Jerome Kaino, on the brink of a return to the Blues, has challenged himself to reach the standards he set at the last World Cup when he was a major part of the All Blacks' success.

The time for the selection tinkering at the Blues is over, says coach Sir John Kirwan.

The Chiefs' attack is warming to its work and last season's top scorers are unlikely to be disrupted by a loss of key personnel.

You'd struggle to find a more relaxed bloke than Marty Banks. Very little seems to worry the Hurricanes utility but that carefree nature has arguably been a hindrance to his rugby career.

Referees boss Lyndon Bray has admitted match officials got it wrong in both of the Blues' recent defeats in South Africa.

The feeling of positivity around the Blues after their victory over the Crusaders has all but evaporated in the aftermath of their South African tour.

If you like your rugby loose with frequent scoreboard changes then head for Eden Park on Saturday.

The yoyo career of Robbie Fruean took another dip yesterday when he was pulled from the Chiefs' squad.

Robbie Fruean will miss the Chiefs' three match road trip after needing a heart procedure which will put the centre out of action for up to eight weeks.

There is going to be plenty of self-examination in the Highlanders camp this week.

Blues coach John Kirwan is looking for answers from referees' boss Lyndon Bray after getting what he feels is a rough deal from match officials for the third game in a row.

Ma'a Nonu and Jerome Kaino are poised to restart their Blues careers against the Cheetahs at Eden Park on Saturday.

During a nine-try romp you don't expect to see a player celebrate scoring a five-pointer as if he has won a final.

An incredible comeback from the Blues against the Lions in Johannesburg fell just short this morning, John Kirwan's men again leaving themselves too much to do after a poor start.

Beauden Barrett versus Willie le Roux. What a treat.

The Chiefs remain unbeaten atop the New Zealand Conference and, if they can put together their whole package, that record will be hard to break.

The Chiefs aim to play rugby the way it is meant to be for those who like sport served sunny side up. So where are the crowds?