The appointment of Sir Michael Jones is a progressive placement on the NZ Rugby board that has been well received. The former All Black is both a respected rugby-mind, but also a figure who could proceed a 'change of the guard' at the rugby headquarters. One that is more inclusive, and respectful of all stakeholders READ MORE
Tag: Pacifica Rugby
Rugby Eligibility Discussion Not Based on Fact or Agreed Process
Conversation recently has seen attention focused on Rugby Eligibility. That is in regards to some International player eligibility intentions; for those whom had represented one International team, but who might now desire to play for another. Often these have been reported on widely, some including interviews and comments by some leading players. Social media has played […] READ MORE
Samoa Rugby Bankrupt, and Need Long Term Help–Not a Handout
The reports are sad news for fans of Manu Samoa. The Prime Minister of Samoa, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi; who is also the chair of the SRU (Samoa Rugby Union) has broken the news that the organization is virtually bankrupt. With debts unpaid, Samoa Rugby need long term help–Not a Handout. However, this story has been repeated over a […] READ MORE
All Blacks Thrash Samoa In One-Sided Pacifika Challenge
With one week remaining until the first test of the DHL Lions Series, the All Blacks have had a perfect appetizer, after convincingly thrashing Samoa in the Pacifika Challenge. 12 tries to nil, and a convincing scoreline that read 78-0. That was the end result in front of a modest crowd at Eden Park in Auckland. […] READ MORE
Crusaders Primed to Finish in Top Spot….but it Will be a Tough Ride!
Tough because they not only want to finish ahead of the three chasing New Zealand franchise teams, but they must stay ahead of the talented Emirates Lions from Johannesburg. The Crusaders main opponent on the standings ladder, however each will not face each other in regular season. READ MORE
Melani Nanai–Going from Strength to Strength in Super Rugby
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. READ MORE
More Super Rugby Pacifica Fixtures in 2017
And with Super Rugby set to review it's current format, success in these matches is evidence needed to show the strength of the region. As an option, but not yet in position to support any ambitious developments, it might be the start of a measured path to further increases in matches and participation through Fiji Rugby, Samoa Rugby and [possibly] other nations and venues; including Singapore. READ MORE
Pacifica Rugby Has a Place in Super Rugby
During the regular season, New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs Super Rugby franchise made a public declaration of support for Pacifica Rugby. Not a piecemeal offer either, but a real validation to say publically “Pacifica Rugby Has a Place in Super Rugby”. They both; along with Sky Sport (NZ media broadcaster) promoted a round of […] READ MORE