The week that was

RUGBY NEWS looks back on some of the stories which made headlines in the week that was March 19-25.

CIPRIANI SIGNS WITH SALE

Melbourne Rebels first five Danny Cipriani confirms he will join Sale at the end of the Super Rugby season.

The former England flyhalf signs a three-year deal with the Aviva Premiership club.

HEALTH CONCERNS MAY END LAUAKI’S CAREER

Former All Blacks and Chiefs loose forward Sione Lauaki may have to give up rugby due to kidney and heart problems.

The 30-year-old, who played 17 tests between 2005 and 2008, ends his season at Bayonne to begin treatment after the problems were detected during a routine medical assessment in January.

LOMU CHASING MONEY

All Blacks great Jonah Lomu is chasing $NZ 890,000 in backpay and damages from the now defunct French club Stade Phoceen.

The 63-test veteran played for the side when it was known as Marseille-Vitrolles in 2009 at the end of his career.

KAINO CONFIRMS JAPAN MOVE

All Blacks and Blues loose forward Jerome Kaino announces he is to play in Japan after signing a two-year deal with Top League club Toyota.

CRUSADERS PLAY IN CHRISTCHURCH

The Crusaders play their first match in Christchurch in nearly two years when they take on the Cheetahs at the new AMI Stadium.

The red and blacks win a tight encounter 28-21 after Israel Dagg scores the match-winning try five minutes from time.

SLADE INJURED AGIN

Highlanders first five Colin Slade’s season is over after suffering an ankle fracture during his side’s loss to the Brumbies.

Slade suffers the injury during the second half of the 33-26 loss in Canberra.

CARE IN TROUBLE

England halfback Danny Care is questioned by police over an alleged sexual assault of a woman in Leeds on March 4.

The 25-year-old is released on bail.