Steve Hepburn

The Highlanders will make some money, but not a lot, out of making the playoffs as the cash is to be made in hosting a finals game.

Kevin Skinner may have been known as a tough-as-nails prop forward but his modesty and warmth were recalled yesterday.

When your season is not starting until October, the expectations in late July are not high.

It was not the first time he had said it this season but Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph was tremendously proud of his side after yesterday's game.

The Highlanders are dining at the top table.

A new captain, a prop from Auckland and seven new caps are the highlights of the Otago squad named for the ITM Cup yesterday.

Dunedin joiner Glenn Sutton is about to get hot. Really, really hot.

The Highlanders face a tough task in Durban on Sunday morning (NZ time) when they play their first playoff game in 12 years. Rugby writer Steve Hepburn looks at what obstacles the Highlanders will have to overcome to record a victory.

Tony Brown's future as Otago coach will depend on the nature of his role with the Highlanders next season.

Six months ago it was a case of Kane who.

For a team that has the ball the least amount of time of any side in the competition, the Highlanders are doing well to be in playoff contention.

Crusaders fullback Israel Dagg is battling through the pain barrier and is likely to continue to do so for the rest of his playing career.

The usual mutterings of worrying about your own game and controlling the controllables will go out the window for the Highlanders tonight.

New Black Cap Mark Craig admits it has been a dream start to his international career.

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph denies his side is lacking energy heading into the playoffs and says it is time to get excited about playing in the finals.

Lots of things in life have changed over the past few years.

Ben Smith may have been right come match day but the risk of throwing him into a big game was too great, Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph says.