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After the official World Rugby declaration on May 10, an affirmed International Test match schedule is now settled after New Zealand’s fixture list was announced to widespread approval. With July set to be a bumper schedule for all Tier one nations, the recognition for Pacific Islands nations, Rugby Europe teams, and for the two major […] READ MORE
Last Word on Rugby, by Brad Hayward. With a new season commencing, and Wales’ Coach Warren Gatland’s return from another successful British and Irish Lions Tour, it would be interesting to identify some of the young talent that may be Wales rugby breakthrough players to watch in 2017/18. This article intends to also apply context, […] READ MORE
The DHL Lions Series has concluded, with a drawn series after the 15-15 result on Saturday. The All Blacks have been held from their ambition of holding back the best of Britain. And with this second Lions series wrap it is time to reflect on the highlights and best combined starting XV. READ MORE
From the outside, the Lions series draw is not what anyone will have planned. The action on the field was of a high quality. Many of the players had tremendous affect on the outcome; Kieran Read, Maro Itoje, Rieko Ioane or Toby Faletau. And to be fair, with all the quality, the fierce contest is likely to have negated the other sides effectiveness. An indication of this is the New Zealand team usually average over 30 points in their last six years of contest. In the Lions series draw, only 22. And that might be glossing over how difficult the opposition were. So full credit, where credit is due. READ MORE
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
The DHL Lions Series has concluded, with a drawn series after the 15-15 result on Saturday. The All Blacks have been held from their ambition of holding back the best of Britain. And with this 'end of tour wrap' it is time to reflect on the highlights. READ MORE
In the epic climax to a thrilling test series, rugby fans worldwide are the beneficiaries. The United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, will be enthralled. The anticipation of a rebuke from the home side or a more confident Lions team entering the 'fortress' of Eden Park, the implications for the Lions 2017 tour pinboard are truly mesmerizing. READ MORE
From Last Word on Rugby, James Barker As the British and Irish Lions are finding out, an international Rugby Test series is the most unforgiving environment. One nil down in a three match series, they simply have to win in Wellington. But what makes Test series so special, and why are they so intense? Incomparable […] READ MORE
Challenges Promote Julian Savea Public Judgment As Ioane moved from center to wing, he was growing as one of the great future prospects of the New Zealand rugby. With options like James Lowe and [in 2016] Johnny McNichol signing overseas contracts, the former Sevens player was heralded as an option. And his successes on the field, perked the interest of the national selectors - as much as Julian Savea public judgment. READ MORE
While the execution let the side down in the end; in the opening attacking play, and in the middle of the second half, this Lions team showed the glimpses that everyone knew they possessed. Quality players, good motivation and combined strength. But with mixed messages issued from the coaches box, it had a counter-intuitive affect. READ MORE