Hawke's Bay substitute back Gillies Kaka scored a try four minutes from time to deny Counties-Manukau a well-deserved win 31-28 victory.

Leaky defences were all too evident at North Harbour stadium last night.

After a great start, Southland's 2010 ITM Cup campaign has ended disappointingly.

It was no surprise to anyone when Manawatu ran rampant over the hapless Otago side yesterday.

All Blacks hooker Andrew Hore will play a big role in the team leadership group.

Returning All Blacks wing Sitiveni Sivivatu is fit and raring to go.

The ITM format changes next season into a seven-team Premiership and a seven-team Championship.

Northland held off a desperate Bay of Plenty to win a see-sawing national provincial championship rugby match.

Canterbury first five Colin Slade is doing his best to concentrate on the positives after missing selection for the All Blacks.

Former All Black Richard Loe picks his 30 players that should go on the All Blacks' end of year tour.

Mark Anscombe is careful to avoid accusations of nepotism when it comes to son Gareth, writes Michael Brown.

For a city that's had its fill of seismic activity, the people of Christchurch showed an admirable appetite for some more yesterday.

Canterbury got their latest Ranfurly Shield reign off to a winning start, beating Counties Manukau 39-21.