Steve Hepburn

Highlanders and All Black fullback Ben Smith may have played his last game for the Highlanders.

The South Americans are coming - well, actually, they should have just about arrived.

A lot in sport is about perception versus reality: The fear of what is going to happen often turns out to be a worry about nothing, while what was supposed to be low-key becomes bigger than Texas.

Referees are in good heart in Otago, says the national boss, although nationwide there is still a shortage of more than 500 whistle-blowers.

Liam Squire is fit to start, Ben Smith looks like he will be a man in the stand and who knows with Waisake Naholo.

The elation was all with the Chiefs on Saturday night and fair enough too.

The Highlanders and Chiefs have drawn 31-31 at Forsyth Barr Stadium.

The combined co-education side almost grabbed a win in its debut in the first round of the Otago premier schools competition.

Desperate but not dopey - that is what the Highlanders have to be tonight.

The last New Zealand derby awaits for Rob Thompson and his team-mates tonight.

Otago Rugby Football Union chairman Keith Cooper is departing with no regrets but has questioned whether two new people on the board will fix all the challenges facing the game.

Town clubs and the Otago Country board have won two extra seats at the Otago Rugby Football Union board table, but it comes with a warning shot fired by the outgoing board chairman.

Of all the players who have turned out for the Highlanders over the years, Johnny Leota would not be one who instantly comes to mind.

Highlanders flanker James Lentjes says the side is not getting ahead of itself this weekend.

The Highlanders have not wasted any time in finding a replacement for injured first five-eighth Bryn Gatland.

Former Highlanders and All Black flanker Adam Thomson is getting back on to the field.

It is hard to believe that Michael Paardekooper actually never played a competitive game of hockey.

Rob Walter will continue to coach the Otago Volts for the next two seasons, being labelled an outstanding and experienced coaching technician who has the full support of the playing squad.

Josh McKay may be pushed into first five-eighth duties as the Highlanders get ready for their last New Zealand derby of the season.