Rugby News

It was a long return journey for the Highlanders but vice-captain Jamie Mackintosh says they are excited to be home and now need to focus on getting some payback against the Sharks.

South African sides may be sitting at the top of the Super 14 table but Highlanders assistant coach Peter Russell says their true ability will not be known until they leave the country.

Hurricanes midfield back Ma'a Nonu was last night cleared of making a reckless tackle in the 37-13 Super 14 loss to the Stormers at Cape Town.

Otago will get a dry run against Southland only weeks before it takes on the same side in a Ranfurly Shield challenge in August.