KEY POINTS:
The Hurricanes will eagerly seek the latest news on the fitness of Rodney So'oialo today.
The All Blacks number eight is rated a 50-50 chance by coach Colin Cooper to play in the Super 14 rugby semifinal against the Crusaders this weekend due to rib damage suffered against the Blues.
First five-eighth Willie Ripia says it is one thing to lose a player of his ability, but another to lose him as a leader.
He says it is a huge issue, and describes So'oialo as a leader who is demonstrative rather than a big talker.
Ripia has an anxious wait of his own in the countdown to the semifinal, and while he may be the favourite to line up in the No 10 jersey, there is no guarantee he will get the nod.
He says he continues to battle for the spot with Jimmy Gopperth and that the competition is a healthy one.
- NEWSTALK ZB
