Siale Lauaki of the Hurricanes is tackled by Rieko Ioane. Photo: Photosport
RNZ looks over the biggest moments, statement performances, and all the water cooler chat from the weekend's rugby around the globe.
Savea Tops the Charts
The wheels on the bus may have slowed right down, but the former All Black winger showed he still has enough in the tank as he crossed for his record breaking 61st Super Rugby try for Moana Pasifika against the Rebels, surpassing the prolific yet polarising Israel Folau.
Tempers Flare in Six Nations
There is absolutely no love lost between England and Ireland as the old enemies went to war at Twickenham. The intensity was on full display as coaches Andy Farrell and Steve Borthwick shared this heated exchange on the sideline. A Marcus Smith drop goal saw England triumph 23-22.
Andy Farrell having words with Steve Borthwick at halftime.pic.twitter.com/kOR7Nn6Alc
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) March 9, 2024
Poua Silence the Critics
After spending a week as the victims of nasty vitriol and calls for boycotts, the Hurricanes Poua responded in the best way possible, with victory over Matatu in Wellington.
Hurricanes Poua perform a haka during the round two Super Rugby Aupiki match between Hurricanes Poua and Matatu at Sky Stadium on 9 March, 2024 in Wellington, New Zealand. Photo: Getty Images / Hagen Hopkins
A Crumbling Empire
0-3. Despite the losses of Scott Robertson, Richie Mo'unga and Will Jordan, few predicted that the standard bearers of Super Rugby would have their worst start to the competition since its inception in 1996. The Crusaders cracks are appearing like canyons after a listless loss in Latoka. With three local derbies looming for the defending champions, seeing the once untouchable franchise dwelling in the cellar at 0-6 after six rounds is now a conceivable reality.
French Flair at Cardiff
Antoine who? A piece of absolute genius from French halfback Nolan Le Gerrac.
On. Repeat #GuinnessM6N #WALvFRA pic.twitter.com/bnYlTyjnhG
— Guinness Men's Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) March 10, 2024
The Blues Bench Blunder
The less we take from South Africa's lead concerning rugby tactics the better. Why would you want to replicate the most boring team on the planet? I hope being forced to play a halfback on the wing for majority of the match was enough of a lesson to never try the 6-2 split again.
The Renaissance
It would seem we are in a golden era of Italian rugby. After unearthing a new superstar in Ange Capuozzo who inspired the Italians to a their first six Nations win in 36 matches, the weekend saw the Romans end another drought with their first home win in 11 years over a red-hot Scotland, 31-29.
Japan watch
The mercurial Richie Mo'unga weaved his magic for Toshiba Brave Lupus in their top of the table clash against Saitama Wild Knights with this stunner. Despite his individual brilliance, his side went down 36-24.
Like a symphony … Richie Mo’unga front and center #LeagueOne pic.twitter.com/fYENuAedsV
— Darren (@SaffasRugby) March 11, 2024
Hit of the Week
Scotland winger Duhan van der Merwe bullying poor Ange Capuozzo.
Duhan van der Merwe manhandling Ange Capuozzo pic.twitter.com/jE74EmlwGg
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) March 10, 2024
Stock Drop
Any number of Crusaders could be considered. David Havili, Willie Heinz, Chay Fihaki and Joe Moody all committed costly errors against the Drua.
Stock Rise
Ruben Love- It was a coming of age performance for the young Hurricanes fullback against the Blues, his dangerous running game and precision kicking was crucial to ensuring his side remained unbeaten and top of the table after three rounds.
Post of the Week
Absolute top tier banter from Stormers loosie Hacjivah Dayimani against the Northampton Saints.
The greatest try celebration you will see, courtesy of Hacjivah Dayimani. pic.twitter.com/0iWIssrYb7
— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) March 10, 2024
Try of the Week
Unnecessary Jonah Lomu comparisons aside, Kini Naholo's rampaging run through five would-be Blues defender to set up Riley Higgins was a stunning display of power.
Quote of the Week
Goes to Italian debutant Louis Lynagh, son of Wallaby legend Michael Lynagh, following his side's historic win over Scotland- "One try, one win... I might retire!"
