The All Blacks skipper talks to 1News about his two-week break and his thoughts on the critics who say he should be in South Africa already.
Rugby
5:00pm
The All Blacks' top halfback had been named on the bench for the match in Durban but has been replaced by Cortez Ratima due to a tight calf.
11:16am
1:29
Coach Dave Rennie chuckled when asked whether the No.10 could replace the midfielder, but talks have almost certainly begun, writes Patrick McKendry.
Monday 12:25pm
1:31
Head coach Dave Rennie said the flanker was the obvious choice as leader after naming a much-changed side for the second tour match in South Africa.
Monday 6:00am
The selectors will pick a stronger team to play the Sharks on Wednesday but the tough lessons from the Stormers won't be wasted.
Sun, Aug 9
Siya Kolisi injured a hamstring during his team's tight win over Argentina and may not make it back for the first Test against New Zealand in a fortnight.
The All Blacks' catching, scrummaging and poor discipline were all problems during their victory over the Stormers in Cape Town.
Sat, Aug 8
Nonu looks set to make his Sharks debut against the All Blacks in a young backline behind an experienced pack.
The All Blacks lost two men to yellow cards and only asserted themselves in the final quarter of a tough victory in Cape Town.
"We can't just roll over and have our tummies tickled," said Stormers coach John Dobson.
World
Fri, Aug 7
Veteran No.10 excited about return but is wary of trying too much too soon in Cape Town.
Thu, Aug 6
First-five Josh Jacomb and prop Siale Lauaki have been named on the bench for the match in Cape Town on Saturday.
The 144-Test veteran is likely to start against the Stormers after being usurped by Ruben Love. His response will be revealing, writes Patrick McKendry.
Wed, Aug 5
"He’s had a frustrating past few months with injury, so it’s a real blow for him to have injured his calf again," coach Dave Rennie said.
Tue, Aug 4
In many cases the All Blacks' support in South Africa has its origins in the nation's divided history, but some rugby fans say it's time to move on.
Mon, Aug 3
Mo'unga's first game back in New Zealand was triumphant, as many expected, but what now of his All Blacks ambitions, asks Patrick McKendry.
Sun, Aug 2
Analysis: The national provincial competition celebrates a milestone this year and still retains huge value and a whole lot of memories for Patrick McKendry.
Thu, Jul 30
Wing Emoni Narawa punctured a lung against the Boks last year – now he's back in the squad and facing up to a trip to South Africa.
Wed, Jul 29
New Zealanders want to play at pace in South Africa and will ask the refs to rule accordingly – but the Tests will require an element of caution.
Tue, Jul 28
The All Blacks' squad of 44 for South Africa contains three uncapped players and some overdue good news for the most experienced of the lot.
The All Blacks will be travelling to South Africa and the US as part of the tour.
Mon, Jul 27
Brad Mooar will depart the Crusaders to take up the role.
Siale Lauaki, Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa and Josh Jacomb will wear black jersey for the first time as skipper Ardie Savea prepares to join squad for first Test.
One of Ma'a Nonu's first tasks will be to help prepare his new team for a clash against the All Blacks.
Sun, Jul 26
Dave Rennie's first three Tests highlight enormous promise for his team and five players in particular have made the most of it, writes Patrick McKendry.
Wed, Jul 22