Latest from Super Rugby

Rugby: Mid-week gives Blues a test run

For Sir John Kirwan, mid-week matches against international sides are the heart and soul of the game.

Rugby: Brumbies storm back into finals

The Brumbies have qualified for the Super Rugby finals for the first time in nine years after beating the Melbourne Rebels 39-17 at Canberra Stadium late on Friday.

Sean Fitzpatrick: Sparkling Highlanders surely puzzling Joseph

You could almost hear Jamie Joseph, coach of the Highlanders, saying: 'Hang on ... what's going on here?'

Rugby: Chiefs still wait for respect

As the centre of excellence moves north to Hamilton, last year's champs see adoration of Crusaders continue.

Rugby: Five areas where Chiefs lead Crusaders

The Chiefs changed the coaching landscape last year when they operated with four full-time coaches instead of the usual two.

Rugby: Blues deliver fresh goods

Five of the best: ABs v France

Rugby: Blues name young side to face France

Ask Kamo: Plenty of talent just waiting to emerge

It is exciting to see Rene Ranger in Steve Hansen's All Black 23. Do you see any up-and-coming Northland players coming on, or any of promise from the other smaller unions around NZ?

Rugby: Bird injury may play into Clarke's hands

Chiefs captain Craig Clarke was being tipped as the strongest contender for a fairytale call-up to the All Blacks today, with former All Blacks Jarrad Hoeata and Anthony Boric outside choices.

Paul Lewis: Fine way to treat a messiah

What a shame Sir Graham Henry was forced by Sanzar to apologise for his refreshing honesty, writes Paul Lewis.

Flat Blues fall to Highlanders

As it happened: Blues v Highlanders

All Blacks: Bird's wings clipped with shoulder injury

Lock Dominic Bird's All Blacks ambitions will need to be put on hold after news he will need shoulder surgery that will put him out of the remainder of the Super Rugby competition.

Rugby: Lealiifano boots Brumbies past 'Canes

Rugby: Williams revelling in Blues leadership

Not much has missed Ali Williams in his lengthy career. He's been around the rugby block more than most, suffered major injuries, fallouts with coaches, serious form fluctuations and ploughed his way through 77 tests and more than 100 Super rugby matches.

Rugby: Thorn tosses up future options after roller coaster couple of years

As of next month, Brad Thorn will be unemployed. His contract with the Highlanders will be finished and he definitely won't play ITM Cup rugby this year.

Crusaders claw back to win thriller

Wallaby Berrick Barnes missed a fulltime penalty leaving the Crusaders with an unlikely 23 - 22 win over the Waratahs in Christchurch tonight.