These last few weeks have seen an increasing number of players indulge in unnecessary, cheap stuff that is designed to infuriate opponents, writes Gregor Paul.

Shot putter Nadzeya Ostapchuk has been banned for four years after failing two drugs test but she won't be able to compete against Valerie Adams at the Rio Olympics.

The Blues looked a lot less like the Blues tonight and yet they also looked a lot more like potential playoff contenders.

The Warriors have notched up their first win in Wellington, with a 42-18 drubbing of the Tigers at Westpac Stadium.

Watch a replay of tonight's live blog of the Super Rugby clash between the Crusaders and the Hurricanes from AMI Stadium in Christchurch.

Ma'a Nonu, Jerome Kaino, Hayden Triggs and Bryn Hall have all been promoted from the reserves bench to start for the Blues against the Highlanders at Eden Park on Saturday night.