The challenge for rugby to become a safer sport but still retain the elements that have made it a cherished sport to so many has been laid bare
The stars have aligned for the Blues.
The five Australian Super Rugby Pacific franchises - the Brumbies, Reds, Rebels, Force and Waratahs - and the Fijian Drua have unveiled their squads for next season.
Japan star Kazuki Himeno will get his first taste of action in Highlanders colours this weekend, but his Super Rugby Aotearoa debut will have to wait another fortnight.
Crusaders loose forward Tom Sanders, the man who caught many an eye during last year's North v South clash, will be sidelined for the next eight weeks due to a head clash suffered in an intra-squad match last week.
The southern French life seems to be agreeing with Malakai Fekitoa.
The Chiefs are set to face their most challenging year in over a decade after enjoying unprecedented success under ex-head coach Dave Rennie.
The Glasgow Warriors, coached by Dave Rennie, continue on their merry way in the PRO14.