IRISH and New Zealand rugby chiefs have rubbished claims that they fixed New Zealand's selection as the venue for the 2011 Rugby World Cup in return for an appearance by the All Blacks at the opening of the redeveloped Lansdowne Road.

The New Zealand Rugby Union has confirmed it will lodge a bid to host the 2011 World Cup.

The worst kept secret in New Zealand rugby was finally laid to rest when Carlos Spencer confirmed his move to Northampton Saints.

New Zealand have had their wish granted and will play all four home unions on their tour later this year.

SANZAR, the South African, New Zealand and Australian Rugby Unions, has announced that two additional teams will be added to the Super 12 – one from Australia and one from South Africa, creating a Super 14 competition.

The New Zealand Rugby Union has announced the All Blacks will travel to South Africa for their final Tri-Nations match despite the threat of a possible terrorist attack.

A proposed knockout tournament involving the world-leading rugby nations is to be considered at a meeting in Sydney this week, according to the New Zealand Sunday News newspaper.

Wales coach Steve Hansen has confirmed his appointment as All Blacks assistant coach after the Six Nations.

There is only one team South African captain Corne Krige wants to win the crucial Bledisloe Cup decider in Auckland next weekend, and surprise, surprise, it is not Australia.

The New Zealand Rugby Union has averted a potential World Cup disaster by agreeing a bonus payment structure with the All Blacks squad just a day before the official deadline.

CHRISTIAN CULLEN’S move to Munster has sparked a major split in New Zealand rugby, with ex-All Black skipper Taine Randell the latest to blast coach John Mitchell over his controversial comments on Cullen.

ALL BLACK coach John Mitchell last night appeared to close the door on Christian Cullen's World Cup hopes - less than 24 hours after the winger inked a deal with Munster for next season.