All Black scrum coach Mike Cron reckons Ben Franks has made enormous gains since joining the All Blacks in 2008.

"Playing at the soccer stadium is not a neutral venue but it will not be as intimidating as Ellis Park can be," Laurie Mains says.

Stats from this year's Tri-Nations show an imbalance in the ratio of penalties per yellow card. Are the the All Blacks getting a special deal from the refs?

The All Blacks have selected their side for the huge physical encounter they expect at Soweto on Saturday night.

The All Blacks are treated differently by referees from either of their Tri-Nations opponents.

New Zealand assistant coach Wayne Smith talks of a change of mindset in the All Blacks' approach.

Lock Tom Donnelly admits a less-than-accurate display against Australia has sent the All Blacks back in front of their computer screens.

Peter Bills writes that New Zealand's decision not to lavish ludicrous sums on new stadiums and back-up facilities for the big event is the wisest path.

Global internet sharks are turning their sights on Auckland and next year's Rugby World Cup.

Rumours are circulating of a top Wallaby player switching codes to play in the NRL.

Halfback Jimmy Cowan, who missed the weekend's Bledisloe win due to a rib injury, has been cleared to fly to South Africa.

The Springboks would be a much more dangerous beast WITHOUT Peter de Villiers, writes Wynne Gray.

Former Wallabies great Mark Ella gains some encouragement after seeing a passion and commitment that had been severely lacking.

Wayne Smith during the week suggested defence would be the key element in next year's World Cup.

It certainly was some weekend for halfback Alby Mathewson.

South African referee Jonathan Kaplan may be the next official to get a dressing-down from Paddy O'Brien.

The Wallabies have struggled to put together a decent showing against the All Blacks for a long time now, writes Mark Ella.

It's all getting a bit common - the All Blacks or someone in the side seems to be breaking a record each week. There is nothing common, however, about this New Zealand side.

The All Blacks shed their cloak of invincibility last night.