Steve Hepburn

This is the match few, including it seems the Otago Rugby Football Union, expected.

A young cycle racer who slipstreamed behind a truck at the weekend was disqualified and given a firm lecture on the rules of racing.

Life is a series of lessons. Hopefully Otago has learnt one from last Saturday night and uses the knowledge to maximum effect, but it will be tough for the home team when it takes on Auckland at Forsyth Barr Stadium tonight.

The All Blacks in 2012 have swept all before them and that inevitably leads to talk of them being the greatest team to wear the black jersey. Rugby writer Steve Hepburn looks through the history books to see where they are placed in the pantheon.

Auckland and Otago have put on some classic battles over the years. 

Glenn Dickson admits his eye is on heading overseas but the immediate challenge is an imposing one.

The Highlanders are not commenting on any links the franchise may have with former All Black lock Brad Thorn.

Auckland will bring a big pack to Forsyth Barr Stadium tomorrow night, ready to take on Otago in a crucial match for both sides.

Manawatu youngster Jason Emery and Otago front-rower Liam Coltman have signed for the Highlanders, while Otago's inside back combination is tipped to follow.

She   is a girl's girl, her dad says.

Otago's hopes of hosting a home semifinal took a hit last night after Tasman beat Counties-Manukau 28-19 in Pukekohe.

Brad Thorn may link with the Highlanders to play one last season of rugby, back in the province where it all started.

You cannot score points if you have not got the ball.

Cardinals started this season as they ended last season, picking up two comfortable wins in premier grade on Saturday.

Big strong men will always run over smaller and tired men.

Wellington has named a strong side to take on Otago at Forsyth Barr Stadium tomorrow night.

We have reached the business end of the ITM Cup and this is when the tough get going. Rugby writer Steve Hepburn picks 10 players who have really come up to the mark this season.

Southland captain Jamie Mackintosh has apologised for his side's effort against Canterbury last week, penning a letter to all fans, saying that the team had let itself and the province down.

Michel Sannum has just become Otago' first national representative in one of the fastest growing sports in the world.