Liam Napier

1 week ago | nzherald.co.nz | Liam Napier

Scott Robertson ponders his preferred starting line up for 2025. Photos / SmartFrame; PhotosportAnalysis by Liam NapierLiam Napier is a senior sports journalist and rugby correspondent for the New Zealand Herald. Learn moreAs Super Rugby Pacific nears the business end and Scott Robertson’s second test campaign inches closer, Liam Napier analyses last year’s starting All Blacks team and looks at where changes will come. 15.

2 weeks ago | nzherald.co.nz | Liam Napier

The Reds defeated the Blues 35-21 in Brisbane on Friday night. PhotosportBlues 21Queensland Reds 35Each week the Blues edge closer to killing off their fast-fading playoff hopes. From defending champions to potentially failing to make the top six, what a baffling fall from grace that could be. On the evidence of their seventh loss from 10 attempts this season, their title defence is on life support. AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME. AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.

3 weeks ago | nzherald.co.nz | Liam Napier

Former All Blacks centre Conrad Smith has endorsed Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane's Irish sabbaticals. Photo / PhotosportConrad Smith supports Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane’s sabbaticals in Ireland, believing it will boost long-term motivation. Smith endorses New Zealand Rugby’s flexible contracting approach, allowing players to gain overseas experience while maintaining All Blacks commitments. Conrad Smith enjoyed a starkly different sabbatical route to Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane.

3 weeks ago | theaccnz.com | Liam Napier

By Liam NapierCalling all past, present and future professional rugby players. New Zealand now has access to a brain health screening service – lauded by former All Blacks centre Conrad Smith – designed to identify and support those with dementia and other cognitive issues. All professional rugby players, no matter their age or stage, encounter brain health concerns attached to concussions or repeat head knocks.

3 weeks ago | nzherald.co.nz | Liam Napier

A brain health screening service for rugby players has been launched to identify cognitive issues. All Blacks great Conrad Smith supports the test, which provides reports to general practitioners for further assistance. The test aims to alleviate anxiety and track cognitive changes from age 20 onwards. Calling all past, present and future professional rugby players.