Opinion
The Rugby Championship
Contributors
Gregor Paul
Gregor is New Zealand's best-read rugby commentator and analyst having been the voice of the Herald's rugby coverage since 2004. He's also written seven books about rugby and edited NZ Rugby World since 2007.
185 Articles
Latest
11 days ago International Rugby
New Zealand may have won the series but England exposed shortcomings
16 days ago England
The All Blacks have to improve at Eden Park to protect their record
23 days ago
New Zealand rugby is under scrutiny over its retention of players
30 days ago
It's evolution rather than revolution with the new All Blacks squad
Opinion
Buoyant England travel to New Zealand full of hope but are they walking into an All Blacks ambush?
There is some hope England can pull off their first victory on New Zealand soil since 2003, but the canny All Blacks lie in wait
Gregor Paul
23 Jun 2024, 16:41
Opinion
'Worst-case scenario' leaves All Blacks short of locks to face England
Injuries and retirements have decimated Scott Robertson's second-row options for his first Tests in charge.
Gregor Paul
11 Jun 2024, 8:52
Analysis
All Blacks pursue offshore stars to bolster experience deficit
Scott Robertson hopes to lure the likes of Richie Mo'unga and Shannon Frizell home to cope with a demanding schedule.
Gregor Paul
31 May 2024, 6:14
Analysis
New Zealand Rugby primed for new civil war with players
Domestic chaos could impact the All Blacks as the RPA threatens to form a new entity outside NZR's authority.
Gregor Paul
23 May 2024, 16:37
Opinion
Why Sam Cane's path to retirement is perfect for him and the All Blacks
The brave, dependable New Zealand backrow will slip away from the Test arena at the end of the year after a stellar career
Gregor Paul
18 May 2024, 3:21
Opinion
The pressure is on Razor to find the next All Blacks No 6
The durability and grunt of Jerome Kaino has proven difficult to replace at blindside for the All Blacks
Gregor Paul
13 May 2024, 9:28
Analysis
Speeded-up Super Rugby Pacific provides blueprint for wider game
New data shows that innovations introduced in 2022 are producing less 'dead time' and a faster product.
Gregor Paul
08 May 2024, 16:36
Opinion
Hiring Rob Penney may be the Crusaders' first major mistake in 30 years
The coach's resume had red flags, yet the franchise seemed set on appointing a man with Cantabrian connections at any price.
Gregor Paul
29 Apr 2024, 11:15
Opinion
Who will be Robertson's choice as All Blacks captain?
New Zealand's new coach may have to take a leap of faith given there is 'no perfect choice' available to him.
Gregor Paul
22 Apr 2024, 12:52
Opinion
All Blacks sabbaticals ‘damage Super Rugby Pacific when it is fighting for survival’
Allowing stars to play elsewhere robs the competition of its biggest names and makes a mockery of NZR’s eligibility policy.
Gregor Paul
19 Apr 2024, 4:48
Opinion
Raw talent McKenzie primed to become next All Blacks No.10
Damian McKenzie is in pole position to become the All Blacks' new playmaker if he can polish up his game-management and decision-m…
Gregor Paul
11 Apr 2024, 11:47
Opinion
New Zealand embraces on-field reforms amid angst over balance sheet
Proposals designed to speed up the game will benefit the All Blacks but a bleak financial position is causing concern.
Gregor Paul
08 Apr 2024, 17:52
Opinion
Why the All Blacks are serious about giving Sam Whitelock one last hurrah
Scott Robertson has put out feelers to one of his most trusted Lieutenants in order to hit the ground running as New Zealand coach
Gregor Paul
27 Mar 2024, 11:22
Opinion
Why NZ rugby is primed for renewed battle with league
With rugby league growing in popularity and power, union bosses are fighting another war with a rival code.
Gregor Paul
20 Mar 2024, 10:40
Opinion
Crusaders won't be contenders without a top-class fly-half
The loss of Richie Mo'unga has dealt the serial Super Rugby champions a grievous blow.
Gregor Paul
14 Mar 2024, 7:43
Opinion
Elder statesman Barrett poised to retain key role in Robertson's All Blacks
The World Cup final appeared to be Beauden Barrett's last act with New Zealand, but he is set to remain an integral figure.
Gregor Paul
29 Feb 2024, 9:31
Opinion
Is New Zealand in danger of giving trade secrets to main rivals?
The continual loss of Kiwi coaching expertise to competitors could come back to bite the All Blacks
Gregor Paul
27 Feb 2024, 3:05
Opinion
How Joe Schmidt can make the Wallabies competitive again
The driven New Zealander with a passion for detail can rebuild Australia after the trauma of Eddie Jones' tenure.
Gregor Paul
19 Feb 2024, 6:17
Analysis
Who can replace the iconic All Blacks duo Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick?
Josh Lord could be the answer as New Zealand seek to replace lock legends Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock.
Gregor Paul
14 Feb 2024, 11:28
Opinion
Grave questions loom for southern hemisphere nations in 2024
Australia, New Zealand and South Africa have significant issues to combat this year.
Gregor Paul
15 Jan 2024, 2:54
