The New Zealand All Blacks is the most popular rugby team in the world and also one of the most successful. The All Blacks won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987 and won a second in 2011, both hosted in New Zealand. They have won an impressive 75% of all matches they have played since 1903.
The youngest of the four Whitelock brothers, Luke, has admitted to being as surprised as anyone by his call-up to the 35-man All Blacks squad.
The second row is arguably the area that will cause the most concern for All Blacks selectors, with some of the tried and trusted stalwarts too long in the tooth to make an impact.
Former All Blacks, Fiji, Canterbury and Crusaders centre Tabai Matson has been appointed as the new head coach of the Canterbury NPC team.
World Cup-winning All Blacks coach Graham Henry has endorsed the first squad chosen by his successor, saying Steve Hansen has avoided the mistakes he made as a novice.
Dan Carter remains New Zealand's premier pivot and will not be starting at centre for the All Blacks next month.
New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens has been inducted into the IRB Hall of Fame after his team sealed their tenth Sevens World Series title in 13 years at Twickenham on Sunday.
New Zealand playmaker Tomasi Cama was named IRB Sevens Player of the Year shortly after his team lifted their tenth World Sevens Series title at Twickenham on Sunday.
New All Blacks coach Steve Hansen remained loyal to several out-of-form All Blacks and tapped nine promising newcomers in naming a training squad of 35 players.
Mat Turner's try edged England past South Africa 19-17 and into a Plate final against Australia on day two of the Marriott London Sevens.
There is enough beef in All Blacks front row stocks to make them formidable up front again this year, starting with their June Test series against Ireland.
The groin injury continuing to trouble Dan Carter may see the All Blacks ace relieved of kicking duties and shunted from flyhalf to inside centre, All Blacks coach Steve Hansen suggested Wednesday.
Global seasons, north-south play-offs and other proposals remain on the table. However, with no real solutions in sight, SANZAR are continuing to work on making their product the best there is.
The New Zealand All Blacks are wearing this new rugby jersey during their training sessions. Get in the Gear.
Price: $74.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
Heineken Cup holders Leinster will defend their title against Ulster on May 19. Get in the Gear!
Price: $89.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
Ulster will look to win their first Heineken Cup title since 1998/99 on May 19 against Leinster.
Price: $19.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
A World Rugby Shop exclusive in the U.S., Stade Francais rugby gear. Make a statement.
Price: $74.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
miCoach is being introduced in the game of Rugby. The latest addition to the soft ground collection is the adizero RS7 Pro II Rugby Boot!
Price: $199.99 Buy at World Rugby Shop
Rugby Match Ticker
Follow LIVE rugby action from around the globe with Rugby Rugby!
The World Rugby Shop has the best selection of official and team rugby gear from around the globe. Shop for your rugby gear today!
