Michael Cheika is seen as the man to lead Australia's biggest rugby franchise to the promised land.

Young workaholic fullback Piutau is raring to for Auckland against Highlanders after recovering from a foot injury.

Super rugby is billed as a massive tri-nations provincial series. But tonight looks more like an event for sparklers rather than any whizz-bang skyrockets and trumpets flourish.

There is a formidable look about the Sharks line-up as they eye their opening match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein next Sunday.

Piri Weepu reckons he has brought his A-frame and a reformed attitude for his second campaign with the Blues.

Chiefs midfielder Richard Kahui has put an end to the speculation and confirmed he is leaving New Zealand to play rugby in Japan.

Ali Williams will captain the Blues for the first time when the side faces the Waratahs on Saturday for their second pre-season hitout of the year.

Telusa Veainu has been called into the Crusaders from the Highlanders to cover a wing shortage.

The Highlanders' new big three have arrived and with them new challenges for head coach Jamie Joseph.

The New Zealand Rugby Union has been accused of failing under-fire All Black Zac Guildford.

Zac Guildford may need a break from rugby for a number of years but should not be cut adrift, people closely involved with rehabilitating other athletes say.

When Zac Guildford is sidelined for his latest alcohol-related incident - and unfortunately for him and the Crusaders it is a foregone conclusion - he won't be the only one to pay the price.

All Blacks wing Zac Guildford has voluntarily stood down from involvement with the Crusaders after a late-night incident at a residential home in Christchurch last weekend.

During the ITM Cup, new Chiefs midfielder Bundee Aki would have had few troubles producing a skite tape to impress the coaching staff of the Super Rugby champions.