Provides the latest RSS feeds for Rugby News. For more headlines on Breaking, National, Business, Finance, Sports and World News, visit our home page New Zealand Star.com http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/cat/dff6b204fdf35a9d/ en-us Thu, 23 May 2013 04:43:05 -0400 Thu, 23 May 2013 04:43:05 -0400 30 HEAD TO HEAD: Played 20; Chiefs 6, Crusaders 14.LAST TIME: Super Rugby 2012 semi-final: Chiefs 20-17 Crusaders at Waikato StadiumMISSING IN ACTION:A slight calf tweak while in camp is enough for Ben Afeaki to sit out Friday's match, with another Big Ben - Ben Tameifuna - getting his opportunity to start.Patrick Osborne has also been favoured for this clash, with Lelia Masaga making way on ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708874/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 03:01:42 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708874/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Luke Jones and Tom English, two of the Rebels best young players, have committed their futures to the franchise. The 22-year-old Jones, a former Australian Schoolboy captain, has been with the Rebels since their debut season in 2010.The lock was linked with a move to the Waratahs but has instead decided to remain in Melbourne."Staying a Rebel is very important to me," he told the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708876/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 03:00:01 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708876/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The Blues suffered a setback ahead of Saturday's clash with the Brumbies in Auckland when flanker Steven Luatua was sidelined through injury. Luatua, who was one of eight Blues players called into the All Blacks training squad earlier this week, injured his neck during last week's loss to the Crusaders."He banged up his neck last week and it hasn't freed up," said ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708875/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 03:00:01 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708875/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wasps wing Christian Wade has walked off with a unique double at the Rugby Players' Association awards. The 22-year-old speedster won both the Players' Player of the year and Young Player of the Year awards following a spectacular season.Wade scored 18 tries in 26 appearances and finished as the Aviva Premiership's joint leading try-scorer along with Wasps team-mate Tom Varndell ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708877/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 03:00:00 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708877/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d If you list an item on an online auction site with a reserve of one dollar, you have to be prepared to sell it for a dollar.That's the advice of the Commerce Commission after an Auckland car company was fined $42,000 for placing 7500 fake bids on its own items to raise the price.The Auto Co was banned from auction site Trade Me in July 2012 after the company noticed employees had set up fake ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708472/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 02:29:13 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708472/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 6, Force 3, Highlanders 3.LAST TIME: Force 21 def Highlanders 14, Round 15, 2011 at Dunedin.WALKING WOUNDED: The Force are as close to full strength as any side at this time of the season. The Highlanders will also be boosted by the return All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu from a knee injury. Prop Chris King is out after rupturing his bicep in Pretoria while fellow ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708024/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 01:53:11 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708024/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 16, Stormers 9, Reds 7.LAST TIME: Stormers 23 def Reds 13, Round 9, 2012 at Brisbane.WALKING WOUNDED: The Stormers have lost a further six players with injuries suffered in the shock loss to the Rebels to take their tally of injured players to a whopping 15. Hookers Deon Fourie (ribs) and Scarra Ntubeni (hamstring), props Pat Cilliers (ankle) and Frans Malherbe (ankle), lock ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708023/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 01:53:10 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708023/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Brumbies boss Jake White has made one change to his starting line-up for Saturday's clash with the Blues in Auckland. With veteran flanker George Smith ruled out with medial ligament damage, Colby Faingaa will wear the number seven jersey this weekend. In other changes to the matchday squad, Jordan Smiler comes onto the bench as back row cover while Clyde Rathbone is also included amongst ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708025/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 01:51:49 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708025/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Brumbies boss Jake White has made one change to his starting line-up for Saturday's clash with the Blues in Auckland. With veteran flanker George Smith ruled out with medial ligament damage, Colby Faingaa will wear the number seven jersey this weekend. In other changes to the matchday squad, Jordan Smiler comes onto the bench as back row cover while Clyde Rathbone is also included amongst ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708026/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 01:51:49 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708026/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Must-win for both teams? Mathematically, not. But my, you don’t want to lose two on the trot this time of the season, not no how.This will be willing. And this will be rough. And like in that movie There Will Be Blood, there will be blood.But it should also be fine and fast, if the weather in Auckland doesn’t empty a mighty rain-filled space bladder upon Eden Park.Blues man Frank ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708027/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 01:29:32 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214708027/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 18, Sharks 8, Bulls 9, Draw 1LAST TIME: Sharks def Bulls 32-10, Round 17, 2012 at Kings ParkWALKING WOUNDED: Midfield back Wynand Olivier gains a place at the expense of the injured Jan Serfontein while Louis Fouche joins Serfontein in the assessment room before it is decided if they will make the bench. The Sharks were left without JP Pietersen when he left the field ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214707079/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 00:44:58 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214707079/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 18, Blues 11, Brumbies 7LAST TIME: Blues 30 def Brumbies 16, Round 18, 2012 at Canberra StadiumWALKING WOUNDED: Flanker George Smith's medial ligament will rule him out of the side until at least the end of June. Colby Faingaa is set to replace him for a taste of Super Rugby before taking up a one year contract with the Rebels. Pat McCabe is out after suffering ligament ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214707080/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 00:44:57 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214707080/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d SYDNEY ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214707053/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Thu, 23 May 2013 00:05:39 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214707053/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d It might be too early to call Saturday’s clash between the Force and Highlanders in Perth a wooden spoon decider, but both teams clearly need to start salvaging something from the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214705930/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 23:10:06 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214705930/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The 'Desperate Housewives' star accidentally revealed much more than she bargained for while walking the red carpet at the 'Jimmy P. (Psychotherapy Of A Plains Indian)' film screening on Saturday ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214705931/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 22:51:44 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214705931/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d // .story-intro --> If Quade Cooper can achieve these three goals in Queensland's next trio of matches but particularly against the Lions he'll present Robbie Deans with a compelling case to print him a boarding pass for Wallaby camp next month.Most rugby supporters were surprised to learn this week that Cooper is currently not among the best 25 players in Australia, picked to play ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704965/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 21:59:05 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704965/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Former Wellington Phoenix striker Chris Greenacre has been named the club's assistant coach for a second A-League season.Englishman Greenacre has been retained to work under newly appointed head coach Ernie Merrick for the 2013-14 campaign.The 35-year-old assisted former coach Ricki Herbert last season and took over the top role for the bottom-placed club's last six games when Herbert ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704966/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 21:41:05 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704966/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d There was no sign of the fashion designer's usual poker face as she choked back sobs while watching her husband play his last game for French team Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the Parc des Princes in Paris on ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704967/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 21:41:04 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704967/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 6, Rebels 0, Waratahs 5LAST TIME: Rebels 26 lost to Waratahs 31, Round 3, 2013 at Sydney Football StadiumWALKING WOUNDED: James O'Connor is still not fit enough to return to match play for the Rebels. He was keen to turn out but it was decided to let him recover properly. The Waratahs have been forced to replace Tatafu Polota-Nau at hooker with John Ulugia after his ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214703898/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 21:14:51 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214703898/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The imminent departure of several foundation players from the Melbourne Rebels - including Gareth Delve, Ged Robinson, Richard Kingi and Nick Phipps - comes as Kurtley Beale considers a return to the NSW ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214703899/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 20:50:15 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214703899/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The Blues have lost in-form blindside flanker Steven Luatua for their critical Super 15 clash with the Brumbies on Saturday. Luatua, who attended the All Blacks training camp this week, is suffering from a neck injury and has been replaced by Brendon O'Connor for the match at Eden Park. Luatua, along with captain Ali Williams, is the only forward who has started each of the 11 ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704964/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 20:47:41 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214704964/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d HEAD TO HEAD: Played: 1, Kings 0, Cheetahs 1LAST TIME: Kings 12 lost to Cheetahs 26, Round 11, 2012 at Free State StadiumWALKING WOUNDED: Injuries haven't been a concern this week for the Cheetahs who have made only one change to their side. Wing Rayno Benjamin has come into the side with Raymond Rhule dropping to the bench. The Kings have had concerns with Luke Watson who has been suffering ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702872/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 20:05:33 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702872/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The Crusaders have matched the Chiefs in losing their first-choice tighthead prop to injury ahead of Friday's crucial Super Rugby match in Hamilton.Powerhouse All Black Owen Franks has been ruled out with a hamstring injury and has been replaced by Nepo Laulala. Joe Moody remains the reserve prop.Franks suffered the injury during the three-day All Blacks training camp in Mt Maunganui, ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702873/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 19:23:55 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702873/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The 'Always' hitmaker - who has children Stephanie, 19, Jesse James, 18, Jacob, 11, and Romeo, nine, with wife Dorothea - insists he is not a "perfect" husband, but he isn't interested in sleeping with anyone behind his spouse of 24 years' ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702874/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 19:23:54 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702874/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Comvita, which produces health products from manuka honey and olive leaves, posted a 10 per cent decline in full-year profit, beating its own guidance as it coped with a shortage of honey and higher costs.Net profit fell to $7.37 million, or 24.52 cents a share, from $8.2m, or 27.85 cents, a year earlier, the Te Puke-based company said in a statement on Thursday.Sales rose 8 per cent to a record ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702875/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 19:23:54 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214702875/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Dylan Hartley says victory over Leicester in the Premiership grand final would prove a point to Northampton's critics. Photograph: David Rogers/Getty ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214701547/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 18:48:50 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214701547/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d He said: "Of course they're nice kids - but my four year old always tries to punch me in the nuts."Sometimes he gets me when I'm not looking and it really hurts."Then again, when I see him, I can't help but laugh and that's the best medicine. Everyone should laugh and smile a bit more."Mark recently found himself in trouble with his wife when she discovered ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700155/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 17:05:42 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700155/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Former prime minister Helen Clark has climbed to 21st on Forbes magazine's list of the world's most powerful women.Miss Clark, 63, was ranked 34th in 2012 and 50th in 2011 on the list, which ranks influential women in global politics, business, media, entertainment, technology and not-for-profits based on their "money, media presence and impact".German Chancellor Angela Merkel ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700156/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 17:05:41 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700156/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Jessie explained: "My nan, ever since I can remember, has had long pointy nails. And she loves green. Everything [she has] is green - her bathroom, her clothes. If she could have green hair, she would. She's obsessed with green."She saw me on 'The Voice' with green nails, and she said to me, 'I want them'. She definitely gave me a love of long nails."While ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700154/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 17:05:41 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700154/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Eight rich New Zealanders are among hundreds of people queuing globally for space travel on Virgin's world-first commercial space service.Tickets cost more than $234,000 per person, and eight Kiwis have spent more than $1.8 million combined on tickets at House of Travel, which is a partner for the service.The travel company expects New Zealanders' interest in the rocket-powered flights ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700157/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 17:05:40 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214700157/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d More than a third of Kiwi adults will be braving the cold in their home this winter, unable to afford heating.That's according to a survey of 2060 electricity consumers, which found young adults and women are most likely to be going without heating.The Canstar Blue customer satisfaction survey found 36 per cent of respondents can't afford adequate heating in winter, including 45 per ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698788/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 15:55:23 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698788/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Joe Root plans to continue "living my dream" by lining up for his first Test appearance on his home ground of Headingley.The 22-year-old established himself in the England side with some exceptionally mature displays on tour in New Zealand and India, then made important scores of 40 and 71 on his home debut at Lord's last week.That contributed to England's 170-run win over the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698787/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 15:55:23 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698787/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Black Caps wicketkeeper BJ Watling's has failed a fitness Test, handing the gloves to captain Brendon McCullum and opening the door for Martin ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698789/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 15:55:22 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698789/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The 'We'll Be Coming Back' hitmaker - real name Elliot Gleave - wed Australian TV presenter Erin McNaught in an intimate ceremony Down Under on Saturday (18.05.13) and the 30-year-old star, who was in charge of the music, surprised his guests by breaking from tradition by picking a cinematic soundtrack for their big ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698790/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 15:55:22 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698790/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Zespri says it should have more rigorously investigated staff concerns about a dual invoicing scam in China, but it isn't admitting any role in the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698791/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 15:55:21 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214698791/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d PREVIEW OF SUPER RUGBY ROUND 13 MATCHES (ALL NZ TIMES):FRIDAY, May 10Chiefs v Western Force at Bayer Growers Stadium, Pukekohe, 7.35pmHead to Head: Played 6 Chiefs 5 Force 1In Pukekohe: First meetingLast clash: Round 7 2012 - Chiefs 20 bt Force 12 at nib StadiumThe Force were magnificent in defence against the Reds last week. But was it legal? Queensland halfback Will Genia questioned some of the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214697320/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 14:43:25 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214697320/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wallabies great Andrew Slack believes Robbie Deans should be honest and explain that Quade Cooper's controversial omission from his Test squad is due to last year's "toxic" outburst.And Slack warned the under-pressure Wallabies coach that he quickly needed to forgive and forget if he wanted to beat the British and Irish Lions - and hold onto his job.Australia's 1984 Grand ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214697328/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 14:43:22 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214697328/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Northampton and Lions hooker Dylan Hartley sees Saturday's Aviva Premiership Final as a chance to boost his Lions prospects. Hartley, one of three hookers in the Lions squad alongside Wales' Richard Hibbard and England's Tom Youngs, was a surprise selection for many ahead of Ireland's Rory Best.After shocking many with their semi-final victory over Saracens at Allianz Park ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214694125/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 12:58:11 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214694125/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Toulon lock Bakkies Botha revealed that he is ready to play for South Africa if Springboks coach Heyneke Heyneke Meyer comes calling. Botha, who helped Toluon to a 16-15 victory over Clermont in the Heineken Cup Final last weekend, said he has not been in contact with Meye but feels he can still do a job for his country."I always say to people it's not in my hands, at the end of the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214692574/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 11:45:00 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214692574/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Saracens flanker Will Fraser is facing an uncertain time on the sidelines after suffering a rare shoulder injury earlier in the season. The promising young openside seemed destined to tour with England to South America next month, after a stellar for club side Saracens in the Aviva Premiership and Heineken Cup.However the 23-year old could now be out until November, after ripping a tendon off ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214691635/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 11:45:00 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214691635/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Bath Rugby have announced the retirement of former England centre Dan Hipkiss with immediate effect through injury. The 13-times capped England centre has made 28 appearances for Bath since joining the club in 2011. Having injured his shoulder in January, and having sought the advice of medical professionals, Dan has been left with no option but to hang up his boots."This is obviously a ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214690854/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 10:32:19 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214690854/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Cheetahs boss Naka Drotske has recalled Ryno Benjamin to his starting XV for Saturday's clash with the Kings in Port Elizabeth. Benjamin's inclusion is the only change to the Bloemfontein-based outfit's run-on side that beat the Reds last weekend. The former Blitzbokke stalwart will start on the right wing which means that Raymond Rhule shifts to the bench and Willie le Roux ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214689263/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 09:14:15 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214689263/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Bulls boss Frans Ludeke has signed a new three-year deal which keeps him at the Pretoria-based side until 2016. "It was certainly very humbling when asked to stay on in this capacity," Ludeke said."I would like to believe that we managed to sustain the core values of rugby at Loftus Versfeld, where dedication and hard work, professionalism, passion and performance are part of ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214689262/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 09:14:15 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214689262/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Pedro Leal's try for Portugal has been named the first ever fans' favourite try, winning the award of the 2012/13 HSBC Sevens World Series. Throughout the season the Rugby family have been voting on their favourite try from each of the 'Seven of the best' videos from Australia, Dubai, South Africa, New Zealand, USA, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Glasgow and London with the winning try ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214689264/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 09:09:51 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214689264/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d England prop Alex Corbisiero admits the national side are looking to get back on track in South America next month. After their Six Nations campaign ended in disaster with a heavy 30-3 loss against Wales, Stuart Lancaster's side face the Barbarians at Twickenham on Sunday before taking on a South American XV in Uruguay and two Test matches against Argentina.Corbisiero has endured a ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687149/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 08:03:16 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687149/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d New Wales captain Bradley Davies has expressed his delight at being named to lead the squad in Japan next month. The Cardiff Blues lock endured a difficult season with injuries and suspensions, but has come out the other side and will now lead a weakened Wales squad in a two-Test tour due to 15 players being away with the British and Irish Lions."Any chance to play for Wales is a massive ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687809/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 08:03:15 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687809/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d England captain Chris Robshaw is keeping himself in shape in case the British and Irish Lions come calling next month. Robshaw was a controversial omission from Warren Gatland's 37-man squad for the tour to Australia.The Harlequins captain however is still training in order to be prepared should he be needed to fly out.Robshaw was not selected for England's tour to Argentina in order ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687808/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 08:03:15 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687808/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The sun shone brightly at Farmleigh House on Friday as Leo Varadkar TD, the Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, hosted a special reception to honour the achievements of the Grand Slam-winning Ireland Women's squad and management team. Check out some photos from the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687811/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 07:59:04 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687811/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Samoan international James So'oialo will join the Connacht squad this summer. So'oialo, who played in the 2011 Rugby World Cup, was recently named in the Samoan squad for their upcoming tour to South Africa where they will face Scotland, Italy and the Golden ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687810/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 07:59:02 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214687810/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wallabies winger Digby Ioane is in doubt for the first Test of the British and Irish Lions series after undergoing knee surgery on Wednesday.Ioane, 27, had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in Brisbane after returning from the Queensland Reds' two-match Super Rugby tour of South Africa.After the operation, the Wallabies posted on Twitter that Ioane would be 'touch and go' for ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686438/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:55:53 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686438/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Ireland centre Brian O'Driscoll has rejected speculation that he may extend his international career to the next Rugby World Cup. The 34-year old announced last week that he had signed a new one-year contract with Leinster and the IRFU, seeing O'Driscoll link up with soon-to-be Ireland boss Joe Schmidt at Test level.However in a move to quell speculation about one more further season ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686441/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:54:17 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686441/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Stormers coach Allister Coetzee has named a much-changed line-up for Saturday's encounter against the Reds in Cape Town. The Stormers suffered a spate of injuries on their recently-completed four-match tour of Australasia, with five players from last week's line-up - against the Rebels - missing because of injury this weekend.Centre Juan de Jongh (fractured finger), flank-cum-hooker ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686440/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:54:16 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686440/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d British and Irish Lions assistant coach Graham Rowntree has backed Sam Warburton to feed off Paul O'Connell's experience. Lions captain Warburton will succeed O'Connell, who captained the Lions in South Africa in 2009.Having made an impressive return from injury for Munster this season, Rowntree believes O'Connell is right in the frame for Test selection and will help ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686439/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:54:16 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686439/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has made four changes to his starting line-up ahead of Saturday's Super Rugby clash with the Sharks in Durban. Ludeke, who earlier in the day signed a three-year extension as head coach, has made some minor changes to the team that beat the Highlanders 35-18 last weekend. Two are in the backline.Veteran centre Wynand Olivier makes a return to the run-on side at ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686442/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:54:15 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686442/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Northampton prop Brian Mujati insists they will not be lacking in big-match experience in Saturday's Premiership Final against Leicester. It is now two years since Mujati and co. suffered Heineken Cup heartbreak as they surrendered a 22-6 half-time lead against Leinster, ultimately going down 33-22 as dreams of a first European Cup triumphed disappeared in the blink of an eye.That defeat ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686443/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:54:14 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686443/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Johnny Joannou has designed these neatly-structured infographics to depict renowned sports tournaments, teams and individuals. Inspired by sporting wallcharts, Joannou categorises and arranges key metrics relating to the subject and then uses an appropriate colour palette to reflect the history of the club or event. The Tour de France poster, for example, shows every winner of the Tour with ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686444/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:48:45 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686444/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Flyhalf Dan Carter says New Zealand is developing a more attacking game plan for next season in the hope of confounding opponents' analysis and holding on to their No. 1 world ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686052/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 06:35:11 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214686052/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Playmaker James O'Connor has been ruled out of the Melbourne Rebels line-up for the Super Rugby blockbuster with the Waratahs at AAMI Park on Friday.O'Connor has failed to recover after damaging his sternoclavicular joint in Melbourne's 36-32 loss to the Blues at Eden Park in Auckland.The absence of the 23-year-old fly-half is a significant blow to the Rebels who are attempting to ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685392/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 05:48:39 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685392/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d A group of 38 players, featuring eight players who were not part of the first camp, will assemble in Durban for the second Springbok training camp before the final squad for the June Test is named early next month. The players who were not part of the first training camp in Cape Town in April are: Gio Aplon ( Stormers, wing/full-back), the Cheetahs' trio of Trevor Nyakane (prop), Lappies ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685393/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 05:47:03 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685393/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The Stormers have recruited Lions lock Marius Coetzer in an effort to replenish their ailing player contingent. Several Lions players have made their way to the Stormers and Sharks franchises in recent weeks, with a spate of injuries forcing the Cape Town and Durban-based outfits to look beyond their provinces for replacements."Fortunately a player like Marius Coetzer, who has played over ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685394/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 05:47:03 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685394/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Melbourne 3000 The Melbourne Rebels will be without James O'Connor for another week after the club's medical staff chose not to risk the playmaker against New South Wales on Friday night.O'Connor sustained a chest injury against the Blues earlier this month, forcing him to miss last Friday night's 30-21 win over the Stormers at AAMI Park.The Rebels had hoped O'Connor ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685395/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 05:35:27 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685395/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Return to start of sidebar. // .story-sidebar --> In a statement, the Rebels said of Delve and Robinson: "With over 80 Super Rugby caps between them, the Welsh international and Junior All Black will part the club with a lasting legacy."Gareth won the club's Pursuit of Excellence Medal in 2012 and Ged claimed the Spirit of Weary Dunlop Medal in his rookie ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685396/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 05:24:00 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214685396/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Fly-half Dan Carter says the All Blacks are developing a more attacking game plan in the hope of confounding opponents' analysis and holding on to their number one world ranking. Speaking after a three-day training camp ahead of next month's three-test series against France, Carter said he had been given authority to launch attacks from anywhere on the field. He said the All Blacks ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684069/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 04:39:18 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684069/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Sale fly-half Danny Cipriani insists a difficult year has served as a wake up call that he needs to take responsibility for his career and fulfil his potential. The former England fly-half, who has made more headlines off the field than on it in recent years, is adamant that a series of events - including his brush with death after being hit by a bus and the passing of a close friend, Surrey ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684467/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 04:39:18 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684467/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Bulls flanker Jacques Potgieter is set to leave the Pretoria-based franchise for good after requesting a release from his contract. According to the Beeld website, Potgieter is set to sign a deal with a big club in Great Britain.The 27-year-old's contract at the Bulls was recently extended to 2015, but with an exemption to play six months in Japan after the Super Rugby competition.He is ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684468/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 04:39:18 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684468/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Nick Phipps and Luke Jones both return to the Rebels starting side for Friday's Super Rugby clash with the Waraths at AAMI Park. Phipps takes over from Nic Stirzaker while Jones starts ahead of Cadeyrn Neville. James O'Connor was unable to return early from injury after the decision was made by the medical staff not to risk the 23 year old.Rebels High Performance Manager, Mark ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684469/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 04:39:17 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684469/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wallabies wing Digby Ioane could miss the opening Test against the British and Irish Lions after undergoing a knee operation on Wednesday. Ioane, who was chosen in Australia's 25-man preliminary squad for next month's three-Test series, was sent home from the Reds' tour of South Africa over the weekend for scans.He underwent surgery in Brisbane to clean up articular cartilage on ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684470/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 04:39:16 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684470/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The Saturdays singer delivered her and husband Marvin Humes' first child early this morning and the proud dad has revealed the couple are "overjoyed" with their new arrival, who they have named Alaia-Mai ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684472/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:59:47 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684472/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d He said: "About mid-way through the match I had torn my rectus tendon as well as my abductor tendon off my pelvis, and then I found out that I had three wonderful hernia tears, which I had repaired about three and a half weeks ago."There's also a lot of fun swelling in the 'cash and prizes' area for the first week and a half. Those were sexy times. It's a lot of fun ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684471/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:59:46 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214684471/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Your one-stop spot for all the Super Rugby teams, updated as the starting line-ups are announced in the week. Friday, May 24Chiefs v CrusadersChiefs: 15 Robbie Robinson, 14 Patrick Osborne, 13 Charlie Ngatai, 12 Bundee Aki, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 8 Matt Vant Leven, 7 Tanerau Latimer, 6 Liam Messam, 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 Craig Clarke (c), 3 Ben Tameifuna, ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683475/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:32:41 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683475/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The Rebels have confirmed that international players Gareth Delve and Ged Robinson will leave the Melbourne team at the end of the Super Rugby season. With over 80 Super Rugby Caps between them, the Welsh international and Junior All Black will part the Australian franchise after fulfilling their three year commitments.Robinson and Delve will join Nick Phipps and Wallaby tourist Richard Kingi, ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683476/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:32:40 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683476/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has recalled Israel Dagg into his starting XV for Friday's clash with the Chiefs at Waikato Stadium. The All Blacks full-back has been promoted off the bench resulting in a rejig of the backline.Tom Taylor moves to inside centre, Ryan Crotty shifts to 13, replacing Robbie Fruean, who drops to the bench.There is one change to the pack with hooker Codie ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683474/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:32:39 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683474/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Waratahs coach Michael Cheika has made four changes to his starting XV to play the Rebels in Melbourne on Friday. After making an impact from the bench in last week's 28-22 win over the Brumbies, scrum-half Matt Lucas and inside centre Berrick Barnes earn starts this week, with Brendan McKibbin and Rob Horne included amongst the replacements. John Ulugia is named at hooker after Tatafu ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683477/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:32:39 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683477/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Waratahs coach Michael Cheika has made four changes to his starting XV to play the Rebels in Melbourne on Friday. After making an impact from the bench in last week's 28-22 win over the Brumbies, scrum-half Matt Lucas and inside centre Berrick Barnes earn starts this week, with Brendan McKibbin and Rob Horne included amongst the replacements. John Ulugia is named at hooker after Tatafu ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683478/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:32:39 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683478/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has made two changes to his starting XV for Friday's Super Rugby match against the Crusaders at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton. Ben Tameifuna comes in at prop for Ben Afeaki, who is out this week with a calf strain, while Patrick Osborne starts on the wing. There are three changes to the bench, with Toby Smith, Sam Cane and Lelia Masaga moving into the reserves.Bay ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683473/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:32:38 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683473/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wallabies utility back Berrick Barnes has been picked at inside centre for his first run-on Super Rugby start in 10 weeks for the Waratahs clash with Melbourne Rebels on Friday ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683479/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 03:10:08 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683479/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Left wingers at opposite ends of their Super Rugby careers have both hand long-awaited callups for the mid-table clash between the Hurricanes and Stormers in Palmerston North.Prolific Springboks veteran Bryan Habana makes his first Stormers appearance on Friday since damaging knee ligaments against the Chiefs in round three while the Hurricanes unveil 20-year-old debutant Matt Proctor, fresh off ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683480/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 02:53:09 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683480/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The actress stars as angst-filled folk singer Jean Berkey in the musical drama - which is competing for the prestigious Palme d'Or prize at Cannes Film Festival - and to land the part, she filmed a furious tirade for her audition tape which left the producer and director ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683481/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 02:53:08 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214683481/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Brumbies lock Sam Carter says his side will unbottle lingering resentment for the Blues on Saturday night to exact payback for ending their 2012 Super Rugby campaign. The Brumbies were all but assured a finals berth last season until they were comprehensively beaten by a surprise-packet Blues outfit in the final round, and the Queensland Reds claimed a bonus-point victory to pip them for the ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214681964/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Wed, 22 May 2013 02:05:11 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214681964/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Waratahs midfielder Berrick Barnes has been rewarded for his match-winning cameo against the Brumbies and will start at inside-centre in Friday's clash against the Rebels.Barnes scored a try and set up another to spark the Waratahs' second-half rival in the 28-22 win over the Brumbies in his second game back from a broken thumb.The incumbent Wallabies full-back, who has been named in ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214679509/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Tue, 21 May 2013 23:00:39 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214679509/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Sydney 2000 Wallabies utility back Berrick Barnes has been picked at inside centre for his first run-on Super Rugby start in 10 weeks for the Waratahs clash with the Melbourne Rebels on Friday night.Barnes has played just 77 minutes this season but made two influential cameos off the bench in the Waratahs' comeback victories over the Stormers and Brumbies to play his way into the 25-man ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214679510/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Tue, 21 May 2013 22:46:53 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214679510/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d The Melbourne Rebels will part ways with international pair Gareth Delve and Ged Robinson at the end of the season.The pair, foundation players in the Melbourne side, opted not to renew their contracts at the Super Rugby franchise and will have completed three-year stints with the club at the end of this season.It is uncertain at this stage where former Rebels captain Delve, a Welsh ... http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214678541/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d Tue, 21 May 2013 21:50:16 -0400 http://www.newzealandstar.com/index.php/sid/214678541/scat/dff6b204fdf35a9d