It was a case of 'You win some, you lose some' for the Blues during their 55-21 DHL Super Rugby Pacific win over the Waratahs at Eden Park on Saturday.
All Blacks centre Rieko Ioane's desire to be part of rugby legacy at international and Super Rugby Pacific level proved greater than a move overseas when putting ink to a contract that will see him in New Zealand until 2027.
Melbourne's Super Rugby Pacific clash with the Blues has ended in misery, suffering a crushing 54-17 defeat as well as losing three key players to injury.
Winger Emoni Narawa has scored two first-half tries as the Chiefs extended their winning start to the Super Rugby Pacific season to six matches with a 20-13 win over the Blues.
Banking a 30–17 win over the Force, the Blues immediately turned their thoughts to their round six DHL Super Rugby Pacific game against the competition-leading Chiefs in Hamilton on Saturday.
Down but not out was Blues coach Leon MacDonald's summation after their 28-34 loss to the Crusaders in Super Rugby Pacific at Eden Park on Saturday night.
Wing Leicester Fainga'anuku scored three tries for the Christchurch-based Crusaders who held on to beat the Auckland-based Blues 34-28 in a fourth-round match which reprised last year's final in Super Rugby Pacific.
Super Rugby Pacific will celebrate the next generation of fans and players during Kids Round with special deals and free tickets making it easier than ever for families to attend matches during Round #4 of the 2023 season.
ACT Brumbies half back Nic White said "Test match intensity" was on display as his side upset the highly-rated Blues to send an early message in the Super Rugby Pacific season.
Staying grounded after the ease of their 60-20 win over the Highlanders will be the key for the Blues when meeting the Brumbies in Melbourne on Sunday.