Phil Gifford

Contributor at Stuff.co.nz

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Articles

Super Rugby Pacific: How the competition got so good in 2025 - Opinion

1 day ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

Crusaders fullback Will Jordan scores against the Highlanders. Photo / SmartFrameOpinionTHREE KEY FACTSSuper Rugby Pacific has been highly entertaining in 2025, with unexpected upsets and standout performances. The Chiefs and Crusaders have shown exceptional form, with players like Emoni Narawa and Will Jordan excelling. The Blues face challenges after a frustrating loss to the Reds, needing a strong comeback against the Western Force.
Phil Gifford: The Hurricane who looks like an All Black every time he plays

4 weeks ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

The Hurricanes put in a strong performance against the Waratahs. Photo / Getty ImagesOpinion by Phil GiffordPhil Gifford is a Contributing Sports Writer for NZME. He is one of the most-respected voices in New Zealand sports journalism. Learn moreTHREE KEY FACTSMoana Pasifika stunned the Crusaders with a 45-29 victory in Christchurch, showcasing their potential. Ardie Savea led Moana with two tries, highlighting his strength and decision-making skills.
Grizz Wyllie: The soft side of All Blacks legendary hard man

1 month ago | theaccnz.com | Phil Gifford

By Phil GiffordThere were large elements of truth in Alex “Grizz” Wyllie’s public persona as the toughest rugby player and coach to ever come rampaging out of North Canterbury. But as I found out working on his book Grizz The Legend in 1991, there were different, lesser-known, sides to the man. There was a lot more to his coaching philosophies than crash, bash and knock your opponents over.
Grizz Wylie: The soft side of All Blacks legendary hard man

1 month ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

All Blacks coach Alex Wyllie, pictured in 1990, is remembered for his tough approach and his innovation. Photo/ PhotosportAlex “Grizz” Wyllie was known for his toughness but also introduced innovative coaching techniques. He was the first to use grid skill training in rugby, working with Jim Blair. Wyllie’s coaching tenure included significant successes and challenges, notably with Canterbury and the All Blacks.
Super Rugby Pacific: Five talking points from round six - Phil Gifford

1 month ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

Opinion by Phil GiffordPhil Gifford is a Contributing Sports Writer for NZME. He is one of the most-respected voices in New Zealand sports journalism. Learn moreTHREE KEY FACTSThe Crusaders’ 2025 comeback continued, with victory over the defending champions at Eden Park. The Blues continue to be plagued by injuries, and have added captain Patrick Tuipulotu to the injury ward before their Super Rugby Pacific bye week.
All Blacks, the Olympics, David Tua and Nelson Mandela: Flashpoints from a life in sport journalism - Phil Gifford

1 month ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

Phil Gifford, 60 years in journalism. Sixty years ago this week, my first sports story appeared in the New Zealand Herald. Somehow I’d got the ear of the iconic Sir Terry McLean, whose word at the time was revered. Thanks to his encouragement, readers were treated to 600 or so words on (I am not making this up) problems with the sprig size on imported rugby boots.
Phil Gifford: Forget the bomb squad, Crusaders prove rugby should be beautiful

1 month ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

Opinion by Phil GiffordPhil Gifford is a Contributing Sports Writer for NZME. He is one of the most-respected voices in New Zealand sports journalism. Learn moreTHREE KEY FACTSCrusaders winger Macca Springer equalled a Super Rugby record with five tries against the Western Force. The Chiefs snuck past the Blues in a thriller to maintain their status as competition favourites. The Hurricanes’ win over the Highlanders in Dunedin went down to the final kick.
Super Rugby Pacific talking points: The strong candidates to be new All Blacks - Phil Gifford

1 month ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

The Hurricanes' Du'Plessis Kirifi is tackled by Antonio Shalfoon of the Crusaders. Kirifi could be an All Black in 2025, writes Phil Gifford. Photo / PhotosportOpinion by Phil GiffordPhil Gifford is a Contributing Sports Writer for NZME. He is one of the most-respected voices in New Zealand sports journalism. Learn moreTHREE KEY FACTSScott Robertson selected 10 new All Blacks during his first year at the helm.
Super Rugby Pacific: Eight talking points from round four - Phil Gifford

1 month ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

Beauden Barrett was forced off at halftime in the Blues' loss to the Brumbies on Friday night. Photo / PhotosportOpinion by Phil GiffordPhil Gifford is a Contributing Sports Writer for NZME. He is one of the most-respected voices in New Zealand sports journalism. Learn moreTHREE KEY FACTSMoana Pasifika and the Fijian Drua registered their first wins of the Super Rugby Pacific season, beating the Hurricanes and Chiefs respectively.
Super Rugby Pacific: Codie Taylor’s return comes at perfect time for Rob Penney’s Crusaders - Phil Gifford’s talking points

1 month ago | nzherald.co.nz | Phil Gifford

Noah Hotham celebrates scoring with Codie Taylor, Sevu Reece and Dallas McLeod. Photo / PhotosportOpinion by Phil GiffordPhil Gifford is a Contributing Sports Writer for NZME. He is one of the most-respected voices in New Zealand sports journalism. Learn moreTHREE KEY FACTSBeauden Barrett has returned to the Blues’ No 10 jersey after starting the season at fullback. Hoskins Sotutu will miss his side’s clash against the Brumbies through suspension.