Steve Hepburn

Glenn Dickson admits his eye is on heading overseas but the immediate challenge is an imposing one.

The Highlanders are not commenting on any links the franchise may have with former All Black lock Brad Thorn.

Auckland will bring a big pack to Forsyth Barr Stadium tomorrow night, ready to take on Otago in a crucial match for both sides.

Manawatu youngster Jason Emery and Otago front-rower Liam Coltman have signed for the Highlanders, while Otago's inside back combination is tipped to follow.

She   is a girl's girl, her dad says.

Otago's hopes of hosting a home semifinal took a hit last night after Tasman beat Counties-Manukau 28-19 in Pukekohe.

Brad Thorn may link with the Highlanders to play one last season of rugby, back in the province where it all started.

You cannot score points if you have not got the ball.

Cardinals started this season as they ended last season, picking up two comfortable wins in premier grade on Saturday.

Big strong men will always run over smaller and tired men.

Wellington has named a strong side to take on Otago at Forsyth Barr Stadium tomorrow night.

We have reached the business end of the ITM Cup and this is when the tough get going. Rugby writer Steve Hepburn picks 10 players who have really come up to the mark this season.

Southland captain Jamie Mackintosh has apologised for his side's effort against Canterbury last week, penning a letter to all fans, saying that the team had let itself and the province down.

Michel Sannum has just become Otago' first national representative in one of the fastest growing sports in the world.

Another ITM Cup game - another 80 points plus.

Speed and strength got Otago home against Manawatu last night, as the points avalanche continues for Otago.

Tony Brown has beefed up his bench and Japanese hooker Shota Horie gets a start as Otago looks to keep on a roll when it takes on Hawkes Bay in Napier tomorrow night.

Otago has made some changes but the spine of its team remains as it faces Manawatu in a crunch Championship encounter in Palmerston North tonight.

Otago United is spreading its wings as it looks to improve on last season's sixth placing.