Round nine of the Bunnings NPC saw Taranaki take the Ranfurly Shield off Tasman, two All Blacks return for Counties, and Southland putting up a record performance over North Harbour.
The top 50 prospects under 23 years of age currently plying their trade in New Zealand features three capped All Blacks already.
The Lions brushed off prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye’s early red card to win in Ireland for the first time as they overcame Connacht 38-14 at Dexcom Stadium.
Telea was also named Blues Player of the Year as well as Players Player of the Year at the annual Blues Awards.
There are not many success stories among scrumhalves over six feet tall. Cam Roigard could be the exception.
The Blues have emerged victorious in the Bunnings Warehouse Super Rugby U20s Championship.
The All Blacks top two No 10s will be gone next year, presenting a major drop-off in available talent for whoever becomes the next head coach.
The big question stands as to whether Smith is the best option for the All Blacks as their starting halfback for a third World Cup in France next year. The first reaction from most will be of course he is.
It is set to be an entertaining Friday night with Sale picking Manu Tuilagi and Tom Curry and Harlequins selecting Marcus Smith to start.