New Zealand Rugby says it has many pathways to become a coach at the top level. But 75% of coaches at Super Rugby level are former professional players.
Just as Kalle Valimaki was embarking on his first pre-season with new club Sumner, the promising prop was surprised to learn he was named Finland’s latest rugby player of the year.
Rugby memories of sporting courage and famous road trips will be at the fore when Mid Canterbury's Celtic Rugby Football Club marks 100 years this Easter.
Beauden Barrett says he hopes to remain in contention for the All Black No 10 jersey by impressing in Japan's Top League as he begins his sabbatical year.
The Crusaders have lost a second assistant coach in as many years after former Welsh wing Mark Jones opted to join the Worcester Warriors due to New Zealand's Covid-19 quarantine protocols.
After an "incredibly difficult" journey home to Oamaru from Covid-19-ravaged Ireland, a rugby international is telling New Zealanders not to take the country's position for granted.
COMMENT: Now, he is a good bloke is Sam Cane, and nothing against him, but how did he exactly get the award? He led the All Blacks to a 50% win record. Totally unacceptable for this team.
Scott Robertson has won the NZ Rugby national coach of the year gong for a second successive year, while Crusaders first-five Richie Mo'unga claimed Super Rugby player of the year.