Springboks head coach Pieter de Villiers has played down reports that the 21 players left at home have been secretly training.

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw is staying in the seven jersey for Saturday's Tri-Nations test against the Springboks in Wellington.

The Springboks injury woes have worsened on the eve of their departure for Saturday's Tri-Nations test against the All Blacks.

A former All Blacks coach believes the Wallabies have sent an emphatic early warning to New Zealand before their Tri Nations opener.

All Black Jerome Kaino is not underestimating a weakened South Africa side ahead of their Tr-Nations test on Saturday.

Ali Williams may be about to play his first test rugby match since 2008 but the All Blacks lock is not getting ahead of himself.

All Black captain Richie McCaw is becoming world-class at swatting aside speculation that all is not well with his foot.

An Australian side playing party poopers? That can't be a good omen for New Zealand rugby in World Cup year.

Finally the answer to the question which has fascinated rugby followers all year - Colin Slade would be the backup no.10.

Players who miss the cut should not be criticised if they choose to take up lucrative overseas offers.