 minute shift against Canada just a year after almost losing leg

Atu Moli was called upon to play for 80 minutes for the All Blacks in their match against Canada. Only a year ago there was a very…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Oct 2019, 1:34

New Zealand players ratings v Canada

New Zealand travelled to the south of Japan with the expectation that they would crush Canada - a side that hasn't come within 50 …

Tom Vinicombe

02 Oct 2019, 8:13

A victory over the hosts will ensure that Scotland's World Cup won't be remembered for Ireland loss

Following Scotland’s opening loss to Ireland, the world was quick to criticise the Scottish side for their subdued performance a…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Oct 2019, 1:44

Mass changes for Ireland with only four starters retained from Japan loss

Joe Schmidt has rung the changes for Ireland for their next World Cup opposition, Russia. In total, just four players who started …

Tom Vinicombe

01 Oct 2019, 2:36

Two drop goals, two absurd referee calls, Wales too good

There was plenty of debate heading into Wales' match with Australia over who was the favourite, but there'll be no questions now o…

Tom Vinicombe

29 Sep 2019, 5:51

Alun Wyn Jones to make history as Warren Gatland names Wales team for pool-deciding clash against Australia

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has stuck with the XV that dispatched of Georgia without too much trouble last week and named almo…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Sep 2019, 23:27

Ireland forced into backline adjustments despite potential banana skin opposition

Joe Schmidt has made four changes to Ireland's starting lineup for their game against tournament hosts Japan.

Tom Vinicombe

26 Sep 2019, 0:23

Namibian prop Johannes Coetzee wants to give Frans Steyn 'a nice greeting, maybe in a tackle'

For a team that has never won a Rugby World Cup match in 20 attempts, things aren't about to get any easier for Namibia.

Tom Vinicombe

25 Sep 2019, 20:54

Masters at weathering the storm: Why the Springboks' first-quarter domination wouldn't have fazed the All Blacks

For the first quarter of the New Zealand's victory against South Africa, the All Blacks were under the pump. That slow start didn'…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Sep 2019, 1:35

Dan Cole to become third most capped England player as team named team for USA

Eddie Jones has named a formidable side for England's second match of the World Cup, against the untested United States whilst ret…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Sep 2019, 3:57

Two incidents of foul play identified by World Rugby but it's of no consolation to Fiji

World Rugby have acted on a number of cases of foul play identified in the first two days of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Tom Vinicombe

22 Sep 2019, 5:16

Laws of the game go out the window in opening days of Rugby World Cup

It's been arguably two of the best opening days of a World Cup in the history of the competition with a victory for the hosts as w…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Sep 2019, 0:38

New Zealand fans incensed as RWC broadcast provider Spark Sports struggles in first New Zealand Test

On Saturday night, New Zealand's new broadcast partner for the World Cup faced a huge test. Spark Sport, unfortunately, was unable…

Tom Vinicombe

21 Sep 2019, 20:57

Joe Schmidt makes a surprise selection at fullback for Ireland

Joe Schmidt has named his Irish side to take on Scotland in their opening World Cup match and there are few surprises.

Tom Vinicombe

20 Sep 2019, 2:12

Fiji unveil team tasked with running riot over the Wallabies

John McKee has named a strong lineup for Fiji's opening game of the 2019 Rugby World Cup, including six players that started the l…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Sep 2019, 22:58

Wallabies recall Pooper combination and bank on experience

As has been well-telegraphed, Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has reinstated the Michael Hooper-David Pocock axis for their opening…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Sep 2019, 23:33

All Blacks name a full-strength side for mammoth clash with Springboks

Steve Hansen is pulling no punches in the All Blacks' first match of the 2019 Rugby World Cup, naming a full-strength side to tack…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Sep 2019, 22:37

There's only one team likely to cause a major upset at this World Cup - and it's not Japan or Fiji

Japan and Fiji may be the darlings of world rugby right now and neutral supporters will all be gunning for the underdogs in their …

Tom Vinicombe

17 Sep 2019, 9:29

Exclusive: Richard Kahui 'had no option but to be an All Black'

There’s a long list of international rugby careers that have been curtailed due to injury, but Richard Kahui’s story is probab…

Tom Vinicombe

16 Sep 2019, 22:10

No more time for testing - so what is the All Blacks' preferred midfield combination?

Despite there being only a week until the All Blacks officially kick off their World Cup campaign, there’s still plenty of uncer…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Sep 2019, 23:58

Debuts on the apex: a showcase of players who have been blooded at World Cups

With so many warm-up matches played in the lead up to World Cups, World Cup debuts have tapered out in recent times. Look back thr…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Sep 2019, 0:10

Stacked squads unveiled for showcase match between NZ Barbarians Legends and Pacific Legends

As a precursor to the New Zealand v Tonga game in Hamilton, the New Zealand Barbarians Legends and Pacific Legends will face off i…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Sep 2019, 19:56

Felix Lambey the big omission as France unveil World Cup squad

France head coach Jacques Brunel has named his 31-man squad to travel to Japan to challenge for the World Cup and there are a few …

Tom Vinicombe

02 Sep 2019, 17:51

Damian Willemse signs deal with Saracens

Stormers pivot and Springbok Damian Willemse has penned a deal to join the Saracens as injury cover for Alex Goode and Max Malins.

Tom Vinicombe

02 Sep 2019, 17:16

Three reasons why the All Blacks might not get the three-peat

New Zealand will enter the World Cup as favourites to take out the competition for the third time in a row. All Blacks fans would …

Tom Vinicombe

31 Aug 2019, 22:35

Aaron Cruden to make surprise Super Rugby return in 2020?

The ongoing battle for first five looks set to continue in New Zealand, with Aaron Cruden now reported to be close to signing a de…

Tom Vinicombe

31 Aug 2019, 18:35

Door all but slammed on Ma'a Nonu's international career

When Ma'a Nonu returned to play for the Blues this year, no one expected him to make a push for national selection but an exceptio…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Aug 2019, 0:03

Steve Hansen gives discouraging update on Brodie Retallick

One of the most disappointing bits of news out of today's All Blacks squad announcement is that the showcase tournament could be s…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Aug 2019, 22:52

Jaguares on track to take out Currie Cup first division but won't feature in the premier competition next year

The Argentinian B team have dismantled most of their opposition to date in the second tier of the Currie Cup. Don't expect to see …

Tom Vinicombe

26 Aug 2019, 21:20

Rassie Erasmus has found an attack coach to replace Swys de Bruin at the Springboks

With the Springboks attack coach, Swys de Bruin, withdrawing from the South African management team just weeks before the World Cu…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Aug 2019, 22:22

Five Rugby World Cup rivalries (that probably need to be retired)

With 20 teams in the competition, we should see plenty of unique fixtures at every World Cup. For one reason or another, however, …

Tom Vinicombe

25 Aug 2019, 2:22

All Blacks back-ups dropping like flies in Mitre 10 Cup

Potential All Blacks back-ups won't struggle for fitness if they suddenly get the call-up thanks to the M10 Cup - but injuries co…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Aug 2019, 23:01

Three rare clashes to sink your teeth into at the Rugby World Cup

A few eagle-eyed fans would have noticed that we’re set for some rare match-ups during the upcoming World Cup – including some…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Aug 2019, 1:44

Asafo Aumua could help Lions hand Canterbury their worst start to a season in over 25 years

Unwanted by the All Blacks but sure to be a major pain in the backside for Mitre 10 Cup teams across the country: Asafo Aumua is s…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Aug 2019, 22:29

All Blacks third-in-lines potentially facing the chopping block

Brad Weber and Liam Coltman are third-in-line for the All Blacks in their respective positions and both took to the field in Thurs…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Aug 2019, 17:41

Who will make the cut for the Wallabies World Cup squad?

Michael Cheika has called upon 33 players to wear the Wallabies jersey this year – and there are some men who haven’t taken th…

Tom Vinicombe

19 Aug 2019, 23:15

Lock and loose forward combo still the biggest conundrum for All Blacks

There are maybe two or three undecided spots in the World Cup squad that still need to be debated - and a lot of talk will centre …

Tom Vinicombe

18 Aug 2019, 18:55

Australia player ratings v New Zealand

The Wallabies had one hand on the Bledisloe Cup heading into tonight's match, but they quickly learned that the All Blacks weren't…

Tom Vinicombe

17 Aug 2019, 8:31

All Blacks selections opens the door for jilted trio - but it could be the end of the road for some newcomers

Instead of the battle-hardened Rieko Ioane and Ben Smith taking the field on Saturday night, newbies Sevu Reece and George Bridge …

Tom Vinicombe

15 Aug 2019, 0:52

Pumas chop and change for last proper hit-out before World Cup

Argentina have made 11 changes to their starting lineup for their match with South Africa in Pretoria this weekend.

Tom Vinicombe

15 Aug 2019, 20:28

Derby round perfect opportunity to spy on your Super Rugby franchise's upcoming talent

The second week of the Mitre 10 Cup will see neighbours do battle with neighbours – which means it’s the perfect opportunity f…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Aug 2019, 18:16

Last roll of the dice for Springboks hoping to book a ticket to Japan

With just one more opportunity to see his wider squad in action before deciding on the Springboks team to take to the World Cup, d…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Aug 2019, 0:49

Five problem areas where the All Blacks are desperately searching for solutions

The All Blacks have regressed over the last year and a half. There's just two matches to play before they'll face off with the Spr…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Aug 2019, 22:30

Wallabies v All Blacks - Player Ratings

Few would have expected the absolute drubbing that the Wallabies handed to the All Blacks in last night's Bledisloe Cup match. Whi…

Tom Vinicombe

10 Aug 2019, 9:06

Three Bledisloe Cup micro-battles that are worth the price of admission alone

Cheika and Hansen sprung a few surprises when they named their teams for the first Bledisloe fixture of the year. The left-field c…

Tom Vinicombe

09 Aug 2019, 19:54

Australia's diminishing class: how the 2019 squad compares to previous years

As we approach the 2019 World Cup, Australia rank 7th in the world - only one step higher than their lowest ever position. How doe…

Tom Vinicombe

08 Aug 2019, 0:48

Springboks in pole position for prize they haven't held in a decade - but does Rassie Erasmus care?

With the World Cup dominating the airways, it’s no surprise that the Southern Hemisphere’s premier international competition h…

Tom Vinicombe

06 Aug 2019, 6:54

Fifteen years' worth of successes: the Wallabies' wins over the All Blacks since they lost the Bledisloe Cup

The All Blacks have kept a tight grip on the Bledisloe Cup since they won it in 2003. The Wallabies, however, have still managed t…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Aug 2019, 23:28

Since when did test matches not matter?

People were worried that the Nations League was going to undermine the World Cup – but that’s exactly what the World Cup has a…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Aug 2019, 0:40

New Zealand's lost looseheads: from first choice to bust

Karl Tu'inukuafe made huge strides last year, going from an injury-replacement Super Rugby player to starting on the All Blacks' n…

Tom Vinicombe

01 Aug 2019, 0:21

Taleni Seu still on the long road to recovery from the same injury that has struck down Brodie Retallick

Taleni Seu would have to be one of the unluckiest men in New Zealand rugby right now. While he should be gearing up for his first …

Tom Vinicombe

30 Jul 2019, 23:00

All Blacks lock stocks looking grim after Brodie Retallick injury

New Zealanders country-wide held their breath as Brodie Retallick was escorted from the field in Saturday’s match between the Al…

Tom Vinicombe

28 Jul 2019, 0:59

Who needs a big game against the Springboks? The six All Blacks with most at stake

Tonight’s match between New Zealand and South Africa could be the last chance for a number of All Blacks to impress Steve Hansen…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Jul 2019, 18:46

Tonight's victor could take a massive advantage into the Rugby World Cup

The All Blacks and the Springboks could play each other up to three times in 2019, with each match increasing in importance. The w…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Jul 2019, 21:34

All Blacks biding their time with Josh Ioane

Four years ago, Lima Sopoaga was handed his first start for the All Blacks against the Springboks at Ellis Park. There'll be no su…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Jul 2019, 23:32

Could Luke Jacobson be set for a shock start against the Springboks?

Just one more player will get the chance to start for the All Blacks in the 6 jersey before the squad is culled, so who's going to…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jul 2019, 19:16

The unlucky All Blacks who could face the chopping block

The All Blacks named a 39-man squad for their Rugby Championship matches against Argentina and South Africa. That squad will have …

Tom Vinicombe

23 Jul 2019, 2:06

Why does it always rain All Blacks test debuts when the Pumas are involved?

By the end of this weekend's match, Steve Hansen will have blooded 14 players against the Pumas during his reign as All Blacks coa…

Tom Vinicombe

19 Jul 2019, 0:12

Second-string Springboks team sends clear message to midfield hopefuls

Lukhanyo Am and Jesse Kriel are both vying for the Springboks 13 jersey. Kriel may get the first chance to impress this season, be…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Jul 2019, 14:50

Fiji's win over Maori All Blacks should have Wales and Australia on high alert

On Saturday afternoon, Fiji played their first match of the year and unequivocally announced that their World Cup opposition will …

Tom Vinicombe

13 Jul 2019, 21:23

How Beauden Barrett's new contract with the Blues could impact New Zealand rugby

Beauden Barrett’s decision to head north to the Blues will have ramifications throughout the country. Barrett's new franchise al…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Jul 2019, 23:30

Final Showdown: Will the Jaguares be the first team to win a knockout match in Christchurch?

Few would question that the two teams who will play-off in the Super Rugby final on Saturday evening are this year’s two premier…

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jul 2019, 20:45

Super Rugby final deserves a more fitting stage

Christchurch’s main rugby venue, home of Super Rugby’s most successful team, boasts a capacity of just 18,000 people. Is Orang…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Jul 2019, 23:46

Why players keep leaving: Blues struggling to make All Blacks - and having shorter international careers

The Blues may represent New Zealand's most populated region, but they're having considerably less success converting young players…

Tom Vinicombe

03 Jul 2019, 21:33

Nathan Harris' fall from grace is as stunning as Brad Weber's rise from the ashes: how the All Blacks squad has changed in the last eight months

2019 marks the second year in a row that the All Blacks have opted for a supersized squad. How have the fortunes changed for the p…

Tom Vinicombe

02 Jul 2019, 22:34

Has the Super Rugby final come a week early in Christchurch?

The Crusaders, Hurricanes, Jaguares and Brumbies have fought tooth and nail to find themselves only two matches away from being cr…

Tom Vinicombe

27 Jun 2019, 23:50

Some All Blacks selections will go down to the wire - but the World Cup squad is looking as strong as ever

The first All Blacks squad of 2019 will be announced early next month. In almost every position there's some contention over who w…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Jun 2019, 2:43

Eight qualifiers undermines the quality of the Super Rugby finals

Eight sides qualify for Super Rugby's finals each season, which poses a problem when the quality of rugby has been as low as it ha…

Tom Vinicombe

22 Jun 2019, 19:41

Super Rugby sudden-death arrives: could we see an upset in Christchurch or Buenos Aires?

Super Rugby has been somewhat underwhelming to date – which is why it’s so exciting to finally be in the knockout rounds. The …

Tom Vinicombe

21 Jun 2019, 0:22

Forget first five - the Blues need a halfback

The Blues season has limped to another unimpressive end and Super Rugby's first-ever champion franchise aren't gaining any ground …

Tom Vinicombe

20 Jun 2019, 2:25

Analysis: Six blunders that may cost Quade Cooper a spot in the Wallabies

In the early stages of Super Rugby, a recall to the Wallabies squad was beckoning for maverick playmaker Quade Cooper. Things have…

Tom Vinicombe

18 Jun 2019, 21:49

All the storylines of the Super Rugby quarter-finals

After 18 weeks of competition, we've found our Super Rugby quarter-finalists. The Sharks, Chiefs and Highlanders all snuck in with…

Tom Vinicombe

15 Jun 2019, 22:24

Why the Blues' attempts to woo Beauden Barrett keep failing

News broke earlier this week that the Blues are attempting to lure All Black playmaker Beauden Barrett north. It's not the first t…

Tom Vinicombe

14 Jun 2019, 0:13

Where will Warren Gatland touch down in New Zealand?

Having been reappointed as Lions coach for their South African tour, Warren Gatland has reaffirmed that he has his sights set on a…

Tom Vinicombe

12 Jun 2019, 23:30

How is your team preparing for the Rugby World Cup?

2019's Rugby World Cup will kick off in 100 days. What fixtures does your team have between now and the launch in Japan?

Tom Vinicombe

12 Jun 2019, 2:52

A Super Rugby final round Hail Mary - could waving the white flag be a brave gambit?

Super Rugby is a competition like no other. It spans four continents, six time zones and has games played in seven different count…

Tom Vinicombe

11 Jun 2019, 2:16

Super Rugby has entered the dark ages - and the future doesn't look any brighter

There has been a widespread acceptance in recent times that the Super Rugby product has gone significantly downhill - but what opt…

Tom Vinicombe

07 Jun 2019, 0:04

New Zealand's best coaches all have one unheralded skill in common

Scott Robertson's Crusaders are on track for a third championship in as many years. Robertson is an astute coach with an intimate …

Tom Vinicombe

04 Jun 2019, 21:19

Sunwolves biting the hand that no longer feeds them - and what it means for Japan's Rugby World Cup

If Japan achieves positive results at the World Cup then Jamie Joseph should be hailed as a mastermind. If the opposite occurs, th…

Tom Vinicombe

31 May 2019, 1:15

How would the Wallabies loose forwards stack up without David Pocock?

It’s now been over two and a half months since David Pocock has taken the field for the Brumbies. If the Wallabies are faced wit…

Tom Vinicombe

26 May 2019, 20:27

Springboks assembling a ferocious squad

Although 2018 was a poor year for the Springboks, there’s will be enough depth in the 2019 squad to seriously challenge for the …

Tom Vinicombe

28 May 2019, 1:26

Taking the World Cup global: who will play host in 2027?

When 2019’s World Cup kicks off in Tokyo, rugby will break new ground by taking the showcase tournament to Asia for the first ti…

Tom Vinicombe

24 May 2019, 5:14

The Wallabies' biggest weakness ahead of the international season

When Michael Cheika named his squad to travel to the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England, he had two experienced, proven performers to…

Tom Vinicombe

23 May 2019, 1:26

The road to Super Rugby glory: who still has a shot at making the finals?

Super Rugby has reached its final month of regular season competition. It’s been one of the most even playing fields in recent y…

Tom Vinicombe

20 May 2019, 22:08

Chiefs recruitment team must learn from lessons of 2019

OPINION: 2019 has been a poor season for the Chiefs - in part due to a number of injuries to key players. For 2020 to be an improv…

Tom Vinicombe

19 May 2019, 3:20

Jaguares' continued improvement raises questions over the future of Argentina and Super Rugby

OPINION: Last night’s victory over the Hurricanes marked the third time that the Jaguares have triumphed over a New Zealand team…

Tom Vinicombe

17 May 2019, 22:56

Stat Attack: Frizell and Jacobson make their cases for World Cup selection

ANALYSIS: With only four rounds left in the regular season of Super Rugby, New Zealand's potential blindside options are running o…

Tom Vinicombe

16 May 2019, 22:21

Plenty of options for a post-2019 All Blacks midfield

OPINION: The All Blacks midfield is in safe hands for the upcoming World Cup, with plenty of options to pick from. Looking forward…

Tom Vinicombe

16 May 2019, 2:10

Folau is being rightfully reprimanded - but why do other players keep escaping punishment for their wrongdoings?

OPINION: Israel Folau's contract is on the brink of termination. While there should be no doubts that he is getting exactly what h…

Tom Vinicombe

15 May 2019, 2:23

Sharpshooters: Super Rugby's goal-kicking top-dogs

Last week, the Sharks earned a draw against the Crusaders after Curwin Bosch kicked seven penalty goals. It's not the first time t…

Tom Vinicombe

11 May 2019, 22:34

Challenge Cup Final Preview: Clermont v La Rochelle

The Champions Cup final may be the main course for rugby fans this weekend, but French sides Clermont and La Rochelle will first b…

Tom Vinicombe

10 May 2019, 2:31

The Converted Crusaders

In the last five seasons, the Crusaders have recruited only six players who were already contracted to other Super Rugby teams. Th…

Tom Vinicombe

26 Apr 2019, 20:01

Is this the most competitive season of Super Rugby we've ever had?

The Sunwolves beating former champions, two Australian teams winning on South African soil on the same weekend, small margins sepa…

Tom Vinicombe

25 Apr 2019, 23:46

All Blacks Watch - How are New Zealand's hookers faring in Super Rugby?

We're now past the half-way point in Super Rugby and the All Blacks selectors will be slowly inking in their initial squad for the…

Tom Vinicombe

24 Apr 2019, 23:07

Time for Chiefs coach Cooper to throw caution to the wind

The Chiefs' season is on a downwards spiral and sooner or later Colin Cooper will have to decide what's more important: playing it…

Tom Vinicombe

23 Apr 2019, 1:49