The All Blacks: Comeback or Washed? 

Last week, the first All Blacks team of 2024 was unveiled, signifying the beginning of a new era for the national team under former Crusaders’ coach Scott Robertson.  The team selection has been met with a mix of reviews, ranging from criticism about certain snubs as well as praise.  

Crusaders’ Scott Barrett was named captain of the squad, making him the 81st man to captain the All Blacks in a Test. Robertson stated that his long-standing relationship with Barrett did in fact play a factor in his choice of captain. This is what he had to say: “There are some great leaders in our group, but having that existing connection to Scott was important.” 

A player that many feel has been snubbed is Blues player Hoskins Sotutu, who has been a standout for his team throughout the Super Rugby season. Sotutu was tied first for tries scored this season with Crusaders’ Sevu Reece- both players scored twelve tries.  

Despite the criticism, Scott Robertson has stated that he and the coaching staff are “excited about the squad”, and that they “know it’s a group that can play the style of rugby we want the All Blacks to play in 2024”.  

 

All Eyes on Clark? 

Twenty-two-year-old WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark has had all attention on her since her impressive college days. Selected as first pick in the WNBA draft this year by Indiana Fever, Clark has an incredibly outstanding college resume. Only time will tell if Clark truly a generational talent as her stats already seem to suggest.  

 

Legend Portia Woodman-Wickliffe to Retire 

New Zealand women’s rugby legend Portia Woodman-Wickliffe announced her retirement from international rugby. Woodman-Wickliffe. Began her sporting career as a professional netballer, however, was brought into the Black Ferns sevens team through the Go4Gold program. In a social media post, she stated “After 12 incredible years representing New Zealand in sevens and 15s, the upcoming Paris Olympics will me by last time playing in the black jersey.” 

 

It’s Coming Home…? 

With the Round of 16 over and the quarterfinals over the weekend, the Euros are nearing the end. The eight teams in the quarterfinals were Spain, Germany, Portugal, France, Netherlands, Türkiye, England and Switzerland. As you’re reading this, only four of these teams will remain. At Nexus, our predictions for the semifinals are as follows: Germany v Portugal (although, Spain has been truly spectacular and may just beat the host nation in their quarterfinal), and Netherlands v England. These predictions may be totally off-course, however no matter the results, the final games of the Euros will make for an intense battle of talent, passion, and sportsmanship.