Sunday's test between the under-siege Springboks and the All Blacks is set to be another classic.

Sean Fitzpatrick has given Richie McCaw a fulsome tribute ahead of his record-equalling 51st game in charge of the All Blacks.

Tom Donnelly has provided an injury scare ahead of the All Blacks Tri-Nations test against South Africa on Sunday.

The Tri-Nations moves to the high ground and South African coach Peter de Villiers is on shaky ground.

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

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw takes no issue with how the convoluted breakdown laws are being policed in the Tri-Nations.

All Blacks prop Ben Franks has no problem at being replaced by his brother Owen for Sunday's test against South Africa.

"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.

Springboks coach Peter de Villiers has been forced to make no less than eight changes for Saturday night's test match.

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

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

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.

The South African rugby union is questioning the Springboks' future involvement in the Sanzar partnership.

Springboks fullback Francois Steyn has been ruled out of next week's Tri-Nations test.

All Blacks halfback Alby Mathewson is headed north to play his rugby next season.

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.

The All Blacks have won 13 matches since they succumbed 32-29 last year to South Africa and will be eyeing the 17-test record they share with the Springboks.

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

The best that could be said about the Wallabies' latest performance is that it wasn't shameful.

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.