Southern Hemisphere

If there was one name that didn’t fail to capture attention during the Super Rugby transfer window; it was Jordie Barrett. Barrett signed with the Hurricanes for the 2017 Super Rugby season after turning down an offer from the Crusaders. Barrett will join his older brother, and 2016 IRB World Rugby Player of the Year […]

The Chiefs remain unbeaten in Super Rugby, but they had to grind out an almighty challenge from a Bulls side that was primed to cause an upset. 28-12 doesn’t tell the story of what was really a game of two halves, in every sense of the word. Missed tackles and poor passing was the order of […]

The tournament continues to grow even after 40 years. Attracting more people to visit the So Kon Po Stadium and get a taste of the finest rugby sevens show on earth. From the range of teams in the early years, to establishing the World Series, to being the pinnacle event on the calendar.

It will be an extra special feeling for Chiefs loose forward Liam Messam when he steps onto FMG Stadium, Waikato on Saturday night. Messam will rack up his 150th appearance for the Chiefs in Hamilton when the Waikato-based club take on the Bulls. Chiefs coach Dave Rennie says that Messam is the best example of […]

With a third of the competition complete, the leading sides have all been established. Matches now take on a higher significance, with the forecast of more quality matches in Super Rugby Round Six. The upcoming round will hold a more Australasian feel, with key match-ups. And with many teams enjoying a Bye; as mentioned last […]

Super Rugby Week Five provided a few interesting contests in the African Conferences, with the Stormers, Lions, Sharks and Jaguares recording wins.

Again, Nanai uses the word excitement. That is a key contributor to his; and to the Blues success. If Tana Umaga can keep the side motivated, then the belief he is building will transfer into victories. That could lead to more wins, more confidence and for Nanai, going from strength to strength in Super Rugby.

Last Word On Rugby was on hand in Auckland to witness the Blues result first-hand, with the match in Canberra a riveting one to follow on radio traveling home. The audio heightening the dramatic conclusion. Then, to top it off watching the all out scoring action between the ‘Wolves and Stormers (see main picture) was a terrific end to the night–that small selection made this Super Saturday one to savour.

Heading into this weekend, the bye rounds will slightly alter the standings until all teams have rested for one weekend [Round Nine] so apart from on-field performance, every match will impact on the mid-competition placing’s. So, attention to detail in Super Rugby round five is crucial–how teams like the Crusaders and Stormers go now, will show benefits in a few weeks time.

With more players taking up lucrative overseas contracts, the mid-season player movements from NZ Rugby seem to be more distraction, than good for the game

Super Rugby Round Four produced the expected results, along with a number of questions for the South African teams.

An experienced Chiefs Rugby side eventually overcame a determined Rebels side that pushed their Kiwi opposition all the way and deserved more from the match

“They nailed it” has been the answer, when people have asked Crusaders fans how their team have managed to win the last three weeks. Especially in Dunedin and in Brisbane, the last-minute victories tasting sweet in Canterbury. It leaves the Crusaders fans grateful (obviously) but what is at the heart of their issues? How can their […]

Keven Mealamu used to take care of business on the rugby field. But since retiring from footy, he is now more concerned with taking care of his mates. He is the spokesman for an new initiative from New Zealand Rugby called Headfirst. Released this morning, it is an online help service for members of the […]

Super Rugby round three produced a few interesting results as well as a touch of refereeing controversy.