Most fans might be thinking “how long until the Rugby World Cup?”. Not long, yet before we get to that special moment of the oval ball calendar, there is still time for a big event designed specifically for the fans – a World XV vs Barbarians. From the European Professional Rugby Club (May 19-20) fixtures, […] READ MORE
Tag: Ngani Laumape
‘When the Ex attacks’ – Steve Hansen comments on NZ Rugby hit hard
Reading the Steve Hansen comments on NZ Rugby (New Zealand) you get the sense that it is like an ex-wife putting the boot in. And you wonder, who will be seen in a worse position at the conclusion of this dire period for NZ Rugby? Interviewed by Today FM, Sir Steve Hansen KNZM did not […] READ MORE
Blistering pace and power of Ngani Laumape
With his blistering pace and sheer power-play, Ngani Laumape reminded rugby observers and his naysayers of his game-breaking quality, as the Hurricanes defeated the Blues. In Round Six of Super Rugby Aotearoa, the clash in Wellington saw the ‘Canes overtake the Blues place on the ladder; as the Crusaders enjoyed their second bye round. In […] READ MORE
Lions survive the Hurricane in high scoring midweek game
In the final midweek game of the 2017 tour, it was your typical ‘game of two halves’. A fired-up British and Irish Lions team taking the early lead, only for the barnstorming home side to come within a whisker of stealing a win. A thrilling 31-31 draw was a close-run-thing, as the Lions survive the […] READ MORE
DHL Lions Series: All Blacks/Lions share spoils. LWOR player ratings
The third test was probably where each side was more studied on the other. Tactically, both managed to excite the crowd yet the pressure mounted on each. As that happened the game became more centered. It was a game that wasn't able to open up as easily. Which was great for purists, but was less exciting than test one of the DHL Lions Series. READ MORE
Second Test in DHL Lions series holds fans full attention
After the All Blacks held their composure best up in Auckland, the second test of this highly popular DHL Lions Series holds fans full attention. ‘Who will triumph?; Which player changes will bear the most rewards?’ and other questions are on the lips of fans across the Rugby World. More of those now exist after the […] READ MORE
Steve Hansen names All Blacks wider training group for DHL Lions Series
The presure is now on, as Steve Hansen names his All Blacks ‘wider training group’ for the DHL Lions Series. The selected 33 men will be challenged to hold-up the aura of the New Zealand team, and the New Zealand (NZ) rugby public’s expectation. That factor will weigh heavy on Steve Hansen, the head coach […] READ MORE
Mitre 10 Cup Week 7: Halfway point passed in Domestic Rugby
Passed the halfway stage of the 10-week domestic rugby season, Mitre 10 Cup week 7 results ensured that several teams are still in contention for the playoffs. Fans attention may be distracted with the start of the 2019 Rugby World Cup, but each week, the provincial unions around New Zealand do battle. Often fierce local […] READ MORE
Pride and Passion; Sonny Bill Williams ready for third Rugby World Cup
Known as much for his personality than for his incredible rugby skills, many know that for All Blacks center Sonny Bill Williams, preparing to play in his third Rugby World Cup is all about Pride and Passion. One player who plays with his heart on his sleeve – for good or for bad – Sonny […] READ MORE
Speed and Mobility, the key to All Blacks RWC squad
Examining the 31 names that make-up the All Blacks RWC squad (Rugby World Cup) you sense that this 2019 side has been selected to maximize their ‘speed and mobility’ in a bid to win an unprecedented back-to-back-to-back World Championships. Although that ultimate goal is over two months away, the beginning of the 2019 Rugby World […] READ MORE