Ref, send everyone off or keep cards in pocket
The much-anticipated Champions Cup final was the latest in a growing number of rugby matches ruined by a referee overreacting to a high tackle, writes ZELIM NEL.
Zelim Nel
Highlanders prevail in Perth
Centre Scott Gregory crossed for two tries as the Highlanders trudged to a 25-15 Super Rugby Trans-Tasman win against the Western Force in Perth on Friday.
Europe beware, we are coming for everything!
The idea that South Africa’s integration into European club rugby should be limited to the PRO16 for the foreseeable future is naive and impractical, writes ZELIM NEL.
Hurricanes deny Waratahs in wild shootout
The Hurricanes prevailed in a 17-try shootout blighted by more than 50 missed tackles to beat the Waratahs 64-48 at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday.
Rugby resists Varsity Cup gimmicks
The Varsity Cup numbers are in and it’s clear that, despite sometimes comedic attempts to reshape the game, rugby is resistant to change, writes ZELIM NEL.
All Blacks finisher to make run at Olympics
New Zealand’s hopes of winning a gold medal in sevens rugby at the Tokyo Olympic Games got a big boost on Monday with the announcement that a powerhouse All Blacks wing has made himself available for selection.
Mounga saves Crusaders from yellow peril to win final
Flyhalf Richie Mounga rescued the Crusaders from two yellow cards, kicking 14 points in a 24-13 win over the Chiefs in the Super Rugby Aotearoa final in Christchurch on Saturday.
Gatland: Rugby will be the easy part of the tour
Warren Gatland says looking after the mental health of his British & Irish Lions players could be his toughest challenge as they prepare for up to 10 weeks in a bio-bubble.
Do the Boks have anything to fear?
‘The War Room’ is operating once again. Mark Keohane and Zelim Nel react to the announcement of the British & Irish Lions squad to challenge the Boks in South Africa.
Captain’s challenge guarantees fewer tries
The introduction of the captain’s challenge in the Rainbow Cup SA has consigned rugby to more legal drama and fewer exciting finishes, writes ZELIM NEL.
