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How Blues skipper Papali'i trimmed a week off his suspension

Three-week ban for high tackle turns into two weeks after Papali'i aces World Rugby 'coaching intervention'.

9:58am

Super Rugby power rankings: How good are the Blues, really?

They beat the Hurricanes in difficult conditions but required a freakish performance from Mark Telea and an off night from Jordie Barrett to do it, writes Patrick McKendry.

Tue, May 30

Fakatava says dad 'nearly broke TV' celebrating match-winning try

Folau Fakatava, who scored a dramatic game-winner against the Reds in Aaron Smith's final home game, also says loyalty to southerners has kept him in Dunedin.

Mon, May 29

Smith reflects on emotional final Highlanders game in Dunedin

Aaron Smith was sent off a winner from Forsyth Barr Stadium thanks to some late heroics from his heir apparent and received a rousing haka from teammates to cap a special night.

Sat, May 27

Another Highlanders heist gives Smith a win in final home game

Folau Fakatava has ensured Aaron Smith's final home game as a Highlander was a win with an 80th minute try to steal a 35-30 win over the Reds.

Fri, May 26

How Blues skipper Papali'i trimmed a week off his suspension

Three-week ban for high tackle turns into two weeks after Papali'i aces World Rugby 'coaching intervention'.

9:58am

Super Rugby power rankings: How good are the Blues, really?

They beat the Hurricanes in difficult conditions but required a freakish performance from Mark Telea and an off night from Jordie Barrett to do it, writes Patrick McKendry.

Tue, May 30

Fakatava says dad 'nearly broke TV' celebrating match-winning try

Folau Fakatava, who scored a dramatic game-winner against the Reds in Aaron Smith's final home game, also says loyalty to southerners has kept him in Dunedin.

Mon, May 29

Smith reflects on emotional final Highlanders game in Dunedin

Aaron Smith was sent off a winner from Forsyth Barr Stadium thanks to some late heroics from his heir apparent and received a rousing haka from teammates to cap a special night.

Sat, May 27

Another Highlanders heist gives Smith a win in final home game

Folau Fakatava has ensured Aaron Smith's final home game as a Highlander was a win with an 80th minute try to steal a 35-30 win over the Reds.

Fri, May 26

How a Jamie Joseph chat forged Aaron Smith's Highlanders legacy

Ahead of his final home game for his beloved club, Smith sat down with Michelle Prendiville to discuss the people - and moments - that helped get him there.

Fri, May 26

Super Rugby power rankings: Tour de Force leaves Brumbies whimpering

Resting players has suddenly become a hot topic in Super Rugby Pacific and it backfired spectacularly for the men from Canberra, writes Patrick McKendry.

Tue, May 23

Emotions run high as Smith nears final Highlanders home game

Aaron Smith will take the field under the roof in Dunedin for the final time this weekend against the Reds with one of his biggest fans missing from the stands.

Tue, May 23

Crusaders get boost after Force snap losing streak against Brumbies

Upset in Perth allows Crusaders to stay second on Super Rugby Pacific table and increase their chances of a home semifinal.

Sun, May 21

Last-gasp penalty sees Highlanders keep playoff hopes alive

The game carried on for five minutes after the final hooter but in the end the Highlanders made it worth it with a Sam Gilbert penalty giving them a 20-17 win over the Rebels.

Sat, May 20

Super Rugby power rankings: It's cold and wet so it's Crusaders time

Defending champs get into playoffs mode as Chiefs learn some hard truths in New Plymouth, writes Patrick McKendry.

Mon, May 15

Highlanders force Brumbies to dig deep for victory

Struggling Kiwi side put in one of their most impressive performances of the season during defeat in Canberra.

Sun, May 14

Analysis: Crusaders' stars showcase All Black quality in pivotal win

Defending champions' big players rise to the occasion in Christchurch - but the same can't be said of the Blues, writes Patrick McKendry.

Sun, May 14

Analysis: Chiefs loom large as Crusaders v Blues rivalry resumes

Kiwi rivals meet tomorrow hoping for a win that allows them to avoid high-flying Chiefs in a Hamilton semifinal, writes Patrick McKendry.

Fri, May 12

Super Rugby power rankings: Thank goodness for the Drua

Fijians bring flair, unpredictability and joy to what has been a competition dominated by the Chiefs' excellence, writes Patrick McKendry.

Tue, May 9

Chiefs continue unstoppable charge with big win over Highlanders

The Chiefs and their stellar backline have shaken off a slow start in Dunedin to hand the Highlanders another error-ridden loss and keep their unbeaten season alive.

Fri, May 5