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Stepping away from success - Steve Corica has resigned from Aucklnad FC PHOTO: AUCKLAND FC Auckland FC’s inaugural Head Coach Steve Corica has made the decision to leave the club. Corica joined Auckland FC in January 2024, becoming the club’s first-ever Head Coach. After two impressive seasons, he will leave Auckland FC to pursue an opportunity overseas. LATEST HEADLINES: Black Caps on top after day two Tim Price aims for title in Germany Tupaea Super Rugby POTY Russell Black Sticks 100 goals Black Caps even day one 2nd test Majority owner, Bill Foley, recruited Corica as an experienced Head Coach who understood the A-League, the players, and knew how to win trophies. Foley was quick to praise Corica. “Right from the start, we wanted to set Auckland FC up with the best coach in the A-League, and Steve was the obvious candidate. He had won it as a player and as a coach at Sydney FC. “He was also committed to launching the club into the community, building a team that would be competitive from the start and creating pathways for talented young players. “We wish Steve all the best in his new role, and he is always welcome back at the Black Knights.” Corica departs, leaving his mark on Auckland, having delivered two major trophies in his two seasons – 24/25 Premiers and 25/26 Champions. His record in charge stands at 62 matches played, 33 wins, 18 draws, 11 losses.

Tim Price and Happy Boy during the 5* horse inspection at Luhmuhlen PHOTO: LIBBY LAW PHOTOGRAPHY Newly crowned world No 1 Tim Price spearheads a strong contingent of Kiwis heading to the Longines Luhmuhlen Horse Trials CCI5*-L in Germany this week. Luhmuhlen is one of just six 5* events in the world – the highest-ranked in eventing. A two-time Luhmuhlen winner Tim lines up with 14-year-old Happy Boy who placed fourth in his last 5* start at Pau last year. LATEST HEADLINES: Tupaea Super Rugby POTY Russell Black Sticks 100 goals Black Caps even day one 2nd test Super Rugby final teams named Conway returns to Black Caps Also on the start card is world no.7 Samantha Lissington aboard her 5* debutant Delarado, Jonelle Price with Capitaine De Hus Z and her Pau 5* winner Grappa Nera, Abby Jones aboard Henton Audacious, Vicky Browne-Cole with her 5* first timer Cutting Edge and James Avery with his 5* deb Dallas 13. Jonelle is the last Kiwi to have won the 5* at Luhmuhlen, when she rode Faerie Dianimo to victory in 2018. Tim's partner Jarillo, with whom he won Pau 5* last year, is one of his main contenders for his World Champs bid, so he’s hoping for “a good spin” with him too. Jones is chasing her first 5* completion with her New Zealand Hanoverian Henton Audacious. Avery was off for a fair bit last year with an unfortunate injury, but he says both are now fit and ready and looking forward to the event. Browne-Cole feels she too has her 5* debutant Cutting Edge primed and ready for the big event. Previous New Zealand winners include Jonelle and Faerie Dianimo (2018), Andrew Nicholson and Mr Cruise Control (2013), Tim Price and Wesko (2014) and Tim with Ascona (2019) all feature on the honours board.

Quinn Tupaea has been named Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Chiefs and All Blacks midfielder Quinn Tupaea has been named Super Rugby Player of the Year. Tupaea and Highlanders centre Timoci Tavatavanawai finished level on Player of the Year votes after Round 16, with the Chiefs star holding on to claim the honour via the tiebreaker of receiving more 'three votes' from the independent media panel across the season. LATEST HEADLINES: Russell Black Sticks 100 goals Black Caps even day one 2nd test Super Rugby final teams named Conway returns to Black Caps Silver Ferns for Glasgow 2026 Despite missing the playoffs the Highlanders had three players named in the Team of the Year. The Blues had just one player make the team. New Zealand based players Ethan de Groot, Xavier Numia, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Anton Segner, Leicester Fainga'anuku (Crusaders), Caleb Tangitau, Tupaea and Timoci Tavatavanawai were all named in the Team of the Year. Waratahs winger Sid Harvey claimed the competition's inaugural rookie of the year title, finishing well clear of Lucas Casey of the Highlanders. 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Awards Player of the Year WINNER - Quinn Tupaea (Chiefs) - 43 votes Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders) - 43 votes Anton Segner (Blues) - 41 votes Max Jorgensen (NSW Waratahs) - 39 votes Ben Donaldson (Western Force) - 39 votes Rookie of the Year WINNER - Sid Harvey (NSW Waratahs) - 27 votes Lucas Casey (Highlanders) - 18 votes Team of the Year Props - Ethan de Groot (Highlanders), Xavier Numia (Hurricanes) Hooker - Samisoni Taukei'aho (Chiefs) 2nd Row - Jeremy Williams (Western Force), Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (Queensland Reds) Back Row - Anton Segner (Blues), Leicester Fainga'anuku (Crusaders), Fraser McReight (Queensland Reds) Halfback - Ryan Lonergan (ACT Brumbies) First five - Ben Donaldson (Western Force) Wingers - Max Jorgensen (NSW Waratahs), Caleb Tangitau (Highlanders) Centres - Quinn Tupaea (Chiefs), Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders) Fullback - Jock Campbell (Queensland Reds)

The Black Sticks are unbeaten at the FIH Nations Cup PHOTO: HOCKEY NZ The Black Sticks Men's teame have finished pool play at hockey's FIH Nations Cup unbeaten, beating Japan 5-2 in Cape Town to secure top spot in Pool A and set up a semifinal clash with hosts South Africa. The match carried plenty of significance. A win or draw would mean New Zealand finish top of the pool and avoid a last four clash with France. LATEST HEADLINES: Black Caps even day one 2nd test Super Rugby final teams named Conway returns to Black Caps Silver Ferns for Glasgow 2026 Routliffe beats Williams this time Defender Kane Russell entered the match sitting on 99 international goals and wasted little time in scoring his 100th. Japan's goalkeeper initially denied Russell on multiple occasions, producing some top saves to keep New Zealand from scoring. However with just over a minute remaining in the quarter, Russell finally got his moment. Stepping up to another penalty corner, his drag flick was too fast for the goalkeeper or defenders to stop, with Russell reaching 100 international goals in 222 matches for New Zealand. Late in the second quarter, Russell won a penalty stroke and converted to double New Zealand's lead and move to 101 international goals. Scott Boyde scored with just minutes left in the first half to give the Black Sticks a 3-0 halftime lead. New Zealand extended their advantage in the third quarter through Sam Lane, but Japan got on the scoreboard shortly after through a penalty stroke. Japan were also the next to score to cut New Zealand's lead to 4-2, before Boyde scored his second goal of the match to seal the 5-2 victory for the Black Caps, who end pool play with four wins from four matches. New Zealand finish top of Pool A on 12 points and will face hosts South Africa in the semifinal at 2.45am on Saturday.

Half century maker Tom Blundell as the Black Caps and England finish even on day oen of the second test PHOTO: NZC A tense first day of the second cricket test between New Zealand and England, under Joe Roots captaincy at the Oval with a fightback from the visiting side The Black Caps finished at 291-7 after late runs in the middle to lower order to have the game evely poised. LATEST HEADLINES: Super Rugby final teams named Conway returns to Black Caps Silver Ferns for Glasgow 2026 Routliffe beats Williams this time White Ferns 2nd loss World Cupt WicketkeeperTom Blundell top-scored with 51 from 84 balls after the top of the order had struggled as captain Tom Latham went for 29 and Devon Conway nine. Henry Nicholls scored 24 before Rachin Ravindra added 33 from 51 balls. Blundell added partnerships of 81 with Daryl Mitchell (44) and 75 with Phillips 49 not out to see the Black Caps post a more competitive total after their 115-run defeat at Lord’s last week. Kyle Jamieson is not out six with Matt Henry and Will O'Rourke still to bat. England wicket takers were spread but it was part-time spinmner Jacob Bethell who took2-8 from five overs which runied the innings. He dismissed by Nathan smith for four and Blundell in relatively soft outs.

Warner Dearnshas has made a huge impact for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby 2026 PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY The Hurricanes and Chiefs have confirmed their sides for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final at 4pm on Saturday Both teams have been forced into changes as they look to break their respective droughts. The hosts are boosted by the return of Devan Flanders, who has overcome a concussion to start in the back-row. LATEST HEADLINES: Conway returns to Black Caps Silver Ferns for Glasgow 2026 Routliffe beats Williams this time White Ferns 2nd loss World Cup Origin players set for Warriors The only other change to the starting side comes in the second-row as Isaia Walker-Leawere partners Warner Dearns. Jacob Devery and Brad Shields have been added to the bench, with a sold-out crowd at Hnry Stadium already confirmed after all tickets were snatched up inside 15 minutes. "It’s a hugely exciting week and game ahead. A home final in front of a sold-out stadium, it doesn’t get much better than that,” said Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw. “We’ve prepared really well at the start of the week. We've got no question about what’s coming from the Chiefs and how good they are. We know it’s going to be a tough battle, but it’s something we’re really excited about. “It’s great news that we can welcome back Devan Flanders and pick a really settled team at this stage of the season. That’s something we’re really grateful for. It’s a massive weekend, we’re hugely excited and can’t wait to get into it.” Meanwhile, the Chiefs are looking to avoid four straight defeats in the Grand Final, losing former Waratah and nine-cap Wallaby Lalakai Foketi to a calf injury. Centre Kyle Brown comes into the starting side to replace him, joining vice-captain Quinn Tupaea. The other change comes at fullback, with Liam Coombes-Fabling shifting from the wing to replace Isaac Hutchinson (knee), paving the way for All Black Leroy Carter to start. Reon Paul has been added to the bench, while number eight Wallace Sititi wasn't considered as he continues to be managed following a nasty concussion. “You work hard to be given this opportunity and it is satisfying to be in this position, but we also know there is one more game to win," said coach Jono Gibbes. “The Hurricanes have been the pace setters throughout the season and it will be a terrific challenge playing them at their home, but it is one we are looking forward to. “Playing in front of a full house is always stimulating and we know there will be plenty of Chiefs supporters in the crowd, ringing their cowbells loudly.” The Hurricanes sole title was in 2016. The Chiefs won the title 2016 and 17. HURRICANES (1-15): Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua, Pasilio Tosi, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Warner Dearns, Devan Flanders, Du'Plessis Kirifi (co-c), Peter Lakai, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Fehi Fineanganofo, Jordie Barrett (co-c), Billy Proctor, Josh Moorby, Callum Harkin Replacements: Jacob Devery, Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Brad Shields, Brayden Iose, Ereatara Enari, Jone Rova, Kini Naholo CHIEFS (1-15): Ollie Norris, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Sione Ahio, Josh Lord, Tupou Vaa'i, Samipeni Finau, Luke Jacobson (c), Simon Parker, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, Kyren Taumoefolau, Quinn Tupaea, Kyle Brown, Leroy Carter, Liam Coombes-Fabling Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Jared Proffit, George Dyer, Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Reon Paul Referee: Nic Berry Assistant Referees: Reuben Keane, Louis Trisley TMO: Brett Cronan

Devon Conway is back on the Black Caps contract list along with Blair Tickner PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Devon Conway and Blair Tickner have returned to the 20-strong list of contracted Black Caps for the 2026-2027 period. Conway, 34 is fully contracted after playing as a casually contracted player the past two years, while seamer Tickner is also back on the list. LATEST HEADLINES: Silver Ferns for Glasgow 2026 Routliffe beats Williams this time White Ferns 2nd loss World Cup Origin players set for Warriors Super Rugby NZ final sell-out Tickner earns his recall to the list after compelling performances across all formats for both the Central Stags and the national side. He claimed four or more wickets in five of his last eight bowling innings for New Zealand, highlighted by his maiden international five-wicket-bag against Ireland last month. Conway’s 146 international caps and over 6000 runs across all formats is a welcome return to the central contract list, with the top-order batter making himself available for all international fixtures during the upcoming contracting period (1 August 2026 - 31 July 2027). “Blair has worked extremely hard over the past few years and added new levels to his game,” said head coach Rob Walter. "He’s an excellent team man and has stepped into various roles for the side over the past few months and excelled in them. “It’s important we continue to nurture that depth in our bowling stocks, especially with a heavy diet of red-ball cricket over the next 12 months, so to have Blair contracted full-time will help maintain that depth. “Devon has been a regular member of the side in all three formats for some time now, even whilst on a casual contract, so it’s great to have a player of his calibre back on the central contract list, especially with the amount of exciting cricket coming up.” Tickner and Conway’s inclusion means Adithya Ashok and Muhammad Abbas come off the centrally contract list. The Canterbury duo of Zak Foulkes and Mitch Hay retain their contracts after being added to the list for the first time last year and featuring for the Black Caps across all three formats in the past 12 months. Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman both requested not to be ranked in test cricket and remain on the central contract list as white-ball specialists. Discussions regarding casual playing contracts are underway, with an announcement expected in the coming weeks. Contracted Black Caps (2026-2027) Tom Blundell – Wellington Michael Bracewell – Wellington Mark Chapman – Auckland Devon Conway – Wellington Jacob Duffy – Otago Zak Foulkes – Canterbury Mitch Hay – Canterbury Matt Henry – Canterbury Kyle Jamieson – Canterbury Tom Latham – Canterbury Daryl Mitchell – Canterbury Henry Nicholls – Canterbury Will O'Rourke – Canterbury Glenn Phillips – Otago Rachin Ravindra – Wellington Mitchell Santner – Northern Districts Ben Sears – Wellington Nathan Smith – Wellington Blair Tickner – Central Districts Will Young – Central Districts

Carys Stythe looks to get a pass away for the Steel has been selectef for the Silver Ferns Commonwealth Games team PHOTO: SOUTHERN STEEL An experienced 12-strong Silver Ferns netball squads have been named to represent the New Zealand Team at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The team represents Dame Noeline Taurua's first time in charge of the side for around 18 months also has Steel defender Carys Stythe in ahead of veteran Phoenix Karaka. LATEST HEADLINES: Routliffe beats Williams this time White Ferns 2nd loss World Cup Origin players for Warriors Super Rugby final sell-out NZ All Whites draw with Ircan For Stythe who turns 24 this month it will be her first Commonwealth Games after debuting for the side in 2025 Defender Kelly Jackson brings the most Commonwealth Games experience to the group, as she returns for a third Games campaign, while shooter Grace Nweke and midcourter Kate Heffernan are both attending their second Commonwealth Games. Nine players, a mix of experience and rising talent, will be making their Games debuts at Glasgow 2026, with the side captained by Karin Burger, alongside Kate Heffernan who is Vice-Captain. Taurua, who will guide the national side for the second time at a Commonwealth Games, is excited by the mix of talent in the team. "When you look at the make-up of the squad, we have a great balance of players who will be around for many more pinnacle events, as well as more mature players who are in the prime of their careers and delivering amazing performances,’’ said Taurua. “This is an exciting team who showed what it is capable of last year. There is resilience, grit and genuine hunger within this group.” “Many of these players are also familiar with our court systems, processes and routines. With a short runway between assembling as a team and our opening match against Scotland. Continuity and familiarity is a real asset. In a campaign where every training session counts, this team allows us to spend less time learning and more time refining, connecting and performing,” she said. Dame Noeline said they have been planning for this campaign for a number of years. “The Commonwealth Games, alongside the 2027 Netball World Cup, is a pinnacle event and a key milestone within our four year cycle.” “We know it’s going to be a huge challenge, but it’s one we’re excited about. To represent New Zealand at an iconic event such as the Commonwealth Games, and to be part of a wider New Zealand Team alongside athletes from a range of sports, is a privilege. We are ready to embrace the challenge, enjoy the experience and grab the opportunity with both hands”. The team will assemble for a three-day training camp in New Zealand in early July after the domestic season concludes before heading to Manchester for a pre-Games camp ahead of arriving in Glasgow. New Zealand are set to play the opening game of the Games against hosts Scotland on July 25. NZ Team – Netball | Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games: Shooters: Georgia Heffernan, Grace Nweke, Martina Salmon, Amelia Walmsley. Midcourt: Madeline Gordon, Kate Heffernan, Kimiora Poi*, Mila Reuelu-Buchanan. Defence: Karin Burger, Catherine Hall*, Kelly Jackson, Carys Stythe. *subject to medical clearance Travelling reserve: Parris Mason Non-travelling reserves: Kate Burley, Aliyah Dunn, Tayla Earle, Te Paea Selby-Rickit, Elisapeta Toeava.

New Zealand's Erin Routliffe (left) and Mexico's Giulana Olmos after their win over Serena Williams and Karolina Muchova PHOTO: WTA New Zealand tennis pro Erin Routliffe has got one back over American great Serena Williams with victory in doubles at the WTA tournament in Berlin. After defeat to Williams at the Queens event in London last week in her comeback to the top level of the sport. Routliffe and her partner Giuliana Olmos, of Mexico, defeated the American and Karolina Muchova, of the Czech Republic 6-4, 6-4 with one break in each set on the Steffi Graf Stadium. LATEST HEADLINES: White Ferns 2nd loss World Cup Origin players for Warriors Super Rugby final sell-out NZ All Whites draw with Ircan Matt Garbett out of World Cup The unseeded pair will play third seeds Nicole Melichar-Martine, of the USA, and Sara Errani, of Italy, in the next round in Berlin. Routliffe was please to compete against a true tennis great. "We love that Serena is playing doubles," Routliffe said. "We play doubles all the time, and it makes people watch more doubles, so we love it." Routliffe and Melichar-Martine teamed up in London last week when they were beaten by Williams and Victoria Mboko, of Canada. "The first time, excited. The second time, I was like, 'Oh my God,'" Routliffe said. "Obviously, the draw happens every week, and you never know, and everyone is going to be watching her match, so to be able to be on the other side of the net is such an honor." The 31-year-old New Zealander is currently ranked 11 in the world doubles rankings. Serena, 44, and 45-year-old Venus Williams have been given a wildcard into the Wimbledon doubles which starts at the end of the month.

White Ferns captain Melie Kerr after the sides loss to eSri Lanka at the T20 World Cup PHOTO:: ICC The White Ferns have had their second consecutive loss at the T20 World Cup in England, beaten by five wicket by Sri Lanka. The defending champions lost to the West Indies in their opening game putting them in danger of missing the semifinals. . LATEST HEADLINES: Origin players for Warriors Super Rugby final sell-out NZ All Whites draw with Ircan Matt Garbett out of World Cup Dan Hall leaves Auckland FC It was Sri Lanka's first ever win over New Zealand at a World Cup. Another poor fielding performance hampered the New Zealand side but initially it was the batting which was a problem in Southampton. Choosing to bat first the White Ferns made 150-6 as Melie Kerr and Sophie Devine both scored 45 in a partnership of 43. Devine hit four fours and a six while Kerr five fours.. Only two other players - Georgia Plimmer and Maddy Green made double figures - each scoring 18 runs. Sri Lanka then put on 45 for the opening wicket and while the White Ferns had Nensi Patel take 2-23 adn Bree illing 1-33 while their were two run outs. Silva finished unbeaten on 54 and Nuthyangana on 24 as Sri Lanka reached their target with two balls to spare at 153-5 New Zealand are fifth in Group 2 with two losses with Sri Lanka just above them with one win from two games. The White Ferns next game is against Ireland on Saturday before games against Scotland and England.

Mitch Barnett is named on the extended bench for the Warriors clash with the Cowboys in Christchurch PHOTO: NRL Veteran forwards Mitchell Barnett and Kurt Capewell are in contention to back up from State of Origin duty after being included on the NZ Warriors’ extended bench for Sunday’s round 16 NRL clash against North Queensland at Christchurch. New South Wales prop Barnett and Queensland second rower Capewell go head-to-head again in the second match of this year’s Origin series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground tomorrow night. LATEST HEADLINES: Super Rugby final sell-out NZ All Whites draw with Ircan Matt Garbett out of World Cup Dan Hall leaves Auckland FC Black Sticks men beat Korea Warriors head coach Andrew Webster opted not to include them in the extended squad to face Penrith after Origin I but has named them this time giving him the opportunity to assess whether they will back up against the Cowboys. Barnett is named in jersey #22 and Capewell in #23 on a bench which includes two other frontline players in halfback Luke Metcalf and centre Rocco Berry. Both players have been used in the club’s New South Wales Cup team’s last two matches as they look to return to first grade. Also back in the squad is hooker Sam Healey who returns earlier than expected from his fractured thumb to slot in on the interchange. It had been anticipated he wouldn’t return until round 17 or 18. However, the Warriors have lost speedster Alofi’ana Khan-Pereira for a spell after he picked up a quadriceps contusion in a heavy collision just before halftime in Saturday night’s gruelling battle with the Sharks. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad replaced him at the halftime break and will now start on the left wing on Sunday. On the right wing Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, boasting 14 tries in 13 appearances so far this season, will play his 99th game for the club and is set to join the Warriors’ 100-game club in the round 17 match against the Dolphins. Sunday’s match at One New Zealand Stadium – sold out in five days in January – is the first NRL match played at Christchurch’s new sporting venue. It will be the third leg of a tripleheader with the club’s NRLW side playing a trial against the Broncos and the New South Wales Cup team taking on the Bulldogs. Warriors: 1. Taine Tuaupiki, 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, 3. Ali Leiataua, 4. Adam Pompey, 5. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita, 7. Te Marie Martin, 8. Tanner Stowers-Smith, 9. Wayde Egan, 10. Jackson Ford, 11. Jacob Laban, 12. Marata Niukore, 13. Erin Clark Interchange: 14. Sam Healey, 15. Eddie Ieremia-Toeava, 16. Demitric Vaimauga, 17. Kayliss Fatialofa, 18. Rocco Berry, 20. Luke Metcalf Reserves: 21. Makaia Tafua, 22. Mitch Barnett, 23. Kurt Capewell

Cam Roigard and the Hurricanes will face the Chiefs at a sold hout Hnry Stadium in the Super Rugby final PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Wellington's Hnry Stadium and the public are searching for extra seats for Saturday's Super Rugby Pacific grand final. It comes after the final between the Hurricanes and Chiefs sold out with tickets snapped up within 15 minutes of going on sale. LATEST HEADLINES: NZ All Whites draw with Ircan Matt Garbett out of World Cup Dan Hall leaves Auckland FC Black Sticks men beat Korea Fox top-10 Canadian Open Dent said the ticket-holders could expect all the bells and whistles that attend a grand final - fireworks, lightshows and half-time entertainment. The two teams qualified first and second for the playoffs and both sides boast a large number of All Blacks. The Hurricanes sole title was in 2016. The Chiefs won the title 2016 and 17.