All News

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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?

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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 pre-season clash against Auckland on Saturday. No Super Rugby players were considered.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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 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.

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

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.

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 NPC pre-season match against North Otago 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.

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.

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.

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...

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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 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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Injuries forced All Blacks Alby Mathewson and Rene Ranger out of the Blues team for Friday's Super Rugby match against the Highlanders.

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.

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.

Forgotten All Blacks wing Caleb Ralph has been named in the Reds' 23-man squad to play the Chiefs on Saturday.

The South African Under-20 team beat Ireland 42-26 in an IRB Junior World Championships match at Stadio Comunale di Monigo in Treviso on sunny Wednesday. They scored five tries to two. But the big score of the day was New Zealand's annihilation of Wales.

The return of Jimmy Cowan is one of four changes to the Highlanders team to face the Blues in their final fixture of the Super Rugby season.

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

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.

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

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.

Trafalgar Park in Nelson has been confirmed as the venue if the Crusaders qualify for a home play-off match or semifinal in this season.

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.

Canterbury's first Ranfurly Shield defence against North Otago is only three weeks away to start a season which will be unlike any other.

Last week the movement was mainly in the top half. This week it's mainly in the bottom half.

The Hurricanes have signined Chiefs prop Ben May and lock James Broadhurst and back Charlie Ngatai have extended their contracts past 2012.

Jaco Taute of the Lions is flying to Italy to join the Baby Boks at the Junior World Championships. He will replace Craig Barry who has a groin injury serious enough to rule him out.

Canterbury's first home game of their unique 2011 season is only three weeks away ? a Ranfurly Shield defence against North Otago ? and coaches Rob Penney, Tabai Matson and Scott Robertson have been busy preparing for a season which will be unlike any other.

The face-off between Sonny Bill Williams and Ma'a Nonu will not take place this weekend after Williams was ruled out due to a hip injury.

It remains unclear who will take the captaincy reins at the Hurricanes next season in the absence of Andrew Hore.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry says selectors must ensure the entire squad gets quality game time as they before the World Cup.

The Blues might have lost their last four games but coach Pat Lam is staying positive ahead of the crucial clash with the Highlanders.

Axed Hurricanes skipper Andrew Hore would like to play in New Zealand for the next few years, he just needs a team to play for.

Japan's World Cup hopeful Ryohei Yamanaka has blamed a hair growth tonic for a positive doping test that has put his career in danger.

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett's bold move to axe captain Andrew Hore and star centre Ma'a Nonu has sparked fears of a player exodus.

There are three IRB tournaments on the go - the Churchill Cup which has reached its finals and the Nations Cup and the Junior World Championship which are in Day 2. But lurking down in the Southern Hemisphere is the Super 15 which is in its last league round which will decide who goes through and who plays in what play-off. It's a crunch round

rugby365.com writer Grant Ball says Bjorn Basson showed Peter de Villiers that he should be in the Bok 37-man training group and also highlighted Bryan Habana's flaws.

The Highlanders have fallen off in recent weeks after an impressive start to their campaign and their coach has called for a fresh approach.

The Crusaders are confident that star inside centre Sonny Bill Williams will commit to playing Super Rugby for them next year.

Understanding the dangers of doping will be the theme of an extensive education programme operating across the 2011 IRB Junior World Championships, taking place in Italy.

Fiji will not have the services of Isa Nacewa or Jone Qova at the World Cup later this year as both players have chosen to stay home with their pregnant wives rather than travel to New Zealand.

Ma'a Nonu has admitted to being 'gutted' about getting the sack at the Hurricanes and is now contemplating a move overseas next season.

Rene Ranger will almost certainly miss the rest of the Blues' Super Rugby campaign after he tore his hamstring against the Crusaders.

South African Under-20 coach Dawie Theron has made nine changes to the Baby Boks team to take on Ireland in their second Pool C match at the IRB Junior World Championship in Treviso, Italy on Tuesday.

The NZRU is unlikely to make use of legend Jonah Lomu's services beyond this year's World Cup.

Jason Eaton is believed to be the only other high-profile Hurricanes player in danger of being axed, rather than walking out.

The Crusaders are preparing to crank up their fight for Sonny Bill Williams' signature beyond 2011.

Hurricanes flyhalf Aaron Cruden has done little to dispel the rumours that he is heading to the Chiefs next year.

England Saxons booked their place in the Churchill Cup Final against Canada by destroying the Tonga pack and winning 41-14 in the Kingsholm rain on Sunday.

The Highlanders dropped out of the race for a Super Rugby playoff spot tonight after being beaten 33-7 by the Waratahs.

The Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) has appointed a number of former representative players as coaches and managers for 2011, assisting the delivery of the ORFU player development pathway to the Otago Razorbacks.

The Crusaders showed great composure to clinch a tense 23-16 derby victory over a competitive Blues side in Timaru on Saturday.

On the opening day of the Nations Cup in Bucharest, two world Cup teams were defeated. Romania beat Namibia and the South African Kings, a side from the Eastern Province, beat Georgia. In the third match of the day Portugal emerged winners. All the matches were close.

Eben Joubert has been named captain of a new look Otago Razorbacks team that will assemble in preparation for the 2011 NPC

The Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) has appointed a number of former representative players as coaches and managers for 2011.

It was not as big as their 70-point victories in their last two encounters but the Baby Boks were comfortable in their 33-0 victory over Scotland on the opening day of the 2011 IRB Junior World Championships.

The Highlanders are keen to sign unwanted Hurricanes captain Andrew Hore for next season, but the only issue could be raising the funds.

Eben Joubert has been named captain of a new look Otago Razorbacks team that will assemble in preparation for the 2011 National Provincial Championship (NPC).

Blues coach Pat Lam said it will take a concerted team effort, not individual brilliance, when they meet the Crusaders on Saturday.

The Chiefs and Hurricanes played to a disappointing 18-all draw in their Super Rugby encounter in a very wet Hamilton on Friday.

Captain Phil Waugh and No.8 Wycliff Palu return to the Waratahs team for their encounter with the Highlanders in Sydney on Saturday.

Former Highlanders skipper Anton Oliver is the latest to add his voice to the growing criticism of the team's new bright green jerseys.

The IRB Junior World Championship, for players under 20 years of age, starts in Northern Italy on Friday evening. Twelve teams are taking part.

Following the axing of Ma'a Nonu, fellow All Black Cory Jane will talk with Hurricanes management to determine whether his future.

Stephen Brett has been reinstated to the Blues team for the clash with the Crusaders, pitting him against All Black No.10 Dan Carter.

Fiji coach Sam Domoni says he is happy to give Leinster fullback Isa Nacewa time to decide whether he will make himself available for the World Cup in New Zealand later this year.

Increasingly desperation is creeping in as the top sides vie for top places. The ball in play time increased and so did the number of penalties, but not the number of tries. The difference between the Stormers and the Rebels in tries conceded is remarkable.

Star centre Ma'a Nonu's shock sacking by the Hurricanes followed a campaign to undermine coach Mark Hammett, often in front of teammates.

The biggest economic risk to the Rugby World Cup would be an injury to key player Dan Carter, MPs were told.

The International Rugby Board started the Nations Cup in 2006 to provide more matches for the second teams of top countries and more rugby for the next level of rugby in Europe, the European Nations =Cup's Division 1 teams.

While the world?s top Match Officials are finalising their preparations for Rugby World Cup 2011 in less than 100 days time, the next generation of international match officials have assembled in Italy to begin their journey towards Rugby World Cup 2015.

Canada booked their place in a second successive Churchill Cup final when they cantered to a five-try victory over Russia, winning 34-18 at Esher on Wednesday.

Chiefs flyhalf Stephen Donald is reported to have signed a contract Bath where he will replace Springbok pivot Butch James.

The Highlanders will have to wait until the last minute to find out which Waratahs have been selected for their upcoming clash in Sydney.

Tonga made a big impression on their Churchill Cup debut, blowing the USA Eagles away 44-13 thanks to left wing Viliami Iongi who scored four tries at Esher on Wednesday.

South Africa Under-20 coach Dawie Theron has named his team to take on Scotland in their opening Pool C match at the 2011 IRB Junior World Championship in Padua (Padova) on Friday.

English champions Saracens have further strengthened their squad by signing 32-year-old New Zealand Maori outside back Joe Maddock.

Sevens star Declan O'Donnell has admitted assaulting one bouncer, but denies assaulting and injuring another.

Veteran NZ fullback Mark van Gisbergen signed for newly-promoted Top 14 side Lyon after nine years with English Premiership giants Wasps.

Hurricanes prop Neemia Tialata will join an exclusive club of centurions when his team meets the Chiefs in Hamilton on Friday.

Sam Whitelock and Andy Ellis have been named in a Crusaders starting line-up - which shows four changes - to play the Blues on Saturday.

Jason Rutledge has been named at hooker in the Highlanders starting XV for their encounter with the Waratahs in Sydney on Saturday.

Former All Black great Byron Kelleher became the latest recruit of ailing French giants Stade Francais, after passing his medical.

Dwayne Sweeney has been drafted into the Chiefs team to take on the Hurricanes in a New Zealand derby in Hamilton on Friday.

South African Super Rugby referee Pro Legoete may well be stood down from the last round of Super Rugby 2011.

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett on Wednesday dumped All Blacks' pair Ma'a Nonu and Andrew Hore from his squad for next season.

New Zealand politician Clare Curran was ordered out of the national parliament over a protest in which she wore a Highlanders rugby jersey.

USA Eagles coach Eddie O'Sullivan has rung the changes for his sides Churchill Cup clash with Tonga, who are making their first appearance in the tournament, on Wednesday.

The Highlanders assignment in Sydney this weekend could be tricky after Waratahs coach Chris Hickey got some good news on the injury front.

The top has taken a tumble. Noord-Kaap much to their joy brought Affies down to earth, and that was not the only surprise for Pionier of Vryheid, not on the Top 20, beat Westville. So there are changes.

The Crusaders will have to make do without skipper Richie McCaw for their conference deciding clash with rivals, the Blues, on Saturday.

Blues captain Keven Mealamu has acknowledged that his team's clash with the Crusaders could well define their entire campaign.

Canada will be looking for their second win of the Churchill Cup after their convincing win over Italy A when they take on Russia, who are making their first appearance in the tournament, on Wednesday.

Veteran scrumhalf Byron Kelleher has become a free agent after Bayonne tore up his pre-contract committing him to join the French club.

Blues coach Pat Lam is looking to turn things around for his side as it prepares to face the Crusaders on the back of three defeats.

To the relief of Graham Henry and Todd Blackadder Sonny Bill Williams came out of his latest boxing match unscathed.

Super Rugby really is white hot at present while the Junior World Championship starts in Italy with players on the brink of becoming household names. The Nations Cup starts in Bucharest.

The Crusaders may be able to call on scrumhalf Andy Ellis and lock Sam Whitelock when they face the Blues on Saturday.

Back-to-back wins might not be enough to thrust the Hurricanes into the finals, but the form of some of their All Blacks has taken a turn.

The SA Under-20 team arrived in the picturesque Italian city of Venice on Sunday and got straight to work as they prepare for their opening IRB Junior World Championship Pool C game on Friday against Scotland.

Ma'a Nonu looks set to leave the Hurricanes in a player clear-out at the Wellington franchise and move to the Chiefs.

Richie McCaw will miss the next two to three weeks due to irritation caused by the screw that was inserted into his foot.

Stormers and Springbok flyhalf Peter Grant hung out on The Bench on Saturday - a new online-based sports and lifestyle show on 2Oceansviberadio which is co-hosted by Crispin Inglis and Howie Kahn.

Chauncey O'Toole inspired Canada to a comfortable 26-12 win over Italy A in the opening game of the Churchill Cup at Franklin's Gardens.

The Hurricanes ground out a deserved 38-27 win over a willing Lions team in their Super Rugby encounter in Wellington on Saturday.

The Blues will set out to stop their slide down the table against a refreshed Crusaders team in Timaru this weekend.

The Chiefs opened the front door of the NZ Super Rugby conference with a shock 16-11 win over the Blues in Auckland on Saturday.

The England Saxons taught the United States Eagles some harsh lessons on Saturday in their opening match of the 2011 Churchill Cup.

Murray Deaker has drawn criticism from the Race Relations Commissioner after describing someone on his show as "working like a n......".

The New Zealand Rugby Union has stopped kids winning matches by more than 35 points, saying it makes the game more enjoyable.

The Lions were forced to change the team to face the Hurricanes, with flank Cobus Grobbelaar returning to SA due to family bereavement.

The Force ensured the Highlanders' first outing in their controversial new green strip was not memorable, as the Aussies scored a 21-14 win.

All Black outside back Rudi Wulf has returned to the Blues after a stint in France with French glamour club Toulon.

World Cup finals tickets are being put on sale in Friday for anyone who applied for them in previous ballots.

All Black scrumhalf Piri Weepu has given his strongest indication yet he wants to stay in New Zealand beyond 2011.

Hurricanes and All Blacks stalwart Rodney So'oialo has announced he is leaving New Zealand to take up an exciting opportunity in Japan.

The Hurricanes have been boosted by the inclusion of All Blacks Andrew Hore and Piri Weepu in the team to play the Lions this weekend.

The Blues have named versatile All Black inside back Luke McAlister at flyhalf for the match against the Chiefs in Auckland this weekend.

The return of veteran All Black Tana Umaga is one of several changes to the Chiefs team to take on the Blues in Auckland on Saturday.

England Saxons coach Stuart Lancaster has named what he termed an 'exciting combination' for the Saxons' opening Churchill Cup game against the United States at Northampton on Saturday.

The International Rugby Board said Thursday it would keep lobbying New Zealand to lift a ban on Fijian players with links to the country's military regime from this year's World Cup.

AB star Sonny Bill Williams's boxing career faces a credibility test after revelations his next opponent is on welfare for a disability.

The IRB said it would keep lobbying NZ to lift a ban on Fijian players with links to the country's military regime from the World Cup.

A vibrant mix of youth and experience will take the field against Italy 'A' in Canada's opening Churchill Cup match at Franklin's Gardens on Saturday.

Despite having led Ireland to three Triple Crowns and up to third in the IRB world rankings, USA Head Coach Eddie O'Sullivan believes his wealth of experience plays no part in boosting the USA's chances of success in the Churchill Cup.

US Eagles flank Todd Clever says his team can't wait to test themselves in their opening game of the Churchill Cup against England Saxons at Franklin's Gardens on Saturday.

Italy A coach Gianluca Guidi has revealed the team that will face Canada in the Churchill Cup opener on Saturday at Franklin's Gardens.

Junior AB and Maori stars Jacob Ellison and Karl Lowe, as well as NZ U20 rep Jeff Allen have signed with the Hurricanes for next year.

New Zealand won't lift a ban on players linked to Fiji's military regime, despite calls to boycott the World Cup, according to PM John Key.

Patrick Pechambert of Agen has been appointed to referee the Final of France's Top 14 at Stade de France on Saturday night, the first Final of his career. He is the latest in a long line of referees, stretching back, war breaks apart, to 1892.

All Black fullback Mils Muliaina has announced he will end his record-breaking Test career after this year's World Cup to play in Japan.

Italian side Aironi have signed scrumhalf Tyson Keats from the Hurricanes for next season's Magners League.

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key said Wednesday that calls for Fiji to boycott the World Cup would not force Wellington to lift a ban on players linked to Pacific nation's military regime.

The return of Adam Thomson is one of two changes to the Highlanders starting XV that will face the Western Force in Dunedin on Saturday.

The inclusion of wing Alfie Mafi is the only change to the Western Force team that will tackle the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday.

The Christchurch earthquake dented World Cup ticket sales, but plans for the biggest event ever staged in New Zealand remained on track.

Cobus Grobbelaar has returned to the Lions team in the only change before they tackle the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday.

The head of Fiji's Olympic Committee says the South Pacific nation should boycott the World Cup this year if sanctions imposed by New Zealand prevent it from selecting its best team.

Fiji's Olympic Committee threatened to boycott the World Cup if sanctions imposed by New Zealand prevent it from selecting its best team.

Chiefs backline players Richard Kahui and Tim Nanai-Williams are in doubt for the clash with the Blues this weekend.

Loose forward Luke Whitelock will captain the New Zealand Under-20 team at the junior world championship in Italy in June.

Crusaders ace Sonny Bill Williams is preparing for his next professional boxing fight against Tongan heavyweight Alipate Liava'a on Sunday.

The Lions don't believe any of their players were involved in an incident involving an 18-year-old female student in Dunedin on Sunday.

Blues coach Pat Lam has volunteered his advice on how the TMO referral system currently in use can be simplified.

The top holds firm. There is no change in the top 11 of the FNB Top 20 this week, a strange occurrence.

Patrick Pechambert will referee the final of France's Top 14 between Montpellier and Toulouse at Stade de France this Saturday evening. It will be his first final.

Wallaby Under-20 flank Liam Gill has answered an SOS from the Reds to return to Brisbane as a replacement for injured loose forward Beau Robinson.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder is irate after a crucial referee decision cost his side victory against the Reds in Brisbane in Sunday.

SANZAR has announced the refereed for the last three weeks of Super 15's league matches, before the play-offs. It is a critical time for teams, players, coaches - and, of course, match officials.

The Lions' encounter with the Highlanders was Butch James's second start for his new team, and his first at inside centre alongside young flyhalf Elton Jantjies.

The touring Lions team has denied any knowledge of an alleged case of sexual assault by one of their players in Dunedin at the weekend.

SANZAR Judicial Officer Nick Davidson has reserved judgment on the hearing Highlanders wing Siale Piutau until Tuesday.

All Black Murray Mexted's colourful commentary will be back on air during the World Cup in September and October.

England Saxons have selected their youngest ever squad as they prepare to launch their defence of the Churchill Cup on home soil this weekend.

NZ coach Gordon Tietjens remained upbeat, despite his side being eliminated in the semifinals at the Edinburgh Sevens on Sunday.

Dave Rennie is set to take the reins at the Chiefs from Ian Foster next season and it appears that he is planning a major player cleanout.

Several European competitions reached their climax last weekend. This weekend there is another big one - the Final of the French Top 14. Meanwhile in the south the Super 14 is at a crucial stage. It is an exacting time for referees as well.

The Highlanders' will mark their last home game at Carisbrook by playing in a new strip, in their S15 match against the Force on Friday.

Hurricanes captain Andrew Hore's future has been cast in doubt as he continues to float in limbo without a contract for next season.

Taine Randell believes that a lighter training load for Keven Mealamu has allowed the hard-nosed hooker to lead from the front this season.

The Reds stole a late 17-16 win over the Crusaders through a penalty to Quade Cooper in the last minute in Brisbane on Sunday.

New Zealand bombed out of the Edinburgh Rugby Sevens Sunday, beaten 19-12 by Australia in a semifinal match.

Lions flank Michael Rhodes and Highlanders wing Siale Piutau will face SANZAR judicial hearings on Monday May 30 after being cited.

The head of Fiji's Rugby Union has told local media the organization doesn't have enough money to send a team to this year's World Cup in New Zealand.

The Highlanders pulled off another stunning upset win on tour, beating the Highlanders 26-22 in Dunedin, on Saturday.

South Canterbury's Stephen McFarlane is the new Category B Director on the Crusaders Board.

NZ activists threatened to disrupt this year's World Cup with protests over government cutbacks, including possibly flour-bombing Eden Park

The Hurricanes salvaged some pride with an impressive 34-28 come-from-behind win over the Western Force in Palmerston North on Friday.

Former Crusaders No.8 Thomas Waldrom moved closer to an England call-up after being named the Rugby Players Association player of the year.

English championship side Rotherham Titans have signed Palepoi Nonu, the older brother of veteran All Black Ma'a.

Wallaby coach Robbie Deans said Sonny Bill Williams' partnership with Crusaders' teammate Dan Carter will be crucial for the All Blacks.

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett believes dropping captain Andrew Hore to the bench may help the hooker win a place in the NZ World Cup squad.

The Reds have named an unchanged team for their clash with the Crusaders as they look to protect their unbeaten home record this season.

Crusaders front row forwards Wyatt Crockett and Corey Flynn have re-signed with the Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby Union.

The inclusion of All Black Adam Thomson is one of four changes to the Highlanders team to play the Lions in Dunedin on Saturday.

NZ duo Clint Newland and Ross Kennedy have been named in the SA Kings team for the Nations Cup tournament in Romania later this year.

Guess which side has had the fewest sanctions in terms of citings and cards? Which has the most? Which is the most penalties conceded by a team in a Super match this season? Which team was that? It happened this week.

Nasi Manu says the focus of the Highlanders is on beating the Lions, as they continue their push towards the S15 playoffs on Saturday.

Two All Blacks, Brad Thorn and Sonny Bill Williams, return to the Crusaders line-up for the Super Rugby match against the Reds on Sunday.

New Zealand expects to make a loss on its hosting of the World Cup this year, Deputy Prime Minister Bill English told reporters.

The match-up between Bulls pivot Morne Steyn and Sharks ace Pat Lambie in Durban last weekend was billed as a possible Springbok trial.

A recurring calf injury continues to delay Steve Walsh's return to Super Rugby refereeing.

The injury-ravaged Western Force have had to make six changes to their team for the clash with the Hurricanes this weekend.

The Hurricanes have dropped skipper Andrew Hore for the clash against the Force, but Conrad Smith is back from a gruesome nose injury.

Two matches in such a short space of time will be challenging for the USA squad, but will provide excellent preparation for the World Cup as they take on Ireland on September 11 and then Russia on September 15.

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw signed a four-year deal to stay in New Zealand after the World Cup, but has an option to play overseas.

The Fiji Rugby Union says travel sanctions imposed by New Zealand since a 2006 military coup in the Pacific nation will prevent it naming its best team for the World Cup later this year.

Bloemfontein is still the centre of schools rugby attention - this time when Paarl Boys' High came to play. But that was not the only focus of attention in the latest FNB Top 20 rankings.

Glen Jackson will make his debut as a Super Rugby referee on Friday when he takes charge of the match between the Hurricanes and the Force in Palmerston North. rugby365.com writer Paul Dobson spoke to him.

London Irish have announced the signing of New Zealand second row Bryn Evans from the Hurricanes on a two-year contract.

Crusaders skipper Richie McCaw doesn't old a grudge against Quade Cooper, after the Reds pivot shoved him in the head last year.

Sonny Bill Williams is as important to NZ as Dan Carter and Richie McCaw and must in the country, Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said.

The Hurricanes will welcome back players like fullback Cory Jane, centre Conrad Smith and scrumhalf Piri Weepu against the Force on Friday.

The Western Force will be without James O'Connor, Willie Ripia, Brett Sheehan and Gene Fairbanks when they face the Hurricanes on Friday.

Nigel Owens of Wales has been appointed to referee the Magners League Final between Munster and Leinster at Thomond Park on Sunday afternoon.

There are three Finals and two semifinals in Europe this weekend as competitions close down. In Georgia the Junior World Trophy gets under way as the IRB Sevens Series comes to an end.

The Crusaders are hopeful of having three of their injured All Black players back in the starting line-up against the Reds this weekend.

Wing Joe Rokocoko will join fellow All Black Neemia Tialata at French Top 14 rugby club Bayonne after the World Cup later this year.

Fiji threatened to boycott Sevens events in NZ and Australia if bans on players linked to the Pacific nation's military regime are not lifted.

Sonny Bill Williams has been reported to be close to signing a contract extension with the NZRU after the World Cup.

Blues coach Pat Lam has voiced his displeasure with the performance of referee Keith Brown in the Stormers? dramatic victory at Eden Park.

Reds coach Ewen McKenzie said the buzz surrounding the heavyweight encounter with Crusaders on Sunday should live up to all the hype.

Gordon Tietjens' New Zealand 7s side had plenty of reason to celebrate - having clinched their ninth IRB World Series title.

The Crusaders closed the gap on conference rivals the Blues with a 25-19 win over the Chiefs in Napier on Saturday.

The Hurricanes' bye means Wellington fans will see a host of All Black players in their local club scene this weekend.

All Black Nick Evans kicked the match-winning conversion as Harlequins neat Stade Francais 19-18 in the European Challenge Cup Final.

Lelia Masaga has been ruled out of this weekend's Super Rugby clash between the Chiefs and Crusaders due to a leg injury.

The Stormers produced a blistering second-half comeback to edge the Blues 28-26 in a thrilling Super Rugby match in Auckland on Friday.

Reserve hooker Quentin MacDonald has been ruled out of the Crusaders team to play the Chiefs in Napier on Saturday.

All Black captain Richie McCaw Thursday said he was "pretty close" to signing a fresh New Zealand deal.

Dan Carter has admitted walking away from huge European deals to re-sign with New Zealand was the "toughest decision in my career".

NZ U20 star Sam Cane will start for the Chiefs in their Super Rugby showdown with the Crusaders at McLean Park in Napier on Saturday.

The Crusaders have made five changes to their starting line-up to play the Chiefs in Napier in a Super Rugby match on Saturday.

London Wasps have added more fire-power to their forward pack with the signing of flank Jonathan Poff from the Crusaders.

The Blues welcome back blindside flank Jerome Kaino for their clash with leading South African side the Stormers on Friday in Auckland.

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph believes that Aussie teams were playing schoolboy rugby compared to the gruelling season faced by the Kiwis.

The Reds are set to break the Aussie attendance record with 30,000 seats sold a fortnight out from their encounter against the Crusaders.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee was forced to name a side to take on the Blues in Auckland with a number of his senior players out injured.

Hurricanes lock Jeremy Thrush has been cleared on a charge of foul play by a SANZAR Judicial hearing in Wellington.

The Lions and the Cheetahs sprung the biggest surprises of the weekend and the Chiefs produced the biggest comeback. We have fairly detailed statistics of getting and using possession and scoring and being scored against. The team that has yielded the most tries has conceded more than six times as many as the team that has conceded fewest.

All Blacks flyhalf Dan Carter has signed a four-year contract to stay in New Zealand after this year's World Cup.

We had all looked forward to the big clash between Grey College and Affies in Bloemfontein but excessive water kiboshed that. But there were still several interesting results which have changed the FNB Top 20 considerably.

The Hurricanes have paid tribute to prop Neemia Tialata who will join French Top 14 club Bayonne following the World Cup.

The Blues believe that containing the Stormers driving maul from line-outs will be crucial to blunt the Cape Town side's attack.

The Crusaders injured trio of Israel Dagg, Adam Whitelock and Sean Maitland will miss the rest of the Super Rugby season after surgery.

Chiefs lock Toby Lynn will cross the Tasman next season after signing a two year deal with Western Force.

The Aplon decision when the Stormers played the Chiefs had a big impact on the outcome of this Super Rugby match in Hamilton on Saturday.

After beating the Blues last week the Reds have set their sights on the Crusaders who they meet in Brisbane after their bye this week.

No.10 Peter Grant has joined fellow Bok Jaque Fourie on the Stormers' injury list, ahead of their match against the Blues on Friday.

The Stormers are ready for another fierce physical onslaught when they take on New Zealand conference leaders the Blues this weekend.

It's the final of the Heineken Cup and the Amlin Challenge Cup this weekend. That's big, and Romain Poite of France is the man appointed to see fair play.

The 1987 All Blacks will reunite for the first time since they won the inaugural World Cup, in honour of late teammate John Drake.

All Black Jerome Kaino will return to Blues the team for Friday's clash with the Stormers, but they are unlikely to have Benson Stanley.

Blues lock Kurtis Haiu began chemotherapy treatment for a bone tumour on his ribs, the team's doctor said on Monday.

The Crusaders are hopeful that Sonny Bill Williams will be available for their crunch match against the Chiefs match in Napier on Saturday.

New Zealand internationals Sione Lauaki and Neemia Tialata have signed for French Top 14 side Bayonne, the club confirmed on Monday.

The Cheetahs proved that they can mix it with best of them when they managed to beat the Crusaders 33-20 in a gutsy display on Saturday.

Cancer-stricken Blues player Kurtis Haiu was reported Saturday to be facing a serious charge of assaulting a female.

Shane Christie will make his NZ debut after being named to replace Declan O'Donnell for the IRB 7s tournaments in London and Edinburgh.

The Stormers could be without World Cup-winning Springbok centre Jaque Fourie when they face the Blues in Auckland on Friday.

Hurricanes lock Jeremy Thrush will appear at a judicial hearing next week, for a dangerous charge on Highlanders hooker Jason Rutledge.

The Chiefs produced 27 second-half points, after trailing 3-20 at the break, to stun the Stormers and recod a 30-23 win on Saturday.

The Highlanders kept alive their play-offs hopes by scrapping to a 13-6 win over the Hurricanes in a wet and windy Invercargill on Friday.

The Reds saw off a spirited Blues fightback to win a 37-31 Super Rugby thriller in Brisbane on Friday.

rugby365.com reporter Michael de Vries takes a look at the contrasting styles of coaching being employed by the Lions and Cheetahs - two struggling South African franchises - both with limited player resources, but vastly different financial backing.

Tanerau Latimer has been withdrawn from the Chiefs' starting line-up to play the Stormers in Hamilton on Saturday.

New Zealand is restating the five-year ban on Fijians with military ties from going to New Zealand for the World Cup at a time when soldiers with Fijian ties were winning accolades playing ruby in the UK. There is some sort of rugby irony here.

New Zealand emphasised Friday that it would not ease sanctions barring Fijian players with military or government ties from travelling to the World Cup.

Hong Kong and Singapore have denied pulling out of plans to host matches during the 2019 World Cup in Japan, saying the message had been "lost in translation".

The Pampas XV wrote their own chapter in the Argentine and South African history books with a clinical 14-9 victory over the Blue Bulls - to win the Vodacom Cup Final in Potchefstroom on Friday.

The Pampas XV, the only undefeated team in this year's Vodacom Cup, will be hoping for one more victory in 2011 when they host the defending champions, the Blue Bulls, at Olen Park in Potchefstroom on Friday.

North Harbour wing David Raikuna is the only change to the NZ Sevens squad for the final legs of the World Series in London and Edinburgh.

Stormers captain Schalk Burger said they can't allow the Chiefs to get off to a good start and gain confidence when they meet on Saturday.

The Crusaders welcome back captain Richie McCaw and flyhalf Dan Carter for their match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

The Chiefs team to face the Stormers on Saturday shows one change, with Tanerau Latimer returning from injury in place of Scott Waldrom.

For his outburst against referees of the French Top 14, Sebastien Chabal has received a long and complicated suspension though basically it is for 60 days.

The International Rugby Board has rallied behind Japan's preparations to host the rugby World Cup in 2019, despite an earthquake and tsunami which ravaged the country's northeast coast two months ago.

Chiefs captain Mils Muliaina celebrates another milestone this week, as he lines up his 100th Super Rugby game when they face the Stormers.

The Blues have been boosted by the return of All Blacks Anthony Boric and Luke McAlister for Friday's Super Rugby encounter with the Reds.

Bay of Plenty have signed former Wallabies centre Steve Kefu from English club London Wasps for this year's NPC.

Jimmy Gopperth was named as flyhalf in the Premiership Dream Team and then picked up the Golden Boot for the second season in succession.

Reds coach Ewen McKenzie has made one change to his side for Friday's top of the table Super Rugby clash against the Blues in Brisbane.

No, it was not a try but it should have been. The IRB has ruled on the 'try' Dewaldt Duvenage of the Stormers scored in the opening minutes of their Super 15 match with the Crusaders at Newlands last Saturday.

The Stormers have gambled on volatile scrumhalf Ricky Januarie for their clash with the Chiefs in Hamilton on Saturday.

The Blues are versatile enough to deal with all conditions, but Pat Lam says "good weather" will let them play a running game in Brisbane.

The absence of Adam Thomson is one of five changes to the Highlanders team to the Hurricanes a New Zealand Super Rugby derby on Friday.

Bay of Plenty have signed former Wallabies centre Steve Kefu from English club London Wasps for this year's NPC.

All Blacks Ma'a Nonu and Piri Weepu are back in the Hurricanes team to face the Highlanders in a Super Rugby derby in on Friday.

At the request of a reader we have added tries conceded this week. There are other interesting bits of statistic, e.g. the team that has scored the fewest tries has kicked the most penalties.

Nigel Owens and George Clancy - who are both in the panel of 10 officials named as referees for the World Cup in New Zealand later in the year - have been appointed to referee the Magners League semifinals this weekend.

Many of the big ones have jolted to an end and there are the cut-throat knock-out rounds left. Knock-out rounds require players and referees to be on their toes. Errors can be expensive.

Stormers forwards coach Matt Proudfoot "red flagged" the Chiefs as a dangerous side after they wrestled the game away from the Highlanders.

The Crusaders are hopeful that they will be able to call on the services of Richie McCaw and Dan Carter for their game against the Cheetahs.

Another week has flown by another weekend of many schoolboy matches and another FNB Top 20 that will not be the same as the week before's.

Despite having lots of respect for the Crusaders the Cheetahs are confident that they know how to beat the Men from Canterbury this weekend.

The Chiefs 20-7 victory over the Highlanders has come at a price, as flank Scott Waldrom is likely to miss the rest of the season.

Romain Poite of France has been appointed by the European Rugby Cup to referee the final of the 2010/11 Heineken Cup, while George Clancy of France does the Amlin Challenge Cup Final. Both of them have been appointed to referee in the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.

Jerome Kaino has recovered from his hamstring strain but will not be risked for this weekend?s top of the table clash against the Reds.

Veteran All Black Adam Thomson is one of several Highlanders who are facing lengthy injury-enforced lay-offs.