Latest fromRichard Loe on rugby
Basics can turn a season
If the Crusaders want to feature at the top end of the table, a handful of individuals need to take greater responsibility for their performances, writes Richard Loe.
Richard Loe: Hurricanes work just beginning
I hope the Hurricanes, who have won their opening three games on the road, don't get back to Wellington and think the hard work is done. It's only just beginning, writes Richard Loe.
Richard Loe: Time to mix and match against the Scots
This morning's test against England was always the big one for the All Blacks on their northern tour but the last two tests are still critical building to next year's World Cup.
Richard Loe: Breeding ground still fertile
The year's provincial competitions proved there is still a pathway for players and it doesn't matter where you play your rugby.
Richard Loe: Front row seat up for grabs
Nathan Harris is going to get his chance for the All Blacks today after Dane Coles came home for the birth of his child.
Richard Loe: Players under the spotlight
There's no question the All Blacks are heading in the right direction and are continuing to deliver results.
Richard Loe: Test shows there's plenty still to work on
Richard Loe writes: That test was a bit dour and a touch messy from the All Blacks.
Richard Loe: Crusade likely in ABs' mindset
There might be a few players from the Crusaders who will have extra motivation in the All Blacks' camp this week.
Richard Loe: Wallabies still have catching up to do
It's understandable that, for a lot of people, last night's Super Rugby final was being viewed as a kind of unofficial third Bledisloe Cup test.
Richard Loe: Hard-men forged my career
Kevin Skinner was a bit before my time but had an indirect influence on my career and, indeed, many others.
Richard Loe: Aussies super confident but tests another thing
I have been on holiday in Australia for a couple of weeks where I got the impression there's a fair bit of confidence brewing.
Richard Loe: My money's on the Tahs
I know they haven't taken their chances at this stage in previous competitions, but I'd have to say the Waratahs are the team with the form and momentum and will be tough to beat.
Richard Loe: Canes left in good shape
I know people will be lining up to lay into Mark Hammett by asking 'what has he done in four seasons coaching the Hurricanes?' but I'm standing by him.
Richard Loe: Carter must earn selection
It would be pretty harsh on Coiln Slade if he was dropped to the bench after the way he's played. But I'm not sure that's what they will do., writes Richard Loe.
Richard Loe: No faith in new crop of hookers
If, as expected, the All Blacks pick only Keven Mealamu and Dane Coles in their squad to play England today, I'd fully support that. writes Richard Loe.
Richard Loe: Front row need to regain best form
Steve Hansen will be keen to see some of his players - particularly his front row - step up in the next few weeks, writes Richard Loe. If you look at what might be the starting All Black pack for the first test, you would say there's a lot of class.
Richard Loe: Fekitoa looks just what ABs need
A couple of things will have become clearer for the All Blacks coaches after the Highlanders' defeat of the Hurricanes - not least the fact they will be feeling pretty good about Malakai Fekitoa.
Richard Loe: Hookers should be thrown in deep end
There might be a few people a bit nervous about the All Black situation at hooker. I'm not one of them. I don't think we are so badly placed, writes Richard Loe.