Itoje set to build on New Zealand experience

As England prepare for another Six Nations campaign without No.8 Billy Vunipola, who has suffered a broken arm, lock Maro Itoje is set for a big campaign in the wake of his experience with the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand last year.

Barrett gets another vote for No.1

At a time when various rugby pundits around the world are taking the opportunity to reflect on 2017 and make their prognostications on the rugby world, former Ireland Test player Luke Fitzgerald has listed his top three players in the world.

Luatua keeps his options open

Former All Blacks and Blues loose forward Steven Luatua has encouraged fans at his Bristol club in England that he has a longer term future with the side, but he also hasn’t ruled out returning home to play his rugby.

Taranaki Fijian describes his pro career

Dave Rennie’s Glasgow may have suffered a frustrating 17-18 pre-Christmas loss to Edinburgh, their first in the PRO14 league, but former Taranaki and Fiji player Samuela Vunisa has been enjoying the rugby journey which has seen him end up in Scotland.

Boxing Day challenge for Anscombe

Facing what is expected to be a gnarly local derby Cardiff Blues and former Chiefs and Auckland five-eighths Gareth Anscombe is expecting a rough reception when running onto Rodney Parade on Boxing Day to face the Newport Dragons.

Pivac would consider Wales job

Former Auckland and Fiji coach Wayne Pivac, who has just re-signed his coaching contract with Llanelli Scarlets in Wales rugby, said he would ‘seriously consider’ the opportunity to coach Wales if the chance occurred.

ASB Rugby Awards Nominations

Champion teams the Black Ferns, New Zealand Under 20, and the Crusaders, have been nominated for Team of the Year at New Zealand’s biggest celebration of rugby, the 2017 ASB Rugby Awards – taking place on 14 December.