Rugby
2021's rollercoaster sporting year
It's been a strange year for sport - again. We look back at the high - and low - lights of 2021.
AudioInquiry launched into claims over Black Ferns coach's actions
An independent inquiry has been launched to look into allegations the actions of the Black Ferns coach led to a player's mental breakdown.
In a social media post, Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate said… Audio
Joe Schmidt leaves Ireland to join All Blacks as selector
The All Blacks will add an old foe to their brains trust for next season with former Ireland coach Joe Schmidt joining as an independent selector.
After a dismal showing against teams from the… Audio
Vaccine passes needed for club rugby players in 2022
Unvaccinated rugby players have been kicked to touch with vaccine passes needed to play club rugby from next year. New Zealand Rugby says it will ensure games can go ahead at all three traffic light… Audio
Rugby rules shake-up underway for safety, accessibility
World Rugby is shaking up the rules next year. Countries will be able to "pick and choose" from 10 different rule variations to introduce at the grassroots level of the game.
The tweaks are being… Audio
Rule options now available for community rugby
World Rugby will allow community teams to use 10 players, play shorter matches and change the size of the ball as part of flexible new rules.
Excitement in Pacific countries after World Rugby rule change
Pacific nations are gearing up for a huge boost after the latest change to World Rugby's eligibility rules. Audio
Pacific boost after rugby's eligibility rules changed
Pacific nations are set to benefit after World Rugby decided players can switch national teams from next year.
NZ border reopening: The implications for NZ sportspeople
Today's big developments around the border also have implications for New Zealand's leading sports teams and elite athletes.
While the news is good for many of our top international athletes, the… Video, Audio
All Blacks coach faces heat after losses to Ireland, France
Two losses on the trot is not something an All Blacks coach is used to. But that's the reality for Ian Foster, who is facing the heat after a disappointing northern tour.
A loss to South Africa last… Audio
Sports commentator Sam Ackerman - rugby, cricket & more
With the last test of the year for the All Blacks and the Black Ferns, Sam discusses whether they can turn around their form to send out 2021 on a high - and will it be enough?. And the Black Caps… Audio
Changes to Black Ferns lineup for second test against France
There are a number of changes to the Black Ferns lineup for the second Test against France in Castres this weekend.
Sam Cane and Aaron Smith to start for All Blacks
Sam Cane is back in the All Blacks starting lineup for Sunday morning's Test against France in Paris.
All Blacks won't be leaving any lessons behind
The All Blacks won't be flushing away the Ireland result too quickly and will use to to get prepare for this weekend's tour finale against France.
Calling Home: Grant 'Axe' Rawlinson in Singapore
This morning on Calling Home we talk to Grant Rawlinson. The Taranaki native lives with wife Stefanie and twin daughters Kate and Rachel. He's Calling Home this morning from Singapore. Audio, Gallery
Rugby: Ireland looms as litmus test for 'developing' All Blacks
The All Blacks are preparing for the biggest challenge of their northern tour so far - taking on Ireland on Sunday morning.
They've effectively used two different teams on tour - their second string… Audio
The life-shortening rugby legacy being dealt to the tough
No player signs up to play the game they love knowing that brain damage could be the long term result. Audio
The life-shortening rugby legacy being dealt to the tough
No player signs up to play the game they love knowing that brain damage could be the long term result.
AudioLowe keen to play against All Blacks
Ireland wing James Lowe is relishing the prospect of playing against some of his closest friends in this weekend's game against his native New Zealand.
Black Ferns still have a lot of homework to do
They may have hammered the Black Ferns again, but England aren't prepared to take the favourites tag for next year's Rugby World Cup.
