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Auckland went across to North Harbour and in the pouring rain won 29-13 in ITM Cup action on Sunday.

Manawatu threw the form book out of the window by fighting their way to a 15-10 victory of their neighbours Taranaki in Palmerston North.

At Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario in San Juan, Argentina, on Saturday a Puma team played a team chosen by the Confederacion Sudamericana de Rugby (CONSUR) in Argentina's last home warm-up match for the 2011 World Cup.

Otago's Carisbrook farewell match ended in disaster for home side, as neighbours Southland spoilt the party by winning 19-12.

The All Blacks landed a major psychological blow at the venue for the World Cup Final by beating the No.2 ranked team, Australia.

The All Blacks landed a major psychological blow at Eden Park as they confidently brushed aside the challenge of Australia on Saturday.

Otago's Carisbrook farewell match ended in disaster for home side, as neighbours Southland spoilt the party by winning 19-12.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry was bullish about his side's victory and claimed the match was already over before the Wallabies fought back.

The All Blacks outplayed a stunned Wallabies team who fought hard but were ultimately blown away 30-14 at Eden Park on Saturday.

The Tri-Nations will continue to feature on the rugby calendar during World Cup years according to SANZAR chief executive Greg Peters.

On Saturday at Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario in San Juan the Pumas play an invitation team chosen by the Confederacion Sudamericana de Rugby (CONSUR). It is all a part of warm-up and trial before the Pumas head north to prepare more directly for the World Cup.

Hawke's Bay gave Wellington a rugby lesson when they ran six tries past them in 40-20 drubbing.

Canterbury held off a late fightback from Tasman to win 36-32 and avenge their shock defeat in last year's fixture.

Canterbury held off a late fightback from Tasman to win 36-32 and avenge their shock defeat in last year's fixture in the NPC.

Columnist Grant Ball looks at a video and stats of Ruan Pienaar's performance against the All Blacks, where the Bok scrumhalf looked a shadow of his former self.

It's midsummer in Toronto but, with the World Cup looming, Canada are playing the USA Eagles for the Can-Am Trophy in a match which could be close.

The one is Wales's brave leader. The other is the toys' brave leader.

Australia named an unchanged side for the daunting clash with New Zealand in Auckland as they go in search of a rare victory at Eden Park.

The All Blacks will break the Test caps record against the Wallabies in a match being hailed in New Zealand as a potential World Cup final.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry has made seven changes ahead of Saturday's Bledisloe Cup clash against the Wallabies in Auckland.

Warren Gatland believes Wales and England's decision to wear black change kits at the World Cup should be viewed as a mark of respect.

The one is known as Big 'D' - for loving defending. The other, Big 'Z', simply loves the ocean.

Northland broke Bay of Plenty's unbeaten start to the National Provincial Championship by defeating their more fancied opponents 30-23 in a spirited performance in Whangarei on Thursday.

Northland broke Bay of Plenty's unbeaten start to the NPC by defeating their more fancied opponents 30-23 in Whangarei on Thursday.

rugby365.com columnist Tom Dawson-Squibb turns his attention to rugby of a different sort this week - that of the schoolboy variety and, with it, arguably the biggest schoolboy rugby derby in South Africa...

All Blacks Doctor Deb Robinson has revealed that prop John Afoa fractured his cheekbone last weekend, but won't require surgery.

A terrific kicking performance from Glenn Dickson gave Otago a flattering 30-14 victory over Counties-Manukau.

Auckland's 39-26 triumph over Southland has resurrected their season, and they had to battle hard for the win.

Colin Slade is studying Quade Cooper to better understand the best way to stop the unpredictable playmaker from breaching the Kiwi defence.

All Blacks prop Tony Woodcock has come through his first match from injury with flying colours after playing for North Harbour on Tuesday.

Auckland's 39-26 triumph over Southland has resurrected their season, and they had to battle hard for the win.

This has been a harder year than usual for composing the FNB Top 20 because of the constant changes and surprises, which tell the truth that we all know - that there are so many outstanding rugby teams in South African schools.

Only 38 days from the start of the World Cup, a survey shows more than one-third of Kiwis are not looking forward to the tournament.

Barely one third of New Zealanders are enthusiastic about the World Cup, a mere five weeks out from the sport's global showpiece.

All Blacks hooker and former Hurricanes skipper Andrew Hore has signed a one-year deal to play for the Highlanders.

All Blacks assistant coach Steve Hansen says the Wallabies no longer fear the All Blacks and probably don't even respect them.

Australia brought a 15-match All Black winning streak to an end in Hong Kong last year and Sam Whitelock is in the mood for some revenge.

Quade Cooper does not expect the extra attention of the offended Richie McCaw, who he pushed in the head last year, to affect his game.

Tasman earned their first win and first log points of the season when they edged out Hawke's Bay 21-19 in a hard-fought National Provincial Championship match in Napier on Tuesday.

Tasman earned their first win and first log points of the season when they edged out Hawke's Bay 21-19 in a hard-fought match in Napier.

Manawatu's Tomasi Cama proved to be the difference between the sides when his team recorded a 32-21 victory over North Harbour on Tuesday.

Columnist Grant Ball believes that Springbok coach Peter de Villiers blew a chance to foster some belief in his coaching ability on his team's disappointing Tri-Nations away leg.

Explosive wing Hosea Gear has recovered from injury and looks set to get his opportunity to impress the All Black selectors this weekend.

All Black prop will start his comeback from injury this week when he plays for North Harbour in their NPC match against Manawatu on Tuesday.

It will probably be the first real Tri-Nations match this weekend when A Team plays A Team with Craig Joubert to referee it. The television match official is Glen Jackson, once a top player and now a top referee.

After witnessing some exuberant Australian celebrations in recent times the All Blacks are determined to silence the Wallabies this weekend.

Jake White looks at the Boks' loss to New Zealand and considers what lies ahead for them in the remainder of the Tri-Nations.

Wellington Rugby board member Ken Laban was slapped on the wrist after tweeting his support for Piri Weepu's move to the Blues.

New Zealand-born flank Thomas Waldrom's chances of playing for England at the World Cup are in tatters after he was axed from the squad.

Taranaki and Bay of Plenty both inflicted huge defeats on two of the traditional powerhouses on New Zealand in Sunday's NPC action.

The last first class game at Carisbrook will see Otago play local rivals Southland on Saturday, August 6 - a rare afternoon NPC game.

All Blacks prop John Afoa may miss the 3N clash with the Wallabies after fracturing a cheekbone on Saturday.

The Otago Rugby Union is encouraging the public to get to the 'Brook' for a day to remember on Saturday, August 6.

Taranaki scored a record 39-11 win over Auckland in their NPC match in New Plymouth on Sunday.

Bay of Plenty cemented their spot at the top of the NPC ladder with a 32-0 victory over Wellington at Bay Park.

All Blacks and former Hurricanes scrumhalf Piri Weepu has signed with the Blues ahead of next year's Super Rugby season.

A late surge put the icing on a solid performance from Canterbury as they beat Manawatu, finishing 42-15 victors in Christchurch.

The Springboks were blown away by the the All Blacks who cruised to a dominant 40-7 victory in their Tri-Nations encounter in Wellington.

Springbok captain John Smit admitted that his side was 'exposed' by a vastly superior All Black outfit that demolished the South Africans.

A late surge put the icing on a business-like performance from Canterbury as they dismissed the challenge of Manawatu, finishing 42-15 victors in Christchurch on Saturday.

Richie McCaw was satisfied with the way his side got the job done against a weak Springbok team, but warned that they will have to improve.

New Zealand came to within three points of their biggest win over South Africa, when they hammered the Springboks 40-7 in Wellington.

Northland fought their way to a gutsy 20-17 National Provincial Championship victory over Otago in Whangarei on Saturday.

Fiji officials say their national team has no major sponsor 42 days from the start of the World Cup and is relying on the support of its government and generosity of fans to fund its participation.

Thank to the boot of James Wilson Southland were able to retain the Ranfurly Shield by beating Counties-Manukau 22-14 in Invercargill.

Southland were pushed hard in the second half, but thank to the steady boot of flyhalf James Wilson they were able to retain the Ranfurly Shield by beating Counties-Manukau 22-14 in Invercargill on Friday.

Motivation has been a key element in South Africa's build-up to their second Tri-Nations Test, against New Zealand on Saturday.

On Saturday, Alain Rolland, the Irish referee, will referee the Tri-Nations match between New Zealand and South Africa. It will be the 50th Test he has refereed, moving him into a rare group of refereeing achievers.

SA should expect nothing less than a full-blooded assault from a hungry and determined NZ when the two sides go head-to-head on Saturday.

The Confederacion Sudamericana de Rugby (CONSUR) has chosen a multinational squad to play the Pumas sat Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario in San Juan on 6 August 2011 as part of the Pumas' preparation for the Rugby World Cup.

Japan coach John Kirwan says Asia is emerging as a major force in the world, helped by the staging of the 2011 and 2019 World Cups in its own backyard and the sport's return to the Olympics.

All Black Stephen Donald describes his immediate playing future as murky, with English club Bath working through his work permit issues.

Columnist Grant Ball looks at a video and stats of John Smit's performance against the Wallabies.

Hawke's Bay annihilated North Harbour to ignite their NPC Championship prospects with a bonus-point 39-10 victory at Albany on Thursday.

Bok coach Peter de Villiers took a gamble by making a number of changes to his team for their second 3N match, against the All Blacks.

Taranaki maintained their ability to come from behind in games when claiming a 23-16 win over Northland at Whangarei.

Hawke's Bay, with clinical efficiency, annihilated a near-disgraceful North Harbour to ignite their NPC Championship prospects with a bonus-point 39-10 victory at Albany on Thursday.

All Black coach Graham Henry made four changes to the team for the Tri-Nations match against South Africa in Wellington on Saturday.

More World Cup tickets, including cheap seats to some All Blacks matches, have been made available to the public.

The dynamic Wellington Lions earned a 37-28 bonus-point win over Canterbury in their NPC Round Four clash ion Wednesday.

All Black prop Tony Woodcock is poised to make his return next week after almost three months spent on the sidelines nursing a foot injury.

The dynamic Wellington Lions earned a 37-28 bonus-point win over Canterbury in their NPC Round Four clash ion Wednesday.

NZ will unveil a new jersey in Saturday's test against SA, that retains the traditions of the All Blacks, but with a high-tech twist.

The All Black selectors have no plans to permanently convert Richie McCaw to a No.8 on, despite him filling that position against Fiji.

Bay of Plenty continued their unbeaten start to the National Provincial Championship season with a dominant 36-8 victory over neighbours Waikato in Rotorua on Tuesday night.

This is the first FNB Top 20 for some time. There have been holidays but there were matches, for example at Cape Schools Week in King William's Town, and then again this last week.

Rassie Erasmus's impact, or lack thereof, on the Bok squad will be evident over the next couple of months.

All Black assistant coach Wayne Smith has admitted that the New Zealand selectors do not know what their best XV is at the moment.

Legendary All Blacks wing Jonah Lomu has slammed England?s decision to wear an all-black away strip at the World Cup.

Bay of Plenty continued their unbeaten start to the National Provincial Championship season with a dominant 36-8 victory over Waikato.

The All Blacks are staunchly defending the decision to keep the public away from their training sessions until the World Cup.

South Africa took a team to Sydney to play the Wallabies and were lathered. The score, 39-20, faltered the South Africans. We give some statistics from the match.

Jake White, in his weekly column, highlights the Springboks' flaws in their 20-39 loss to Australia.

South Africa are struggling to find enough fit locks ahead of their next Tri-Nations assignment, against NZ in Wellington on Saturday.

The All Blacks have broken with tradition by allowing players to wear coloured boots for the first time in their history.

The big match of the weekend has the big referee. Alain Rolland, who refereed the World Cup Final in 2007, takes charge of the second Tri-Nations match of 2011 and must be hoping for a better performance from South Africa than the one in Sydney last week.

Tasman suffered their third consecutive defeat in the NPC when they went down 32-23 to Counties Manukau in Blenheim on Sunday.

Tasman are yet to record their first log points of the season after they suffered their third consecutive defeat in the National Provincial Cup when they went down 32-23 to Counties Manukau in Blenheim on Sunday.

New Zealand will rest at least four key players for Saturday's Tri-Nations Test against South Africa in Wellington.

Hawke's Bay put in a powerful second-half performance and outscored Otago by three tries to one in their 27-13 NPC victory in Napier.

Jimmy Cowan won $100 from All Black skipper Richie McCaw after Southland took the Ranfurly Shield off Canterbury.

All Black flank Jerome Kaino remains convinced that the Springboks remain a threat for his team despite their submission to Australia.

Graham Henry was delighted with Sitiveni Sivivatu's game against Fiji and is set to give him another chance against the Springboks.

Sonny Bill Williams is undecided over which Super Rugby team to join, and the decision could be influenced by his love for his mother.

The death of NZ's House of Pain, the iconic Carisbrook ground, finally came to an end when the All Blacks beat Fiji 60-14.

The All Blacks were left with plenty to work on before their opening Tri-Nations Test against South Africa, despite beating Fiji 60-14.

Bay of Plenty got past North Harbour in Mount Maunganui, winning 38-17 on Saturday.

Manawatu put last year's 77-8 massacre at the hands of Northland behind them to claim a hard-fought 30-22 bonus-point win in Saturday.

The Ranfurly Shield is going back to Invercargill. For the second time in two years Southland have beaten Canterbury to win the Log o' Wood.

The Ranfurly Shield is going back to Invercargill. For the second time in two years Southland have beaten Canterbury to win the Log o' Wood.

Italy's South African coach Nick Mallett has named his 30-man squad for the World Cup which included the uncapped duo of hooker Tommaso D'Apice and former Cheetahs lock forward Cornelius Van Zyl.

All Black coach Graham Henry blamed rustiness for the inconsistent performance, as New Zealand produced a 60-14 win over Fiji on Friday.

New Zealand started their international season with a comprehensive 60-14 win over Fiji on Friday, in the last ever Test match to be played at the iconic Carisbrook, in Dunedin.

New Zealand started their international season with a comprehensive, but scrappy, 60-14 win over Fiji on Friday.

The All Blacks are set to unleash a new game plan as they start their World Cup preparations with a one-off Test against Fiji on Friday.

The Western Force has continued its positive recruiting drive with the addition of exciting Blues back Winston Stanley on a two-year deal.

Bath anticipated that the RFU would block their attempt to sign All Black flyhalf Stephen Donald and they plan to appeal the decision.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry says it is vital that some key players are rested ahead of the Tri-Nations.

Luke McAlister will appear at NPC level for the first time this season when his Northern Harbour team plays Bay of Plenty on Saturday.

Taranaki overcame a 14-point deficit win their fist game of the NPC season, beating Waikato 30-23 in Hamilton on Friday.

Ali Williams, who will play his first test since 2008, is not getting ahead of himself when he takes the field against Fiji on Friday.

Taranaki overcame a 14-point deficit win their fist game of the NPC season, beating Waikato 30-23 in Hamilton on Friday.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has given Highlanders lock Jarrad Hoeata a belated Test debut, against Fiji at Carisbrook on Friday.

All Black coach Graham Henry jumped to the defence of his under-fire Wallaby rival Robbie Deans, saying the criticism was unjustified.

Blues lock forward Kurtis Haiu pleaded guilty to two assault charges in the Pukekohe District Court on Wednesday.

The All Blacks open their World Cup build-up with a Test against Fiji on Friday, resting key players but stressing they will not fall into the same trap as Australia against Samoa.

The All Blacks face Fiji on Friday, resting key players but stressing they will not fall into the same trap as Australia against Samoa.

Otago won in Auckland for the first time in 35 years to claim the Lin Colling Memorial Trophy following their 32-25 triumph.

Andrew Hore, who will play his 51st Test for NZ against Fiji in Friday, says his future with the Highlanders is close to being resolved.

Otago won in Auckland for the first time in 35 years to claim the Lin Colling Memorial Trophy following their 32-25 triumph.

Counties Manukau defeated Manawatu 32-25 thanks in large part to the accurate goal-kicking and 22 poins from flyhalf James Semple.

All Black 'rookie' Jarrad Hoeata has promised to 'play his own game' when he makes his debut for New Zealand against Fiji on Friday.

Blues lock Kurtis Haiu has pleaded guilty to two charges at the Pukekohe District Court on Wednesday.

Fiji has shied away from including an army officer in its team to play the All Blacks to avoid a confrontation with the authorities.

New Zealand media report that a World Cup match between Samoa and South Africa has sold out after the Samoans' historic 32-23 win over Australia at the weekend.

The Crusaders contingent of the All Blacks will need a rest during the Tri-Nations following their long Super Rugby campaign on the road.

IRB chief Mike Miller warned that price gouging during the World Cup threatened to sully New Zealand's reputation with tourists.

Hawke's Bay produced a workmanlike performance to hold off Southland and record a solid 29-18 victory in their National Provincial Championship match in Napier on Tuesday.

Hawke's Bay produced a workmanlike performance to hold off Southland and record a solid 29-18 victory in Napier.

The selection of a Springbok 'B' side will give Peter de Villiers an opportunity to show his worth as a coach according to rugby365.com columnist Grant Ball.

North Harbour scored 33 unanswered points in a stunning second-half display to finish 39-15 victors over Tasman on Tuesday.

The Bench - an online-based sports and lifestyle show on 2Oceansviberadio - caught up with Springbok winger Bryan Habana to talk about the new Bok jersey and South Africa's Tri-Nations and World Cup chances.

Highlanders ace Ben Smith wants to bid farwell to the famous Carisbrook in Dunedin with an All Balcks victory over Fiji on Friday.

Legendary former Springbok prop Os du Randt says that having just one fit specialist tighthead in their tour group could haunt the Springboks.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has given Highlanders lock Jarrad Hoeata a belated Test debut, against Fiji at Carisbrook on Friday.

The All Blacks plan to show full respect to the calibre of their opposition when they tackle Fiji on Friday, after the Wallabies were handed a shock 32-23 defeat by Samoa last weekend.

All Black hooker Keven Mealamu is determined to hold on to his starting berth despite pressure from Andrew Hore and Corey Flynn.

Tri-Nations kicks off in Sydney this weekend. It's a big week for Chris Pollock who is refereeing his first Tri-Nations match and for Jaco Peyper who will be refereeing his first Test. All referees will wish them well.

Back row forward Sisa Koyamaibole and flyhalf Waisea Luveniyali will miss Fiji's one-off Test against New Zealand on Friday after being sent off in last week's Pacific Nations Cup match against Japan.

The All Blacks are determined to avoid Australia?s fate of stumbling against a Pacific Island when they take on Fiji this weekend.

Samoa's stunning Test victory over Australia showed the national side was capable of winning this year's World Cup, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said Monday.

French-based Seremaia Bai will play at flyhalf in place of the injured Nicky Little in the Fiji team to meet New Zealand in a one-off Test in Dunedin on Friday.

Forgotten All Blacks back Luke McAlister has been omitted from North Harbour's NPC team for the second week in a row.

Forgotten All Black Luke McAlister has been omitted from North Harbour's matchday 22 for the second week in a row.

Cory Jane is cursing his luck after a compound dislocation of his finger further weakened his grip on an All Black World Cup jersey.

The Wallabies' loss to Samoa at the weekend was the most embarrassing result in Australian history, commentators said Monday, accusing the national side of taking inexcusable liberties.

French-based Seremaia Bai will play at flyhalf in place of the injured Nicky Little in the Fiji team to meet New Zealand on Friday.

With the 2011 Tri-Nations upon us, and the Rugby World Cup weeks away, we have teamed up with Stud Rugby to offer you the opportunity to win some unique supporters' jerseys to create your very own Rugby Fridays.

Defending champions Canterbury got their 2011 NPC campaign off to a winning start when they beat Auckland 40-33 at Eden Park on Sunday.

Defending champions Canterbury got their 2011 NPC campaign off to a winning start when they beat Auckland 40-33 at Eden Park on Sunday.

Luke McAlister claims he is "loyal" to North Harbour until the World Cup squad is named.

All Black Stephen Donald has been left in limbo after he failed to secure an English working permit and his deal with Bath fell through.

Samoa scored one of their most famous upsets of all time when they upstaged Australia in their international in Sydney on Sunday.

In an exciting NPC match at Growers Stadium the Bay of Plenty beat the Counties Manukau Steelers 20-13 on Sunday.

All Black discard Luke McAlister has denied he plans to run out and leave North Harbour.

Former Toulouse enforcer Finau Maka, the probable captain of Tonga in this year's World Cup, has signed for French fifth division club Pamiers.

Fiji has delayed the announcement of its team for Friday's one-off Test against the All Blacks.

Fiji has delayed the announcement of its team for Friday's one-off Test against the All Blacks.

All Black assistant coach Wayne Smith has hinted that the All Blacks will adapt their style of play from their traditional approach.

Takapuna prop Jarred Beckett may lay a police complaint, after being punched when he approached to shake hands with a Kumeu opponent.

Luke McAlister claims he is "loyal" to North Harbour until the All Blacks' World Cup squad is named despite asking to leave early.

The Lions went from Wellington to the land of Ferdinand and beat Taranaki 23-5 at Yarrow Stadium, thanks to a hat-trick by Jason Woodward.

Manawatu triumphed 32-23 over Hawke's Bay at FMG Stadium in Palmerston North with flyhalf Aaron Cruden playing a starring role.

SARU on Saturday announced the players selected to the SA Schools and SA Academy teams for 2011. These squads will compete in two international friendlies against a France Invitational squad in August.

Two early tries set up Northland's 19-9 victory over Tasman at ITM Stadium in Whangarei on Saturday afternoon.

Free State beat the Golden Lions by 28-17 in the final match of the 2011 Craven Week on Saturday, meaning the Free Staters have once again ended up as the provincial kings of South African schoolboy rugby.

The last morning of the 2011 Craven Week started fine, crisp with the promise of even better as the sun got going.

We look at the schools from which the country's top schoolboy players - in the SA Schools and SA Academy teams - were selected.

Manawatu and Northland enjoyed victories on the opening Saturday of New Zealand's National Provincial Championship for 2011.

The Lions went from Wellington to the land of Ferdinand and beat Taranaki 23-5 at Yarrow Stadium, thanks to a hat-trick of tries by young Jason Woodward.

Fiji have included an army officer in their World Cup squad, however the New Zealand government on Friday remained adamant he would not be allowed into the country.

Playing the main match at Craven Week is prestigious. To some it is a final of sorts. This match has been a focal point of Craven Week since 1971, conflicting though it did with Dr Craven's wishes.

Otago loose forward Daniel Crichton has been suspended by the Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) as they await the outcome of his court appearance on charges of assault on July 25.

The Wallabies have rested some of their big guns and could give four players their Test debut when they launch their international season against Samoa in Sydney on Sunday.

Aaron Cruden has revealed that the prospect of working with Dave Rennie was the crucial factor in his decision to leave the Hurricanes.

One of the immortals of NZ, Dave Gallaher, captain of the 1905-06 All Blacks, has been remembered with the unveiling of a bronze statue.

Discarded All Black Stephen Donald scored all the points as Waikato opened their NPC campaign with a 19-9 win over Southland at Rugby Park.

French champions Toulouse rejected on Friday claims by the NZRU that they should pay a release fee to sign former All Black Luke McAlister.

All Black Colin Slade will play flyhalf for a strong Canterbury team in their opening NPC match against Auckland at Eden Park on Sunday.

Discarded All Black Stephen Donald ensured he doesn't slip entirely into oblivion or off the national radar when he scored all the points and controlled play as Waikato opened their NPC campaign with a 19-9 win over Southland at Rugby Park in Invercargill on Friday.

The Otago Rugby Football Union have suspended loose forward Daniel Crichton who has been arrested and charged with assault.

Western Force prop Pek Cowan has been added the Wallabies matchday 22 for their clash with Samoa in Sydney on Sunday.

All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu has delivered some stark advice to rising star Sonny Bill Williams - don't let the hype go to your head.

Former NZ Maori player Glen Jackson will make his international refereeing debut in the Tro-Nations match between New Zealand and Australia.

All Black legend Jonah Lomu has named Ireland as the dark horse at this year's World Cup in New Zealand.

The first South African Schools team was chosen in 1974 and went to Europe on tour. We look back at lists of old.

Japan captain Takashi Kikutani hailed his Pacific Nations Cup-winning side on Thursday, saying the Asian champions had proved that Japan could compete with the best in the world.

John Key has branded English rugby as a 'bunch of wannabes' after reports that England will wear an all-black away strip at the World Cup.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry plans to rest several members of his squad ahead of the World Cup to guard against burnout.

The 2011 Craven Week ends at GWK Park in Kimberley on Saturday with a main match between Free State and the Golden Lions. This will be the fifth year in succession that Free State play in the prestigious final match.

Anitelea Tuilagi and two of his brothers have been charged following an alleged assault on veteran wing Brian Lima, according to Samoan media reports.

Jaco Peyper, the 31-year-old lawyer from Bloemfontein, has been appointed to referee a Victoria Cup match between Kenya and Nairobi on 23 July 2011, a match which may well decide the winner of the cup.

The weather again was sunny and dry in Kimberley for Day Four of the 2011 Craven Week - an exciting day, nothing more exciting than the last action of the last match between the Lions and KZN.

Otago cruised to a comfortable 46-29 victory over North Harbour in their opening National Provincial Championship (NPC) match at Carisbrook in Dunedin on Thursday.

All Blacks midfielder Richard Kahui is out of the game for several weeks, after straining his hamstring during a training run this week.

All Blacks and Hurricanes flyhalf Aaron Cruden has decided to join his former mentor Dave Rennie at the Chiefs next season.

Samoa named a strong side for the Test with Australia, including one of the nomadic Crusaders' Super Rugby stars - scrumhalf Kahn Fotualii.

The NZRU has put a NZ$60,000 price tag on disgruntled All Black Luke McAlister's plans for an early departure to French club Toulouse.

The New Zealand Rugby Union has put a NZ$60,000 (US$50,000; ?35,000) price tag on disgruntled All Black Luke McAlister's plans for an early departure to French club Toulouse.

Samoa named a near full-strength side for Sunday's Test with Australia, including one of the nomadic Crusaders' Super Rugby stars.

All Black Hosea Gear is making good progress with his hamstring strain, but remains unavailable for the Fiji Test next week.

Several high-profile Australian players will be rested for this weekend's Test against Samoa, but captain Rocky Elsom makes his long-awaited return from injury for the season-opening bout.

The NZRU says it won't be releasing All Black Luke McAlister without financial compensation from French club Toulouse.

An injury-time time try by Yuta Imamura saw Japan snatch the Pacific Nations Cup rugby crown with a crucial 24-13 bonus-point win over a 12-man Fiji in a tense final match on Wednesday.

The wind was back in Kimberley for the third day of the 2011 Craven Week at GWK Park, with the Blue Bulls and Free State ending the day with a high quality match.

Auckland coach Mark Anscombe believes flank Daniel Braid has every opportunity of claiming a place in the All Blacks World Cup squad.

North Harbour expressed complete surprise with media reports that France-bound All Black Luke McAlister is no longer with the team.

The New Zealand Rugby Union expressed its disappointed with Luke McAlister, who has sought an early release from his NZRU contract.

Jamie Mackintosh will captain the Southland Stags, who kick off their campaign against Waikato, in this year's NPC.

Experienced lock Jeremy Thrush will lead Wellington in this year's NPC, the Lions confirmed on Wednesday.

A group of Bay of Plenty Maori want to capitalise on their existing French connection to build commercial and rugby bonds.

All Black scrumhalf Piri Weepu has been put through his paces by New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens as he seeks to regain fitness.

The main match of Day Three of the 2011 Craven Week being played at GWK Park in Kimberley is between fluid Free State and muscular Blue Bulls.

Keven Mealamu believes that the All Blacks must bury their past World Cup heartache and use the experience from 2007 to motivate the team.

The fixtures for the fourth day of the 2011 Craven Week being played in Kimberley includes two massive clashes. In the main match the Golden Lions play KZN, while in the match before victorious Border play WP.

It was a lovely day in Kimberley on Tuesday for Day Two of the 2011 Craven Week - warm and still, and it produced an epic battle between KwaZulu-Natal and Western Province.

All Black coach Graham Henry has acknowledged that his team need to adapt their game from the formula that served them so well last year.

The Highlanders have held meetings with All Blacks Hosea Gear and Andrew Hore as they look to bolster their resources.

Brendon Leonard has confirmed that he intends to re-sign with the Chiefs next season despite missing out on another All Black squad.

rugby365.com columnist Grant Ball believes that Johann Sadie and JJ Engelbrecht's moves to the Bulls were more about financial reasons than playing opportunities.

All Black coach Graham Henry is more than aware of the need to rest the weary Crusaders in his team ahead of the Tri-Nations.

All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu received an ecstatic welcome on Tuesday when he returned to his homeland Tonga to promote the World Cup.

All Black coach Graham Henry has said that he is not concerned about South Africa sending a depleted squad to contest the Tri-Nations.

Auckland warmed up for the national championship with a 22-11 win over Northland.

Former Wallaby and World Cup-winning Springbok assistant coach Eddie Jones gives his thoughts on the turning points that gave the Reds a win over the Crusaders in Saturday's Super Rugby Final.

As with all the various 'weeks' in the last frantic fortnight of interprovincial schoolboy rugby, Craven Week 2011 showcases all that is good in the sport. These lads represent the best young talent in the country.

The World Cup's top-class corporate pavilion at Eden Park has been slashed because of poor demand, losing a third of its capacity.

rugby365.com columnist Tom Dawson-Squibb is a dreamer. But he's not the only one... Are 'dream teams' just that, dreams, or can they exist at rugby's highest level?

Brad Thorn was not able to end his Super Rugby career on a winning note, but was still happy to witness the revival of rugby in Brisbane.

The Reds' S15 win over a Crusaders side bristling with All Blacks was an ominous sign that Australia loom as a major World Cup threat.

Craven Week got off to an entertaining, intensely interesting day of schools rugby. The highlights were the upset that started the tournament, the smooth skills of the Free Staters in a match of lavish try-scoring and then the intensely close contest to finish.

The big guns are almost silent now as the Super 15 ends with a thrilling match in Brisbane but in no time others start popping away as provincial competition starts in New Zealand and South Africa - the ITM Cup and the Currie Cup.

Highlanders lock Jarrad Hoeata is the only newcomer in the All Black squad named on Sunday.

Fiji and Japan stormed back into contention in the Pacific Nations Cup at the weekend with thrilling victories over first-round winners Samoa and Tonga to blow the tournament wide open.

Dan Carter said he hopes the Crusaders did not let the people of Christchurch down with their 13-18 defeat to the Reds in the S15 Final.

Brisbane will regularly feature on the All Blacks' roster, according to a 10-year Test schedule announced by the Australian Rugby Union.

Ewen McKenzie was savouring S15 glory after the Reds beat the Crusaders - having twice lost to the NZ team in a Final as NSW coach.

The All Blacks selectors banked on experience in naming their squad, with Richie McCaw leading a team with 1028 Test caps.

The Crusaders fought hard, but were unable to overcome the Reds in Brisbane as the home team ran out 18-13 victors in the Super Rugby Final.

Crusaders skipper Richie McCaw admitted that his side was beaten by a Reds team that made better use of their opportunities in the Final.

NZRU boss Steve Tew fears ticket sales for the Wellington Test could take a hit as South Africa prepare to send a second-string squad.

Cory Jane, Hosea Gear and Aaron Cruden may soon join Piri Weepu in resigning with the Hurricanes.

As is the wont nowadays, there is a large back-up contingent for the ten referees appointed to the 2011 Craven Week which starts in Kimberley on Monday, 11 July 2011.

Stormers lock Andries Bekker comes under the microscope as rugby365.com columnist Grant Ball takes a look at the tall tight forward's game.

Reds coach Ewen McKenzie says his team should be the bookmakers' favourites to win into Saturday's Super Rugby Final against the Crusaders.

Ewan McKenzie does not think that the extra travelling the Crusaders have done this year will negatively affect their Final performance.

Todd Blackadder insists that his team are feeling 'fresh' ahead of the Super Rugby Final in Brisbane despite their hectic travel schedule.

Crusaders captain Richie McCaw will have no shortage of motivation when he leads his team out at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett has continued to build his squad after securing the signatures of loose forwards Serge Lilo and Jack Lam.

Brad Thorn said the Crusaders will be steeled for an eighth S15 crown by fans still recovering from February's Christchurch earthquake.

Hamilton started upgrading stadium floodlights, but they won't be ready until just a couple of weeks before the World Cup tournament.

Otago Razorbacks coaches Andy Hunter and Phil Mooney have named a squad of 28 players to travel to Invercargill to play Southland in a pre-season match on Friday.

Craven Week, the greatest schoolboy rugby tournament in the world, seems to have been around forever. But like all things, it had a birth.

New Zealand centre Luke McAlister said on Friday that he was impatient to start life at his new club Toulouse next season.

Otago Razorbacks coaches Andy Hunter and Phil Mooney have named a squad of 28 players to play Southland on Friday.

There will be 20 teams at Craven Week this year - 440 excited young rugby players with stars in their eye and ambition in their hearts. Playing for your province is a great opportunity and there is always the chance of catching the eye of a talent scout.

The Craven Week starts in Kimberley on Monday, 11 July 2011 with five matches at GWK Park. The fixtures for the first two days are laid down.

Two members of the all-conquering New Zealand team feature in the nominees for the IRB Junior Player of the Year Award.

Two members of the all-conquering NZ team, Sam Cane and Luke Whitelock, have been nominated for the IRB Junior Player of the Year award.

Piri Weepu's contract woes have been sorted, but that did not stop the AB No.9 from having a go at the Hurricanes over stalling tactics.

Crusaders players named in the All Blacks' Tri-Nations squad can expect to be treated with kid gloves after an arduous Super 15 season.

Bryce Lawrence of New Zealand will be refereeing the first Super 15 Final when the Reds of Queensland play the Crusaders of Canterbury at a sold-out Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Saturday.

All Black coach Graham Henry reckons teams will play an expansive brand of rugby at the World Cup.

The Reds have named an unchanged line-up for Saturday's historic and sold-out Super Rugby Final against the Crusaders at Suncorp Stadium.

Wellington have named three All Blacks on the bench as they test their depth in a pre-season clash with the Cantabrians on Friday.

Wellington have named three All Blacks on the bench as they test their depth in a pre-season clash with the Cantabrians on Friday.

It started in East London in 1964 and looked set to stay there but since then it has become happily nomadic, moving round the country. This year the caravan stops at Kimberley.

Former Wallaby coach Eddie Jones believes the Crusaders will overcome travel fatigue to edge the Reds in the Super Rugby Final in Brisbane.

Scrumhalf Andy Ellis must pass a fitness test before he can play in an unchanged Crusaders team against the Reds in the Super Rugby Final.

SANZAR boss Greg Peters "sought and received" assurances from SA that they will field their 'best available' team against NZ in the 3N.

World Cup organisers in NZ said ticket sales for the tournament had reached 1-million and were on track to reach the target of 1.35-m.

Colin Slade, who will play for Canterbury against Wellington in a pre-season outing on Friday, will be watched by the All Black selectors.

It's the 19th Super Rugby Final this weekend, the first Super 15 Final and, for the first time Bryce Lawrence is the referee.

All Black No.10 Dan Carter admitted he is honing his drop-goal skills ahead of this year's World Cup in New Zealand.

The selection of Colin Slade in the Cantabrians team to face the Wellington Lions in a pre-season outing on Friday has attracted the attention of the All Black selectors.

The Super Rugby Final between the Reds and Crusaders in Brisbane on Saturday has sold out.

Crusaders fullback Tom Marshall is keen to celebrate his 21st birthday by lifting the Super Rugby trophy this weekend.

All Black flyhalf Dan Carter is ready for one last big push when the Crusaders play the Reds in the Super Rugby Final this weekend.

Former Wallabies coach Bob Dwyer has criticized the Crusaders for employing illegal tactics at the breakdown.

Aaron Cruden will sit down in the coming days and decide whether he will be a Hurricane or a Chief in 2012.

Stephen Donald will appear on the Waikato bench when they play Taranaki in their final pre-season encounter on Wednesday.

NZ's media lauded the Crusaders for reaching the Super Rugby Final even though the Christchurch earthquake left them homeless.

Discarded All Black Stephen Donald is one of several Super Rugby players that will appear on the Waikato bench when they play Taranaki in their final pre-season encounter at Albert Park, Te Awamutu, on Wednesday.

Gareth Anscombe looks set to become the Blues' first-choice flyhalf, after he kicked New Zealand to glory at the Junior World Champs.

rugby365.com columnist Grant Ball says along with the front five not pitching, Duane Vermeulen's absence hurt the Stormers against the Crusaders.

Waikato coach Chris Gibbes has announced his squad for the NPC this year with prop Nathan White set to continue as captain of the side.

This week rugby365.com columnist Tom Dawson-Squibb takes a look at the approach of South African sports teams... Are we, by nature, conservative as a sporting nation? And does it really matter?

It was semifinal time in the Super 15. 1 played 4 and 2 played 3 - Reds played Blues and the Stormers played the Crusaders. Both matches produced clear winners.

Its the first Super 15 Final and Bryce Lawrence to referee it. That's the big match this week.

French-bound AB wing Joe Rokocoko ended his Super Rugby career with a facial cut, as the Blues stumbled to a 13-30 defeat against the Reds.

Electricity planners will double the stand-by power generation available to cope with surges in demand during crucial World Cup games.

Blues coach Pat Lam insists his team is on the verge of revisiting their glory days despite a comprehensive semifinal loss to the Reds.

Lock Luke Romano did not travel with the Crusaders to Brisbane, to face the Reds in the S15 Final, after being struck down by Chickenpox.

Blues coach Pat Lam says Saturday's Super Rugby Final between the Reds and Crusaders is too close to call.

Waikato coach Chris Gibbes has announced his squad for the NPC this year with prop Nathan White set to continue in his role as captain of the side.

Allister Coetzee has admitted that his side was tactically naive in the face of a clinical performance by the Crusaders in their semifinal.

Reds coach Ewan McKenzie has praised the Crusaders' semifinal performance and admitted that it will be tough to beat them this weekend.

Blues coach Pat Lam will see out his three-year contract with the Auckland franchise but his assistant Shane Howarth was not so lucky.

The Crusaders coach has dismissed suggestions that his team will struggle in the Super Rugby Final due to all the travelling they have done.

The Crusaders are determined to play their rugby in Christchurch next season and are preparing the back-up option of a temporary stadium.

Canterbury successfully defended the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in 2011 with a 52-8 win over North Otago on Saturday.

Former Blues and Hurricanes wing David Smith has stormed home to win the 2011 Western Force Player of the Year award.

Rod Davies scored three great tries as the Reds advanced to the Super Rugby Final with a 30-13 win over the Blues in Brisbane on Saturday.

Disappointed Blues captain Keven Mealamu felt the Reds were the better team overall, in their 30-13 Super Rugby semifinal win on Saturday.

Canterbury successfully defended the Ranfurly Shield for the first time in 2011 with a 52-8 win over North Otago in Christchurch on Saturday.

Fullback James So'oialo kicked 14 points as Samoa beat Japan 34-15 in the Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday.

All Black hopeful Colin Slade negotiated 40 minutes, playing for Canterbury against North Otago, after coming back from a fractured jaw.

The Crusaders' dream of winning an 8th title in an extraordinary season of Super Rugby is alive, after they beat the Stormers 29-10.

Perennial whipping boys Tonga upset hosts Fiji 45-21 in the opening round of the Pacific Nations Cup on Saturday to grab their first win in the tournament in three years.

Crusaders captain Richie McCaw said he was "really proud" of the tight five after his team beat the Stormers 29-10.

Ticket sales for the World Cup totals NZ$200m, which means RNZ 2011 has now reached 75 percent of its revenue target.

Lachie Munro has been given the nod to fill the Blues' left wing berth for Saturday's Super rugby semifinal against the Reds in Brisbane.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder called on SANZAR to close the loophole that allowed the Stormers to draft in a European-based player.

Several of the world's best referees started when they were at school. Now the Western Province Referees' Society has been holding courses to encourage schoolchildren to become referees.

Lock Toby Lynn will lead the Waikato team in their second pre-season NPC clash, against Auckland on Saturday.

Lock Toby Lynn will lead the Waikato team in their pre-season clash against Auckland on Saturday. No Super Rugby players were considered.

NZRU CEO Steve Tew is open to offering more sabbaticals as a carrot to encourage leading players to remain in New Zealand.

All Black Adam Thomson will not feature for the Otago Razorbacks when they travel to Nelson to play Tasman in a pre-season friendly.

New Zealanders are being encouraged to fly the flag during the World Cup - not only for the All Blacks, but for all visiting teams.

Otago co-coaches Andy Hunter and Phil Mooney named a squad of 24 to travel to Nelson to play Tasman in a NPC pre-season friendly on Sunday.

Reds trio Digby Ioane, Beau Robinson and Anthony Faingaa will all return from injury to face the Blues in Saturday's Super Rugby semifinal.

The return of Richie McCaw may the most talked about topic, but Dan Carter could be the Crusaders' ace when they take on the Stormers.

SANZAR bosses are not concerned about the half-empty New Zealand stadiums during play-off matches and put it down to the World Cup factor.

The Crusaders welcome back captain Richie McCaw for their Super Rugby semifinal against the Stormers at Newlands in Cape Town this weekend.

The International Rugby Board has announced that France has been awarded the right to host the IRB Junior World Championship in 2013.

Ma'a Nonu has signed with the NZRU and Blues for two years, while he will also take a sabbatical in Japan at the end of the year.

The Western Force continued their recruitment drive for 2012 by adding New Zealand-born former League star Jordan Rapana to their squad.

Crusaders No.8 Kieran Read said defence will win the day when they clash with the Stormers in a Super Rugby semifinal on Saturday.

Colin Salde is back to help Canterbury defend the Ranfurly Shield against North Otago on Saturday, the first challenge of 2011.

Canterbury will put the Ranfurly Shield up for grabs against North Otago on Saturday, the first challenge of 2011.

Bok centre Jaque Fourie and No.9 Dewaldt Duvenage are to miss the Stormers' Super Rugby semifinal encounter with the Crusaders on Saturday.

Blues flyhalf Stephen Brett has joined the growing New Zealand exodus to cash-flush clubs abroad.

rugby365.com columnist Grant Ball writes that the decision to call up Charl McLeod as Ricky Januarie's replacement is another mistake by Peter de Villiers.

Blues coach Pat Lam is happy to have the underdog tag attached to his team for the Super Rugby semifinal showdown with the Reds on Saturday.

Blues flyhalf Stephen Brett joined the growing NZ exodus to clubs abroad, after he confirmed he will be joining a club in Japan.

Captain Richie McCaw will lead the Crusaders against the Stormers and Kieran Read have also recovered from injury ahead of the semifinal.

Wing Rene Ranger, bracketed with Lachie Munro, have to wait and see whether he starts Saturday's Super Rugby semifinal against the Reds.

Schalk Burger said that his side will have to 'play out of their skins' in order to overcome a star-studded Crusaders outfit this weekend.

Stormers forwards coach Matthew Proudfoot says that his side will have to be patient if they are to overcome the Crusaders this weekend.

Player management was always going to be a key area of concern in the extended Super Rugby season this year, but the jury is still out on what the best approach to keeping the key performers fresh is.

World Cup hopeful Colin Slade is expected to return to rugby on Tuesday when he turns out for club side High School Old Boys.

Former Reds and Wallabies coach John Connolly believes the loss of Blues line-out ace Anthony Boric will prove costly against the Reds.

The fitness of Crusaders No.8 Kieran Read is in doubt after he sprained his ankle against the Sharks last week.

Highlanders captain Jamie Mackintosh saved the life of a choking woman by squeezing her "like a great big grizzly bear" at a restaurant.

Blues pivot Stephen Brett plans to limit the space for influential Reds playmaker Quade Cooper through defensive line speed.

The Chiefs are reported to be chasing the signature of Sonny Bill Williams ahead of his All Black midfield colleague Ma'a Nonu.

In part two rugby365.com law guru Paul Dobson takes an even closer look at some aspects of Bryce Lawrence's scrum penalty for dangerous play against the Sharks.

Although is joining the Chiefs next season All Blacks coach Wayne Smith insists that he will not use his influence to recruit players.

Saracenes hooker Schalk Brits will feature for the Stormers as a loose forward against the Crusaders on Saturday.

All Black prop Tony Woodcock will not undergo surgery anytime soon and is set to feature for NZ in both the Tri-Nations and World Cup.

All Black lock Anthony Boric will miss the Blues' Super Rugby semifinal against the Reds on Saturday with a foot injury.

New Chiefs coach Dave Rennie may have an interesting poser - to sign Ma'a Nonu or Sonny Bill Williams for next year.

rugby365.com columnist Grant Ball says John Smit needs to find a way to transfer his powerful impact off the pitch to on-field performances for the Springboks.

Wayne Smith is to quit his job as All Black assistant coach and join the Chiefs Super Rugby franchise next year.

New Zealand are the U20 world champions after beating England 33-22 in the Final in Stadio Plebiscito in Padua.

Japan coach John Kirwan has urged the World Cup-bound Brave Blossoms to sharpen up their attack for their Pacific Nations Cup opener against holders Samoa at home on Saturday.

This weekend the Pacific Nations Cup starts and the Super 15 is a match away from ending.

Eden Park is defending its lack of protection for spectators from bad weather and the hotchpotch appearance of the stadium.

Former New Zealand Sevens captain Matua Parkinson is under investigation after allegedly assaulting a touch judge.

They changed the laws to ensure it couldn't happen, but tickets to the World Cup final are for sale online for four times their face value.

Prince William and his wife, Catherine Middleton, have reportedly cancelled a visit to NZ during the World Cup.

The dark horse that is Stephen Brett plans to use this week and hopefully next to make a late run for All Black selection.

Digby Ioane, Anthony Faingaa and Beau Robinson are all set to play for the Reds in the Super Rugby semifinal against the Blues on Saturday.

New Zealand's most experienced prop forward, Tony Woodcock, has become the biggest concern for All Black coach Graham Henry.

rugby365.com law guru Paul Dobson takes a look at one of the most puzzling decisions of the season, when Bryce Lawrence awarded a penalty for dangerous play at a scrum.

Anthony Boric is the Blues' latest second row injury setback, as the Auckland team head to Brisbane for a semifinal against the Reds.

The return of Richie McCaw is a a timely boost as the Crusaders head to Cape Town for a Super Rugby semifinal showdown with the Stormers.

New Zealand are the Under-20 champions of the world after beating England 33-22 in the final of the 2011 IRB Junior World Championships in Stadio Plebiscito in Padua on Sunday.

For the first time in the history of Super Rugby there was the system of play-offs to get into the semifinals, a system used in France where it is called barrages. We give some statistics and shall discuss elsewhere a scrum penalty.

Defending champions New Zealand will be out to win their fourth successive IRB Junior World Championships title and stretch their unbeaten run to 20 games when they take on England in Padova on Sunday.

The Crusaders will play the Stormers in Cape Town and the Blues will play the Reds in Brisbane in the Super Rugby semifinals.

South Africa Under-20 coach Dawie Theron has made four changes for the play-off match for fifth place in the IRB Junior World Championships against Fiji in Treviso on Sunday.

The Crusaders secured a Super Rugby semifinal place by cantering to a comfortable 36-8 victory over the Sharks in Nelson.

The Crusaders continued on their quest to become the first team to win a title without playing a game at their home stadium when they beat the Sharks in Nelson.

The Blues' win over the Waratahs in their play-off was a bittersweet occasion as Eden Park bade farewell to three of their All Black stars.

Plenty of tickets are still available for the Crusaders v Sharks Super Rugby qualifier match at Trafalgar Park, in Nelson, on Saturday.

Sean Maitland provided Christchurch fans with a welcome boost, revealing that he is poised to re-sign with the franchise for two more years

The Blues showed that they were focused on securing a semifinal spot with their composed second-half performances against the Waratahs.

The Blues booked their place in the Super Rugby semifinals with a 26-13 with over the Waratahs at Eden Park, in Auckland, on Friday.

Colin Slade will start his bid to be named in the All Black World Cup squad when he plays his first club game in Christchurch this weekend.

The Highlanders will wear green jerseys in Super Rugby next season, because the franchise is locked into a contract with the manufacturers.

Sonny Bill Williams admitted the earthquakes and ongoing aftershocks is making rethink his decision to live in Christchurch.

The president of Fiji's Olympic Committee says NZ might be in breach of the Olympic charter if it bans Fijian players from the World Cup.

The president of Fiji's National Olympic Committee says New Zealand might be in breach of the Olympic charter if it bans Fijian players from the World Cup on political grounds.

Ma?a Nonu will not be joining the Sharks next season, but coach John Plumtree did admit that the All Black is on his ?wish list?.

The Otago Razorbacks have named their team for a National Provincial Championship pre-season match against North Otago at the Whitestone Contractors Stadium in Oamaru on Saturday.

Shopping mall security guard Elvis Taione could make his Waratahs debut against the Blues in the Super Rugby play-offs on Friday.

The Otago Razorbacks have named their team for a NPC pre-season match against North Otago in Oamaru on Saturday.

Josh Holmes will start at scrumhalf in one of several changes to the Waratahs team to face the Blues in Friday's Super Rugby qualifier.

Jaco Peyper of Bloemfontein will referee the Final of the 2011 Junior World Championships when England and New Zealand meet at the Stadio Plebiscito in Padua on Sunday.

The return of Sonny Bill Williams is one of three changes to the Crusaders for the Super Rugby qualifier against the Sharks on Saturday.

With the 2011 Super Rugby play-offs upon us, rugby365.com columnist Tom Dawson-Squibb takes a look at where these big matches could be won... or lost...

The Sharks successfully negotiated the first hurdle on the way to New Zealand when they landed in Sydney and dodged the volcanic ash cloud.

New Zealand's Bryce Lawrence will referee the Super Rugby final after he was rewarded for being the best whistleblower in the competition.

SANZAR has announced that Bryce Lawrence of New Zealand would referee the Final of the Super 15 and that Jonathan Kaplan and Craig Joubert of South Africa have been appointed to referee the semifinals of the Super 15.

This is it - the last round of the first Super 15. And we bring you some stats from the round and also some totals which include the previous 17 rounds. It has been a marathon. Being the last weeks the totals will tell you all the mosts and leasts - tries, penalties, cards, and so on, which may cause some surprises, for example who scored the most tries of the South African teams? You can see who has the worst and who the best disciplinary records.

England and New Zealand played themselves into the Final of the Junior World Championships being played in Italy. Both had comfortable wins.

Blues coach Pat Lam made just one change to the starting XV, with Alby Mathewson at No.9 in the match against the Waratahs on Friday.

Flyhalf Stephen Donald's dream of making NZ's World Cup squad appeared over after he was omitted from the All Blacks training camps.

All Black flank Daniel Braid will make his return to the Blues off the bench in Friday's Super Rugby qualifier against the Waratahs.

All Blacks wing Sitiveni Sivivatu will see an orthopedic surgeon to assess the shoulder he dislocated against the Reds last weekend.

The big match of this past week was the Grey-Affies match in Bloemfontein which Grey won 16-11, a tense affair which Affies were possibly unfortunate to lose as they played especially well.

Free State Cheetahs lock Carl Wegner will join up with the SA Under-20 team in Treviso, Italy, ahead of the side's IRB World Championships play-off clash with Ireland on Wednesday.

Forgotten flank Luke Narraway isn't impressed that Thomas Waldrom is in England's World Cup squad and vented his frustrations on Twitter.

The Western Force are planning a sensational swoop for Hurricanes duo Ma'a Nonu and Cory Jane according to coach Richard Graham.

Wellington club side Northern United have added the Ka Mate haka list of things teams have to contend with at Porirua Park.

Sharks coach John Plumtree has identified Crusaders midfield pairing of Sonny Bill Williams and Robbie Fruean ahead of the play-off clash.

The Blues will take on a severely depleted Waratahs outfit on Friday, with scrumhalf Luke Burgess the latest casualty for the Sydney team.

Blues prop John Afoa will play in his 100th Super Rugby game for the Auckland franchise when they take on the Waratahs on Friday.

Versatile back Luke McAlister expects a tough clash with the Waratahs in his final home game for the Blues before leaving to join Toulouse.

Former Hurricanes and Crusaders No.8 Thomas Waldrom has been named in a provisional England World Cup squad.

The Sharks will head into their first-round Super Rugby play-off match against the Crusaders in Nelson on Saturday as clear underdogs.

rugby365.com columnist Grant Ball says the Stormers' use of their young scrumhalves should provide insight into the way they utilise Earl Rose in future.

Departing Blues centre Luke McAlister believes that Ma'a Nonu could be the perfect fit for the Blues at inside centre next season.

Is this the quietest weekend for referees this year - the quiet before the storm, perhaps. But even in the midst of the comparative quiet there are tense matches in New Zealand and Italy.

All Black captain Richie McCaw is unlikely to feature for the Crusaders against the Sharks in their Super Rugby play-off match on Saturday.

Visitors to Auckland may find themselves forking out up to NZ$1500 for one night in a hotel room during the Rugby World Cup.

The injured-ravaged Waratahs suffered a major blow, as hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau has been ruled out of Saturdays' encounter with the Blues.

Sonny Bill Williams trained with the Crusaders Monday, ahead of Saturday's Super Rugby semifinal against the Sharks.

Ma'a Nonu could be heading to South African next year, according to his former mentor and current Sharks coach John Plumtree.

On the National Stadium with its arc of triumph, on a hot, hot Bucharest day, the South African Kings from the Eastern Cape triumphed in the IRB's Nations Cup, beating Portugal 39-12 on Day Three and so ending the only unbeaten team.

All Black coach Graham Henry has criticized the standards of refereeing in Super Rugby and said that he believes that fatigue plays a role.

Former All Black star Christian Cullen believes that Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett will regret getting rid of inside centre Ma'a Nonu.

New Zealand will host two Super Rugby play-off matches this weekend as the Crusaders take on the Sharks and the Blues face the Waratahs.

French club Agen have made an offer to axed Hurricanes hooker Andrew Hore who is considering whether to leave New Zealand.

Departing Chiefs coach Ian Foster has criticized the franchise contracting system, explaining that it is disruptive during the season.

Hurricanes outside back Corey Jane looks like the latest All Black set to leave the Wellington franchise after being linked with the Force.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has urged his team to 'unleash' in the play-offs as they seek to do the citizens of Christchurch proud.

SA Under-20 captain Arno Botha insists that the Baby Boks will be looking to bounce back following their 26-20 defeat against England as they prepare to face Ireland in an IRB World Championships play-off match on Wednesday.

The South African Under-20 side missed out on a semifinal berth at the IRB Junior World Championships being played in Northern Italy.

Todd Clever lifted the Churchill Cup Bowl at Sixways in Saturday to give the United States Eagles a boost ahead of their World Cup showdown with Russia.

The Crusaders moved to the top of the NZ conference with a hard-earned 16-9 win over the Hurricanes outfit in Wellington on Saturday.

The Reds beat the Chiefs 19-11 in an arm-wrestle in Hamilton on Saturday.

Martin Phelan the Argentina national coach has called up 39 players in preparation for the World Cup. Juan Martin Hernandez, the Magician, is not amongst them.

Miles Benjamin scored two spectacular tries on his home ground to earn England Saxons a sixth and final Churchill Cup title with a 37-6 win over Canada in the Final on Saturday.

Marco Bortolami saluted his Italy A players after they lifted the Churchill Cup Plate at Sixways on Saturday.

Saturday's finals at Sixways - which saw England Saxons beat Canada to take the title for the sixth time - will be the last Churchill Cup.

On the third day of the IRB Junior World Championships being played in Northern Italy, England Under-20 beat South Africa Under-20 by 26-20 in a close and exciting match.

The All Blacks have been banned from using their individual Twitter accounts during this year's World Cup.

The Chiefs announced on Friday that Lelia Masaga and Romana Graham have re-signed with the team through to 2013.

Jake Schatz will start, one of two changes to the Reds team to face the Chiefs in Hamilton on Saturday.

South Africa Under-20 coach Dawie Theron has named his team to take on England in their final Pool C match at the 2011 IRB Junior World Championships, at the Stadio Plebsicito in Padova on Saturday.

All Black Greg Somerville is one of three Rebels - along with Sam Cordingley and Kevin O'Neill - to announce their retirement from the game

All Black and Blues midfield back Luke McAlister confirmed he has officially signed a three-year deal with French club Toulouse.

The Blues booked themselves a place in Super Rugby's play-offs with a 33-16 win over the Highlanders in Auckland on Friday.

London Wasps have bolstered their pack with the signing of highly-rated young Argentinean prop Guillermo Roan.

Daniel Braid, despite his latest injury setback, is confident he can still realise his World Cup dream.

Having made their debuts into the Churchill Cup this year, Tonga and Italy A will now face each other in the Plate Final this Saturday at Sixways Stadium.

Worcester duo Graham Kitchener and Miles Benjamin come back into the England Saxons side for Saturday's Churchill Cup Final against Canada at Sixways.

The International Rugby Board has made known the referee for the third rounds of the Junior World Championships and the Nations Cup.

The Hurricanes have named an unchanged starting XV for their Super Rugby showdown with the Crusaders in Wellington on Saturday.

Ian Foster, Mils Muliaina, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Mike Delany and Dwayne Sweeney will all feature in their last game for the Chiefs on Saturday

With their win over Romania in Round 2 of the Nations Cup in the Romanian capital of Bucharest, the South African Kings of the Eastern Cape go to the top of the Nations Cup. They are the only unbeaten team in the competition.

Sonny Bill Williams has pulled out of the Crusaders team in the only change to the team to play the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday.

Canadian head coach Kieran Crowley knows his team faces a tough task to defeat England Saxons in the Churchill Cup Final on Saturday.

Richie McCaw has organised that the Crusaders travel to Wellington on board a DC3 aircraft which was used in World War II.

Eddie O'Sullivan has made several changes to the American team's starting line-up for their final Churchill Cup fixture, as the Eagles look to come away from the tournament with a win in the Bowl Final for a second time.

Fiji will take part in this year's World Cup in spite of a New Zealand visa ban on anyone associated with the Pacific island's military junta, according to Mike Miller, the secretary general of the IRB.

The New Zealand U20 team ran in 14 tries to crush Wales 92-0 in their second match at the world junior championship in Italy.

Chiefs hooker Aled de Malmanche will join fellow New Zealander Byron Kelleher at French super club Stade Francais

Taxpayers are going to pick up a NZ $10 million bill to help ensure overseas leaders have a good time during the World Cup in New Zealand.

Media outlets are threatening to boycott the World Cup, saying they can't agree to accreditation terms which restrict online coverage in NZ.

Last week Louw was omitted from the Springboks' 37-man national planning group, which took place this past Sunday and Monday in Durban.

Keni Dakuidreketi has resigned as Chief Executive of the Fiji Rugby Union without offering any explanation for his decision to step down after 10 years in administrative roles.

New rugby365.com contributor Tom Dawson-Squibb - who will be penning a weekly column on matters of the mind - takes a look at the importance of the mental state of rugby players and, ultimately, that of the team.

There is just a solitary round to go and even the top of the log is creaking. There are some interesting totals, for example how the Bulls' penalty counts have increased with their increased effort to get into the play-offs. 'Ball in Play' time is higher this week as efforts increase.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry could rest some key men - like Brad Thorn and Dan Carter - from their South African Tri-Nations trip.

NZ's attack has produced nine tries in two Tri-Nations Tests but it is their ruthless defence that is being rated their most lethal weapon.

With a month to go until the RWC; construction is complete, tills are ringing to the sale of ABs jerseys and there's plenty selection talk.

Possibly the most debated topic on social media, in the newspapers and around braais is whether John Smit should be in the Springbok team and, most importantly, act as captain at the same time. Tom Dawson-Squibb, of Head Start Sport, gives his two cents' worth on the John Smit conundrum.