THINK BACK to the really competitive rugby sides over the last 30 years and the one constant in all those teams was a second row combination that complemented each other and competed as a united force.

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw insists the All Blacks must emulate World Champions England's planning to translate their pre-eminent position in world rugby into silverware.

FRENCH rugby club officials are probably wondering right now why former All Black Andrew Mehrtens hasn’t returned their calls.