Cardiff flanker Ellis Jenkins has tipped his teammate, 20-year-old Mackenzie Martin, to be one of the leading contenders to take the No8 jersey from Taulupe Faletau for both club and country.
All Blacks prop Ethan de Groot is back for the Highlanders and “ready” to take on the Crusaders in the team’s final pre-season game.
Tasked with calling the shots against the All Blacks' fiercest foe inside a stadium renowned for its hostility, Lima Sopoaga thrived in his international debut.
All Blacks head coach Ian Foster has confirmed he will be taking a pay cut, and that players will follow suit, as New Zealand Rugby looks to limit its costs.