WITH a year to go to Rugby World Cup 2011, tournament organisers in New Zealand says preparations are well on track, despite last week’s earthquake near Christchurch.

Canterbury fly-half Colin Slade has won the battle to be Aaron Cruden’s back-up for New Zealand’s final Tri Nations match against Australia in Sydney on September 11.

BALANCE.

Richie McCaw will captain New Zealand in Saturday’s clash with the Barbarians at Twickenham, it has been announced.

NEW ZEALAND yesterday filed an official complaint over what they believe was an eye-gouge on prop Tony Woodcock following their crushing win over France in Marseilles on Saturday.

NEW ZEALAND coach Graham Henry claims uncertainty over scrum laws is ruining the game for spectators after watching his second-string side labour to victory over Italy at the San Siro on Saturday.

TOBY FLOOD steps into the number 10 limelight vacated by Danny Cipriani at Twickenham on Saturday determined to make some publicity of his own.

GRAHAM HENRY expects “the kitchen sink” from Wales on Saturday when they attempt to derail New Zealand’s potential grand slam tour.