Being a full-time All Black captain is a huge job and many relate it to being tougher than the prime minister's role, writes Justin Marshall.

With the memories of his debut test for the ABs last July still fresh in his mind, Moala, determined to reach those heights again, instead dug himself into a hole.

The test table is being set for the real deal before the next Rugby World Cup - the British and Irish Lions tour next year.

The All Blacks will play Counties-Manukau and Northland in August to prepare for the Rugby Championship.

It's not every day an All Black offers to make you a cup of tea...

The All Black is the gift that keeps on giving.

Who doesn't utter a gasp or some vocal amazement when Ardie Savea accelerates into the open?

Ex-All Black released from police custody following his arrest in France for "destruction and domestic violence".

COMMENT: Yes, we like to compare. And comparisons across eras are even more compelling.

Ahead of his big chance at No10 tomorrow, Beauden Barrett was deliberately economical with his words.

Dixon's breakthrough has come after six years in the south, deciding he wouldn't see much game time behind the likes of Kieran Read, Richie McCaw and Matt Todd.

Making 12 alterations to the match-day squad of 23 - including five in the starting line-up - is about "risk and reward", and that risk must be considered highest in the midfield.

The man is strong, so naturally powerful when he arrived a few years back for his initial assessment at the Blues that he busted all sorts of weightlifting marks. He had no history of lifting weights, he simply grabbed the tin and hoisted it.

All you need to know about latest All Blacks debutant Elliot Dixon - who will become All Black 1149 on Saturday against Wales.

Byron Kelleher has been arrested in France for "destruction and domestic violence", according to French reports.

If there is one regret for the All Blacks from this June series, it is that they have been denied the opportunity to see Charlie Ngatai in action.

Several All Blacks called scarfie flats home but yesterday Dunedin's student quarter was an attraction for some of the current squad.

Injury has forced the early departure of three members of the Wales rugby squad.

How will Steve Hansen approach his selection for Saturday's last test as he looks to keep the heat on Wales and his squad as he eyes the All Blacks next outing?

Sam Cane's mix of graft and craft and Ardie Savea's bash and dash have given the All Blacks a combination rather than competition at openside.

OPINION: If Michael Cheika could read between the lines, he just might realise that Steve Hansen's message was really for Eddie Jones.

Remember those battles Richie McCaw had with George Smith and Schalk Burger?

England's series-securing win over Australia could turn out to be the defining moment, writes Brian Moore.

Sitting behind a desk wearing glasses and a collared shirt, All Blacks rugby lock Brodie Retallick could pass for a mild mannered, if oversized, bank clerk.

Dane Coles' performance in the 36-22 victory over Wales at Westpac Stadium proved once again that he is a No 2 almost without peer in the world game.

Coach Steve Hansen has been a keen observer of the battle raging across the Tasman between England coach Eddie Jones and his Wallaby counterpart, Michael Cheika.