Latest from Rugby Analysis

Marshall: The Springboks' biggest threat

As the ABs prepare for a massive semifinal against the Springboks, their halfback and captain poses the biggest threat, writes Justin Marshall.

Scots have only themselves to blame

COMMENT: Referee Craig Joubert is copping flak from all sides, but the outcome isn't his fault, writes Chris Rattue.

Suddenly Wallabies look vulnerable

COMMENT: Many of Australia's old demons have resurfaced, writes Wynne Gray.

'They just can't handle the pressure'

COMMENT: All Southern Hemisphere semifinal creates distinct impression that the rugby played on either side of the equator is vastly different, writes Gregor Paul.

Marshall: My one concern for the ABs

COMMENT: If All Blacks can't solidify that scrum and dominate, then France may have an advantage, writes Justin Marshall.

Why ABs will embrace Cardiff

Ever since the draw was made - some time last century - the World Cup was destined to march back in time to pit the All Blacks against France in a Cardiff quarterfinal.

England shambolic, ABs on track

Justin Marshall: Let's cut to the chase. Do I agree with the All Blacks changing their game plan specifically for these so-called weaker pool matches? Yes I do.

Patrick McKendry: Wallabies not as good as English press making out

Not even the All Blacks, the English press are saying, could have stayed with the Wallabies in their demolition of England at Twickenham.

Ali Williams: Injury back-ups crucial to success

Worrying signs for Wallabies after semifinal defeats

Aussie TV rugby commentator Phil Kearns has more to worry about than a dodgy penalty try decision and a few other things that didn't go his way in a Super Rugby semifinal, writes Chris Rattue.

Dream final too close to call

We've got the two best teams going head to head and you wouldn't put your house on the winner, writes Justin Marshall.

Milner-Skudder proves explosive formula

Maybe the equation should be changed to Energy=MS2 or in this case Milner-Skudder at the double.

Sour grapes in Sydney

The grapes were very sour in Sydney as the Highlanders hillbilly forwards soaked up all the hometown posturing - then rattled to the winning post, writes Wynne Gray.

Justin Marshall: Blues' gameplan isn't working

After writing a couple of weeks ago that I was really pleased with the quality and intensity early in this Super Rugby competition, along came this latest weekend.

Chris Rattue: Why Sir John Kirwan must surely be on his way out

Kirwan's comments after the woeful display against the underwhelming Lions reveal one reason why his Blues regime is in terminal turmoil, writes Chris Rattue.

Chris Rattue: Dropping pink shirts won't earn refs respect

Never let it be said that this column doesn't tackle the big issues.

Wynne Gray: Lack of sting from star teams

Those inclined to provoke early season niggle will declare the Crusaders are toast, the Bulls are crisping and the Reds are burned offerings.

Chris Rattue: Next World Cup will be without Dan Carter

The date: February the 13th. Time: About 8.45pm. This was the moment I gave up, once and for all, on Dan Carter as a sensible World Cup prospect, writes Chris Rattue.