The Silver Fern

It is the spot that we should have had; after losing to France we dropped to 3rd. Probably seesaw a bit too as Ireland could get 2nd spot back again with a big win, one would imagine.

@Victor-Meldrew I don't think the cupboard is as bare as it was in 2011.

@Frank Which warrants another thread on our depth at 10.

Blues were playing a lot better last year.

What is the extent of Barrett's injury?

While I am not holding my breath that he does go to Rugby Union, I would be just as happy if he changed alligences to the Kiwis.

Third party deal is the only way you would get a topshelf NRL player in Super Rugby.

Where there is smoke there is fire, I suppose.

Ex-All Black reveals NRL star Kalyn Ponga linked with Super Rugby team

The Queensland Maroons and Newcastle Knights fullback played union in high school and has previously revealed ambitions of becoming an All Black down the track.

Was this discussed on the show?

Is there a clause in his contract that allows this? Manu looks like he may return this year to the NRL, wonder if this is pure speculation or there is something to it, who knows?

I suppose where there is smoke there is fire so to speak. He was named in the Kiwis wider training squad back in 2015 before being snatched away to play Origin. Both parents are Kiwis and spent some of his school years there, has expressed a desire to play for the All Blacks. See where this story goes, thought he was locked in to a long term deal with the Knights.

It would need to be soon. All indications were him changing to the Kiwis, after not making himself available for the Kangaroos and appearing for the Maori All Stars this year.