Author: Don Pizzy

Rugby fans across New Zealand and around the world are celebrating today as Aaron “Nuggy” Smith — one of the most influential halfbacks in modern rugby — marks his 37th birthday. Born on 21 November 1988 in Palmerston North, Smith’s journey from a determined young talent to a global rugby icon remains one of the sport’s most inspiring stories. Smith’s international career, spanning from 2012 to 2023, delivered an extraordinary 125 Test caps for the All Blacks, placing him among the most capped players in New Zealand’s proud rugby history. He earned a reputation as a master technician of the…

Rugby league was thrust into the centre of public debate this week after a video featuring a prominent NRL star expressing support for Indigenous communities circulated widely online, prompting both praise and backlash across social media platforms. The short clip, initially shared as part of a community awareness initiative, highlighted the importance of cultural respect, unity, and strengthening Indigenous voices within Australian sport and society. Within hours of its release, the video drew tens of thousands of views and triggered a wave of strong reactions. Supporters praised the message as a courageous step toward reconciliation, applauding the athlete for using…

The NRL world has been rocked to its core after the Parramatta Eels pulled off what many fans are already calling “the signing of the decade.” In a move that sent shockwaves across the league, Parramatta announced the capture of Newcastle Knights powerhouse centre Bradman Best on a mega three-year deal — a coup few predicted, and even fewer believed possible. For weeks, speculation swirled around Best’s future, with several clubs monitoring his contract situation. But behind the scenes, the Eels moved with remarkable stealth and precision, holding advanced talks and presenting a long-term vision that ultimately convinced the Origin-calibre…

It remains one of the most iconic scenes in international rugby league history — the moment two giants of the game, Australia’s Mal Meninga and Great Britain’s Garry Schofield, led their respective teams onto the hallowed turf of Wembley Stadium for the 1992 Rugby League World Cup Final. With more than 73,000 fans packed into the stands, the atmosphere was electric, capturing both the intensity of the moment and the immense respect shared between the two rival nations. As captains, Meninga and Schofield embodied the spirit and identity of their teams. Meninga, already a towering figure of the sport and…

Penrith has been draped in blue, black, and white as fans rally behind long-time Panthers coach Ivan Cleary in a powerful public show of unity and gratitude. What began as a small gesture outside BlueBet Stadium has grown into a moving community tribute, with supporters leaving jerseys, lighting candles, and penning heartfelt messages to the man many describe as *“the heartbeat of the Panthers era.”* Cleary, who has guided Penrith through one of the most dominant periods in NRL history, has become more than a coach to the people of Western Sydney. For many, he is the architect of…

New Zealand and Blues Rugby sensation Mark Telea is marking another milestone today as the dynamic winger celebrates his birthday—adding yet another highlight to a remarkable career that has rapidly elevated him among world rugby’s elite. Known for his explosive footwork, unmatched agility, and game-breaking instincts, Telea’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. This year, the man nicknamed “Black Mamba” begins a fresh chapter after officially joining Toyota Verblitz in Japan, a move that has stirred both excitement and admiration across the rugby world. Telea’s journey to international stardom has been built on relentless determination and consistently high-level performances.…

In a development that has stunned the rugby league world, Penrith Panthers star forward Liam Martin has reportedly submitted his resignation letter to the club, citing personal reasons. The news—first confirmed by sources close to ESPN—has sent shockwaves across the NRL, particularly given Martin had only recently secured a lucrative four-year contract extension meant to keep him at Penrith until 2029. Martin, widely considered one of the toughest edge forwards in the game, was expected to remain a cornerstone of Penrith’s pack as the club enters a challenging period marked by stadium changes, rising player costs, and an increasingly competitive…

The National Rugby League has officially unveiled the highly anticipated 2026 NRL Draw, and early analysis shows that the Penrith Panthers have emerged as one of the clubs handed the toughest schedule of the season. With top-tier clashes, venue disruptions, and increasing competition pressure, the Panthers — led by coach Ivan Cleary and star halfback Nathan Cleary — are gearing up for one of the hardest campaigns of their modern era. One of the most notable challenges for Penrith is a demanding opening month. With their traditional home ground still under redevelopment, the club will stage most of its home…

The stage is set for one of the most anticipated moments in New Zealand’s grassroots rugby calendar as the U85kg National Club Cup Final takes centre stage at Eden Park, just hours before the Bledisloe Cup Test match. This year’s final brings together two proud and highly competitive sides — the HSOB Light Bears from Canterbury and the Pōneke Wanderers from Wellington — in what promises to be a pulsating showdown between two of the strongest lightweight rugby programs in the country. The U85kg grade, celebrated for its speed, skill, and attacking flair, has grown into one of New Zealand…

New Zealand Rugby is in mourning following the passing of Ernest “Tuppy” Diack, All Black #602, a highly respected figure whose contribution to the nation’s rugby heritage remains deeply cherished. Diack, remembered fondly as a committed athlete, a loyal teammate, and a proud representative of Otago, leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire players and supporters across generations. Born in an era when rugby symbolized community, character, and national pride, Diack embodied the values that defined the sport’s golden age. His most notable international appearance came in 1959, when he wore the black jersey for the All Blacks in…