Kiwis used to define ourselves as either League or Union supporters - never both. Not any more. In the rarified world of professional sport, the divisions between two traditional rival codes have been blown away. Top players have switched in the past - acrimoniously and mostly from 'amateur' Union to 'professional' league. Now the traffic is constant, both ways and highly lucrative. In a revealing look at the loyalties, the lure of the big dollar and the life-changing experiences of top flight players have changed allegiance, Bob Howitt and John Deaker capture the moment, the men and the memories. Featured players from both sides of the Tasman will include Vainga Tuigamala, Wendell Sailor, Lote Tuqiri, Marc Ellis, Matthew Ridge, John Gallaher, Matt Rogers. With in-depth interviews providing new insights and background information that puts the players and their decisions under the spotlight, the book is a must read for sports fans who find themselves watching the All Blacks and the Kiwis, and cheering for the warriors as well as their Super 14 team. Key selling point: The first serious book for the 21st century fans of the wider game of rugby, in both its forms, that recognises the new audience.

Author Biography

Veteran rugby writer and commentator Bob Howitt is an acknowledged expert, and his authoritative and analytical take on the game is hugely respected. Bob comments regularly on Radio Sport and is part of the senior editorial team at Player magazine. John Deaker, who lives and works in Auckland, produces Murray Deaker's top rating radio show on IZB. This is his first book.