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PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: Brothers Beauden and Jordie Barrett will take the field together for the first time when the Hurricanes play the Crusaders at the Border Rugby Club on Friday.

NEWS: Springbok Francois Louw and Samoan interational Kahn Fotuali'i have both been slapped with two-week bans.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wales have opted to make a solitary change for their crucial Six Nations encounter against Scotland by bringing fit-again George North back into the matchday team.

SEVENS: Cecil Afrika and Stephan Dippenaar have been brought into the South African Sevens squad to fill the void left by Seabelo Senatla and Albertus Smith for the upcoming legs in Las Vegas and Vancouver.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN: It is with great excitement that we await the opening salvos of the 2017 Super Rugby season - which, for the first time, includes a Thursday game.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Veteran Wallabies flank George Smith will make his Reds debut on Friday when the Queensland side hosts the Sharks at Suncorp Stadium.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Experienced French fullback Clement Poitrenaud could make his Super Rugby debut from the bench for the Sharks' opener against the Reds in Brisbane, however, the focus will be on Lwazi Mvovo's milestone achievement.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: All Blacks prop Nepo Laulala will make his long-awaited return to the field after being handed a starting role for the Chiefs in their Super Rugby opener against the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: All Blacks centre Malakai Fekitoa will start the 2017 Super Rugby season on a high note as he brings up his 50th Highlanders cap against the Chiefs in Dunedin on Friday.

NEWS: Tom Arscott signed for second tier Yorkshire Carnegie on Tuesday, a month after being sacked by Sale for giving inside information to his brother ahead of a Premiership clash with Bristol.

NEWS: Lyon have signed Argentina international loose forward Facundo Isa as medical cover, the French Top 14 side said on Tuesday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Lions believe having a host of their senior players based in Japan during the off-season is a good fit for them.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Despite a 20-15 win against UCT-Ikey Tigers, NWU-Pukke head coach Jonathan Mokuena admits that the hard labour starts now as they prepare for  Shimlas.

For the second year Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria will host its Prestige Rugby Evening with 10 schools matches on Tuesday, 7 March 2017.

NEWS: Loose forward Siyamthanda Kolisi has been appointed as captain of the Stormers in 2017, with lock Eben Etzebeth his vice-captain.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Shimlas were forced to dig deep for a hard-fought 22-13 victory over CUT-Ixias in Bloemfontein.

NEWS: Alan Solomons has joined Bristol as coaching consultant with immediate effect.

REACTION: Hat-trick hero James Short praised the contribution of the Exeter Chiefs pack as they brushed aside the attentions of Worcester Warriors in their latest Premiership encounter on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Cheetahs coach Franco Smith played down expectations that his team will automatically transform the Currie Cup success into Super Rugby form.

NEWS: Brighton's Amex Stadium where Japan caused the greatest upset in World Cup history with a 34-32 win over two-time world champions South Africa in 2015 has become a magnet for many Japanese tourists.

NEWS: Steve Gorvett has decided to step down as Chief-Executive at the end of the 2016/17 campaign.

NEWS: Glasgow Warriors have signed Hurricanes flank Callum Gibbins ahead of the 2017/18 season, subject to visa and medical. 

NEWS: Warriors have captured the signing of Jersey Reds tighthead prop Simon Kerrod.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: UJ's dramatic 18-17 victory over UP-Tuks not only handed them their first victory over the Pretoria side in seven years, but also blew the Varsity Cup competition wide open.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Saracens prop Mako Vunipola has returned to the England camp as 28 players assembled at Pennyhill Park to train for Sunday's Six Nations game against Italy at Twickenham Stadium.

NEWS: The Sunwolves added two more players to their squad ahead of this year's Super Rugby tournament.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Melbourne Rebels have named three Super Rugby debutants in the starting line-up and two on the bench.

VARSITY SHIELD WRAP: Log-leaders WSU yet again produced a stellar performance to beat TUT-Vikings 17-13 in Pretoria.

NEWS: It's an action-packed week for the world's top referees.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Blues will be without a number of stars for their Super Rugby opener against the Melbourne Rebels on Thursday.

NEWS: Wallabies star Dane Haylett-Petty has committed his future to Australian Rugby, signing a two-year extension with the ARU and the Western Force until the end of 2019.

NEWS: New Zealand legend Dan Carter revealed Tuesday that a luxury car maker has dropped him as a brand ambassador after he was caught drink-driving in Paris last week.

INJURY UPDATE: Italy coach Conor O'Shea called up Leicester's Michele Rizzo to replace injured prop Dario Chistolini.

INJURY UPDATE: Ireland stars Johnny Sexton, Rob Kearney and Conor Murray are expected to prove their fitness for Saturday's Six Nations showdown with France.

INJURY UPDATE: Barrelling centre Mathieu Bastareaud is out of Saturday's Six Nations clash away to Ireland due to a head injury.

INJURY UPDATE: Springbok Jan Serfontein is one of three players that will miss the Bulls' trip to Newlands on Saturday.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: A nervous final five minutes saw UP-Tuks fight back with a late try to trail by just a point against UJ but Joshua Stander failed to add the conversion from right in front to hand UJ an 18-17 victory.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: NWU-Pukke bounced back from a Round Three defeat to secure a 20-15 victory over UCT-Ikeys in Potchefstroom.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Maties were forced to dig deep in the second half to overturn a six-point half-time deficit to claim a bonus point 35-16 victory over the NMMU-Madibaz in Stellenbosch.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Stormers head coach Robbie Fleck believes he is now better prepared to coach at Super Rugby level. Warren Fortune reports.

NEWS: Newcastle Falcons' ambitious recruitment plans for the 2017-18 season have advanced with the news that Fijian international Josh Matavesi and younger brother Joel Matavesi have both signed for the club.

NEWS: Bath Rugby is pleased to announce that scrumhalf Darren Allinson has agreed to a deal to rejoin the club on a two-year contract from the start of the 2017/18 season.

SUPER RUGBY FUN: Here is your chance to prove you know more than the rugby365 staff!

VARSITY CUP UPDATE: The Bloemfontein derby between CUT-Ixias and Shimlas has been abandoned due to a waterlogged pitch.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: All Black Kieran Keane has left the shores of New Zealand to join Connacht rugby as their new head coach.

WIN WITH RUGBY365: You can win FREE tickets to watch the Stormers take on their arch rivals, the Bulls, in the opening round of the 2017 Super Rugby competition.

NEWS: Northampton Saints legend Phil Dowson has returned to his former stomping ground taking up the role as assistant coach for the 2017/18 season.

NEWS: Sale Sharks Director of Rugby Steve Diamond will appear before an RFU Disciplinary panel on Wednesday, February 22.

SUPER RUGBY SPOTLIGHT: Don't be surprised if the Japanese teamsheet at the 2019 World Cup includes the name Willem Stephanus Britz. Jan de Koning reports.

NEWS: The Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) has officially launched a new campaign that aims to help remove the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

NEWS: Former Leicester manager Richard Cockerill will become Edinburgh's new head coach later this year, the Celtic League side announced on Monday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Reds are not expecting the Sharks to be adventurous with ball in hand in their Super Rugby Round One clash in Brisbane on Friday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Australian Rugby Union has "considered a range of proposals and potential competition models" for the much-maligned Super Rugby tournament.

NEWS: Test rugby will return to Canberra for the first time in seven years when the Wallabies host Argentina at GIO Stadium in September this year.

NEWS: The Brumbies have included scrumhalf Dewet Roos in their 2017 Super Rugby Championship squad. 

Egon Seconds, a Super Rugby star turned referee, has been appointed to referee his first Super rugby match - Tokyo.

REACTION: South African flyhalf Willie du Plessis kicked 12 points as Montpellier defeated Toulouse 27-18 in the Top 14 on Sunday, but the vanquished 19-time French champions insisted that he should not have even been on the pitch.

Beaten in Round 1 by Germany, Romania, at home, beat Spain in Round 2 of Rugby Europe's top competition.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT:  Racing 92 backs Brice Dulin and Henry Chavancy were amongst seven players added to France's initial Six Nations squad for next Sunday's clash with Ireland in Dublin.

TOP 14 WRAP: Montpellier stayed on course for the Top 14 play-offs with a 27-18 win over Toulouse on Sunday, a result which left the slumping 19-time French champions marooned in mid-table.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Sonatane Takulua scored a hat-trick as Newcastle Falcons staged a roaring second-half comeback to defeat Northampton Saints 46-31 in a pulsating Premiership Rugby clash at Kingston Park.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Denny Solomona delivered one of the best individual displays ever seen at the AJ Bell Stadium as his hat-trick helped Sale Sharks stun Premiership Rugby leaders Wasps with a 34-28 win.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has included Jonathan Sexton in his 34-man squad for the upcoming Six Nations clash against France.

NEWS: Dan Biggar has emphasised the importance of beating Scotland at BT Murrayfield next Saturday if Wales are to retain hope of lifting the Six Nations crown.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The tussle for a semifinal spot is well underway as we approach the halfway point of the 2017 Varsity Cup competition and this round will certainly separate the contenders from the pretenders.

AMERICAS CHAMPIONSHIP WRAP: Mike Te'o scored three tries to power the United States over Canada 51-34 while defending champion Argentina routed host Chile 45-10 to stay atop the Americas Rugby Championship.

NEWS: Wallabies and Brumbies back Christian Lealiifano is determined to return after a successful bone marrow transplant.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wallabies lock Dan Vickerman has passed away suddenly at the age of 37.

TOP 14 WRAP: Racing 92 put Dan Carter's drink-driving shock behind them with a 33-25 win over Brive in the French Top 14 on Saturday.

PRO12 REPORT: First-half tries for Tiernan O'Halloran and Caolin Blade set reigning Pro12 champions Connacht up for a 14-9 victory over Newport Gwent Dragons.

PRO12 REPORT: Munster returned to the top of the Pro12 table after a last-gasp David Kilcoyne try gave the Irish outfit victory over Ospreys.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: James Short scored a hat-trick as Exeter Chiefs scored seven tries in a 48-32 victory over Worcester Warriors at Sixways to move level on points with Saracens.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Max Clark's second-half try and the boot of Rhys Priestland secured Bath a hard-fought 22-12 victory over Harlequins.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: JP Pietersen's first-half try double inspired Leicester Tigers to an eight-try 50-17 Premiership win over Bristol.

PRO12 REPORT: Ulster, with Springboks Marcel Coetzee and Ruan Pienaar in superb form, jumped above Glasgow Warriors and into fifth in the Pro12 standings.

PRO12 REPORT: Matthew Morgan starred as Cardiff Blues secured their first Pro12 victory since Boxing Day.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Conor O'Shea says he has approached the huge challenge of being Italy head coach like an alcoholic addressing his addiction and admitting there is a problem.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Stormers head coach Robbie Fleck has named a 45-man squad ahead of the 2017 Super Rugby season.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: With Keegan Daniel out injured, youngster Jacques Vermeulen is set to play a more prominent role in the Sharks back row.

PRE-SEASON: The Sunwolves warmed up for their 2017 Super Rugby campaign with a 24-12 win over a Japan Top League All Stars side.

NEWS: The Queensland Rugby Union Ltd (QRU) will report positive earnings before interest and depreciation of AUS$174 329 in 2016.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Richard Hibbard's 75th-minute try fired Gloucester to a remarkable 31-23 victory over reigning Premiership champions Saracens at Kingsholm.

PRO12 REPORT: Steff Evans turned in a dazzling try-scoring performance for Scarlets as they claimed a vital bonus-point 42-7 home win against Zebre to remain fourth.

PRO12 REPORT: Flyhalf Joey Carbery and Barry Daly scored two tries a piece as Leinster saw off Edinburgh 39-10 on Friday.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Jaguares head coach Raúl Pérez has named a 27-man squad for his team's opening Super Rugby games against the Southern Kings and the Stormers in South Africa.

INJURY UPDATE: Scotland No.8 Josh Strauss will take no further part in the Six Nations Championship after sustaining an injury to his kidney.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The Cheetahs have named a 37-man for this year's Super Rugby tournament.

NEWS: The international match between Tonga and Wales scheduled to take place in Nuku'alofa on June 17 will have to be moved to another country because of pitch problems, rugby officials said on Friday

It's the second round of Rugby Europe's main competition, often referred to as the Six Nations B this weekend.

NEWS: Scotland international Peter Horne has signed a new three-year contract with Glasgow Warriors.

SUPER RUGBY LAUNCH: Pay TV channels in New Zealand, Australia and South African have unveiled their campaigns and it show vastly different styles.

PREVIEW: Unbeaten United States visits Canada on Saturday for a critical match in the Americas Rugby Championship, with the Americans trying to keep pace with table-topping defending champions Argentina.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Blues capped off their pre-season with an impressive 26-14 victory over the Chiefs 26-14 in Alexandra Park on Friday.

SANZAAR has announced that it has made an amendment to the Television Match Official (TMO) protocol for the 2017 Super Rugby season.

NEWS: Exeter Chiefs lock Jonathan Hill has been suspended for two weeks for striking an opponent last weekend.

NEWS: Reds scrumhalf Nick Frisby has signed a two-year contract extension to remain at Ballymore until 2019. 

PRE-SEASON REPORT: Ngani Laumape capped off a day of fun, sun and rain at Border Rugby Club in Waverley with the winning try as the Hurricanes beat the Crusaders 33-27.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Dylan Hartley's chances of captaining the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand later this year have "gone backwards", according to former skipper Gavin Hastings.

TOP 14, WEEK 18: Time is running out for Englishman Mike Ford at three-time European champions Toulon ahead of this weekend's Top 14 matches.

REACTION: New Zealand Rugby Union legend Dan Carter apologised for a "massive error in judgement" after French police stopped him for drink-driving in Paris.

Jan de Koning and Tauriq Ebrahim look at the 'party' that makes Varsity Cup such a unique and great event!

NEWS: All Black legend Dan Carter has reportedly been caught by drink-driving by French police.

NEWS: French giants Toulon signed Argentina international back row forward Facundo Isa on a two-year deal.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Pro12 championship takes centre stage this weekend as the focus returns to club rugby.

NEWS: Newcastle Falcons have added title-winning prowess and proven international class to their side after signing French centre Maxime Mermoz.

REACTION: The Reds have struggled in the last few seasons of Super Rugby, but they will be no pushovers this time around says Sharks head coach Robert du Preez.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The Lions have named nine Springboks in their strong 40-man squad for the upcoming 2017 Super Rugby season.

NEWS: Southern Kings coach Deon Davids have opted for 'experience' when he named prop Schalk Ferreira as the team's captain for 2017.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Matt Scott is demanding a reaction from Gloucester as they prepare to take on champions Saracens on Friday, just six days after their Premiership defeat at Leicester Tigers.

NEWS: Allan Robson will be retiring as the Northampton Saints chief executive at the end of the 2016/17 season.

NEWS: New Zealand legend Ma'a Nonu has signed a one-year contract extension with Toulon, the French Top 14 club's President Mourad Boudjellal said on Thursday.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Reigning champions NWU-Pukke take no time to dwell on the negative as they prepare for a hard-hitting clash against UCT-Ikey Tigers in Potchefstroom. Leezil Hendricks reports.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: A last-gasp penalty helped the Highlanders beat the Waratahs 50-47 in a thrilling pre-season encounter in Brookvale on Thursday.

PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: Not only will the Cheetahs start the season without their captain and another centre, but two props are set to miss the entire season.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Head Coach Robert du Preez has named some exciting youngsters alongside some experienced campaigners in his 27-man touring squad that depart for Australia on Saturday.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: CUT-Ixias head coach Tiaan Liebenberg could be without six senior players against Shimlas in Bloemfontein. Leezil Hendricks reports.

NEWS: Rising star Reece Hodge has re-committed to Australia and the Melbourne Rebels, signing through until the end of 2020.

NEWS: SANZAAR confirmed a new and updated judicial process that will be implemented for Super Rugby 2017.

REACTION: Europe-based All Black Pat Lam slammed Steve Hansen on Thursday after the world champions' coach labelled him an "ex-New Zealander" in a row over players.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sam Whitelock, who will lead a powerful Crusaders team in their final pre-season Super Rugby hit-out, will have two assistants this season.

NEWS: Springboksand BlitzBoks wing Cornal Hendricks has joined the Bulls for medical and fitness testing.

NEWS: Injured prop Julian Redelinghuys beat a number of his Springbok teammates when he was named Player of the Year for 2016 at the Golden Lions Rugby Union's awards.

NEWS: Italian side Zebre bolstered their front row ranks with the acquisition of Griquas hooker Sidney Tobias.

NEWS: Scotland suffered a major blow as it was confirmed that captain Greig Laidlaw will miss the rest of the Six Nations with an ankle injury.

PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: When the Southern Kings made their Super Rugby debut in 2013, Siyanda Grey emerged as one of the young players to show immense promise.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: For the past few years, UCT-Ikey Tigers have been a side who plays an attractive brand of rugby, however, they were forced to adapt their usual running game to a kicking one. Tauriq Ebrahim reports.

NEWS: The South African Rugby Union may have been dragging their feet, but indications are that Allister Coetzee will remain as Springbok coach.

REACTION: The Reds will bank on defence as they head into Super Rugby 2017, after it stood them in good stead in their final pre-season outing.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Wits have already given two 2016 SA Schools players a taste of the Varsity Cup and we can expect to see more young players being given a chance to shine in the competition. Tauriq Ebrahim reports.

NEWS: Bristol Rugby Mark Sorenson has announced his retirement from professional rugby at the end of the 2016/17 campaign.

NEWS: The Stormers have confirmed the worst-kept secret of the year - that prop Oliver Kebble will join the Glasgow Warriors.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The Bulls have named all their off-season signings in a 46-man squad for the 2017 Super Rugby season.

NEWS: Dwayne Peel is set to join Ulster as Assistant Coach ahead of the 2017/18 campaign.

NEWS: Gloucester Rugby revealed that the meeting with European Professional Club Rugby board about a takeover by Montpellier owner Mohed Altrad was fruitful.

PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: The Stormers are determined to shed their tag as a dour, defensive-orientated team. Jan de Koning reports.

NEWS: Fiji Warriors will start the defence of their World Rugby Pacific Challenge title in March.

NEWS: Exeter Chiefs have strengthened their options at scrumhalf with the addition of Welsh international Martin Roberts.

PRE-SEASON PREVIEW: Highlanders head coach Tony Brown has named a strong starting XV against NSW Waratahs in Sydney.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Sharks believe that French star Clément Poitrenaud still has a lot to offer on the rugby field, despite the fullback being 34-years-old.

INJURY UPDATE: Bordeaux's New Zealand flank Peter Saili has suffered a fresh ruptured tendon in his comeback match, club manager Raphael Ibanez said on Tuesday.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Italy coach Conor O'Shea made no changes as he announced a 31-man training squad for an upcoming Six Nations clash against England.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Forwards Camille Chat, Eddy Ben Arous and Paul Jedrasiak were recalled to the France squad on Tuesday to prepare for their next Six Nations match against Ireland.

NEWS: South Africa international brothers Jannie and Bismarck Du Plessis will miss Montpellier's clash with Toulouse on Sunday after returning home following their father's death, the Top 14 club said on Tuesday.

NEWS: Scotland trio Gordon Reid, Josh Strauss and Mark Bennett will leave the Glasgow Warriors at the end of the season.

NEWS: The IRFU and Leinster announced that Jamie Heaslip has signed a new IRFU contract, which will see him play his rugby in Ireland until the end of the World Cup in Japan.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Despite the positive result against Madibaz on Monday, UP-Tuks head coach Pote Human is still not content with his side's performance and discipline.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Maties put in a performance worthy of the favourites tag on Monday against Pukke in Stellenbosch but coach Hawies Fourie believes there is more work to be done. Tauriq Ebrahim reports.

NEWS: England flyhalf George Ford is to return to Leicester from Premiership rivals Bath in time for the start of next season, the Tigers said on Tuesday.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Reds sent a warning to future opponents when they beat the Melbourne Rebels 32-13 in Brisbane on Tuesday.

OPINION: Ronan Calvert gives rugby365's readers his view on the latest action in the Northern Hemisphere's three top leagues - Premiership, Pro12 and the Top 14.

Six Nations has time off but Europe's top competition goes into its second week.

REACTION: Former Sale wing Tom Arscott has been given a written warning by the Rugby Football Union for passing on inside information to his brother, Luke, before the Sharks' Premiership match at Bristol.

NEWS: New Zealand forward Steven Luatua signed to play for English Premiership strugglers Bristol next season.

REACTION: Wales great Shane Williams said interim coach Rob Howley needed to stop picking Alex Cuthbert in "blind hope" after the wing came under fire for England's match-winning try in Saturday's dramatic Six Nations clash in Cardiff.

NEWS: Anthony Watson returned to the England squad after being named Monday in a 25-strong party for this week's training camp in central London, the Rugby Football Union announced.

REACTION: Sharks head coach Robert du Preez says they will be working hard on their ball retention ahead of their two-match tour to Australia.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: UP-Tuks proved too strong for Madibaz, as they secured a comfortable 33-16 win in Round Three of the Varsity Cup Monday.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: UCT-Ikey Tigers caused a big shock in the Varsity Cup as they recorded a 22-7 win against Shimlas in Bloemfontein.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Maties got their revenge over NWU-Pukke when they put in a complete performance to secure a 31-9 victory at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Wits came good in Round Three as they bagged their first 2017 Varsity Cup victory when they ran in five tries to defeat CUT-Ixias 41-3 in Johannesburg.

NEWS: Brendon O'Connor and Mike Fitzgerald have agreed to new terms to extend their time with Leicester Tigers.

With a strong win over Wales up at Parc Eirias, England look certainties to won the Under-20 Six Nations.

INTERVIEW: Australian Rugby League standout Ben Barba has arrived at Top 14 club Toulon promising to put a drug tainted past behind him and make the most of a fresh start.

OPINION: In this year when the British and Irish Lions go on tour, we will focus on the four Home Unions when selecting the famous rugby365 Team of the Week.

NEWS: Scrumhalf Jono Kitto and forward Greg Bateman have both agreed new terms with Leicester Tigers.

NEWS: Harlequins announced hat former London Welsh flank Ryan Hodson has joined the club with immediate effect as short-term injury cover for the back row.

INJURY UPDATE: The Southern Kings have picked up no serious injuries in their pre-season matches, but some of their players have dropped like flies on the training field. 

For the second weekend in a row England a clean sweep, their ladies enjoying the biggest victory of the three.

NEWS: Ulster announced that Jono Gibbes will join the Province as head coach ahead of the 2017/18 season, having signed a two-year contract.

PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: Lions coach Johan Ackermann readily admitted that his team has a lot of work to do ahead of the start of the Super Rugby season.

INJURY UPDATE: Chiefs scrumhalf Brad Weber and prop Mitchell Graham will both play no part in this year's Super Rugby campaign.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: All 18 Super Rugby teams have entered their final preparations and we will now get to see them in action with a number of pre-season fixtures.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Shimlas and Pukke have established themselves as the front-runners after two rounds of action, however, the chasing pack are hot on their heels as we head into Round Three of the Varsity Cup.

REACTION: Guy Noves insisted France's error-riddled Six Nations victory over Scotland was not a step backwards.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Eddie Jones has revealed how a meeting with a fitness expert previously consulted by Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has helped his England side stay unbeaten for over a year.

PRE-SEASON PREVIEW: The Reds have named a 29-man squad for their pre-season match against the Melbourne Rebels at Ballymore Stadium on Tuesday.

UPDATE: The Australian Rugby Union Integrity Unit has concluded its preliminary investigation into an incident involving Scott Higginbotham in Brisbane last weekend.

NEWS: All Blacks back Israel Dagg said Monday he had signed to stay in New Zealand until the end of 2019, turning down lucrative offers from overseas clubs.

INJURY REPORT: Stormers wing Leolin Zas has been ruled out of action for approximately a year with a broken leg.

It was the first round of Rugby Europe's top competition and it started with the surprising, first-ever victory of Germany over Romania.

REACTION: Scotland coach Vern Cotter refused to use injuries as an excuse for his team's 16-22 defeat to France in the Six Nations.

PRO12 SUNDAY WRAP: The returning Dave Kearney went over for a try double as Leinster cruised to a 40-14 win over Benetton Treviso at Stadio Monigo.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Joe Simpson rescued a draw for Premiership leaders Wasps with a late try at Exeter Chiefs in a pulsating end-to-end game, which featured 10 tries and a red card.

REPORT: Racing 92 ran in nine tries in a 59-20 bonus point rout of Bayonne on Saturday to maintain their hopes of making the French Top 14 play-offs.

NEWS: Ospreys revealed that Springbok tighthead prop Brian Mujati has signed on a short-term contract.

REPORT: France kept alive their hopes of a Six Nations title with a hard-fought 22-16 win over Scotland in Paris on Sunday.

REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones accepted his side had used up all their "get-out-of-jail cards" following a gripping 21-16 win away to Wales in the Six Nations.

REACTION: He might kick the odd "wounded duck", but Paddy Jackson's 18 points with the boot in a record 63-10 win over Italy could scupper Johnny Sexton's hopes of starting for Ireland against France in a fortnight.

REACTION: The Stormers have completed their pre-season with a third successive win, but it has come at a dear price.

REPORT: The Chiefs edged the Crusaders 12-5 in the Final of the inaugural Brisbane 10s.

SEMIFINAL WRAP: The Chiefs will meet the Crusaders in the Final of the inaugural Brisbane 10s.

QUARTERFINAL WRAP: The Chiefs and the Bulls will go head to head in the Brisbane 10s semifinals on Sunday.

AMERICAS CHAMPIONSHIP WRAP: Sebastian Cancelliere scored three tries and defending champion Argentina routed Uruguay 57-12, while the United States and Canada also took lopsided triumphs Saturday in the Americas Championship.

DAY TWO POOL WRAP: The Chiefs ended the run of Japan powerhouse Wild Knights at the Brisbane 10s.

NEWS: Former All Black Sione Lauaki has died at the age of 35, the New Zealand Rugby Union said Sunday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: France captain Guilhem Guirado admitted on Saturday that his team are in desperate need of a win ahead of Sunday's Six Nations clash against Scotland.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Super Rugby franchise the Kings proved too strong as they registered a 42-24 win over the SWD Eagles at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

MATCH REPORT: Leicester Tigers claimed their first  Premiership Rugby win under Aaron Mauger as newboy Maxime Mermoz’s late score wrapped up a bonus-point 34-9 win against Gloucester Rugby at Welford Road.

MATCH REPORT: Flyhalf Ryan Mills kicked all of Worcester Warriors’ points as they secured a crucial 24-18 win over reigning Premiership Rugby champions Saracens.

REPORT: A late try by Elliot Daly helped England beat Wales 21-16 in a thrilling game in Cardiff on Saturday.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Stormers produced a stellar second-half performance to record a 57-40 victory against Lions at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town.

REPORT: A hat-trick of tries for Christiaan Stander and Craig Gilroy, and nine conversions from flyhalf Paddy Jackson, relaunched Ireland's Six Nations title hopes Saturday with a record 63-10 win over Italy in Rome.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland may be getting a reputation for being an expansive running outfit but assistant coach Jason O'Halloran believes they can still mix it in the mud.

DAY ONE FINAL WRAP: The Bulls ended the opening day of the Brisbane 10s with a narrow 5-7 defeat to the Brumbies, after claiming victory in their opening match earlier in the day.

DAY ONE, WRAP TWO: Japanese side the Wild Knights secured their second victory at the Brisbane 10s when they edged the Rebels 17-12 while the Hurricanes go their campaign off to a winning start.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Italy coach Conor O'Shea has insisted there will be no question of divided loyalties when the Azzurri face his native Ireland in the second round of the Six Nations Championship on Saturday.

SIX NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: Centre Remi Lamerat admitted France are feeling the pressure ahead of Sunday's Six Nations clash against Scotland in Paris.

DAY ONE, WRAP ONE: The Bulls made a winning start to their Brisbane 10s campaign when they managed to come from behind to beat the Force while there were two massive upsets in the opening six matches.

PREMIERSHIP FRIDAY WRAP: Rhys Priestland nailed a last gasp penalty to seal an incredible game of rugby 32-30 in Bath's favour after a stunning Northampton Saints comeback.

PRO12 FRIDAY WRAP: Munster demonstrated why they are top of the Pro12 table with a 45-17 victory over Newport Gwent Dragons at Irish Independent Park.

PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: Lions coach Johan Ackermann is using his team's trip to Newlands on Saturday as a last chance to experiment.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Stalwart Maties flank and captain Beyers de Villiers has been forced to retire from the sport following numerous concussions in a short period of time. Tauriq Ebrahim reports.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Italy captain Sergio Parisse has warned against "surprise plays" and Ireland's intention to "do damage" when they clash in a potential Six Nations bruiser in Rome on Saturday.

NEWS: Wales will give George North and Dan Biggar as long as they can to prove their fitness for Saturday's Six Nations clash against England in Cardiff.

NEWS: Ireland have called James Tracy in as cover for captain and hooker Rory Best, who is sick with a stomach bug ahead of their Six Nations test against Italy in Rome.

South African Jody Rose will start his third season at flyhalf for Romania against Germany in Offenbach on the opening round of Rugby Europe's Championship.

REACTION: Teammates from South Africa's 1995 World Cup winning squad carried the coffin of Joost van der Westhuizen into his memorial service on Friday in front of several hundred mourners.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Despite their stellar performance being insufficient in Stellenbosch, WITS head coach Hugo van As believes his side can only improve as the competition grow.

SIX NATIONS ROUND TWO: The showdown between France and Scotland in Paris will be a special occassion for Scottish fullback Stuart Hogg as he brings up a milestone in his international playing career.

I Round 1 of the Women's Six Nations,  England and Wales were clear-cut winners, and in Round 2 they meet in Wales.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Scarlets loose forward John Barclay replaced the injured Ryan Wilson in the only change to the Scotland team announced on Friday for Sunday's Six Nations clash with France in Paris.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: After a horrendous loss in Round two, NMMU-Madibaz have enough quality to turn their fortunes.

REACTION: MyPlayers, the Rugby Players' Organisation, through its members paid tribute to Springbok great Joost van der Westhuizen ahead of his funeral and memorial service on Friday in Pretoria.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Flank Loann Goujon replaces Damien Chouly in coach Guy Noves's solitary change to his France team announced on Friday to face Scotland in the Six Nations on Sunday.

IN THE PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: Stormers coach Robbie Fleck believes beating the Lions at Newlands on Saturday is an important part of his team's build-up to the Super Rugby season.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: England coach Eddie Jones believes his side have "moved on" from their harrowing 2013 loss in Cardiff as they once again prepare for a Six Nations match away to Wales.

NEWS: Free State Cheetahs captain Francois Venter walked off with the Player of the Year award at their annual award ceremony in Bloemfontein.

PREVIEW: Defending champions Argentina, who downed Canada 20-6 at snowy Langford last week, return home to host Uruguay at Bahia Blanca Saturday in the second round of the Americas Rugby Championship.

NEWS: The retractable roof at Cardiff's Millenium Stadium will remain open for Saturday's Six Nations Championship clash between Wales and England following a request by the visitors.

SIX NATIONS ROUND TWO: England have been doing so well that they are now everybody's target.

SIX NATIONS ROUND TWO: Avoiding delays, and another sluggish start, away to a determined Italy will be key as Ireland look to salvage their Six Nations title hopes with a win in Rome on Saturday.

Jan de Koning and Tauriq Ebrahim pay tribute to a true legend of the game and then also look at the weekend's games.

SUPER RUGBY PRE-SEASON: Some of the biggest names in the game - both past and present - will be on display when the Brisbane 10s take place on Saturday and Sunday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Nine rounds remain in the Pro12 championship and this period during the Six Nations will test the mettle of all the title contenders.

VARSITY SHIELD WRAP: UWC had to fight off a determined CPUT side to claim a narrow 26-23 victory in the opening match of the Varsity Shield at the UWC Stadium.

The big match this week is Wales against England in Wales - two teams that won in the first round.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Fresh from a defeat, CUT-Ixias head coach Tiaan Liebenberg prepares for a mammoth challenge against Wits.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Mat Luamanu has stressed the need for Harlequins to be quick out of the blocks if they are going to get back to winning ways against Bristol at Ashton Gate this weekend.

NEWS: Stormers flyhalf Brandon Thomson has joined Glasgow Warriors for two months on a short-term deal.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Captain Sergio Parisse has shaken off a neck injury to lead resurgent Italy into Saturday's Six Nations clash against embattled Ireland in Rome. 

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland have decided to do without inspirational flyhalf Jonathan Sexton for their key Six Nations international against Italy in Rome on Saturday.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Flank Marnus Schoeman will play no part in the Stormers' Super Rugby warm-up match against the Lions at Newlands on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Star backs George North and Dan Biggar were both included Thursday in the Wales XV for their Six Nations international against England in Cardiff on Saturday after they each overcame injury problems.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Despite bagging two bonus-point victories in the Varsity Cup thus far, Shimlas head coach Hendro Scholtz is not quick to pop the champagne just yet.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Southern Kings coach Deon Davids named a 30-man squad that will take on the South Western Districts Eagles in a pre-season friendly at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sharks head coach Robert du Preez has made four changes to his starting XV that beat the Cheetahs 35-7 last week for their friendly against a Bulls XV on Friday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok flyhalf Elton Jantjies will lead the Lions against the Stormers at Newlands on Saturday.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Bulls put on display their Super Rugby prospects with an impressive 28-7 win over the Chiefs in a pre-season match in Brisbane on Thursday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Jack Clifford has been recalled to an inexperienced England back row in place of Tom Wood for Saturday's Six Nations international against Wales in Cardiff.

NEWS: Scottish side Glasgow Warriors are set to sign another Stormers star soon.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The Melbourne Rebels have made three change to their final squad for the inaugural Brisbane Global Rugby Tens at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane this weekend.

NEWS: James Slipper believes he can help the Reds turn their fortunes around.

NEWS: All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu has been "fully exonerated" of doping after his B-sample came up clean, New Zealand Rugby said Thursday.

REACTION: A security consultant accused of planting a listening device in a hotel used by the All Blacks said he was innocent Thursday, insisting he knew nothing about the "stupid bloody bug".

SIX NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: England football manager Gareth Southgate said it had been "fascinating" to spend time with Eddie Jones as a rival rugby coach compared the Australian to legendary football manager Brian Clough.

SIX NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: France international forward Sebastien Vahaamahina says he's coming out of his shell under Guy Noves after losing his way during the Philippe Saint-Andre era.

SIX NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: England flank Tom Wood has been passed fit to play in Saturday's Six Nations match away to Wales, but the title-holders could yet alter their back row line-up.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wales star Sam Warburton has compared arch-rivals England to world champions New Zealand ahead of their Six Nations clash in Cardiff on Saturday.

NEWS: Edinburgh announced the re-signing of loosehead prop Rory Sutherland and scrumhalf Nathan Fowles.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The 33rd St Stithians Easter festival takes place in the three days of 13-17 April.

There are 30 schools taking part in the 32nd Oakdale Rugby Week this year.

NEWS: Saracens have signed Samoan vice-captain Fa'atiga Lemalu on a short-term deal from Japanese Super Rugby side Sunwolves.

There are 30 schools taking part in the 32nd Oakdale Rugby Week this year.

REACTION: A new-look UJ outfit suffered their second consecutive Varsity Cup defeat on Monday and now faces a test of their character if they want to turn their season around.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: While there was understandable frustration from France following their failure to win at Twickenham in the opening round of the Six Nations, prop Cyril Baille insists they must have faith in their game plan.

NEWS: The Griffons and Griquas Country Districts will get the 2017 Under-18 Craven Week underway when they lock horns on Monday, July 17 at St Stithians College in Johannesburg.

PRE-SEASON BUILD-UP: Not having played against any New Zealand teams last year, the Bulls are in desperate need of game time against Kiwi franchise.

EXCLUSIVE: rugby365 law guru Paul Dobson provides clarity on when time is considered up, referencing the Women's Six Nations encounter between Scotland and Ireland.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Is this a curious case of a gamekeeper turn poacher? The strange twists and turns of the bugging saga in a New Zealand team room last year took a more intriguing twist this week.

RUGBY365'S SPECIAL BUMPER EDITION: In the fifth and final instalment - a half-hour long episode - Brendan Venter explains how Italy achieved their historic win over the Springboks. It is the best of Ethienne Reynecke, Venter and Ernst Joubert.

RUGBY365'S SPECIAL BUMPER EDITION: In a full-hour-long special Ethienne Reynecke, Brendan Venter and Ernst Joubert dissect South African rugby.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Andy Farrell has warned Ireland they must show an appetite for destruction if they are to rescue their Six Nations campaign against Italy this weekend.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland assistant coach Jonathan Humphreys admits his team can't rely on the surprise factor any more after a cunning line-out move paid off in their Six Nations win over Ireland.

As the Six Nations moves on to Round 3, two winners meet in Cardiff on Saturday with Jérôme Graces to see fair play.

WIN WITH RUGBY365: You van win FREE tickets to watch the Stormers take on the 2016 Super Rugby runners-up, the Lions, on Saturday.

IN THE PREMIERSHIP SPOTLIGHT: Springbok Ashley Johnson explains to Jan de Koning why he left South Africa less than a year after making his Test debut and the benefits reaped of that decision.

REACTION: UCT-Ikeys may have ended their winless streak in the Varsity Cup, but silly mistakes are still a major concern for head coach Christiaan Esterhuizen.

REACTION: Maties may have come away with a victory in Round Two of the Varsity Cup but they are yet to find their groove and emulate their 2016 performances.

INJURY UPDATE: Italy skipper Sergio Parisse is undergoing an MRI scan to assess the full extent of the neck injury he picked up in Italy's 7-33 home defeat by Wales in Round One of the Six Nations.

INJURY UPDATE: Ireland and Leinster playmaker Johnny Sexton is highly unlikely to feature in Round two of the Six Nations against Italy in Rome this weekend.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: New signing Lodewyk de Jager will make his first appearance for the Bulls against the Chiefs in Brisbane on Thursday, after being named in the squad to take on the New Zealand team.

NEWS: Melbourne Rebels centre Mitch Inman believes the hit out has helped the squad’s preparations for the Brisbane Global Rugby Tens.  

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Australia and New Zealand Tuesday saluted "extraordinary" South African rugby legend Joost van der Westhuizen, hailing his skill and leadership as an inspiration.

NEWS: A security consultant was charged Tuesday over a bugging device planted in the All Blacks' hotel before last year's rugby Test against Australia in Sydney, an incident which raised tensions between the teams.

NEWS: All Blacks vice-captain Ben Smith said Tuesday he had signed up to stay with the world champions until 2020, fending off interest from cashed-up French clubs.

On the opening weekend of Six Nations rugby, England and Wales women were each a part of their country's clean sweep.

OBIT: Joost van der Westhuizen's place in the pantheon of rugby greats is indisputable.

NEWS: New Zealand international centre Conrad Smith is close to extending his stay at Pau, but All Black fullback Ben Smith will not be joining the French Top 14 outfit.

OPINION: In this year when the British and Irish Lions go on tour, we will focus on the four Home Unions when selecting the famous rugby365 Team of the Week.

In the first round of the Under-20 Six Nations, Ireland just won, Wales won comfortably and England thrashed France.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Reigning champions NWU-Pukke powered their way to a 37-7 win over a hapless NNMU-Madibaz at Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds on Monday.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Precision kicking by flyhalf Theo Stapelberg ensured Maties claimed a nail-biting 26-14 victory over Wits in Stellenbosch.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Four second half tries in the space of 16 minutes saw the Shimlas cruise to a convincing 47-29 victory over UJ in Johannesburg.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Centre Rico Lategan's try in the last minute of the match handed UCT-Ikeys a 21-12 win against CUT-Ixias at the Green Mile.

INJURY UPDATE: The Sharks will be without Keegan Daniel for up to 12 weeks after the loose forward fractured his radius in the pre-season match against the Cheetahs last weekend. 

NEWS: Scrumhalf Dave Lewis will join the Harlequins from the 2017/18 season after signing from Exeter Chiefs.

REPORT: The Western Force beat a young and inexperienced Melbourne Rebels outfit 27-5 in their second pre-season Super Rugby match on the Gold Coast on Monday.

BREAKING NEWS: Springbok legend Joost van der Westerhuizen has lost his battle to motor neuron disease and died on Monday, February 6.

NEWS: Tom Varndell has committed his future to Bristol until the end of the 2017/18 campaign.

NEWS: Scotland international Huw Jones will leave Newlands at the end of 2017 to join Glasgow Warriors on a two-year deal.

NEWS: Northampton Saints announced the signing of Rob Horne into the club's squad ahead of the 2017/18 season.

INJURY UPDATE: England lock George Kruis will undergo surgery on Tuesday for a knee ligament injury he sustained in training last week.

NEWS: Injured Springbok prop Julian Redelinghuys will remain in the game, even if his neck injury prevents him from playing again.

Egon Seconds, for the first time, joins the referees squad for the 2017 Super Rugby Tournament.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The second round of Varsity Cup action sees two opening round winners go head to head in a round littered with close calls.

NEWS: Former Springboks head coach Heyneke Meyer has become the Managing Director of a Hong Kong-based sports marketing business. 

INTERVIEW: Celebrated World Cup Final referee Nigel Owens asked to be chemically castrated by his doctor after realising he was gay, he told the BBC.

NEWS: All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu has been suspended following a positive drugs test, New Zealand Rugby has revealed. 

INJURY UPDATE: Argentine Pumas scrumhalf Tomas Cubelli will miss the early months of the Brumbies' Super Rugby season with a knee injury, the team said on Monday.

REACTION: Interim coach Rob Howley called on Wales to "improve in all areas" before facing England after overcoming a tedious first half to secure a 33-7 win over Italy in their Six Nations opener on Sunday.

REACTION: Italy coach Conor O'Shea invited media to "watch the first two minutes" of his side's 7-33 Six Nations defeat to Wales amid claims the hosts received unfair officiating.

REACTION: Springbok Sevens all-time try-scoring record holder, Seabelo Senatla said the back-to-back tournament wins for the BlitzBoks was the perfect way for him to end his current involvement with the team.

REACTION: Southern Kings head coach Deon Davids was not a happy man after his team's 28-10 win over Border on Saturday.

REACTION: Springbok Sevens coach Neil Powell said he is super proud of his squad after the BlitzBoks won the Sydney Sevens. 

REACTION: Stormers head coach Robbie Fleck is excited to see how much his team have progressed when they face the Lions in their final pre-season friendly at Newlands on Saturday.

REPORT: Leigh Halfpenny kicked 18 points while Jonathan Davies, Liam Williams and George North touched down as Wales got their Six Nations campaign underway with a 33-7 win over Italy in Rome on Sunday.

PRE-SEASON BUILD-UP: The Melbourne Rebels have named 13 uncapped players in an extended 31-player squad for the team's first trial match of the year against the Western Force at Bond University.

NEWS: The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) is investigating an incident involving Reds player Scott Higginbotham in Brisbane on Sunday.

AMERICAS WRAP: Second-half tries by Santiago Medrano and Segundo Tuclet powered defending champion Argentina over Canada 20-6 Saturday while the United States edged Uruguay 29-23 in Americas Rugby Championship openers.

REACTION: Scotland head coach Vern Cotter believes his team's thrilling 27-22 opening day win at home to Ireland has "changed the dynamics" of their Six Nations campaign.

FINAL WRAP: The BlitzBoks increased their lead at the top of the World Sevens Series table when they beat England 29-14 in the Sydney Sevens Cup Final.

REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones promised to do a better job after his "awful" Grand Slam champions launched the defence of their Six Nations title with a scrappy 19-16 win over France at Twickenham.

SEMIFINALS WRAP: South Africa beat Australia 26-12 to secure their place in the Sydney Sevens Cup Final on Sunday.

QUARTERFINALS WRAP: South Africa booked their spot in the Cup semifinals after they beat the United States 21-10 in their quarterfinal on Day Two of the Sydney Sevens.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: Kings secure a hard-fought 28-10 victory against Border Bulldog at Buffalo Stadium in East London

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Stormers scored nine tries to pick up a convincing 57-14 victory against South Western Districts Eagles at Outeniqua Park in George on Saturday.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: Replacement Jarryd Sage scored a brace as Lions demolished SupaBarbarians 49-19 in a pre-season friendly at Wits Stadium.

REPORT: A 70th minute converted try by substitute Ben Te'o helped England secure a nervy 19-16 victory over France at Twickenham on Saturday, to hand England their 15th consecutive victory.

REPORT: A dogged defensive display, coupled with excellent finishing, ensured Scotland got their Six Nations campaign off to the perfect start with a 27-22 victory over Ireland at Murrayfield on Saturday.

SYDNEY SEVENS REACTION: Springbok Sevens coach Neil Powell admits his side need to step up after a lost to England in their final pool A match at the Sydney Sevens.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Waratahs put down a big marker when they beat the Brumbies 53-17 in their Super Rugby pre-season outing in Mudgee on Saturday.

DAY ONE WRAP: England, as they did in Cape Town, beat South Africa in a crucial match - this time in a decisive pool fixture on Day One at the Sydney leg of the Sevens World Series.

NEWS: Springbok legend and 1995 World Cup winner Joost van der Westhuizen is in a critical condition in hospital.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The seven-time Super Rugby champion Crusaders outplayed the Highlanders, winning 50-33 to claim the Farmlands Cup in Darfield on Saturday.

DAY ONE WRAP: Wales caused the first upset on Day One at the Sydney leg of the Sevens World Series.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: Two first half tries to young centre Jonah Lowe and a late match-winner to prop Chris Eves have punctuated the Hurricanes 38-33 win over the Blues.

DAY ONE WRAP: The big guns had little trouble with the first round opponents on Day One at the Sydney leg of the Sevens World Series.

SIX NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: After England coach Eddie Jones talked of a "war" against France on Saturday, scrumhalf Ben Youngs said opposite number Baptiste Serin was the latest French rugby "general".

PRO12 REPORT: Munster reclaimed top spot in the Pro12 after a tense win against a stubborn Edinburgh side thanks to a second half penalty from flyhalf Tyler Bleyendaal.

INJURY UPDATE: England have still to discover just how long George Kruis will be out of action after the lock decided to seek a second opinion regarding a knee injury.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: France captain Guilhem Guirado warned his side they must match the ferocity of champions England if they are to spring a Six Nations surprise in "Le Crunch" at Twickenham on Saturday.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Sharks scored five tries en route to a 35-7 victory over the Cheetahs in their main game in Umlazi on Friday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: England captain Dylan Hartley has no worries about being "rusty" for the champions' Six Nations opener against France at Twickenham on Saturday even though it will be his first match for over a month.

NEWS: The South African Rugby Union remains silent about who the SApringbok coach for 2017 and beyond will be.

NEWS: Bordeaux's France international prop Jean-Baptiste Poux has put retirement on hold and will extend for a year with the Top 14 side as he moves into coaching, the club President said Friday.

SYDNEY SEVENS TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wales Sevens coach Gareth Williams hopes the return of Luke Treharne will add experience for the upcoming Sydney Sevens tournament.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Bulls head coach Nollis Marais has named flyhalf Handré Pollard to captain his squad at the inaugural Brisbane 10s.

PRE-SEASON SPOTLIGHT: The Lions may have one of the most settled teams, including a rash of Springboks, but that does not guarantee any player a spot in the squad.

NEWS: Bath Rugby back row Zach Mercer has signed a senior contract extension, which will see the Academy player promoted to the senior squad and commit his future to the Club until the end of the 2018/19 season.

PRE-SEASON BUILD-UP: Dillyn Leyds will captain a 30-man Stormers squad in their pre-season friendly against franchise partners, the South Western Districts Eagles, in George on Saturday.

SYDNEY SEVENS TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: After their success at  Wellington Sevens last week, Springbok Sevens coach Neil Powell sticks with the tried and tested as he named an unchanged side to contest the Sydney Sevens this week.

It will be keen and in fact has been growing in stature with better support. In fact women's place in rugby is growing.

REACTION: Olympic gold medal-winning coach Ben Ryan has welcomes news that SANZAAR is prepared to 'talk' about the prospect of a Fijian team in Super Rugby.

SIX NATIONS ROUND ONE: Italy head coach Conor O'Shea is fully focussed on his side given their all throughout the competition, starting with Wales on Sunday.

SYDNEY SEVENS TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Tasman duo of Trael Joass and Andrew Knewstubb will get their starting caps for the All Blacks Sevens in the fourth leg of 2016/17 World Series in Sydney this weekend.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Canada head coach Mark Anscombe has named a fairly young starting line-up for Saturday’s 2017 Americas Rugby Championship opener against Argentina.

SIX NATIONS ROUND ONE: England, who are riding the crest of the rugby wave, will be hoping to wash France out of the way at Twickenham on Saturday.

SIX NATIONS ROUND ONE: Scotland coach Vern Cotter has warned his emerging side they face "a huge task" against Ireland in their Six Nations opener at Murrayfield on Saturday.

REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones is confident Maro Itoje can make up for the absence of Chris Robshaw.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Jordie Barrett will share the Hurricanes fullback duties with Nehe Milner-Skudder as the defending Super Rugby champions start their 2017 preseason campaign against the Blues in Auckland on Saturday.

WORLD SERIES ROUND FOUR: The pundits are wondering if anybody can stop the South African Sevens juggernaut. The bookmakers suggest nobody can.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: After being hampered by injuries over the years, Patrick Lambie is hoping he can make a valuable contribution to the Sharks cause during this year's Super Rugby campaign.

NEWS: The Stormers have moved swiftly to plug the gap left by the injury to Lions import Stephan de Wit.

PRE-SEASON BUILD-UP: The Sharks and Cheetahs will go head-to-head in a double-header in Umlazi on Friday in what will be the first glimpse of either team's potential.

This year's Six Nations Under-20 Championship is the tenth since the first in 2008.

PRO12 CATCH-UP MATCH: Edinburgh's first run-out at Myreside Stadium in the Pro12 promises to be a fascinating affair with visitors Munster looking to reclaim their position at the top of the table.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has named a powerful side to take on Scotland in the Six Nations on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: France head coach Guy Noves has included the young scrumhalf Baptise Serin in his starting XV to face England in the Six Nations opener at Twickenham.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Scotland head coach Vern Cotter has included Stormers centre Huw Jones to start Scotland's opening Six Nations match against Ireland on February 4 at BT Murrayfield.

NEWS: Prop Derrick Appiah has joined Edinburgh Rugby on a short-term loan from Worcester Warriors.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Seasoned scrumhalf Ross Cronjé will lead the Lions in their Super Rugby pre-season outing against the against the SupaBarbarians XV in Johannesburg on Saturday.

NEWS: Former England coach Clive Woodward has urged the Six Nations to become a straight five-week tournament to boost Europe's chances of producing another World Cup-winning side.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Scrumhalf Rhys Webb has been named in Wales' starting XV for their Six Nations clash against Italy on Sunday.

NEWS: Northampton Saints have signed Jamal Ford-Robinson and Mitch Eadie from Bristol for the 2017/18 season.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: With the likes of Jerome Kaino, Charlie Faumuina and Rieko Ioane set to miss the Blues Super Rugby opener head coach Tana Umaga is keen to discuss the early-season with All Blacks coaches.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England have made five changes to the starting XV that defeated Australia in November for their opening Six Nations clash against France.

INJURY UPDATE: Western Force captain Ben McCalman will take no part in the inaugural Brisbane Tens.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Southern Kings are in for a rude awakening if they think their first pre-season outing, against the Border Bulldogs, will be the proverbial walk in the park.

NEWS: Australia Rugby Union are doing everything in their power to stop Ben Barba playing for Toulon at the Brisbane Global Tens.

SYDNEY SEVENS TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Australian coach Andy Friend has named three debutants in his team ahead of this weekend's Sevens World Series event in Sydney.

NEWS: Wales lock Lou Reed  hs left Premiership side Sale Sharks with immediate effect.

PRE-SEASON BUILD-UP: The Brumbies have named a strong starting XV to tackle the Waratahs in their latest trial match in Mudgee this weekend.

PRE-SEASON BUILD-UP: The Crusaders and Highlanders kick off their 2017 pre-season matches with the clash at Darfield Rugby Club on Saturday.

INJURY UPDATE: French centre Yann David's hopes of playing his first international in seven years were shattered Wednesday.

NEWS: Racing 92 scrumhalf Xavier Chauveau has been ruled out of the rest of the season after the French champions confirmed he will require shoulder surgery.

NEWS: France centre Maxime Mermoz has joined Leicester from Toulon until the end of the season.

INJURY UPDATES: George Kruis has added to England's injury woes after being ruled out of the Grand Slam champions' Six Nations opener against France at Twickenham on Saturday.

NEWS: Springbok utility back Francois Steyn's appeal against his four-week suspension was dismissed.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Record-breaking former Springbok coach Nick Mallett chatted to Jan de Koning about the reasons for the player and coaching exodus from South Africa.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Edoardo Gori will form a halfback partnership with Carlo Canna as new-look Italy look to cause the first big upset of the Six Nations with a win over Wales in Rome on Sunday.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: NMMU-Madibaz took a step in the right direction in their Varsity Cup opener on Monday, which delighted head coach David Maidza.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: With 10 debutants on the field and testing conditions to play in, UJ coach Werner Janse van Rensburg remains upbeat despite going down in their opening fixture on Monday.

NEWS: Leukaemia patient Christian Lealiifano will have a 'captaincy' role at the Brumbies, despite still receiving treatment for his illness.

NEWS: Cardiff Blues revealed that skills coach Paul John will leave the region to become head coach of Hong Kong Sevens.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa's players have their feet firmly planted on the ground, despite ruling the Sevens world at present.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The Melbourne Rebels have named seven internationals and a former Australian vice-captain in their squad for the inaugural Brisbane 10s on February 11 and 12.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: England Sevens head coach Simon Amor has opted to maintain the same squad for a fourth successive tournament when they compete in Sydney on February 3-5.

INJURY UPDATE: England lock George Kruis could be in doubt for England's Six Nations opener against France on Saturday after suffering a knee injury during training on Tuesday.

A RUGBY365 EXCLUSIVE: In the fourth instalment of Rugby With Reynecke, Ethienne Reynecke, Ernst Joubert and Brendan Venter discuss whether the Springboks can be successful without foreign-based players like Duane Vermeulen.

A RUGBY365 EXCLUSIVE: In the fourth instalment of Rugby With Reynecke, Ethienne Reynecke, Ernst Joubert and Brendan Venter discuss whether the Springboks can be successful without foreign-based players like Duane Vermeulen.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw has told rival scrumhalf Conor Murray to expect another tough encounter when Ireland open their Six Nations campaign at Murrayfield on Saturday.

INJURY UPDATE: Edinburgh tighthead prop Willem Nel has undergone surgery on a neck injury sustained in his side's win over Harlequins at Twickenham Stoop on Saturday, January 14.

NEWS: Injuries could see promising Wales flank Thomas Young make his Test debut against Italy in this weekend's opening round of the Six Nations Championship.

NEWS: Montpellier's South Africa flyhalf star Francois Steyn appealed on Tuesday against the four-week ban imposed for a dangerous tackle on Leinster counterpart Jonny Sexton in a European Champions Cup tie earlier this month.

INTERVIEW: The Southern Kings hit the ground running in Port Alfred as they began the team camp with their first day of training in the Eastern Cape coastal town on Tuesday. 

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Despite losing an integral player in the opening minutes the UP-Tuks showed character to secure a 13-9 victory over Maties, says head coach Pote Human.

INJURY UPDATE: Ireland flyhalf ace Jonathan Sexton and flank Peter O'Mahony were both ruled out Tuesday of the Six Nations opener away to Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday.

NEWS: The Concussion Management Review Group (CMRG) has concluded its review into a head injury incident involving Sale Shark's TJ Ioane.

NEWS: Sharks head coach Robert du Preez is eager to test certain combinations when his team comes up against the Cheetahs in two warm-up matches on Friday.

NEWS: French Top 14 giants Toulon on Tuesday recruited Australian Ben Barba, who is switching codes from Rugby League.

NEWS: Premiership Rugby and the RFU have signed a new agreement that will add significant benefit to the current coach development programme in England.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: Despite being narrowly edged in their opening Varsity Cup match, Wits will continue to add value to the broader Lions philosophy by playing an exciting brand of rugby.

INJURY UPDATE: All Black centre Charlie Ngatai is still not ready to take to the field as he is still suffering from concussion symptoms.

VARSITY CUP REACTION: UCT-Ikey head coach Christiaan Esterhuizen is keen to focus on the positives despite his side’s shock 8-36 defeat to the Madibaz at Florida Park in Cape Town. Leezil Hendricks reports.

INTERVIEW: Reds star Karmichael Hunt is starting to feel the excitement as this year's Super Rugby tournament draws closer.

INTERVIEW: Justin Geduld believes he is afforded the necessary freedom on the field to express himself in his role as Springbok Sevens playmaker when the Sydney Sevens kicks off on Saturday.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Highlanders head coach Tony Brown has selected Luke Whitelock to captain the 23-man squad vying for the inaugural Brisbane Global Tens trophy.

NEWS: The Leicester Tigers lock Ed Slater has been suspended for two weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in London.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The Blues will take a strong mix of proven and exciting talent to compete at the Brisbane Global Tens Tournament.

REACTION: Cheetahs coach Franco Smith has bucked the trend that resulted in an exodus of coaching brains trust from South Africa.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The Crusaders have named a strong side to contest the inaugural Brisbane Global Tens competition on February 11 and 12.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Chiefs have included returning duo Liam Messam and Tim Nanai-Williams in the 26-man squad to compete in the first ever Brisbane Global Rugby Tens.

INTERVIEW: Brumbies prop Allan Alaalatoa says his time with the Wallabies has made him hungrier for more success this season.

Six Nations for men and women starts this weekend, and so does the Americas Cup.

NEWS: Veteran centre Aurelien Rougerie will spend a 19th professional season with Clermont after signing a one-year contract extension with the Top 14 giants.

INJURY UPDATE: England received a boost ahead of their defence of the Six Nations, with prop Joe Marler set for an extraordinary comeback for the Grand Slam champions against France on Saturday.

NEWS: The Jaguares have resigned some of their most prolific talent on for the next three years, ensuring the Argentinean franchise can build for the future.

NEWS: Laurent Labit and Laurent Travers, who led Racing 92 to a Top 14 title and the European Champions Cup Final in 2016, have extended their contracts with the Paris club by two years until 2021.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Guy Noves' France team will be under pressure to perform when it matters as they take on England in their Six Nations opener on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland great Jim Telfer blasted England coach Eddie Jones for acting the "big man".

NEWS: Six Nations Chief Executive John Feehan says there are no plans for promotion and relegation to be introduced into European Rugby Union's showpiece international tournament in the "short to medium term".

VARSITY CUP REPORT: UP-Tuks were forced to dig deep as they left it late to secure a 13-9 victory against Maties at Loftus Versfeld.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: The Madibaz outclassed UCT-Ikeys as they recorded a comfortable 36-8 win at Florida Park in Ravensmead to open their Varsity Cup Campaign in style.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: Schalk Hugo's boot proved to be the difference between defending champions NWU-Pukke and UJ in Johannesburg as the Potchefstroom side claimed a narrow 16-12 victory.

VARSITY CUP REPORT: A 72nd minute try by replacement hooker Francois Steyn secured Shimlas a hard-fought 26-21 bonus-point victory over Wits in Johannesburg on Monday.

The Bulls recently announced their new Under-19 arrivals for 2017.

REACTION: The Cheetahs may have started their pre-season matches with a big loss, but that is no measure of their ability to compete in Super Rugby this year.

NEWS: Injuries, rather than the failure to advance to the Cup stages, were the biggest setback for Australia at the conclusion of the Wellington leg of the Sevens World Series.

NEWS: Samoan international Alapati Leiua is set to join Bristol Rugby at the end of the season.

NEWS: Joe Simmonds says he will look to make the most of the opportunities afforded to him after he put in another assured performance for the Exeter Chiefs during their weekend win.

NEWS: SAZAAR has announced changes to the semifinal draw for this year's Super Rugby tournament.

NEWS: Scotland centre  Alex Dunbar has signed a new contract with Glasgow Warriors, which will keep him at Scotstoun until at least May 2019.

INTERVIEW: BlitzBok star Ruhan Nel believes depth in the squad has played a key role in South Africa's success so far in the 2016/2-17 Sevens World Series. 

NEWS: Matt Giteau on Monday announced his departure from Toulon at the end of the French Top 14 season to embark on a new chapter in his career in Japan.

INJURY UPDATE: The Southern Kings won't risk playing Chris Cloete in their pre-season match against the Border Bulldogs in East London on Saturday.

NEWS: Wales scrumhalf Rhys Webb has given acting coach Rob Howley a huge Six Nations boost by declaring himself '100 percent fit' for their Championship.

NEWS: The Sunwolves have brought in five new players ahead of their Super Rugby campaign. 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Now it is the Six Nations Championship - the International Championship - and it kicks off this  exciting weekend.

NEWS: The Blues announced they will stage a Super Rugby game in Samoa later this year.

A RUGBY365 FIRST: In the third instalment of the series Rugby With Reynecke, Ethienne Reynecke, Ernst Joubert and Brendan Venter talk about the Springbok indaba, money and whether SA Rugby can create consistency and continuity.

A RUGBY365 FIRST: In the third instalment of the series Rugby With Reynecke Ethienne Reynecke, Ernst Joubert and Brendan Venter talk about the Springbok Indaba, Money and whether SA Rugby can create consistency and continuity.

TOP 14 WRAP: Veteran New Zealand kicker Stephen Brett marked his Clermont debut with a last-minute penalty which allowed the French Top 14 title chasers to escape from Bordeaux with a 23-all draw on Sunday.

DRAW: Sevens World Series leaders South Africa will face the only team that has beaten them so far this season, England, in the pool stages in Sydney.

NEWS: France on Sunday called up back row Bernard Le Roux to replace injured Raphael Lakafia in the squad for the Six Nations opener against England.

SIX NATIONS INJURY UPDATE: Wing Anthony Watson is to miss title holders England's opening Six Nations match with France next Saturday because of a hamstring injury.

REACTION: South Africa may be sitting pretty at the top of the Sevens world, but they are not about to ease off.

The Golden Lions have thrown the net over the whole country and have come up with a fine body of recruits for 2017.

Mourad Boudjellal, Toulon's millionaire owner, expects Matt Giteau, Wallaby, to leave Toulon at the end of the season and head for Japan.

REACTION: Although satisfied with his team's 43-7 victory against the Cheetahs in Harare, Stormers coach Robbie Fleck knows that there is still some hard work ahead.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The 10th instalment of the varsity Cup competition gets underway on Monday, January 30, in what is almost certain to be another highly entertaining competition.

FINAL WRAP: South Africa stretched their lead at the top of the Sevens World Series with a commanding 26-5 victory over Fiji in the Final of the Wellington leg in Sunday.

NEWS: All Blacks star Dan Carter limped out of Racing 92's Top 14 clash at Lyon on Saturday after appearing to have suffered a groin injury.

SEMIFINAL WRAP: South Africa will meet Fiji in the Final of the Wellington leg of the Sevens World Series.

TOP 14 WRAP: Toulon President Mourad Boudjellal was so angry at seeing his superstars slump to a 20-23 home loss to La Rochelle in the Top 14 on Saturday that he immediately cancelled their vacation.

QUARTERFINAL WRAP: South Africa cruised into the semifinals at the Wellington leg of the Sevens World Series on Sunday.

TOP 14 WRAP: A last-gasp penalty from Australian flyhalf Brock James ensured La Rochelle kept up their unlikely Top 14 title tilt in a thrilling 23-20 win against triple European champions Toulon on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Bulls confirmed that flyhalf Handré Pollard will be captaining the Super Rugby franchise going into the season, while regular captain Adriaan Strauss is still recovering from surgery and expected to miss the first few games of the competition.

NEWS: Baptiste Serin looks set to feature in the Six Nations for the first time in 2017 and the France scrumhalf has revealed that he has been getting regular advice from a former French nine Dimitri Yachvili.

NEWS: Rising Ireland star Joey Carbery's chances of making his Six Nations debut have been handed a significant boost after returning to training with Pro12 side Leinster.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: Stormers outscored the Cheetahs by seven tries to one to secure a 43-7 victory in their first warm-up game of the season in Harare on Saturday.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: Western Force secure a 22-14 win against Perth Spirit as the Super Rugby franchise looked to dicover some new talent in Busselton.

REACTION: After a successful Day one, Springbok Sevens coach Neil Powell urges his side to avoid Day two complacency ahead of the cup quarterfinals against France on Sunday.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Bulls kick-off their pre-season campaign in style as they registered a 38-17 win against the Lions in Harare.

PRE-SEASON REPORT: The Brumbies claimed a comfortable victory in their opening trial of the season as they defeated the Australian Barbarians 59-0 at Viking Park in Erindale.

NEWS: Anthony Watson has added to England's injury concerns ahead of their Six Nations opener against France next week after suffering a hamstring strain.

DAY ONE, ROUND THREE WRAP: South Africa will play France in the Cup quarterfinals after they went through their Pool unbeaten at the Wellington Sevens.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: England will look to become only the sixth team to win back-to-back Grand Slams in what is now the Six Nations when this season's Championship gets underway next weekend.

DAY ONE, ROUND TWO WRAP: South Africa showed their mettle in their second-round match against Australia on Day one of the Wellington Sevens.

DAY ONE, ROUND ONE WRAP: There were few surprises in the first round of games on Day One at the Wellington Sevens.

Recently the SANZAAR referee camp was held in Sydney for referees, their managers and team coaches. The latest law applications for 2017 were discussed.