Former All Blacks loose forward Jerome Kaino, about to return home after two years in Japan, says wearing the black jersey again was the main reason for signing with the Blues.

Piri Weepu is easing his way into the new season following knee surgery

Blues assistant coach Graham Henry says Benji Marshall's fitness work is paying off after the former league international turned up for training out of condition in November.

The Blues have been dealt a big blow even before the season has begun - Culum Retallick has been ruled out of action for six months, while SBW is said to be joining Counties.

Early fascination about the Blues' second season under John Kirwan's command will be the ideas about Charles Piutau and Benji Marshall, writes Wynne Gray.

Former All Blacks and Chiefs midfielder Sonny Bill Williams is to return to New Zealand rugby, it was announced today.

Competition for pivotal Blues' No10 jersey as Noakes overcomes potential career threatening injury.

There is little doubt that the New Zealand Super Rugby conference is the most difficult.

Keven Mealamu is the third All Black to play more than 100 games for the national side.

Ben Lama counts himself as a Blues fanatic - with the proof being his frequent trips to the side's games in Hamilton, Blues jersey and facepaint proudly on display.

The All Blacks' home test schedule for next year has been confirmed, with Napier to host a Rugby Championship fixture against Argentina in September.

Fijian-born wing Nemani Nadolo probably won't be available for the Crusaders until the end of February which means he will miss the start of the season.

Top sportsmen like Benji Marshall harness their emotion to power their performance.

Benji Marshall has spoken of his nervousness as swapping league for rugby union at the Blues' Super Rugby squad announcement this morning.

Ma'a Nonu has broken months of silence about his playing future, revealing he had begun to doubt his ability and saying, "I just have to be a better guy."