Steve Hepburn

Otago has made just two changes to its side, both in the backline, as it gets ready to go into rare territory - a Ranfurly Shield defence.

Right, let's put two and two together and get? Spotted in Dunedin over the weekend was the Beaver himself, Stephen Donald.

Otago sevens star Brad Weber has joined Waikato for the rest of the season.

Otago Boys' High School has made it to the national top four competition for the second year in a row, winning the South Island final 26-20 over Marlborough Boys College at Forsyth Barr Stadium yesterday.

Otago coach Tony Brown says he could not be prouder of his side, and no-one can take away the memories of the past nine days.

The business end of the season has arrived for Otago Boys' High School as it faces Marlborough Boys' College in the South Island First XV final tomorrow.

The Highlanders will not have Tamati Ellison in their midfield next year and it also seems possible All Black front-rowers Tony Woodcock and Andrew Hore will both leave the franchise.

All the stress and hard work of 18 months ago was vindicated for former Otago rugby head Wayne Graham after winning the Ranfurly Shield, while the union says it needs a big crowd on Sunday to start making some money from the trophy.

A full review of the Highlanders First XV competition is to be conducted, and Taieri College will get its chance to get into the grade this Saturday.

Paul Grant had a pretty special night for Otago in his 49th appearance for the province.

When it comes to good omens, Peter Breen sure got one last week.

Laurie Mains has paid tribute to the coaching of Tony Brown and says Otago rugby has finally got the monkey off its back by winning the Log o' Wood.

Cricket World Cup staff are on their first concentrated reconnaissance mission in Dunedin ahead of the 2015 tournament.

It might be 56 years ago but it seemed like yesterday to members of the previous Otago team to win the Ranfurly Shield.

The reality of winning the Ranfurly Shield is beginning to sink in for Otago coach Tony Brown - and now the focus shifts to defending the precious trophy.

All Black prop Tony Woodcock never thought he would play 100 tests when he began his test career 11 years ago.

As far as weeks go, Liam Coltman has had a pretty good one for a rugby player.

The All Blacks are building depth in many positions, believes coach Steve Hansen, even if one of the stars of the show on Saturday night is on the injured list.

Otago Boys' High School will be out to claim a hat trick of Highlanders First XV wins when the final is played at Littlebourne this afternoon.

So, here we go again. A trip to the promised land - Ranfurly Shield glory.