Steve Hepburn

The Highlanders have come home strong in the second half to record a convincing victory over the Brumbies at Forsyth Barr Stadium tonight.

A date to return to the field — if at all — is still unclear for felled Highlanders prop Brendon Edmonds.

He roams around — both on and off the field.

A veteran and a big, bashing newcomer are back in the Highlanders to meet what is expected to be a physical challenge from the Brumbies.

The Highlanders have presented offers to loose forwards Luke Whitelock and Elliot Dixon and the franchise is also talking to former fan favourite Marty Banks.

The Highlanders do not play the Sunwolves this year but a Japanese side will take on the franchise this season.

When Grant Fox used to wear the No 10 jersey, he was always the favourite of the laundry lady.

The Highlanders have come back fighting fit from their bye and there is cautious optimism Lima Sopoaga will be back on the field this week.

North East Valley will head into this week's national club championships with some confidence and plenty of depth in its side.

Otago has lost more than half its starting side from last season's semifinal and its depth will be tested in the coming season.

The Highlanders will get back to work this week, knowing what is in front of them and their destiny is still in their hands.

A bucketful of cards handed out by referees in the opening  rounds of club rugby was a reflection of players taking a while to come to terms with new rules on the breakdown.

Long-serving wicketkeeper Derek de Boorder was voted cricketer of the year at the Otago Cricket Awards last night, while spinner Leigh Kasperek  picked up the other big prize.

The Highlanders and its ticketing partners have come up with a sweet deal to ease the pain for redundant Cadbury workers.

Less than five years ago, Gavin Stark was in a national side with Damian McKenzie and Akira Ioane.

Otago cricket will undertake an extensive review into the woes of the Otago Volts but is denying it is a witch hunt.

Otago Volts coach Rob Walter wants to see his contract out and is already talking about next season.

The Otago Volts have wrapped up their disappointing season with a 95-run loss to Canterbury at the University Oval today.

Lima Sopoaga may make it back on the field for the Highlanders' next game.