Tag Archives: Auckland Blues

Coach Dave Ellis’ Indelible Link to Connacht Glory

Coach Dave Ellis’ Indelible Link to Connacht Glory

Connacht left its mark on New Zealander Dave Ellis, both figuratively and literally. Ellis misses the place he called home for almost four years when he helped turn the province into a force last…

Luatua to Skipper Blues after Kaino Injury

Luatua to Skipper Blues after Kaino Injury

Steven Luatua has been named skipper of the Auckland Blues for the remainder of the season after a broken finger ended the Super Rugby season for All Blacks loose forward Jerome Kaino. “I was a…

New Zealand Union Coaches Taking over the World

New Zealand Union Coaches Taking over the World

The appointment of Vern Cotter as next head coach of Scotland is testament to the quality of rugby coaches that have been developed in New Zealand, according to Steve Hansen. The 51-year-old’s appointment means…

‘Courageous’ and ‘Comical’ Ali Williams Calls Time on All Black Career

‘Courageous’ and ‘Comical’ Ali Williams Calls Time on All Black Career

New Zealand’s second highest-capped lock Ali Williams announced his retirement from international rugby, the Chicago Tribune reports. The 32-year-old had played 77 tests for the world champion All Blacks in his 10-year international career. Ian…

Winning Irish Debut

Winning Irish Debut

New Zealand World Cup winner prop John Afoa, 28, has signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Ulster. Auckland-born Afoa came on as a replacement in New Zealand’s wins over Japan and Argentina in the…