Fullback gambit
The All Blacks’ dual-playmaker strategy requires a demanding skillset from NZ fullbacks.
Tom Vinicombe
Feature writer for RugbyPass
Tom Vinicombe is as much interested in the stories behind the players as he is the players behind the teams. Tom has covered rugby in both New Zealand and Japan and is a regular contributor for RugbyPass.
Annus mirabilis
He started the year a hopeful sevens player but Caleb Clarke ended 2020 as a global superstar.
Fresh start
After four years at the Chiefs, fullback Solomon Alaimalo hopes a move to the Highlanders will reignite his career.
Mana on mana
The Maori All Blacks holds a special place for those who put on the famous jersey.
Home comforts
Bryn Gatland has finally landed his dream contract at the Chiefs.
Rethinking the Argentina approach
Argentina’s victory over New Zealand showed that more matches don’t always lead to better results.
Prop, rock and roll
Taniela Tupou showed in Bledisloe IV exactly what the All Blacks are missing from their propping stables.
Perfect prototype
Caleb Clarke may be 110kg of destructive power, but he’s no one-trick pony.
Honeymoon is over
A wave of euphoria swept through New Zealand rugby in June, but the bubble has burst.
Rugby’s greatest mismatch
The man set to replace Warren Gatland almost produced one of the greatest upsets of the modern era.