Podcasts about codie taylor

You forget how much Crusaders fans love the Crusaders until you watch them play live in Christchurch. That place was absolutely jumping last night Crusaders fans may not turn up every week - but my goodness, when they do - they enhance the home advantage significantly. I said yesterday the man in the no. 10 jersey could be the most influential player on the par. I was right about the jersey, I just had the wrong team. Rivez Reihana was superb for the Crusaders last night. On the biggest night of his life, he played the best game of his life, and outshone his opposite to be named man of the match. The media were granted access to the Crusaders' changing sheds after the game and as you can imagine, it was pretty raucous in there. The tunes were pumping, the drinks were flowing and the celebrations were loud and getting louder. After I came out, the first person I saw was Damian McKenzie. He was just sitting outside the Chiefs shed, which is right next door to the Crusaders one - listening to the celebrations and staring into the distance. Losing one Super Final must be difficult - losing three in a row is another thing entirely. This one will sting those players for some time yet. I was right in front of the Crusaders' coaches box and when the final whistle went, there were scenes of high jubilation. Dan Perrin was banging on the glass, James Marshall and Brad Mooar were high-fiving - and standing at the back was Rob Penney. This much-maligned coach from last year, the man who came under the most pressure after 2024 - more pressure, probably, than any Crusaders coach in the nearly 30 years of the competition - saw hundreds of fans in the south stand turned around to look up at that box and gave him a standing ovation. He looked down, grinned, gave the crowd a round of applause in return - and just mouthed: "Thank you" His redemption was complete. Now, he might not see it that way - in fact I know he won't. He's taken every opportunity to say he had nothing to prove, nothing to redeem - but the players told the story. David Havili and Will Jordan both said afterwards they did it for their coach Last year hurt this proud team very deeply, and their very proud coach probably most of all. Every time I looked down onto the celebrations happening on the field afterwards, my eyes were drawn back to Rob Penney Quietly, but happily enjoying the moment with his family, his team, and its fans. The storylines of last night might have been the continuation of the Crusaders' unbeaten finals record, the farewell to Addington, the coming of age of Rivez Reihana, the continued brilliance of Will Jordan, the unbelievable engine of Fletcher Newell, the tirelessness of Ethan Blackadder or the continued leadership and mana of Codie Taylor and David Havili. But the story of last night for me was Rob Penney. He won't call it redemption, but that's exactly what it was. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Damian McKenzie returns from his hand injury to start for the Chiefs in Saturday's Super Rugby top of the table match against the Crusaders in Christchurch. McKenzie's return pushes Josh Jacomb back to the bench after a fortnight in the starter's role at 10. Wallace Sititi also starts for the visitors after two weeks off the bench in his return from a knee injury. Crusaders coach Rob Penney has plumped for Rivez Reihana at 10 in place of Taha Kemara after his season long injury, allowing James O'Connor to retain his finishing role off the bench. Hooker Codie Taylor caught up with D'Arcy Waldegrave to preview the clash. Kick off is at 7:05pm - with live commentary on Gold Sport and iHeartRadio. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First-five Beauden Barrett and hooker Codie Taylor are back in the All Blacks starting XV for Sunday's test against France in Paris, while Cam Roigard takes over  at halfback in one of several changes to the team that beat Ireland.

Cam Roigard will start at halfback for the All Blacks against France this weekend while first-five Beauden Barrett and hooker Codie Taylor return to the side after recovering from concussion.

First-five Beauden Barrett and hooker Codie Taylor are back in the All Blacks starting XV for Sunday's test against France in Paris while Cam Roigard takes over at halfback in one of several changes to the team that beat Ireland. Rugby reporter Joe Porter spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

The All Blacks name their team to face France overnight tonight, with a few intriguing decisions to make. Codie Taylor's a likely swap for Asafo Aumua at hooker, while Beauden Barrett could replace Damien McKenzie at 10. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave outlined his predictions ahead of the match. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sports journalists Lavina Good and Nikki Styris joined Heather du Plessis-Allan for the Sports Huddle. The All Blacks are set to take on Ireland in Dublin in a rematch of last year's Rugby World Cup quarterfinal – but will be without Codie Taylor and Beauden Barrett due to injury. Formula 1 drivers have lambasted the FIA over its clampdown on swearing, telling president Mohammed Ben Sulayem to treat them like adults and mind his own language. Former rugby league coach Sir Graham Lowe has launched a bid for an NRL license for Christchurch team Southern Orcas – one of three from the South Island trying to form part of an expanded league. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks are getting ready for their biggest test of their end-of-year tour against Ireland. The All Blacks will be without Beauden Barrett and Codie Taylor in Dublin, in a rematch of last year's quarterfinal. Meanwhile, Formula 1 drivers have hit out at FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem over controversies about swearing in press conferences. Ben Sulaymen has come under fire for calling drivers ‘rappers' after Max Verstappen was fined for swearing in Singapore to describe his car. Weekend Sport host Jason Pine joined Heather du Plessis-Allan. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Irish have a chance for revenge against the All Blacks for last year's Rugby World Cup quarterfinal. The All Blacks will go to Dublin missing Beauden Barrett and Codie Taylor through injury, while Ethan de Groot has been omitted for failing to meet team standards. Ireland will also be looking to get one over Rieko Ioane, after the midfielder got into a social media spat with Irish legend Johnny Sexton over the fallout from the quarterfinal, which then stretched into his book. Former All Black Ant Strachan joined Heather du Plessis-Allan. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim and Matty sit down with Olympic medalist and World Champion shot putter, Tom Walsh. Tom shares his journey from a small-town kid with big dreams to becoming one of the country's top athletes. We delve into the mindset that has driven his success, the challenges he's faced along the way, and the importance of mental resilience in high-pressure situations. Tom also opens up about his training routines, the support systems that have kept him grounded, and the lessons he's learned through competing at the highest levels. You'll even find out what Tom keeps on his phone screen to stay motivated and keep himself in check. Whether you're an aspiring athlete or just want to know what it takes to get to the world stage, this episode is packed with valuable insights and motivational stories everyone will enjoy.Listen to our episode with Quinny here.Listen to our epsiode with Codie Taylor here.Japanese game show picture here.

All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor is imploring his side to not let Argentina off the hook should the chance present itself in tonight's Rugby Championship rematch at Eden Park.  A series of lead changes in the first match at Sky Stadium saw Los Pumas deny the All Blacks a chance to build a lead with consecutive tries.  Taylor says they simply need to be better at that.  Newstalk ZB Rugby Editor Elliott Smith catches up with Codie Taylor ahead of the historic test match at Eden Park.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Which players yesterday put the most pressure on for places in the All Blacks side for the Rugby Championship? If we assume the side that played against England was the first-choice 23, who put their hand up highest yesterday for a place in the 23 for the next test against Argentina in Wellington in 3 weeks' time? I think anyone would say Billy Proctor did. He made a really, really good debut at centre, good running lines, nice hands under pressure, albeit against a Fijian side that didn't get up in his face like England did to Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane when they were here. One of the qualities of great centres is the ability to set up their outsides, the way Joe Stanley, Frank Bunce and Conrad Smith did. Again, Billy Proctor looks like the type of player who can do that, as well as break the line himself. He's an eyes-up player and a very quick decision-maker -so he's one. I'd say Cortez Ratima is making a pretty good case for inclusion in the 23. It sounds like TJ Perenara will be back for the Rugby Championship and Noah Hotham did well on debut yesterday too. Throw in Finlay Christie and there's a bit of a logjam building at halfback. One thing I'd love to see, maybe on the end of year tour, is the Cam Roigard / Cortez Ratima halfback double punch. But even before Roigard comes back, I think Cortez Ratima is ideally suited right now to the impact role off the All Blacks bench.The scrum was good yesterday, with an almost entirely different pack in action, the lineout was certainly better than the shambles at Eden Park and they conceded just one try against a side renowned for their attacking unpredictability and strike power. So, a lot of boxes were ticked. There is, of course, the caveat of how much we can take from a game against Fiji, who, while they've improved in recent years, didn't look anything like the same side that beat England and Australia last year. But you can only play what's in front of you, and the All Blacks did that. And finally- no cards, red or yellow, in the first three tests under Razor. Compare that to last year, with Sam Cane's red and Shannon Frizell's yellow in the World Cup final, Codie Taylor and Aaron Smith's yellows against Ireland in the quarter-final, Ethan de Groot's red against Namibia in pool play, Will Jordan's yellow against France in the opening game and Sam Cane's yellow and Scott Barrett's red in the warm-up match against South Africa. 5 yellow and three red cards in the last eight test of 2023, none so far this year. That's a sign of pretty good discipline under the new regime. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A few questions ahead of tonight's second AB's v England test:  What would have been the biggest areas of focus for the AB's this week?   Three things.  One: The collision areas. England trumped us there last week.  Two: Finding a way to combat England's rush defence. Cross-kicks are one way, but quicker, slicker ball is another.  Three: Lineouts. Not good last week, both with connections and throwing. Codie Taylor and Asafo Aumua have big nights ahead.  Will Damian McKenzie change his pre-kick routine after being timed out last weekend?   I doubt it. Kickers are metronomic with the way they prepare for kicking.  He'll also have a shot-clock on the big screen, which would have been very handy last weekend.    How will Cortez Ratima go on debut?   Good, I think. He's been a quality Super Rugby halfback for a while now and looks every inch a player who'll go well in black.  He'd want to as well, with Noah Hotham also now in the mix and Cam Roigard on the improve, competition for the halfback spots is about to intensify.  Will England break the Eden Park fortress?   It feels unlikely.  Something happens to the All Blacks and visiting teams on that patch of grass, how else can you explain the last 30 years?   Only 6 of the current All Blacks 23 were even born when France scored the try from the end of the earth in 1994.  It felt like England's chance was last weekend.  So, who wins and by how many?   All Blacks. And for me, more comfortably than the one-point victory that started Razor's reign in Dunedin.  I've got them by 10 this time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two of the biggest names in New Zealand Rugby have recommitted to the country for another three years. Senior All Blacks Scott Barrett and Codie Taylor have re-signed with New Zealand Rugby to the end of the 2027 World Cup. Sports reporter Jonty Dine speaks to Lisa Owen.

Mornings with Riccardo Ball - Full Show featuring Richie Barnett talking Warriors, Crusaders hooker Codie Taylor, Ben Strang on the Bulli, Andy Murray and Pip Morris joins us for a LOVERACING.NZ update. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Riccardo chats to Crusaders hooker Codie Taylor to discuss their win over the Blues and their final round of Super Rugby Pacific. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen while Tim and Matty sit down with Codie Taylor, All Blacks legend, for an insightful conversation. They touch on a range of topics, from playing professional rugby and the loss of the 2023 Rugby World Cup to parenting and finding the little things you can do that'll make a big difference. In this episode gain exclusive insights into Codie's journey and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way, both on and off the field. Codie Taylor & Dane Coles Video: https://rb.gy/cvt6x1Crusaders 2023 Win Video: https://rb.gy/ofj4a2Thank you for listening, don't forget to follow us here and on our socials to stay updated! Learn more about owning your own studio here.

The Bulletin with Tom Bartlett on Beauden Barrett set to stay in NZ, Codie Taylor taking a break, Super Rugby squad power rankings, Super Rugby commission, improving the competition, Blackcaps likely to face India in ICC World Cup semifinal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feilding High School boasts big names in the world of rugby, having produced nine All Blacks over the years. Current All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor, halfback Aaron Smith and lock Sam Whitelock are all former students who started their careers on the hallowed grounds of Feilding High. Principal Nathan Stewart says it has been an absolute pleasure watching these boys turn into men. Stewart spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

After New Zealand head coach Ian Foster named a strong team to face Ireland in the World Cup Quarter Final, he and several players including his captain Sam Cane addressed the media in the build up to the crucial encounter.Flyhalf Richie Mo'unga and loose forward Ardie Savea look at the threats Ireland pose, while second rower Scott Barrett and hooker Codie Taylor expressed their excitement for Saturday night lights in Paris.Vodafone Ireland | #TeamOfUs

The All Blacks have announced their line-up for the blockbuster Rugby World Cup quarter-final against Ireland. Mark Telea has been dropped for disciplinary reasons, and replaced by Leicester Fainga'anuku on the left wing. Prop Ethan de Groot returns from suspension and joins Codie Taylor and Tyrel Lomax in the front row. Sam Cane captains the side and partners Ardie Savea and Shannon Frizell in the loose forwards - their first match together since beating the Sprinboks in Auckland. RNZ rugby reporter Joe Porter spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

New Zealand's team for the opening match of the Rugby World Cup against France has been named this morning, with coach Ian Foster making four changes to the side that suffered a record defeat to South Africa almost two weeks ago. Midfielder Jordie Barrett misses out due to injury, with Anton Leinert-Brown slotting in to take the number 12 jersey, while Nepo Laulala comes in for the injured Tyrel Lomax at prop. Other changes see Codie Taylor replacing Dane Coles at hooker, and Dalton Papali'i moves to blindside, pushing Luke Jacobson to the bench. About 80,000 fans are expected at Stade de France on Saturday morning, with the All Blacks expecting a hostile reception from the home crowd. Rugby reporter Joe Porter spoke to Corin Dann.

Piney caught up with the starting All Blacks hooker ahead of the All Blacks test against South Africa at Mt Smart Stadium tonight. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin Marshall shares his thoughts on the Dane Coles v Codie Taylor incident and how it swung momentum in favour towards the Hurricanes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Codie Taylor is one of NZ rugbys great lads, a champion man on and off the field. He's also one of the best hookers in the modern era where his speed and skillset set him apart. Codie is someone who takes great care of his body, he has a rigorous training and recovery schedule which has certainly helped him avoid injuries throughout his 12 year career to date. However that doesn't mean its all smooth sailing, hearing him speak about how tough it can be under the spotlight when your form isn't where you'd like it to be was interesting. Codie has also launched his own recovery and performance drink called Eclipse, an unreal drink! That was cool to hear about how he got into running his own business and what he has learnt from that experience. I really enjoyed this one, Codie Taylor is one of the greats. Thanks to our mates at Speights for sponsoring this episode.

The All Blacks have named their strongest side for the final test of the season against England, signalling Jordie Barrett will have the inside running at No 12 for next year's World Cup. Looking to end an inconsistent 2022 with an unbeaten northern tour, selectors Ian Foster, Joe Schmidt and Jason Ryan have reverted largely to the team who thumped Wales a fortnight ago. The sees Barrett move back into the midfield alongside Rieko Ioane, leaving David Havili and Anton Lienert-Brown to provide cover from the bench. Barrett has excelled at second five-eighth in limited opportunities while wearing the black jersey and another strong performance at Twickenham will give him a good chance of making the position his own. Beauden Barrett will again start at fullback, with Richie Mo'unga remaining at No 10, while Scott Barrett will shift into the blindside flanker role he occupied when England knocked out the All Blacks in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup. He started at lock against Scotland, but Brodie Retallick has returned to the team after serving the suspension he incurred for his red card in the tour opener against Japan. This will mark Retallick's 100 All Blacks test, becoming the 12th man to reach the milestone and the second lock forward, alongside captain and locking partner Sam Whitelock. Retallick and Whitelock will also create another piece of history, setting a new world record of 64 test starts together. The previous mark was held by South Africa's Bakkies Botha and Victor Matfield. Playing in his 11th international season, Retallick will share the special occasion with family who have travelled from New Zealand to celebrate. “The All Blacks congratulate Brodie and his family on what is an extremely proud moment for them,” said Foster. “He has had a massive contribution to the legacy of this team over the last decade, during which he has inspired many.” After impressing on debut against Scotland last week, winger Mark Telea has been retained, while 79-test veteran TJ Perenara will again provide halfback cover from the bench. “We feel the squad has been building nicely throughout this tour,” Foster added. “Playing England is something we don't get to do often so we are excited for the challenge. “This is an opportunity to continue our growth as a team at one of the great venues in world rugby – Twickenham.” All Blacks team to play England: Ethan de Groot, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Tyrel Lomax, 4. Brodie Retallick, 5. Sam Whitelock (c), 6. Scott Barrett, 7. Dalton Papali'i, 8. Ardie Savea, 9. Aaron Smith, 10. Richie Mo'unga, 11. Caleb Clarke, 12. Jordie Barrett, 13. Rieko Ioane, 14. Mark Telea, 15. Beauden Barrett. Reserves: 16. Samisoni Taukei'aho, 17. George Bower, 18. Nepo Laulala, 19. Shannon Frizell, 20. Hoskins Sotutu, 21. TJ Perenara, 22. David Havili, 23. Anton Lienert-Brown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jared, Shaun and Thala do a match-by-match review Week 1 (or is it 2?) of the Autumn Nations Series and the Rugby World Cup semifinals. We discuss about France's last minute victory thanks to the Damian Penaud try, discuss whether the Australian performance could be a turning point, compare Charles Ollivon and Nic White's moustache's and tell you why Nick Mallet has Thomas Ramos wrong. At the Millennium Stadium, New Zealand thrash Wales, but we don't refuse the opportunity to slander Codie Taylor and Caleb Clarke as we discuss whether these All Black wins are a false dawn. We celebrate the Pumas victory in Twickenham over England and discuss if they are getting the respect they deserve and have another conversation about what is this England team missing. We talk about the shock of Italy's thrashing of Samoa and Scotland scraping through against Fiji. Finally, we celebrate two epic semifinals at the Rugby World Cup as the Red Roses and the Black Ferns ensure the dream final takes place - it will certainly be the match of the year. We salute the best amateur rugby team in the world, Canada and how they competed against England and commiserate with France on their narrow loss to New Zealand.

In some big selection calls, coach Ian Foster has benched break out hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho in favour of Codie Taylor. And Beauden Barrett will slot in at fullback, despite calls by some to move WIll Jordan back to his favoured position. Our sports reporter Clay Wilson joined Nick Truebridge in studio. [embed] https://players.brightcove.net/6093072280001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6312683562112

All Blacks coach Ian Foster has made what could be the final big call of his tenure, handing the No 10 jersey to Richie Mo'unga for the second test against South Africa at Ellis Park in Johannesburg this weekend. Foster is also gambling on two of his less-experienced props, Ethan de Groot and Tyrel Lomax, to match the Springboks' monstrous men. The All Blacks props have 20 test caps between them. It is the first test start of the year for Mo'unga, who guided the Crusaders to victory in Super Rugby Pacific, and has watched on ever since as the All Blacks have made faltering starts in all their matches this year. Incumbent first five-eighths Beauden Barrett, a two-time World Player of the Year, is relegated to the substitutes bench, from where he could enter the fray as a replacement for Mo'unga or in the outside backs. Other than the change at 10, the beleaguered coach largely played it safe in his backline selections, sticking with the same players who ran on to the field in last week's 26-10 humbling in the Rugby Championship opener in Mbombela. That result from a directionless performance was the fifth defeat in six starts for Foster's men. Jordie Barrett has overcome ankle injury concerns to hold on to the No 15 jersey, with another Springbok barrage of high balls likely. Caleb Clarke and Will Jordan start on the wings, while the coach persists with Rieko Ioane in the No 13 jersey. David Havili is at second five-eighths and Aaron Smith continues at halfback. Under-pressure captain Sam Cane has retained his place as openside flanker, and takes the field alongside No 8 Ardie Savea and Shannon Frizell, who has been called up to fill the No 6 jersey after Akira Ioane, who moves to the bench, had little impact last week. Locks Scott Barrett and Sam Whitelock return to duty, as does hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho — one of the few bright performers last week. Uncapped tighthead Fletcher Newell is set to make his All Blacks debut from the bench, with Angus Ta'avao missing out after struggling in the front row last week. Codie Taylor returns to the bench after being dropped in the first test, while George Bower, Tupou Vaa'i, Finlay Christie and Quinn Tupaea make up the rest of the substitutes. "Belief and confidence remain high in our group, which is working incredibly hard this week," said Foster. "Playing at Ellis Park is always a special occasion for any All Black team, and this weekend will be no different. "Adding to that, the Freedom Cup is on the line which makes this a challenge that everyone is looking forward to." Meanwhile, Duane Vermeulen is back for the Springboks at No 8 for his first test this year as South Africa made five changes to its starting lineup, the team announced earlier this week. Two of those changes were forced, with Jaden Hendrikse at halfback in place of Faf de Klerk, who was ruled out with concussion, while Jesse Kriel replaces Kurt-Lee Arendse, who was sent off, injured and subsequently suspended for four games after a dangerous tackle on Beauden Barrett in the first test. South Africa coach Jacques Nienaber also made two tactical switches in the front row by bringing in Ox Nché for Trevor Nyakane at loosehead prop and restoring Bongi Mbonambi as starting hooker in place of Malcolm Marx. Tighthead prop Frans Malherbe is set for his 50th test. The Springboks are seeking back-to-back wins over the All Blacks for the first time since 2009 and another defeat for New Zealand is expected to see Foster lose his job. The All Blacks have slipped to an all-time low of No 5 on the world rankings. All Blacks: Jordie Barrett, Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, David Havili, Caleb Clarke, Richie Mo'unga, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea, Sam Cane (captain), Shannon Frizell, Scott Barrett, Sam Whitelock, Tyrell Lomax, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Ethan de Groot. Reserves: Codie Taylor, George Bower, Fletcher Newell*, Tupou Vaa'i, Akira Ioane, Finlay Christie, Beauden Barrett, Quinn Tupaea. South Africa: Damian Willemse, Jesse Kriel, Lukhanyo Am, Damian de Allende, Makazole Mapimpi, Handré Pollard, Jaden Hendrikse, Duane Vermeulen, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Siya Kolisi (captain), Lood de Jager, Eben Etzebeth, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Ox Nché. Reserves: Malcolm Marx, Steven Kitshoff, Vincent Koch, Franco Mostert, Jasper Wiese, Kwagga Smith, Herschel Jantjies, Willie le Roux.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Great to catch up with Codie and hear him talk about his younger days and growing up in Australia.  Then returning to Levin, NZ before going off to Fielding High for his last years of school.  Going from Fielding into the Canterbury Academy, following a well-trodden path led by the Whitelock brothers.  He shares about the successful culture shift of the Crusaders from when he debuted in 2013 when they had some of the greats like Ritchie McCaw, Dan Carter and Kieran Read playing and under the coaching of Todd Blackadder and Tabai Matson.  The comparison to when Scott Robertson took over and brought instant success and a run of 5 consecutive Super Rugby Titles.He's branching out into the world  of business, soon to be launching his sports drink brand Eclips3.  He's combining his passion for the fitness world and always looking for that 1% improvement in performance.I really enjoyed and learning more about the man and his business.  I think you will too.Have a listen.

All Black hooker Codie Taylor choked back tears at an emotional All Blacks press conference today as he paid tribute to his teammate Sean Wainui. 25-year-old Wainui, who played for the Māori All Blacks, the Crusaders and more recently the Chiefs, was killed when the car he was driving hit a tree yesterday morning. The All Blacks, many of whom played alongside him, were shocked to learn of his death following their arrival in Washington after a 30-hour journey from the Gold Coast. Felicity Reid was on the emotional zoom conference call.

Another week, another commanding bonus-point victory for the All Blacks. Each more impressive than the last, too.After three comfortable wins against the Wallabies, the last two ensconcing the All Blacks atop the Rugby Championship table, Ian Foster's men held the Pumas to the open flame grill and then uncorked Mendoza's best Malbec with one stunning second-half try.The All Blacks enjoyed total control on the Gold Coast – so much so it was no surprise the Pumas were held scoreless. The imagination and attacking potential between the two teams was poles apart as the All Blacks' freedom of expression and variety blew the Argentines away.A change in style was supposed to restrict the All Blacks more than in recent weeks. After a Wallabies team that, like the All Blacks, embraces pace and width, the Pumas' confrontational approach, their suffocating defence, would present a different challenge. That theory was true for brief periods, but not nearly long enough.With five more in this match the All Blacks have now scored 19 tries in their past three tests – a warning shot of their potent attacking weaponry. Beauden Barrett's magic flick ball for Luke Jacobson's first try will have the world in awe yet similar interchanges are becoming frequent between the All Blacks big men up the middle.As was the case in Perth last week, this is where the All Blacks again did the business with first time captain Brodie Retallick, Nepo Laulala and Jacobson - the Chiefs No 8 nailing his chance with two tries - all prominent.The physicality from their forward pack was evident from opening tackle when Laulala flatted inspirational Pumas captain Pablo Matera. From then on, the All Blacks never shied away from the confrontation to win several breakdown penalties – Retallick claiming two, TJ Perenara, Dalton Papalii, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Quinn Tupaea one each – and lay a platform to unleash their brilliant backline.Outside Barrett, regaining his dynamic running game with each outing, the midfield pairing of David Havili and Rieko Ioane shone. Havili continues to prove a steadying influence, showing his nous to make sound decisions about when to tuck the ball and take contract, pass or kick.With ample time and space Ioane proved as threatening from centre, where he stepped in late for Anton Lienert-Brown, as he was from the wing in Perth last week.Such was the supreme All Blacks dominance Foster had the luxury of replacing Barrett and Havili after 49 minutes, with Damian McKenzie coming into No 10 and Tupaea slotting outside him.Despite missing Richie Mo'unga, Sam Whitelock, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea, Codie Taylor, Dane Coles and Lienert-Brown, the All Blacks took another major step forward in this match. They continue to build depth - the performances of Taukei'aho and Tupou Vaa'i off the bench cases in point – and progress their game in different situations.Since shocking the All Blacks for the first time in Sydney last year the Pumas have now conceded 77 points and scored none in the two return tests. With poor discipline and conceding two yellow cards, they were never in this contest.By way of comparison, the world champion Springboks defeated the Pumas 32-12 and 29-10 in much less emphatic fashion in South Africa.Scott and Jordie Barrett on the attack for the All Blacks. Photo / PhotosportTo view the scoreline in isolation is to believe the All Blacks ran rampant from the opening whistle when, in fact, they were made to work incredibly hard for their points at times.While the Pumas attack and clearance kicking left a lot of be desired, their defence brought its usual commitment to the cause – the All Blacks forcing them to make almost 200 tackles.The All Blacks savoured 70 per cent possession and 73 per cent territory in the first half yet they often found cracking the Pumas tryline difficult.Jordie Barrett couldn't quite finish two kicks from brother Beauden; Ioane held onto the ball a fraction too long after slicing onto a...

Staffy checks in with All Black Codie Taylor to talk about staying fit in lockdown, the uncertainty of the Rugby Championship and the last 2 years in general.

Concept is simple, we get to chat to people who do what they love. Crusaders and All Blacks Codie Taylor and David Havili sit down for a chat about their labour of love, Successful Culture, New Business ventures, Family and where it all started.

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says his team is "disliked immensely" – but he hopes the 2021 Sky Super Rugby champions are respected.The Crusaders - who were down to 13 men at one stage during the second half of the final - showed all of their class to overcome a spirited Chiefs side by 24–13 in the New Zealand showdown.It was their fifth consecutive title under Robertson, who was controversially overlooked for the All Blacks job."I was nervous – I know how good they are," Robertson said after the final in Christchurch."We had to be at our best – at times we were against the ropes and all the leadership stuff we do, making the right calls and saying present, showed tonight."We're still hungry, we know we're not liked, teams are desperate."I know we're disliked immensely, but I'd like to think we're respected for what we've done."You have to stay hungry for so long, and put your body through it for so long and turn up every day."We have to get better as a team to keep winning."I'm really proud to coach this team – but it's only half the season done."Robertson said the coaches' plans to stay calm during the game didn't work out. But they pulled themselves together in time to make clear calls when they were needed."There was a lot of emotion in the box…we were in all sorts for a bit," he said."I think the players were a bit calmer."We just couldn't finish anything, we created so much in the first half, played some great footy."But at the end of sets we'd turn the ball over or the ball would go out on the full, or there was a knock on. Then we just found a way."They (the Chiefs) are the best in the country at the break down – it feels like they've got 14 loose forwards."We let them back in the game…thank goodness Damian (McKenzie) was off radar (with his goalkicking)."A pivotal moment in the match came when Richie Mo'unga fielded a deep Chiefs kick and launched a brilliant counterattack.Robertson said: "What a play, what a player, freakish. He's special."Robertson had no problem with the yellow card on Codie Taylor, for tackling McKenzie in the air. But he appeared to think the call on Sevu Reece for a high tackle was more marginal.

The All Blacks will take on the Pumas in their first meeting of the Tri Nations on Saturday – the first test for the Argentineans since last year's Rugby World Cup.Argentina have been one of the hardest hit teams in world rugby by the pandemic, with several players and coach Mario Ledesma contracting the virus this year.It means the Argentineans will be a relatively unknown prospect heading into their first test of the year.Here's all you need to know about the team to face the All Blacks and everything the South Americans have gone through to get here.Argentina team to face the All BlacksLedesma has named three new faces in the side to face the All Blacks at Bankwest Stadium.Flanker Pablo Matera captains the side, while Santiago Chocobares will make his debut at centre.Santiago Grondona and Lucio Cinti are also set to make their test debuts from the bench.Argentina team: 1. Tetaz, 2. Julian Montoya, 3. Francisco Gómez-Kodela, 4. Guido Petti, 5. Matias Alemanno, 6. Pablo Matera (C), 7. Marcos Kremer, 8. Rodrigo Bruni, 9. Tomas Cubelli, 10. Nicolas Sánchez, 11. Juan Imhoff, 12. Santiago Chocobares*, 13. Matias Orlando, 14. Bautista Delguy, 15. Santiago Carreras.Reserves: 16. Facundo Bosch, 17. Mayco Vivas, 18. Santiago Medrano, 19. Santiago Grondona*, 20. Tomas Lezana, 21. Gonzalo Bertranou, 22. Lucio Cinti*, 23. Santiago Cordero.All Blacks team: 1. Joe Moody (48), 2. Dane Coles (72), 3. Tyrel Lomax (4), 4. Patrick Tuipulotu (33), 5. Samuel Whitelock (120), 6. Shannon Frizell (12), 7. Sam Cane (72) - captain, 8. Ardie Savea (47), 9. Aaron Smith (95), 10. Richie Mo'unga (20), 11. Caleb Clarke (3), 12. Jack Goodhue (16), 13. Anton Lienert-Brown (47), 14. Jordie Barrett (21), 15. Beauden Barrett (86).Reserves: 16. Codie Taylor (54), 17. Alex Hodgman (3), 18. Nepo Laulala (27), 19. Tupou Vaa'i (3), 20. Hoskins Sotutu (3), 21. Brad Weber (6), 22. Rieko Ioane (32), 23. Damian McKenzie (26). 

The two teams for the Saturday's North v South match at Sky Stadium in Wellington have been named and as expected it will see a battle between Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo'unga.The two All Blacks first five-eighths will face off while Beauden will also be up against his brother Jordie who has been named at fullback for the South.The North side features five Blues players in the pack including number eight Hoskins Sotutu who impressed early in the Super Rugby season. Former Hurricanes pairing Beauden Barrett and TJ Perenara will link up with Aaron Smith named on the bench.Barrett's Blues teammate Rieko Ioane has been named at centre alongside Anton Lienert-Brown while the side features a dynamic back three of Caleb Clarke, Sevu Reece and Damian McKenzie.The South is dominated by Crusaders with Chiefs prop Nepo Laulala the odd one out in the tight five.The South side also have pace and skill in a back three of George Bridge, Will Jordan, Jordie Barrett with Jack Goodhue and Braydon Ennor in the centres. Brad Weber has been named at halfback inside of Mo'unga.North Head Coach John Plumtree said: "It's an exciting squad that we've picked for this special match. There's a huge amount of lot of talent in the side. There's some real power in the forwards and some speed in the backs."The North has gelled together really well this week and the players are having a lot of fun. They're really excited at the challenge against the South and certainly not lacking in any motivation. There will be a real intensity to the match with two really good teams going toe to toe," Plumtree added.The Head Coach of the South team, Brad Mooar, said the South side had some strong combinations, with additional strength and pace thrown in as well."It's always hard to pick those in the 23 and all 28 in our squad could've been selected. We have a fantastic group of men who have all made the most of this week, building relationships and having fun with each other as well as learning new things and formulating our game plan. There's been lots of good-natured banter between the teams and a lot of parochial rivalry.""The only thing missing at the stadium will be the fans and we're really disappointed we can't share the experience there with them. We know there will be a huge audience watching at home so we hope they'll enjoy what's shaping up as match for the history books," Mooar said.The teams are as follows:The North teamForwards: 1. Karl Tu'inukuafe 2. Asafo Aumua, 3. Ofa Tuungafasi, 4. Patrick Tuipulotu (captain), 5. Tupou Vaa'i, 6. Akira Ioane, 7. Ardie Savea, 8. Hoskins Sotutu.Backs: 9. TJ Perenara, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Caleb Clarke, 12. Anton Lienert-Brown, 13. Rieko Ioane, 14. Sevu Reece, 15. Damian McKenzie.Replacements: 16. Ash Dixon, 17. Ayden Johnstone, 18. Angus Ta'avao, 19. Scott Scrafton, 20. Dalton Papalii, 21. Aaron Smith, 22. Peter Umaga-Jensen, 23. Mitchell Hunt.The South teamForwards: 1. Joe Moody, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Nepo Laulala, 4. Samuel Whitelock (captain), 5. Mitchell Dunshea, 6. Shannon Frizell, 7. Tom Christie, 8. Tom Sanders.Backs: 9. Brad Weber, 10. Richie Mo'unga, 11. George Bridge, 12. Jack Goodhue, 13. Braydon Ennor, 14. Will Jordan, 15. Jordie BarrettReplacements: 16. Liam Coltman, 17. George Bower, 18. Tyrel Lomax, 19. Manaaki Selby-Rickit, 20. Dillon Hunt, 21. Finlay Christie, 22. Josh Ioane, 23. Leicester Faingaanuku.

Crusaders 40Highlanders 20The Highlanders waited two years for the chance to host their southern neighbours. Two years too long after this instant classic under the Dunedin roof.Southern derbies always cultivate an extra edge. This breathless match, in which the Highlanders were overrun after leading 17-14 at the break, was no different.Five years to the day since their first and only Super Rugby title, the Highlanders threw everything and more at the Crusaders.So often that is not enough, though. Just ask the Chiefs who did likewise in Christchurch last week. To take down the Crusaders opposition must reach near perfection; nail all their chances and even then hope a slice of luck and the referee is on their side.The final quarter of this game the Crusaders came into their clinical own, controlling the possession, pace and tempo to grind out their third straight Super Rugby Aotearoa victory, with Richie Mo'unga kicking 15 points.Once again the Crusaders showed all the hallmarks we've come to expect from the three-time defending champions – a level of composure that sets the bar for others to match.Highlanders wing Jona Nareki will regret his decision to throw the dummy with two men unmarked outside him midway through the second half. It was a movement that would have given the Highlanders the lead – instead the Crusaders did enough to snuff it out and the home side had to settle for three points.There were other defining moments, of course, but with the Crusaders prevailing five-tries-to-two thanks to twin Tom Christie second-half strikes, Nareki's decision was a key turning point.The other came from Crusaders halfback Mitchell Drummond, who fired a brilliant cutout pass that gave Sevu Reece just enough space to score the game's decisive try.Aaron Smith led the Highlanders out as captain and he was then their spark all night. His passing, kicking, running, organisation and defence – one bootlace tackle on Codie Taylor in particular – was a class above. On this occasion, the All Blacks halfback could do no wrong and it was a surprise to see him replaced for the closing stages. Smith had great support from former All Blacks blindside Shannon Frizell, Pari Pari Parkinson and Dillon Hunt who all carried and attacked the breakdown relentlessly.For the Crusaders, Will Jordan continues to light up the New Zealand derby competition. Despite moving from fullback to the wing Jordan was equally involved and influential as in recent weeks, popping up all over the park and finishing the match by claiming his brace with another runaway try.Taylor, the All Blacks hooker, also delivered another standout display.The brutal nature of these derby games claimed further casualties with Crusaders fullback David Havili limping off after a break, while the Highlanders lost lock Josh Dickson, who has been influential in running their lineout this season, to a serious ankle injury.The Crusaders brought more poise to the initial exchanges and they were rewarded when Jordan snuck over in the corner for the opening try. The visitors' scrum did the damage early with several huge shunts – the Highlanders not helped in this department by losing Dickson.The Highlanders needed to settle and they did just that with a double strike. Frizell stepped up with three telling carries in the same movement. With the final one, he burst through Michael Alaalatoa's tackle to power his way to the line.That try turned the tide with the Highlanders enjoying a run of possession. From their overthrown lineout Smith swooped with his speed and anticipation to break the line and the Crusaders could then not stop quick hands sending Ngane Punivai over to give the Highlanders the lead.Discipline was an issue for the Highlanders as they conceded a 13-7 penalty count – many of these infringements at the breakdown – but they had every right to take umbrage with referee Mike Fraser after he missed an obvious forward pass from Taylor in the lead up to Mo'unga's...

Kieran Read won't get to experience what it's like to lift the Webb Ellis trophy as All Blacks captain. "It's hard to put those feelings into words," he said straight after his side's defeat to England at Yokohama Stadium tonight.Read, who occasionally had a catch in his voice as he fronted the media, added: "To be honest it's gutting - it's a hard thing to take."He now has the unenviable task of preparing for the third/fourth playoff next Friday, a booby prize if ever there was one - the All Blacks' opponents either Wales or South Africa. As 34th birthdays go, this will register as a flat one if he cares to look back on it.After next weekend this is the end for Read and coach Steve Hansen as both are heading offshore and quite possibly here in Japan, with Toyota said to be at the head of the queue. It's a sad way for them to finish, but, at the risk of repeating what is likely to be said from both over the coming days, that's sport.All Blacks captain Kieran Read after losing to England in the Rugby World Cup semifinal. Photo / Mark MitchellBlood streamed from near Read's right eye in the immediate aftermath of this defeat – a testament to his commitment but also the physicality of the English. They got on top and never relented, and it may take some time for Read and the rest of his teammates to deal with that given the pride they have in their forwards' confrontational reputation.The All Blacks were supposed to have the attacking weapons and ambitious game plan to beat allcomers and in fact change the game itself. The big problem, unfortunately for them, was that they couldn't get their hands on the ball to do much of anything significant.England had the better attack and they certainly had the better pack. They may have also had the more damaging No 8 in Billy Vunipola, who didn't take a step back for the haka and refused to once the game began too."Look I'm sure they're disappointed," Read said of the All Blacks' fans at home. "That's how we're feeling in that shed. We gave our all, as much as we had and just came up short. We're extremely disappointed by that but right now it's hard to put those feelings into words."Emotions were raw for the whole team as the All Blacks fronted to dissect what went so wrong in Yokohama.All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith summed up the mood."I'm very disappointed, still a bit shocked, but full credit to England they had a plan and they executed it," Smith said."It's a big year and we had a few years preparation for this tournament. I don't know what to say… you feel like you've let everyone down."I'm really gutted for New Zealand and gutted for the guys leaving. It's really disappointing. High performance sport isn't fair and we fell on the end of that stick tonight."All Blacks captain Kieran Read hunched over in defeat. Photo / Mark MitchellIt wasn't just the result but England's dominance in every aspect – from the lineout to the breakdown and the collisions that left the All Blacks so deflated.George Bridge, attending his first World Cup, wasn't alone in speaking with a lump in his throat."It's gutting," Bridge said. "Our goal was going through to next week. We came up short so we've got to give credit to England, they were unreal and pretty much beat us in all facets of the game tonight."That's what hurts, that we were pretty well dominated. You look at the boys in the shed and just how much we all care and how disappointed we are. The effort was there tonight but mentally and skillfully we just weren't quite there tonight."Everyone is hurting so we've got to get around each other."Codie Taylor couldn't help but feel for Kieran Read, the All Blacks skipper who signs off after this tournament.Read was visibly devastated at the post-match press conference, having returned from back surgery with the driven goal of leading his team to glory in Japan."You can see it on his face, it really hurts," Taylor said. "He's a great captain and he's a great leader. He puts...

The Crusaders win streak at home is over, but their unbeaten run isn't.The two-time Super Rugby defending champions have drawn 21-all with the Sharks in Christchurch, after first five Mitchell Hunt kicked an 81st minute conversion to force the stalemate.The result sees the Crusaders win streak at home finish at 25, but their unbeaten run extend to 26.The visiting Sharls scored all their points off the boot with first-five Curwin Bosch kicking seven penalties.The Crusaders scored their points through three converted tries to Codie Taylor, Jack Goodhue and Mitch Hunt.First five Richie Mo'unga believes his side must adapt to referees calls better as they chase a three-peat.Mo'unga was on a rest week and carried the water for his side but acknowledges the Sharks' disrupted their momentum."We've got to be squeaky clean, we gave away a lot of penalties and that allowed them to put points on the board. Against that Sharks team last night, [Curwin] Bosch, who's been kicking awesome this year, he's going to punish you."The Crusaders now en route to South Africa for their two game tour there.