Steve Hepburn

The Otago Volts know things will eventually turn but it needs to be at the speed of a race car rather than an ocean liner.

Former New Zealand coach Warren Lees has called for changes around short-pitched bowling and says umpires need to get tougher.

Highlanders lock Joe Wheeler will be hoping to repeat the success he has just enjoyed in Japan in New Zealand this year.

Key Otago all-rounder Jimmy Neesham should be right to take the field against Auckland tomorrow but may not roll his arm over.

Otago Country captain Fraser Wilson has never had so much comment and feedback about an innings - one that will do nothing for his average.

There are some players out there after all who do choose sevens over Super rugby.

Changes to next year’s national provincial championship are on the table but whether they gain traction may be stifled by the length of the playing calendar.

It is another day, so more speculation surrounds the future of Highlanders co-captain Ben Smith.

The Chiefs have bedded in their coach until 2020 but the Highlanders are saying little as to who will take over once Tony Brown departs.

The Highlanders reviewed all their protocols and procedures long before recent high-profile incidents off the rugby field.

Former Otago loose forward TJ Ioane has become the first victim of the crackdown on head-high tackling - and it has led to accusations of turning the game into touch.

The Otago men's and women's teams have both drawn tough pools at next month's national tournament in Rotorua.

The Highlanders ended their pre-Christmas training with a test of mind and body yesterday.

New Zealand Rugby boss Steve Tew admits the union is not in the same ballpark as overseas clubs in matching financial offers for players.

It appears as though the Highlanders will not be playing with their All Blacks when they take on the British and Irish Lions next year.

Andy Mulligan is a typical forward — he just wants to score goals.

Southern United coach Paul O’Reilly says his side will not rest on its laurels and is aiming to move up the ladder.

Southern United has scored its first win for more than a year.

Otago sevens sides will venture north today for a tournament which should get its reward next month.