South Africa
VIDEO: 'Why are you banned from Uber?'
BOKS OFFICE: Host Hanyani Shimange is joined by Springboks legends Jean de Villiers, Schalk Burger and Bryan Habana to review South Africa's World Cup 2023 thrashing of Romania and their match up with Ireland this weekend.
Ireland
Milestone for Aki as Ireland face Springboks
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Head Coach Andy Farrell has named his Ireland squad for Saturday's World Cup showdown against South Africa at the Stade de France.
Australia
Young Wallaby pivot to lose out on Wales clash
NEWS: Young playmaker Carter Gordon is set to pay the price for the Wallabies' shock World Cup loss to Fiji, demoted to the bench for their must-win clash with Wales.
Ireland
VIDEO: Irish legend reveals blueprint to beat Springboks
WATCH as former Ireland flyhalf Ronan O’Gara shared his insight on how Ireland might go about succeeding South Africa’s renowned rush defence.
Argentina
Argentina v Samoa - Teams and Prediction
WORLD CUP, ROUND THREE: Samoa will be looking to win their opening two pool matches for only the third time when they face Argentina in their Pool D World Cup clash at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Étienne on Friday.
Australia
The big question facing Eddie Jones ahead of Wales
SPOTLIGHT: Despite their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread, the Wallabies are in the dark about who will lead the side in one of the biggest games in Australian rugby history.
Ireland
VIDEO: Boks have hit their 'sweet spot'
WATCH Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber talks about the role 'experience' will play in the World Cup Pool B decider between South Africa and Ireland in Paris on Saturday.
Italy
How Italy produced a gritty comeback win against Uruguay
REACTION: Italy captain Michele Lamaro praised his team for "embracing the challenge" of a 10-point half-time deficit to run out convincing 38-17 World Cup Pool A winners over Uruguay in Nice on Wednesday.
Italy
Italy's second-half surge too much for gutsy Uruguay
MATCH REPORT: Italy had to produce a strong second-half performance to see off a gutsy Uruguayan side 38-17 in their World Cup Pool A clash in Nice on Wednesday.
Argentina
Los Pumas change three for Samoa
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Veteran Matias Moroni was one of three changes made to the Argentina team announced on Wednesday by head coach Michael Cheika to play Samoa in the World Cup this weekend.
Ireland
'Hindsight' will have last laugh over seven-one split
INTERVIEW: South African coach Jacques Nienaber not only caused a stir, but ensured there is a massive talking point in the build-up to their World Cup Pool B crunch match against Ireland.
Australia
Injury adds to Wallabies' already long #RWC2023 woes
INJURY UPDATE: Uncapped Wallabies rookie Max Jorgensen has been ruled out of the World Cup in France after the youngster fractured his leg at training, with the Australians set to bring in a medical replacement.
Ireland
Jean Kleyn: Did Ireland miss a trick with Munster monster?
SPOTLIGHT: Ireland coach Andy Farrell may come to rue the decision not to follow the 'guidelines' of his predecessor, Joe Schmidt, and call up Jean Kleyn for the 2023 World Cup.
Australia
Wales wary of 'wounded' Wallabies
SPOTLIGHT: Wales assistant coach Jonathan Thomas warned on Wednesday that Australia would be like a "wounded animal" before this weekend's high-stakes World Cup game in Lyon.
France
France v Namibia - Teams and Prediction
WORLD CUP, ROUND THREE: France coach Fabien Galthie is taking inspiration from Charles Darwin to prepare for minnows Namibia in Marseille on Thursday in what should be a further step to topping Pool A in the World Cup.
France
France get some key players back
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Prop Cyril Baille and centre Jonathan Danty make their comeback from injuries after being named in the France team to face Namibia in their third World Cup match in Marseille on Thursday.
Ireland
VIDEO: Libbok v Sexton - the key aspects of the face-off
WATCH as Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok speaks about his face-off with Irish legend Johnny Sexton - one of the key aspects of Saturday's World Cup Pool B crunch match in Paris.
South Africa
Confident Springbok Women side await Barbarians
SPOTLIGHT: The way the Springbok Women – and especially their pack of forwards – rallied when under severe pressure made their hard-fought victory over the San Clemente Rhinos very rewarding.
Australia
It was never going to be an easy ride for Eddie Jones
SPOTLIGHT: Eddie Jones knew taking on the Wallabies' job for a second time would be difficult but an early exit was surely never on the veteran coach's World Cup bingo card.
Ireland
Ireland star on Boks: 'I remember being shocked at just the sheer size of them'
SPOTLIGHT: Irish loose forward Caelan Doris says he is confident Ireland's attack can inflict serious damage on defending champions South Africa if they match them for physicality in their World Cup Pool B match on Saturday.
Ireland
VIDEO: Nienaber explains his 'calculated risk'
WATCH as South African coach Jacques Nienaber explains his decision to employ a loaded bench with seven forwards against Ireland.
Ireland
VIDEO: Ireland report clean bill of health ahead of Springboks
INJURY UPDATE: All 33 members of Andy Farrell’s Ireland squad trained on Tuesday ahead of the World Cup showdown with the Springboks in Paris.
News
VIDEO: Stormers drop new kit
WATCH as the Stormers revealed their new jersey which is inspired by the passion of their faithful fans.
South Africa
Breaking! Boks employ seven-one split for Ireland showdown
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber made 13 personnel changes for Saturday’s third World Cup pool encounter against Ireland.
South Africa
World Rankings: Will there be a change at the top?
SPOTLIGHT: World Rugby has published the ranking permutations for the third round of World Cup matches in France.
England
Marler: No trophy for 'finesse' at World Cup
SPOTLIGHT: People do not remember how you played, they only remember whether or not you win the World Cup.
Australia
Eddie Jones: 'We are all still searching for answers'
SPOTLIGHT: Australia's World Cup-defining clash with Wales can't come soon enough for Wallaby coach Eddie Jones, who is still searching for answers about their historic loss to Fiji.
Ireland
'They’re causing big problems': Ireland put a spotlight on Bok game-breakers
SPOTLIGHT: Ireland assistant coach Mike Catt admits that his team will have a tough battle on their hands trying to stop some of the Springboks' key backline players.
Italy
Italy v Uruguay - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: Italy head into Wednesday's World Cup match against Uruguay in the knowledge that the South Americans will likely have targeted them rather than Pool A heavyweights France and New Zealand.
Ireland
'Whenever Johnny is in the team a lot of things happen'
INTERVIEW: Ireland versus South Africa at Stade de France is building up to be as big and intense occasion as the opening World Cup match between hosts France and New Zealand.
England
England in an enviable position with their playmakers
SPOTLIGHT: England coach Steve Borthwick finds himself in the enviable position of overseeing a wealth of riches at fly-half as a returning Owen Farrell joins the mix alongside George Ford and Marcus Smith in the contest to start at No 10.
South Africa
IN PICTURES: Another new Bok kit, another debate
SPOTLIGHT: South Africa will play in their third different jersey at the World Cup, when they face off against Ireland in a crunch Pool B match in Paris on Saturday.
Australia
Jones keeping cards close to his chest on flyhalf dilemma
NEWS: Coach Eddie Jones has vowed to protect the Wallabies flyhalf in their sudden-death World Cup pool clash with Wales, although he's yet to reveal if that will be Carter Gordon.
Fiji
Drua behind Fiji's successful World Cup performance
NEWS: Fiji ended a 69-year hoodoo by securing a crucial World Cup win over Australia on Sunday, confirming their status as many people's dark horses for the tournament in France.
Ireland
'They’re all supporting Ireland': SA-born star's family has switched allegiance
SPOTLIGHT: There will be a few South Africans supporting Ireland when they face the Springboks in their crunch Pool B clash at the Stade de France.
Ireland
Why pollard won't face Ireland
INTERVIEW: Handre Pollard will #NOT play for South Africa against Ireland in a crunch Pool B World Cup match in Paris on Sunday.
New Zealand
New Zealand prop learns his fate after red card against Namibia
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: New Zealand prop Ethan de Groot will miss his team's remaining pool games after he received a ban for foul play in the 71-3 win over Namibia.
News
Harare setback a 'very hard pill to swallow' for BlitzBoks
REACTION: The Springbok Sevens worked extremely hard to prepare for the Rugby Africa Olympic Games 2024 qualifiers which is why the 12-17 defeat against Kenya in the final was extremely disappointing and gut-wrenching for the squad.
South Africa
Rassie addresses Ireland link
INTERVIEW: South Africa's Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus on Monday formally addressed the ongoing and ever-growing rumours about his reported move to Ireland.
Italy
Italian pivot on course for World Cup record
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Italy’s flyhalf Tommaso Allan is on course to become his country’s all-time leading World Cup points scorer when his side faces Uruguay in Pool A at Stade de Nice on Wednesday.
Latest News
Cheetahs en route to Perth and big prize money
NEWS: The Cheetahs are on a quest to win R1 million after bagging the first two games of the Challenge Series against the Western Force as they head to Perth next week for the last two games of the series.
Fiji
World Rankings: Wallabies fall, Fiji rise
SPOTLIGHT: Fiji’s first win over Australia since 1954 has been rewarded with a one-place gain in the World Rugby Men’s Rankings.
England
Do or die for Brave Blossoms from here on in
REACTION: Facing an experienced Test side will always be a challenge for a team like Japan and sometimes the Brave Blossoms need a bit of luck as well, said their coach Jamie Joseph.
Australia
VIDEO: Eddie Jones hits back at Sonny Bill's comments
REACTION: Wallaby head coach Eddie Jones stood his ground after he was criticised for the lack of experienced playmakers in his squad.
Ireland
Ireland bracing for 'tricky little things' from Nienaber
SPOTLIGHT: Ireland scrumhalf Conor Murray has warned his teammates that if there is one thing he knows about South Africa head coach Jacques Nienaber from his time at Munster, it is to expect the unexpected.
South Africa
VIDEO: Bok team to face Ireland has already been 'selected'
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains to @king365ed why they have already made up their collective minds about the team to face Ireland.
OPINION
Player Ratings: England
OPINION: First, the good news on a balmy night on the French Riviera England eventually won 34-12 to chalk up back-to-back victories for only the second time in this underwhelming Steve Borthwick era, while they also managed to avoid card trouble and keep 15 players on the pitch for the full 80.
OPINION
Player Ratings: Japan
OPINION: Despite a promising start to the game, Japan have fallen to a disheartening 12-34 loss to England in Nice on Sunday.
England
England one step closer to top Pool D
MATCH REPORT: England laboured to a 34-12 victory over Japan in their second World Cup match in Nice on Sunday to set themselves up as likely Pool D winners.
South Africa
CONFIRMED: Pollard is back
BREAKING NEWS: As was expected, flyhalf Handre Pollard will join the Springbok team in Paris on Monday.
OPINION
Player ratings: Fiji
OPINION: After the tight loss to Wales last week, Fiji responded with an emphatic 22-15 win against the Wallabies in Saint Etienne to shake up Pool C.
OPINION
Player Ratings: Australia
OPINION: Australia’s Rugby World Cup campaign hangs in the balance after losing to Fiji for the first time since 1954 on Sunday evening. The Wallabies were beaten 22-15 in Saint-Etienne.
Fiji
Fiji rewrites history books with historic win
MATCH REPORT: Fiji has pulled off another famous victory by beating Australia 22-15 for the first time in 69 years at the World Cup in Saint Etienne.
Australia
Australia v Fiji RECAP| World Cup
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our live coverage of the World Cup Pool C match between Australia and Fiji at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Étienne.
OPINION
Player Ratings: South Africa
OPINION: The Springboks continued to fine-tune their squad as they recorded a comfortable 76-0 win over Romania in their second World Cup pool match on Sunday
South Africa
BREAKING: Another knee injury in the Bok camp
INJURY UPDATE: Another key player in the Springbok camp has gone down with a knee injury.
South Africa
Springboks run rampant in Bordeaux
MATCH REPORT: The Springboks never went into overdrive as they disposed of Romania in their second Pool B World Cup match in Bordeaux on Sunday, stacking up 12 tries in their 76-0 victory.
South Africa
South Africa v Romania RECAP | World Cup
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our live coverage of the World Cup Pool B match between South Africa and Romania at Stade de Bordeaux.
Australia
Wallaby star not keen on breaking Gregan's record
SPOTLIGHT: Already Australia's longest-serving prop, James Slipper says he's not sure if he wants to go past George Gregan's record as the most capped Wallabies player.
Namibia
All Black prop faces ban following brutal hit against Namibia
The All Blacks are likely to be without Ethan de Groot for their third Pool A fixture at the World Cup after he received a red card in New Zealand's thumping win over Namibia.
Portugal
Portugal wing in hot water over Kung-Fu kick
NEWS: Portugal wing Vincent Pinto will appear before an independent Judicial Committee in Paris after he received a red card for kicking Wales’ wing Josh Adams in the face during the World Cup match in Nice on Friday.
Australia
VIDEO: Eddie Jones' big 'power play'
INTERVIEW: The game's global governing body has turned the sport into a power contest at the World Cup, according to outspoken Australia coach Eddie Jones.
Australia
Wallaby hooker ready to lead Wallabies if Skelton's out
NEWS: Late-blooming hooker Dave Porecki will become the sixth Wallabies captain of the year should lock Will Skelton miss Australia's World Cup clash with Fiji as expected.
Latest News
Huge milestone for Aimee, Booi against Kenya
NEWS: South African referee Aimee Barrett-Theron made history in Cape Town on Saturday, equaling Englands’ Sara Cox as the most-capped women’s referee of all time when she officiated the Test between the Springbok Women’s team and Kenia in her 35th Test.
Ireland
VIDEO: Kleyn looking forward to 'bizarre' opportunity
WATCH as dual international Jean Kleyn speaks about the unique opportunity of featuring in back-to-back World Cups for different countries.
Ireland
VIDEO: 'My son is more excited about record than me'
REACTION: Johnny Sexton said his son will be talking more about his dad becoming Ireland's record points scorer than he will after the Ireland captain recorded another remarkable personal milestone on Saturday.
Ireland
Sexton sets new record as Ireland storm past Tonga
MATCH REPORT: Johnny Sexton became Ireland's all-time leading points scorer in a 59-16 win over Tonga in Nantes
Ireland
Ireland v Tonga RECAP | World Cup
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our live coverage of the World Cup Pool B match between Ireland and Tonga at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.
Portugal
Wales bag late bonus-point win over Portugal
MATCH REPORT: Wales managed to keep their winning World Cup run intact, recording a hard-fought 28-8 victory over Portugal at the Stade de Nice on Saturday.
OPINION
Player Ratings: Wales
OPINION: Wales made it two wins from two on Saturday against Portugal in Nice, but it was far from a vintage performance.
Samoa
Samoa kicks off with five-try victory
MATCH REPORT: Samoa started their World Cup 2023 journey with a five-try 43-10 Pool D victory over Chile at Stade de Bordeaux on Saturday.
South Africa
VIDEO: Boks keeping a close eye on #RWC2023 rivals
WATCH Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi and fellow World Cup winners Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe enjoying some World Cup action between Samoa and Chile on Saturday.
South Africa
VIDEOS: Boks provide big update on star player
WATCH as a Springbok returns to training after injury and surprises the coaching staff with his vigour.
New Zealand
New Zealand's 'quiet assassin' lays down marker
SPOTLIGHT: Aaron Smith might be firmly ensconced as New Zealand's number one scrumhalf, but "quiet assassin" Cam Roigard laid down a marker in the win over Namibia that could easily see him promoted to the veteran's deputy.
Australia
Wallabies captain absent at team photo
NEWS: The Wallabies insist they haven't made a final call on injured captain Will Skelton for their World Cup clash with Fiji, however the giant lock was missing from their final training session ahead of the pivotal game.
Namibia
Namibia centre under the knife
NEWS: Namibia centre Le Roux Malan has undergone "successful" surgery after suffering a fracture and dislocation to his right ankle, according to coach Allister Coetzee.
Australia
Australia v Fiji - Teams and Prediction
WORLD CUP, ROUND TWO: History is not on Fiji's side when they tackle Australia in their World Cup pool C in Saint Etienne on Sunday.
Namibia
'It has to be much earlier': Coetzee's message to the rugby world
REACTION: Namibia head coach Allister Coetzee knows exactly what needs to happen over the next few years for his team to be more competitive on the international stage.
Namibia
'It allowed us to pick and choose how we play'
REACTION: Early forward dominance allowed All Black halfbacks Cam Roigard and Damian McKenzie to run the show in a 71-3 hammering of Namibia in the World Cup in Toulouse on Friday.
England
England v Japan - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: England will bid to build on their impressive opening World Cup win over Argentina when they take on Japan in Nice on Sunday.
Romania
South Africa v Romania - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: @king365ed looks at the World Cup Round Two face-off between South Africa and Romania in Bordeaux.
South Africa
EXPLAINED: Why calling up Pollard makes sense
SPOTLIGHT: World Cup-winning flyhalf Handré Pollard took a giant leap closer to being called up to the Springbok team - in place of the injured hooker Malcolm Marx - after a successful comeback from injury.
OPINION
Player Ratings: New Zealand
OPINION: The All Blacks have cantered to a 71-3 win over Namibia in Toulouse to get their World Cup campaign back on track following last weekend’s loss to France.
Namibia
All Blacks cruise past hapless Namibia
MATCH REPORT: New Zealand bounced back in sublime fashion, beating Namibia 71-3 in the World Cup Pool A match at Stadium de Toulouse on Friday.
New Zealand
New Zealand v Namibia RECAP | World Cup
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our live coverage of the World Cup Pool A match between New Zealand and Namibia at Stadium de Toulouse.
England
England tweaks for Japan
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Head coach Steve Borthwick has named his England team to play Japan in their second pool match of World Cup 2023 at Stade de Nice.
France
'We have to see what went wrong': France's discipline under the spotlight
REACTION: After an impressive tournament-opening win over New Zealand last week many thought Fabien Galthie's France would have no problems against Uruguay in their second World Cup fixture.
Portugal
Wales v Portugal - teams and prediction
WORLD CUP, ROUND TWO: A much-changed Wales will bid to rack up some points and consolidate their unbeaten status in World Cup Pool C when they take on Portugal in Nice on Saturday.
Samoa
Samoa v Chile - Teams and Prediction
WORLD CUP, ROUND TWO: Samoa fullback Duncan Paia'aua said his side are "fired up" to start their World Cup campaign against Chile on Saturday.
Ireland
Ireland v Tonga - Teams and Prediction
WORLD CUP, ROUND TWO: Despite opening their World Cup campaign with a huge win over Romania, Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has called on his team to be more ruthless in their second pool match against Tonga.
South Africa
VIDEO: Bok replacements - 'Handré is in the mix'
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains the process to decide on a replacement for the injured Malcolm Marx and potential candidates.
South Africa
'You can only be enthusiastic': Romania bring in 'experience' for Bok showdown
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Romania loose forward Andre Gorin will make his World Cup debut this weekend at the age of 35 against holders South Africa, head coach Eugen Apjok announced on Friday.
South Africa
SARU to take drastic steps to protect Boks brand
NEWS: The South African Rugby Union (SARU) has warned that it will take legal action against companies that ambush its intellectual property (IP) rights after securing a court order restraining Eskort from continuing a marketing campaign using the Springboks brand and IP.
Australia
Injuries force Eddie's hand as Fiji looms
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Test centurion James Slipper will become the third Australian to play in four World Cups named to start at tighthead prop in the Wallabies second Pool C game against Fiji in Saint-Etienne on Sunday.
South Africa
VIDEO: Revealed - the 'freak accident' that cost Marx his World Cup spot
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains exactly what happened during the training ground mishap that ruled Malcolm Marx out of the World Cup.
Ireland
Sexton starts again as Ireland make four changes for Tonga
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has revealed his team to face Tonga in their World Cup Pool B clash in Nantes on Saturday.
OPINION
Player Ratings: France
OPINION: France beat Uruguay 27-12 in a game that surprised many, as Uruguay threatened and France failed to rack up the kind of score fans might have expected.
South Africa
'Like him or not, Manie is doing amazing things'
"Whether you like him or not, Manie Libbok is doing amazing things on the field."
France
Spirited Uruguay give France a massive scare in Lille
MATCH REPORT: A spirited Uruguayan team pushed France all the way in their World Cup Pool A clash in Lille on Thursday.
South Africa
Jake White on Marx's replacement: 'There's no debate'
OPINION: Bulls Director of Rugby and former Springbok coach Jake White picks his replacement for the injured Malcolm Marx in the Bok squad.
South Africa
VIDEO: Schalk - Boks no longer 'one-trick ponies'
WATCH as Springbok legend Schalk Burger joins Jim Hamilton for a walk and talk along the coast of Marseille.
Wales
'Don't write us off': Gatland's stern warning
Warren Gatland transformed Wales into an ultra-competitive team when he took over as coach and the Kiwi is again relying on turning the Welsh side into one that is "bloody hard" to beat.
Scotland
Scotland player heads home after hotel accident
NEWS: Scotland hooker David Cherry has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup after suffering a head injury when he slipped on stairs at the team hotel, the Scottish rugby federation announced Thursday.
News
'Incredibly consistent performer' returns to Stormers
TRANSFER NEWS: Loosehead prop Sti Sithole is back where it all began on his professional rugby journey, having signed with the Stormers.
Australia
Wallaby star under under injury cloud ahead of Fiji showdown
SPOTLIGHT: The Wallabies' front row stocks to face Fiji have taken a hit with key strike weapon Taniela Tupou under an injury cloud ahead of their crucial World Cup pool match in Saint-Etienne.
New Zealand
New Zealand v Namibia - Teams and Prediction
WORLD CUP, ROUND TWO: New Zealand's bid to bounce back following their opening World Cup defeat by France will be accompanied by a gigantic task for Allister Coetzee's Namibia side.
South Africa
Bok superstar ruled out of World Cup
NEWS: The Springboks suffered a hammer blow with the news that one of their key players has been ruled out of the World Cup.
South Africa
VIDEO: Explained - four scrumhalves and Faf's new role
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks the reasons behind the selection of four scrumhalves in the matchday squad to face Romania in Bordeaux.
News
National anthems get a remix ahead of second round of RWC matches
NEWS: World Cup 2023 organisers confirmed that "enhancements" have been made to national anthems.
Ireland
VIDEO: Two Boks in doubt for Ireland Test
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber gives an injury update and it is not good news.
Argentina
'We must face this': Los Pumas to bring out fighting spirit
SPOTLIGHT: Argentina are a strong unit who will bounce back from their disappointing performance in the 27-10 World Cup loss to 14-man England, veteran hooker Agustin Creevy said on Wednesday.
Namibia
Foster opts for new captain to face Namibia
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: All Blacks coach Ian Foster has named Ardie Savea as captain to lead the side in their second World Cup pool game to face Namibia in Stadium de Toulouse on Friday evening.
South Africa
Four scrumhalves in Bok matchday squad for Romania match
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber has revealed his matchday squad to face Romania in Sunday's World Cup Pool B clash in Bordeaux.
Portugal
Four World Cup debutants for Wales' clash with Os Lobos
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wales coach Warren Gatland has made 13 changes to the starting XV to play Portugal in their second World Cup Pool C match in Nice on Saturday.
Argentina
World Cup second round: Small margins for ranking changes
NEWS: In terms of ranking permutations, it will be a relatively quiet weekend of World Cup action with only two out of eight games that can have an impact.
New Zealand
All Black coach's subtle dig at Boks and their 'disco lights'
REACTION: The All Blacks will not be following in the Springboks' footsteps anytime soon when it comes to innovative ideas to get messages across to players during games.
New Zealand
'Wallabies like cousins, Kiwis my real family' says Hansen
SPOTLIGHT: Steve Hansen has been at the World Cup five times as a coach, but this time round he is there as an advisor and spectator.
United Rugby Championship
Smith sticks with Warriors till 2026
NEWS: Franco Smith, head coach of Glasgow Warriors, has put pen to paper on a new contract that will see him remain at Scotstoun until at least the summer of 2026.
England
Former Bok fitness guru reveals England's master plan
SPOTLIGHT: England's awful form leading into the World Cup in France was part of a fitness master plan inspired by renowned Australian swim coach Bill Sweetenham.
France
New captain, 12 changes for France
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Les Blues head coach Fabien Galthié has made 12 changes to his starting XV to face Uruguay in the World Cup in Stade de Pierre-Mauroy in Lille on Thursday.
Ireland
Tonga to 'turn up the heat' on Ireland
INTERVIEW: Tongan fans "are getting warm" as the 'Ikale Tahi (Sea Eagles) prepare for their World Cup opening match with world ranked No.1 Ireland in Nantes on Saturday.
France
France v Uruguay - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: France head coach Fabien Galthie may have made wholesale changes to his side for Thursday's World Cup game with Uruguay in Lille, but he refuses to take them lightly.
South Africa
VIDEO: The scary thought that 'haunts' Bok
WATCH as utility forward Deon Fourie chats with @king365ed about the prospect of finally making a World Cup appearance and playing at hooker.
News
The one key stat that explains why France won
STATISTICAL ANALYSES: Hosts France made a clear statement of intent, with a very 'miserly' approach to the game.
Namibia
All Blacks wary of 'battle-hardened' Namibia
INTERVIEW: New Zealand scrum coach Greg Feek said his side expected Namibia's pack to put up a tough fight in their World Cup meeting.
Latest News
The Bus parks at Moana Pasifika
TRANSFER NEWS: All Blacks wing Julian Savea, the joint record try-scorer in Super Rugby history, will play for Auckland-based franchise Moana Pasifika in the 2024 season.
South Africa
VIDEO: The midfield puzzle that won't solve itself
WATCH as Springbok backline coach Felix Jones chats to @king365ed about the selection poser they have at No.12.
France
Top tackler stat 'just my job' says Welsh lock
SPOTLIGHT: His tally might not have matched Thierry Dusautoir's match record of 38, but Wales lock Will Rowlands' 27 tackles were crucial in the nail-biting win over Fiji in both sides' World Cup opener.
England
Another England star suspended
NEWS: England's Tom Curry has become the latest England player to receive a suspension for foul play.
Scotland
What the stats say about Bok win
STATISTICAL ANALYSES: South Africa have the 'W' behind their name, but they were perhaps not as convincing as the 18-3 scoreline against Scotland suggest.
Australia
'A special moment': Wallabies bracing for emotional onslaught against Fiji
SPOTLIGHT: Boosted by seven players with Fijian heritage in their World Cup squad, the Wallabies are preparing for a physical - and emotional - onslaught in their crucial World Cup pool clash against the Pacific islanders.
South Africa
VIDEO: Double boost for Boks
PLAYER UPDATE: South Africa will have two key members of their squad available for the crunch World Cup pool match against Ireland.
Scotland
The conversation that sparked Boks can't be made public
INTERVIEW: With a scrum and a pack of forwards functioning at only about 60 percent of their capacity, Daan Human had a few choice words to say to the South African team in Marseille at the weekend.
Ireland
Ireland may have finally found Sexton's successor
SPOTLIGHT: The task of succeeding Irish talisman Johnny Sexton has been beyond some but in Jack Crowley Ireland may have at last found their man.
New Zealand
Steve Hansen back in black
NEWS: Declining Eddie Jones's jovial offer of a gold jersey, Steve Hansen is back in black - and the Kiwi camp couldn't be happier.
News
Stormers get a 'valuable asset in an important position'
SPOTLIGHT: Stormers head coach John Dobson has described his new recruit as a "valuable asset" for the upcoming season.
Second Phase
World Cup Round One: All the extended highlights
WATCH as we bring you all the extended highlights from the opening weekend at World Cup 2023!
South Africa
VIDEO: Siya on magic Manie's real value
WATCH the brilliant comebacks of Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber and captain Siya Kolisi after yet another parcel of criticism aimed at flyhalf Manie Libbok
South Africa
LIVE FROM FRANCE: @king365ed on those disco lights
LISTEN as Cape Talk radio presenter Clarence Ford chats to @king365ed about all things Springbok and World Cup!
New Zealand
All Blacks in no hurry to rush back captain
All Black captain Sam Cane and centre Jordie Barrett are set to spend another week on the sidelines due to injuries.
Argentina
World Cup already affecting world rankings
NEWS: World Cup 2023 got off to a pulsating start this weekend with several changes to the top 20 in the world rankings.
South Africa
VIDEO EVIDENCE: It wasn't direct head-to-head
REACTION: South Africa's Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus has come out in defence of veteran centre Jesse Kriel, in the wake of the fall-out in the United Kingdom media over a reported head clash.
Fiji
Help rugby's 'poor' get richer says Fiji coach
REACTION: Head coach Simon Raiwalui said Fiji did the country proud, but admitted more Tests against SANZAAR or Six Nations unions will put them on a level playing field.
Sevens
Familiar faces back with the Blitzboks
NEWS: Former Springbok wings Rosko Specman and Travis Ismaiel were both named in an experienced and multi-skilled Springbok Sevens squad that will travel to Harare on Thursday for the Africa Olympic Games qualifiers.
South Africa
VIDEO: 'He would not have played anyway'
INJURY UPDATE: Star Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth is expected to be sidelined for seven to 10 days with a shoulder injury.
Argentina
England coach on Ford's 'masterclass'
NEWS: Englands’ defence coach Kevin Sinfield says George Ford produced a ‘masterclass’ and was faultless in Englands' World Cup victory over Argentina on Saturday.
Fiji
Wales leave Gatland 'pretty angry'
REACTION: Head coach Warren Gatland said Wales's nerve-wracking 32-26 victory over Fiji on Sunday in a pulsating World Cup match was "pretty significant" although he added he had been "pretty angry" at his side's chaotic end to the match.
South Africa
VIDEO: Rassie's 'disco lights' are back ... with good reason
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains the return of the 'disco lights' as a means of communication with the players on the field.
Fiji
Wales hang on to beat high-flying Fiji
MATCH REPORT: Wales survived a couple of nervy final minutes to record a 32-26 win over the Fiji in a pulsating encounter in Bordeaux on Sunday.
South Africa
VIDEO: Boks sweat over key player
NEWS: The Springboks will be keeping a close eye on one of their star players in the coming days.
OPINION
Player Ratings: Wales
OPINION: A single knock-on - that will be the reason many cite when trying to figure out how Wales won a match that they probably deserve to lose.
OPINION
Player Ratings: Fiji
OPINION: The Fijians opened their World Cup against Wales in Bordeaux with a 26-32 loss that went right down to the wire.
South Africa
Player Ratings: South Africa
OPINION: The Springboks were not at their best in their World Cup opener against Scotland on Sunday, but they still managed to outplay Gregor Townsend's side with their powerful forwards.
Scotland
Player Ratings: Scotland
OPINION: Scotland were in the fight for 40 minutes, but fell away after the break as the defending champions took charge in Marseille.
South Africa
Boks' slow poison wears down Scotland
MATCH REPORT: South Africa started their World Cup title defence with an 18-3 win over Scotland at Stade de Marseille.
South Africa
South Africa v Scotland RECAP | World Cup
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our live coverage of the World Cup Pool B match between South Africa and Scotland at Stade de Marseille.
News
World Rugby and France 2023 issue statement on Stade de Marseille
NEWS: The France 2023 Organising Committee confirmed that it is taking steps to improve access to Stade de Marseille.
England
Date set for England star's hearing after red card against Argentina
DISCIPLINARY NEWS: England loose forward Tom Curry will appear before an independent Judicial Committee after he received a red card in his team's World Cup opener against Argentina in Marseille on Saturday.
Japan
Chile make Japan work hard in Toulouse heat
MATCH REPORT: Japan were made to work hard for their 42-12 win over debutants Chile in their World Cup Pool D match in Toulouse on Sunday.
Australia
'Unpopular' Jones hails 'perfect' start
REACTION: Australia head coach Eddie Jones said Saturday's 35-15 victory over Georgia was the "perfect" start to the Wallabies' World Cup campaign.
Argentina
George Ford show sinks lacklustre Argentina
MATCH REPORT: Three drop goals by George Ford sealed a brilliant victory for England as they disposed of Argentina by 27-10 with 14 players in their World Cup opener in Marseilles on Saturday night.
Ireland
Three key points from Ireland v Romania
REACTION: Ireland recorded their best ever World Cup victory (82-8) over Romania. . We bring you three things learned from the match.
Argentina
Where it all went wrong for Cheika
REACTION: Argentina coach Michael Cheika said nothing went the way of Los Pumas in a comprehensive 10-27 loss to a 14-man England side in both teams' World Cup Pool D opener on Saturday.
Argentina
This Ford is the real deal
REACTION: England overcame a potentially dangerous World Cup opener against Argentina on Saturday thanks to the prolific boot of George Ford as Ireland welcomed back their dynamo Johnny Sexton.
Argentina
Player ratings: Argentina
An ill-disciplined and error-riddled Argentina started their World Cup campaign disastrously in Marseille, losing to an England side that had their full complement of players for only the opening few minutes of the match.
Argentina
Player ratings: England
England player ratings from Liam Heagney live in Marseille: This was the moment of truth, the night when it all supposed to become all right in the England tenure of Steve Borthwick and it miraculously did just that despite a red card for Tom Curry.
Argentina
England v Argentina RECAP | World Cup
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our live coverage of the World Cup Pool D match between England and Argentina at Stade de Marseille.
Scotland
VIDEO: 'It is down to business'
WATCH as Cheslin Kolbe previews South Africa's World Cup opener against Scotland in Marseille on Sunday.
Australia
Player Ratings: Australia
OPINION: The Wallabies got back into winning ways with a 35-15 win over Georgia in their opening pool stage clash in Paris.
Australia
Donaldson stars as Wallabies see off plucky Georgia
MATCH REPORT: The Wallabies recorded their first win of the year when they defeated Georgia 35-15 in their World Cup Pool C opener in Saint-Denis on Saturday.
Ireland
Ireland opens #RWC2023 with 12-try romp
MATCH REPORT: Ireland made a big statement, beating Romania 82-8 at Stade de Bordeaux on Saturday.
Scotland
South Africa v Scotland - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: @king365ed looks at the Round One, Pool B encounter between defending champions South Africa and Scotland!
France
France receive some good news after beating All Blacks
SQUAD: France will be getting some key players back from injury ahead of their upcoming pool matches.
South Africa
VIDEO: Boks have made peace with 'hyper jade' jersey
REACTION: The fans have gone into meltdown mode over South Africa's new away jersey, to be worn in their World Cup opener against Scotland in Marseille on Sunday.
Italy
Italy outmuscle gutsy Namibia
MATCH REPORT: Italy's second-half show made sure they kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 52-8 win over Namibia at Stade Geoffrey-Guichard in Saint-Étienne on Saturday.
Scotland
Scotland captain on Bok scrum: 'It doesn't smell good'
SPOTLIGHT: It seems that Scotland captain Jamie Ritchie is not looking forward to competing in the scrums against the Springboks.
Japan
Japan v Chile - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: Japan are hoping that opening their World Cup campaign against tournament debutants Chile will give their Group D campaign in France a sense of deja vu.
New Zealand
'Stats are stats': Foster on All Blacks' first-ever pool defeat
REACTION: The All Blacks found themselves on the wrong side of history in the opening match of the World Cup 2023 on Friday.
France
'Heavy score in our favour' says Galthie
REACTION: Les Blues coach Fabien Galthie said his team was caught up by the atmosphere in the Stade de France stadium but he was proud of how his side disposed of the highly rated All Blacks in the World Cup opener on Friday night.
Fiji
Wales v Fiji - Teams and prediction
PREVIEW: Wales open their World Cup campaign with a tricky Pool C match against a Fiji side brimming with confidence in Bordeaux on Sunday.
France
Player Ratings: France
OPINION: A Mark Telea try gave New Zealand the lead just two minutes into the Rugby World Cup 2023 opening match in Paris, but France came back through the phenomenal boot of Tomas Ramos and some standout performances up front, resulting in the All Blacks‘ first ever pool loss in the tournament’s history.
France
France hand All Blacks their first-ever World Cup pool defeat
MATCH REPORT: The All Blacks lost their first-ever World Cup pool match when they went down 13-27 to hosts France in this year's opener in Saint-Denis on Friday.
New Zealand
Player Ratings: New Zealand
OPINION: In the opening match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, it was the visitors New Zealand who struck first against hosts France, with Mark Telea touching down following a passage of strong attacking play from the All Blacks.
France
France v New Zealand RECAP | World Cup
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our live coverage of the World Cup opening match between hosts France and New Zealand at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
France
Cane blow for All Blacks ahead of World Cup opener
NEWS: New Zealand captain Sam Cane was a late withdrawal for Friday's World Cup opener with France in Paris, according to the tournament organisers' official teamsheet.
South Africa
VIDEO: Bad DJs and good music keep Boks grounded
WATCH as Springbok captain Siya Kolisi reveals who the team's 'best' disc jockey is and what music he listens to before matches.
Australia
Australia v Georgia - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: Australian forward packs have previously relied on a combination of brains and brawn to get the better of their beefy rugby rivals, but not any more.
Argentina
Four vying to be number one in World Rugby
OPINION: Ireland’s position as the leading team is under threat this weekend from South Africa, New Zealand and France.
Scotland
VIDEO: 'We don't need to spy on anybody, we just analyse them'
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber addresses the grapevine whispering that has linked his team to a supposed 'spy scandal' at the World Cup in France.
South Africa
Townsend reveals his Scotland hand for Bok clash
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Mercurial flyhalf Finn Russell will pull the strings for Scotland when they take on South Africa in Marseille on Sunday after coach Gregor Townsend named the squad for what is a crucial World Cup clash.
Argentina
England v Argentina - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW AND PREDICTION: England and Argentina will enter the World Cup fray in Marseilles on Saturday in what is widely regarded as the defining clash of Pool D.
Ireland
Ireland v Romania - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: Ireland begin their World Cup campaign against Romania in Bordeaux on Saturday and the Six Nations Grand Slam winners will want to deliver a performance that suggests they can at last progress beyond the quarterfinals.
News
'A highly valuable acquisition': Stormers to tap into Bok's Euro knowledge
REACTION: Courtnall Skosan said that the opportunity to return to Cape Town and play for the Stormers was one that he couldn't pass up.
Latest News
Bok's journey from Metallica to Mongolian throat-singing
INTERVIEW: RG Snyman is not your typical Springbok lock - neither in the type of game he plays nor in the way he carries himself.
Argentina
Fit again flank returns for England opener against Argentina
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England coach Steve Borthwick has put his trust in Alex Mitchell and Jonny May for the World Cup opener against Argentina in Marseilles on Saturday.
Argentina
Los Pumas legend to face England in fourth World Cup
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Argentina coach Michael Cheika named an experienced side to play their World Cup Pool D opener against England in Marseille on Saturday.
France
World Cup opener: Three key battles
SPOTLIGHT: Hosts France play New Zealand in the opening game of the World Cup on Friday in a highly-anticipated match-up between two of the tournament favourites.
Scotland
Pieter de Villiers: 'No place to hide' for Boks
INTERVIEW: Pieter De Villiers, Scotland scrum coach, has warned his compatriots South Africa that there would be 'no place to hide' at Stade de Marseille on Sunday.
Ireland
Sexton returns to lead powerful Ireland side
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Talisman Johnny Sexton will make his first competitive appearance since March this weekend after he was picked to captain Ireland in their World Cup opener against Romania.
Italy
Italy v Namibia - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: Namibia's head coach Allister Coetzee picked an experienced line-up for the African nation's World Cup opener against Italy in Saint-Etienne this weekend.
Fiji
Good, bad news for Gatland as he announces team to face Fiji
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wales head coach Warren Gatland named an experienced side to face Fiji in Bordeaux on Sunday, with George North set to appear at his fourth World Cup.
Scotland
The peril and pay-off of Toulon's heat for the Boks
SPOTLIGHT: Coach Jacques Nienaber was reluctant to share too much detail on the subject, but Toulon's searing heat - as dangerous as it is - is also an ally for South Africa.
Australia
Eddie Jones reveals fullback shock for clash against Georgia
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Coach Eddie Jones has pulled another huge selection shock.
France
'History is for us to write' says Ian Foster
NEWS: New Zealand head coach Ian Foster said on Thursday that his side is "at peace" with however France reacts to the Haka in the World Cup's opening game.
News
SA Rugby sees light at the end of the tunnel for WPRFU
REACTION: SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer says the sale of Newlands Stadium will be the final step in the process before the Western Province Rugby Football Union can return to its "traditional strength and stability".
News
Former London Irish wing joins Stormers
NEWS: The Stormers have confirmed that former London Irish fullback Ben Loader has joined them ahead of the 2023/24 season.
France
France v New Zealand - Teams and Prediction
RWC 2023 OPENER: The wait is finally over and we are now set to witness a humdinger between two giants of the game in Friday's opening match between hosts France and the All Blacks at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
Ireland
Cotter shares his views on Romania's rugby future
NEWS: Minnows Romania can return to the days when they were a match for top-tier rugby teams like France if the government invests in the sport, 'The Oaks' consultant Vern Cotter has told AFP.
Scotland
South Africa v Scotland: Tale of the tape
STATISTICAL INSIGHT: South Africa opens their World Cup title defence with a tricky encounter against Scotland at Stade de Marseille on Sunday.
France
'These French boys have been waiting for this game for a long time'
INTERVIEW: New Zealand fullback Beauden Barrett believes the World Cup will be a "fantastic" event which he hopes will start with a revenge victory over hosts France in Friday's opening game.
Argentina
The time is ripe with Dupont the French catalyst
TOURNAMENT PREVIEW: Dynamic scrumhalf Antoine Dupont will lead France into a home World Cup with hopes high that he can spark a first Northern Hemisphere victory in 20 years in the sport's quadrennial showpiece.
France
Galthie brings in replacement for Danty to face Kiwis
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: France coach Fabien Galthie has named his side to face New Zealand in their World Cup opener this weekend at Stade de Francais.
France
All Black team to face France without a Barrett
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: All Black coach Ian Foster picked a star studded side for their World Cup opener against hosts France at Stade de France on Friday.
South Africa
VIDEO: The absence of Moodie and Kleyn explained
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains the absence of utility back Canan Moodie and lock Jean Kleyn from the matchday selection.
News
WPRFU clubs come to their senses
NEWS: The future of the professional game in the Western Cape was 'saved' when the Western Province Rugby Football Union clubs finally came to their senses.
France
France ready for #RWC2023 party
REACTION: France head coach Fabien Galthie said on Wednesday it was "an honour" for the host nation to play New Zealand in the World Cup's opening match as he named a team including Yoram Moefana.
Australia
Wallabies get major boost for World Cup opener
INJURY UPDATE: Wallaby centre Samu Kerevi has been passed fit and is available for Australia's first game in the World Cup against Georgia, the team's scrum coach Neil Hatley said on Wednesday.
Scotland
Breaking! Settled Boks team to face Scotland
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: South Africa head coach Jacques Nienaber has named his squad to take on Scotland in their World Cup 2023 opener on Sunday.
Ireland
Ireland better than 2015 team reckons O'Connell
SPOTLIGHT: Irish rugby legend Paul O'Connell hopes his memories of this World Cup will be happier than his final one as a player in 2015 when Ireland once again failed to get past the quarterfinals.
Australia
No 'safety net' for next-gen Wallabies
The Wallabies no longer have a golden glow, but scrumhalf great Will Genia believes they can still shine at the World Cup 2023, saying Australia have more upside than other contenders.
South Africa
VIDEO: Boks will have a 'good plan' to nullify Scottish scrum power
WATCH as veteran Springbok Steven Kitshoff sits down for a one-on-one with @king365ed ahead of their World Cup opener against Scotland on Sunday.
New Zealand
'Fearless' France fancied by an All Black
INTERVIEW: When Sonny Bill Williams retired from the game, after the 2019 World Cup, he brought an end to one of the most glittering careers in the sport.
News
World Rugby sends stern warning to online bullies during #RWC2023
NEWS: World Rugby announced that it will implement transformative measures to protect all match-day officials and team squad players from online abuse during the World Cup 2023 in France.
Argentina
Crunching the numbers: Who has the most 'home-grown' players?
SPOTLIGHT: We decided to 'crunch the numbers' and see which country in World Cup 2023 has the most home-grown players and who the lead.
Fiji
Big blow for Fiji ahead of World Cup opener
NEWS: Fiji flyhalf Caleb Muntz, who scored 15 points in the historic Test win over England last month, has been ruled out of the World Cup due to a knee injury, said coach Simon Raiwalui.
Australia
Not guessing on the outcome of the World Cup says Eales
NEWS: John Eales knows what it takes to win a World Cup but the former Wallabies skipper says who will take this year's title in France is anyone's guess.
News
Stephen Ferris’ surprise prediction for #RWC23
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Former Ireland and Ulster legend Stephen Ferris believes Ireland will go all the way to the final but South Africa will edge them to retain their World Cup title.
England
England veteran still had a 'little dream' of going to France
NEWS: England scrumhalf Danny Care said he had never given up the "dream" of playing at another World Cup despite the pain of missing out four years ago.
Australia
Georgia can sting, warns Wallaby lock
NEWS: Australian lock Richie Arnold says Australia will "get stung" if they under-estimate their first World Cup opponents Georgia on Saturday at the Stade de France.
Wales
Good news for Wales' co-captain ahead of opener
NEWS: Wales co-captain Dewi Lake said on Tuesday he is fit to face Fiji in their opening World Cup game this weekend.
Argentina
Schalk Brits picks his #RWC23 Champion
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok hooker Schalk Brits has made some bold World Cup 2023 predictions.
News
Kitshoff tops URC charts
NEWS: Springbok and Ulster-bound prop Steven Kitshoff has risen to the No.1 spot in the latest update to the United Rugby Championship Top 100.
South Africa
VIDEO: Butchering Bok names - the lighter side of a French function
WATCH as the French master of ceremonies struggle with the pronunciation of South African names - as they do in most countries.
Scotland
'We know what’s coming': Scott on Springboks' Bomb squad
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland know exactly what to expect from South Africa in their World Cup 2023 opener on Sunday reveals lock Scott Cummings.
France
The All Black hardman that 'fears' the French
INTERVIEW: Former New Zealand captain Wayne 'Buck' Shelford, often dubbed 'the hardest man to play the game', knows better than most the highs and lows of playing Les Bleus.
Latest News
Webb-Ellis embraced by French as their own
SPOTLIGHT: William Webb-Ellis may or may not have been the creator of rugby but the residents of the French Riviera town of Menton where he is buried have embraced the Englishman as one of their own.
France
Evolution of haka - from 'jingle bells' to fierce war dance
SPOTLIGHT: Before France takes on New Zealand in the opening game of the World Cup the hosts will have to face the ferocious challenge laid down by the All Blacks in the haka.
South Africa
Scottish legend's rich praise for 'transformed' Boks
SPOTLIGHT: South Africa was formally welcomed to the World Cup in France at an unrivalled and an extravagant ceremony at La Tour Royale in Toulon on Monday.
France
France lock: 'I am not a racist'
REACTION: French lock Bastien Chalureau on Monday rejected accusations he is a racist in an affair that has overshadowed hosts France's preparations for the World Cup.
New Zealand
All Blacks sweat over key player ahead of World Cup opener
NEWS: The All Blacks could be without another key player when they face France in Friday's World Cup opener.
England
Farrell: 'I made a mistake'
SPOTLIGHT: England captain Owen Farrell said he has accepted the "mistake" that will see him miss the start of the World Cup campaign, but remains excited for the tournament despite his side's dreadful form.
New Zealand
Dan Carter explains why Pollard is a 'huge loss' for Springboks
SPOTLIGHT: All Black legend Dan Carter believes Handre Pollard's experience will be sorely missed in the Springbok squad during the World Cup.
South Africa
VIDEO: 'Conditioned' Boks ready to turn up the heat in Marseille
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks the advantages of the pre-World Cup camp and looks forward towards the opening match against Scotland.
Scotland
Russell opens up on uphill battle against Boks and Ireland
SPOTLIGHT: Scotland flyhalf Finn Russell says his side face an uphill battle to emerge from a stacked World Cup group that includes holders South Africa and the world's top-ranked side Ireland.
News
'Excited to work with Morne Steyn': Lions lure Stormers No.10 to Jozi
TRANSFER NEWS: Promising Stormers flyhalf Kade Wolhuter has agreed to a loan deal with the Lions ahead of the 2023/24 United Rugby Championship season.
New Zealand
The All Black pipeline missed this Barrett
SPOTLIGHT: A trio of Barrett brothers will play for New Zealand at the World Cup, but according to Beauden Barrett, a fourth sibling had also been on course to wear the famous All Blacks jersey until injury prematurely ended his career.
Argentina
#RWC23: Five youngsters to watch
SPOTLIGHT: From in-form wings to a generational Georgian talent and a co-captain with just 11 caps to his name.
South Africa
VIDEO: Why Boks are 'at home' in Toulon
WATCH as Springbok captain Siya Kolisi explains why they feel 'at home' in the port city of Toulon on the French Riviera on the Mediterranean coast.
Latest News
Wales great dead at 81
NEWS: Wales great David Watkins - the only man to captain the British Lions in both rugby union and rugby league - has died aged 81, it was announced Sunday.
South Africa
The 'A-Team' to beat Scotland
OPINION: @king365ed puts his selection hat on and names the team he feels will be good enough to give the defending champions a wincing start at the World Cup.
Latest News
Former Welsh star rushed to hospital during Ironman
NEWS: Former Wales loose forward Alix Popham was hospitalized with a suspected concussion while he was competing at the Wales Ironman.
Japan
Japan ready to climb Everest in World Cup endeavour
SPOTLIGHT: Japan coach Jamie Joseph said that despite "a mass of problems" his team was preparing to scale Everest at the World Cup.
Latest News
Boks settle in Toulon to get ready for World Cup kick-off
NEWS: The Springboks arrived at their World Cup base in Toulon on Sunday morning in high spirits after a ten-and-a-half-hour ferry overnight trip from Corsica.
Latest News
VIDEO: Watch as Ronan O'Gara gets in a sideline scuffle
NEWS: A bizarre incident in the Top 14 clash between Clermont and La Rochelle has grabbed headlines after former Irish international and La Rochelle head coach Ronan O’Gara was attacked by an opposition player.
Latest News
Hansen on 2019 World Cup: 'I have to take the blame'
Former All Black head coach Steve Hansen has opened up on the 2019 semifinal defeat to England which ended hopes of three consecutive World Cup titles.
Wales
Gatland: 'We will suprise some people'
SPOTLIGHT: Warren Gatland faces a monumental task in his bid to take Wales to a third World Cup semifinal under his watch, but the Kiwi coach insists his team will do "something special" in France.
South Africa
'We don't really care': Rassie addresses reaction to Boks' bench split
SPOTLIGHT: South Africa's Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus says the Springbok camp didn’t pay much attention to all the outside noise around the make-up of their bench against the All Blacks at Twickenham.
Fiji
Fiji not thinking about rankings says Raiwalui
NEWS: Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui said on Saturday his side's record ranking of seventh has no impact on their preparation for the World Cup.
New Zealand
VIDEO: All Blacks' World War tribute in France
SPOTLIGHT: For New Zealand forward Tamaiti Williams, a visit to a First World War cemetery ahead of the World Cup in France provided an unexpected and emotional link to his family heritage.
News
Cheetahs too good for Force...again
REPORT: The Cheetahs made it two wins from two matches in the Challenge Series with a 27-12 win over the Western Force in Bloemfontein on Saturday.
South Africa
Jake White on Boks' Twickers win: 'I can’t see it happening again'
Bulls Director of Rugby and former Springbok coach Jake White shares his thoughts on South Africa's record win over the All Blacks
South Africa
'We could have selected 15 robots': Bok players get licence to thrill at RWC
SPOTLIGHT: Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber wants his players to express themselves in the best way possible at the World Cup, even if it means going a bit off script.
South Africa
Gold Cup returns in 'FA Cup' style format
NEWS: The Gold Cup – featuring 32 teams from around South Africa – kicks off in September following a four-year hiatus and will introduce a new and exciting knock-out format, which has never been seen before in the nationwide club competition.
South Africa
'They are not going to trouble the Boks': Ireland get some much-needed advice
SPOTLIGHT: Ireland need more players to step up as leaders to help talismanic skipper Johnny Sexton and play more expansively if they are to be genuine World Cup contenders, former Irish fullback Hugo MacNeill has told AFP.
News
Western Force part ways with CEO
NEWS: The Western Force are on the lookout for a new chief executive after parting ways with Tony Lewis.
England
England desperate to lift gloom ahead of World Cup
SPOTLIGHT: England head into the World Cup arguably at their lowest ebb since the inaugural 1987 edition and with a favourable draw no longer offering much comfort.
Argentina
Ireland legend on Los Pumas: 'They're a nation built for the World Cup'
SPOTLIGHT: Argentina arrived at their World Cup base on the Brittany coast on Friday where wing Juan Imhoff declared he could feel "the pressure building".
France
Dupont shares his thoughts on NZ's defeat to Boks
SPOTLIGHT: Less than a week before the World Cup, with expectations rising in the squad and among the home fans, France captain Antoine Dupont says the hosts "have to win" the opener against three-time champions New Zealand.
France
France rocked by Willemse withdrawal
NEWS: France suffered another big blow to their hopes of winning the World Cup.
South Africa
Boks wary of De Villiers factor ahead of World Cup opener
SPOTLIGHT: The Springboks will be out to nullify Scotland's dangerous backline in their World Cup opener, but they are also aware that it all starts with the forward battle.
News
Reds undergo coaching overhaul
NEWS: Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss has followed through on his touted coaching clean-out, replacing all of former mentor Brad Thorn’s assistants ahead of his first Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
News
RWC 2023: All the action at your fingertips!
The World Cup will soon be upon us and now is the time to plan your viewing pleasure.
News
Cheetahs v Western Force - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie admitted it is difficult to simulate European conditions in Bloemfontein and Perth, so he will use Saturday's game to give a whole batch of different players some much-needed game time.
Scotland
Scotland turn to mercurial playmaker for magic as Boks loom
SPOTLIGHT: Scotland need some magic from a reformed Finn Russell if Gregor Townsend's men are to upset the odds just by making it out of a devilishly difficult World Cup pool.
South Africa
What the WPRFU clubs will vote for: 'Life or death'
OPINION: @king365ed unpacks the key aspects of the crucial vote at a WPRFU General Council meeting next Wednesday, September 6.
Australia
VIDEO: Eddie - 'South Africans don’t inspire me as much as I admire them'
SPOTLIGHT: Wallaby head coach Eddie Jones applauded South Africa's "bold" use of their replacements against the All Blacks, but he is not using it as a source of inspiration ahead of the World Cup.
New Zealand
Boks park All Black win: 'The World Cup starts now'
WATCH as Springboks Cobus Reinach and Manie Libbok speak at the team's Corsica training camp ahead of the much-anticipated World Cup.
News
Bulls set to reap the rewards after World Cup
INTERVIEW: Marcell Coetzee is confident that the Bulls will reap the rewards of the World Cup experience some of their young stars will gain as they look to the coming season.
South Africa
Video: Libbok gets huge endorsement from legendary Springbok
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok legend Morne Steyn has no doubt that Manie Libbok is capable of delivering in the Green and Gold No.10 jersey at the World Cup in France.
Australia
'I never have any regrets': Eddie explains his rant in 'worst press conference'
SPOTLIGHT: Wallaby head coach Eddie Jones addressed his media blow-up in Sydney before his squad boarded the plane to Paris earlier this month.
Italy
Italy not fazed by brutal World Cup draw
NEWS: Italy have a huge task facing them as Kieran Crowley's talented young team try to reach the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time.
Georgia
Georgia's rise in rugby steeped in tradition
NEWS: Georgia's presence at their sixth successive World Cup since 2003 is a remarkable achievement given that they only joined the International Rugby Board (now World Rugby) in 1992 after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Japan
Covid legacy in the past as Japan heads to World Cup
SPOTLIGHT: Japan should have been riding a wave of momentum after hosting a successful 2019 World Cup but the Covid-19 pandemic has hampered efforts to build on their success.
South Africa
VIDEO: 'We are comfortable with being champions'
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber addresses the media at the team's training camp on the Mediterranean island of Corsica.
New Zealand
Damning report reveals NZ Rugby is 'not fit for purpose'
NEWS: New Zealand Rugby's governing body was branded "not fit for purpose" in a scathing independent report published Thursday into the country's governing body.
France
France centre in doubt for World Cup opener
NEWS: France centre Jonathan Danty is a doubt to face New Zealand in next week's World Cup opener due to a hamstring injury, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) said on Wednesday.
South Africa
VIDEO: Pollard exits Bok camp
NEWS: Flyhalf Handre Pollard has officially left the Springbok camp ahead of the World Cup.
South Africa
Mixed feelings over Boks' controversial bench split
OPINION: The discussion around the Springboks’ seven-one split between forwards and backs on the bench for the Test against New Zealand last week has caused a lot of reaction around the world.
South Africa
VIDEO: 'André The Giant' living up to his moniker
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber speaks about the ever-improving midfielder called André The Giant.
France
France leave nothing to chance ahead of World Cup
SPOTLIGHT: There used to be a lazily-used cliche about France claiming "you never knew what French team would turn up" but in the build-up to this year's World Cup that remark has been consigned to the past.
Australia
#RWC2023 - Boks rated third-best to lift trophy
STAT ATTACK: The Springboks are rated third-best to secure the 2023 World Cup in France.
Argentina
Calling on all fantasy fans
SPOTLIGHT: In an exciting development for enthusiasts around the world, World Rugby unveiled the official World Cup 2023 Fantasy game.
New Zealand
'A fair hearing': Foster has his say on Barrett verdict
REACTION: All Blacks coach Ian Foster said it was a "great result" that Scott Barrett avoided a World Cup ban after being sent off against South Africa.
South Africa
REVEALED: The people and details behind the new Stormers equity deal
SPOTLIGHT: @king365ed unearths details of, and the people behind, the new Stormers equity deal on the table of the Western Province Rugby Football Union.
England
British army player found dead in France
NEWS: A British armed forces player was found dead on Tuesday in France's Brittany region where the World Defence Rugby competition is being held, a prosecutor said.
News
VIDEO: 'Jake didn't want me at the Bulls'
WATCH as Springbok and Bulls legend Morne Steyn reveals the real reason why he opted to join the Lions.
News
Stormers finally confirm equity partner
NEWS: The Western Province Rugby Football Union's General Council will meet on Wednesday, August 30, when a ground-breaking equity deal will be presented to the union's primary club stakeholders.
South Africa
VIDEO: Boks dabbling with forwards who can play in the backline
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks the reasons behind the decision to play with seven forwards and just one back, as well as their future plans for the bench.
New Zealand
VIDEO: Defeat to Boks could be beneficial for All Backs says Hansen
SPOTLIGHT: Former All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen says that New Zealand will come out ‘sharper’ in two weeks’ time after the 7-35 Twickenham defeat to South Africa.
Ireland
Irish view on the #BIG bad Boks
REACTION: South Africa’s 35-7 win over New Zealand has put their pool rivals on notice, including Ireland, who will face the Springboks in their third pool match.
Australia
Jones admits he has 'destabilised the team'
INTERVIEW: Coach Eddie Jones has conceded the Wallabies win-loss record heading into the World Cup isn't good enough but feels they aren't far away from clicking.
Georgia
Georgia seek more major games
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Georgia coach Levan Maisashvili said he wants more games against leading sides as he named his squad for this year's World Cup.
New Zealand
Relief for All Blacks as Barrett escapes #RWC ban
DISCIPLINARY NEWS: New Zealand lock Scott Barrett has avoided a ban after being shown a red card in last weekend's record loss to South Africa, World Rugby announced on Monday.
News
Hawies Fourie reveals his future plans
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Cheetahs received some good news as head coach Hawies Fourie signed a new contract with the Bloemfontein franchise.
Argentina
Boks on the move in rankings shakeup
UPDATE: Seven of the top 10 teams find themselves in different positions in the World Rugby Rankings after the final round of World Cup warm-up clashes.
News
Dobson unpacks four key areas for Stormers to improve
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Coach John Dobson has identified four key areas Stormers need to improve in their pursuit to clinch the United Rugby Championship title this season.
New Zealand
Dark Monday as Barrett cited for shoulder charge on Bok
DISCIPLINARY NEWS: The All Blacks face an anxious wait after Scott Barrett has been cited following his red card against South Africa at Twickenham.
South Africa
VIDEO: This was not Moodie's first rodeo
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks why playing Canan Moodie at outside centre against Rieko Ioane was not as big a risk as most people felt.
England
Talking points: Boks bully All Blacks, Fiji stun England
The final warm-up matches for this year's World Cup took place this weekend with holders South Africa hammering New Zealand on Friday and Fiji stunning England among the standout results.
Ireland
VIDEO: 'I made a mistake in the heat of the moment'
REACTION: Ireland coach Andy Farrell said veteran prop Cian Healy was "devastated" after missing out on the World Cup squad due to injury.
Australia
Eddie Jones delusional or truly confident?
REACTION: Australia coach Eddie Jones said on Sunday he remained "confident" of his side's chances at the World Cup.
France
France ready to 'go up a level'
REACTION: Coach Fabien Galthie said France must "go up another level" after breezing past Australia 41-17 in their final World Cup warm-up on Sunday.
England
England confirms injured Watson's replacement
TEAM UPDATE: England has confirmed that Jonny May has replaced Anthony Watson in their squad for the World Cup.
Ireland
Injury rocks Irish squad
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland coach Andy Farrell has had his selection hand forced by injury ahead of the World Cup.
Australia
France adds to Wallaby misery with Paris rout
MATCH REPORT: Eddie Jones' winless return to Australia continued with another horror story in Paris on Sunday, a humbling 17-41 loss to World Cup hosts France.
Australia
France v Australia RECAP | International
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our LIVE coverage of the World Cup warm-up match between France and Australia at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
News
Sharks lure another Bok to Durban
TRANSFER NEWS: The Sharks continued their off-season recruitment by luring another Springbok to Durban.
Scotland
Townsend's frank assessment of the Boks
REACTION: South Africa and Scotland are set to face off in pivotal pool match in the opening round of the World Cup, in Marseille on September 10.
Australia
Fiji puts pool rivals on notice
REACTION: A historic win by Fiji over England has reminded Australia and other Pool C rivals that advancing to the World Cup quarterfinals is no guarantee.
Latest News
Blade cut into muscle, Foster says it needs to be checked out
NEWS: The All Blacks are holding thumbs that prop Tyrel Lomax will recover in time for the World Cup after sustaining a deep gash on his upper leg in the loss against the Springboks at Twickenham on Friday.
Namibia
Bulls clinch win over World Cup bound Namibia
MATCH REPORT: The Bulls gave Namibia coach Allister Coetzee food for thought ahead of the World Cup in two weeks after their 43-30 victory over the Welwitschias at the Vegkop Stadium in Windhoek on Saturday.
Argentina
Player ratings: Argentina
Los Pumas player ratings: Argentina put on an impressive display against Spain at the Civitatis Metropolitano in Madrid, leaving their opponents chasing shadows throughout the match played in high temperatures and high pace.
Argentina
Los Pumas maul Los Leones in nine try feast
MATCH REPORT: Argentina scored nine tries in a 62-3 rout of Spain in a Rugby World Cup warm-up on Saturday.
Latest News
Wales star done after World Cup
NEWS: Wales flyhalf Dan Biggar has announced he will retire from international rugby union after the upcoming World Cup in France.
Ireland
Injury setback as Ireland survive big Samoan scare
MATCH REPORT: Ireland hung on desperately to edge Samoa 17-13 their final World Cup warm-up match in a rainy Bayonne on Saturday.
Georgia
Scotland warms up for Boks with easy Georgia win
MATCH REPORT: Scotland wrapped up their World Cup warm-up campaign with a 33-6 victory over Georgia at Murrayfield on Saturday.
Italy
Hat-trick for Ioane seals victory for Italy
MATCH REPORT: Italy convincingly beat Japan 42-21 on Saturday in both teams' final warm-up match before the World Cup in France.
England
Alarm bells ring, as Fiji expose England's frailties
REACTION: England coach Steve Borthwick lamented his side's poor tackling after a shock 22-30 loss to Fiji.
England
Player ratings: England
England player ratings live from Twickenham: It was Friday when Steve Borthwick’s assistant, Kevin Sinfield, calmly vouched that "getting better and improving is never a straight line".
Fiji
Fiji rewrites history books, records biggest upset ever
MATCH REPORT: Fiji has caused one of the greatest upsets in rugby history beating England for the first time ever by 30-22 in a World Cup warm-up game at Twickenham on Saturday.
South Africa
VIDEO: 'This win is worth no points in the World Cup'
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber chats to @king365ed after their 35-7 rout of the All Blacks at Twickenham at the weekend.
England
England v Fiji RECAP| International
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our LIVE coverage of the World Cup warm-up match between England and Fiji at Twickenham Stadium in London.
South Africa
BREAKING: The shocking reason for Elton Jantjies' absence
STATEMENT: The real reason for Elton Jantjies' departure from the Springbok team has been revealed.
Wales
Welsh player facing doping scrutiny
REPORT: Wales and British and Irish Lions player Rhys Webb is facing a potentially career-ending ban.
New Zealand
Media meltdown after Boks rout All Blacks
REACTION: The All Blacks were blasted as "panicky and rattled" by New Zealand media on Saturday.
New Zealand
All Blacks heading to the #RWC with second row concerns
REACTION: The All Blacks' already fragile second row stock suffered another major setback during their 7-35 defeat to the Springboks on Friday.
Australia
France v Australia - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: The Wallabies' second row has a distinctly French flavour as skipper Will Skelton and Richie Arnold line up against many of their club teammates in Paris in their World Cup warm-up.
New Zealand
Player ratings: New Zealand
OPINION: Finn Morton rates the New Zealand players after their record 7-35 loss to South Africa at Twickenham on Friday.
New Zealand
Twickenham: Just what the doctor ordered
REACTION: If Auckland was the wake-up call, Twickenham was the remedy for the defending World Cup champions South Africa.
South Africa
Player ratings: South Africa
OPINION: @king365ed rates the South African players after their record 35-7 win over New Zealand at Twickenham on Friday.
New Zealand
Boks demolish 14-man All Blacks at Twickenham
MATCH REPORT: The Springboks made a big statement concluding their World Cup preparations with a resounding 35-7 win over the All Blacks at Twickenham on Friday.
New Zealand
New Zealand v South Africa RECAP | International
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our LIVE coverage of the World Cup warm-up match between New Zealand and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium in London.
News
Cheetahs maul willing young Force team
MATCH REPORT: The Cheetahs got their build-up to their new European campaign off to a victorious start.
Ireland
Samoa v Ireland - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: The world's top-ranked team, Ireland, completes its World Cup warm-up fixtures on Saturday by taking on Samoa in Bayonne.
Georgia
Scotland v Georgia - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: Scotland will be eager to fine-tune their squad when they host Georgia at Murrayfield on Saturday.
Latest News
England v Fiji - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: The woes of the England rugby team since they started their preparations for the World Cup could not have been scripted any worse.
United Rugby Championship
A first for URC on the cards in new season
NEWS: A first for the United Rugby Championship is on the cards for the 2023/24 season when Ospreys play the Sharks in London at the Twickenham Stoop for their Round 3 match-up on November 3.
Australia
Young Wallabies to tackle France in final warm-up
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Will Skelton will become the 87th Wallabies captain when he leads the side onto Stade de France on Sunday for the side’s final Test before the 2023 World Cup.
News
World Rugby's amazing plan to transform the game
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: In another incredible effort to grow the sport, World Rugby has launched rugby’s first-ever global streaming platform RugbyPass TV.
Latest News
Former Wales coach off to Japan
NEWS: Former Wales head coach Wayne Pivac will lead Japanese second-division side NEC Green Rockets next season.
Tonga
Former All Black fails appeal, will miss Tonga's clash with Boks
NEWS: Centre George Moala will miss all but one of Tonga's World Cup pool games after he failed in an appeal to have a five-match ban over-turned, World Rugby announced on Thursday.
Ireland
All Black gets start for Samoa
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Former New Zealand flyhalf Lima Sopoaga will make his Samoa Test debut in this weekend's World Cup warm-up with Ireland.
New Zealand
VIDEO: Siya wants an 'ugly, but beautiful' game
WATCH as Springbok captain Siya Kolisi fronts up to the media ahead of his team's encounter with the All Blacks at Twickenham on Friday.
News
VIDEO: Moerat to build on Kitsie's legacy
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Despite heading in a new direction, Stormers captain Salmaan Moerat will stay true to the legacy of former skipper Steven Kitshoff.
New Zealand
South Africa v New Zealand - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: @king365ed brings you the views of both camps ahead of the World Cup warm-up match between arch-rivals South Africa and New Zealand at Twickenham on Friday.
Italy
Italy v Japan - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: Head coach Jamie Joseph said Thursday that Japan had "turned the page" ahead of their final World Cup tune-up against Italy after a spate of red cards and injuries.
England
England suffer another huge setback ahead of World Cup
NEWS: England have suffered a fresh blow ahead of the World Cup.
Ireland
Farrell rings the changes for Ireland's clash against Samoa
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Head coach Andy Farrell has named his matchday squad to face Samoa in Saturday’s World Cup warm-up fixture at Stade Jean-Dauger in Bayonne.
England
The Law[es] to lead England in final warm-up
TEAM ANNOUNCMENT: Courtney Lawes will earn his 100th cap as England captain on Saturday as Steve Borthwick’s men take on Fiji at Twickenham Stadium in the last of Nations Series games before the start of the 2023 World Cup in France.
France
Galthie reveals his playmaker for clash against Wallabies
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Matthieu Jalibert will start at flyhalf in France's final World Cup warm-up match against Australia this weekend, head coach Fabien Galthie announced on Thursday.
News
'A proven leader': Stormers reveal their new captain
NEWS: Stormers head coach John Dobson has revealed his new squad captain ahead of the 2023/2024 season.
New Zealand
VIDEO: The 'home ground' advantage the Boks have at Twickenham
WATCH as Springbok centre Andre Esterhuizen previews the Twickenham Test against the All Blacks.
News
Bok lock reveals his future plans
NEWS: Griquas confirmed the arrival of former Springbok lock Franco van der Merwe as the new assistant coach.
Australia
Australia 'A' v Portugal - Teams
SPOTLIGHT: Australia 'A' Head Coach Jason Gilmore has confirmed his side to face Portugal at Stade Jules-Ladoumègue in Massy, south of Paris, on Saturday.
England
No escape as England's Billy learns his fate after red card
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: England No.8 Billy Vunipola has not escape punishment for his dangerous tackle during England's defeat to Ireland on Saturday.
Scotland
Townsend fires warning shots at Boks
SPOTLIGHT: Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend wants his team to play their best rugby when they face South Africa in the World Cup.
Latest News
Fozzy laughs off Hansen's Wallaby link-up
REACTION: All Blacks coach Ian Foster has laughed off the idea there's anything disloyal about his predecessor Steve Hansen's brief link-up with the Wallabies.
Latest News
Anything less than the World Cup title is a failure says Wallaby
SPOTLIGHT: Lalakai Foketi has boldly declared the Wallabies aren't in France to make up the numbers and won't be satisfied with anything less than winning the World Cup.
New Zealand
Why All Blacks are going 'full throttle' against Boks
REACTION: South Africa must expect another fierce onslaught from New Zealand in their Word Cup warm-up match at Twickenham on Friday.
Argentina
Argentina veteran ruled out of World Cup
NEWS: Argentina will be heading to the World Cup without one of their big names.
News
'Hard work’: Specmagic on his return to the sevens scene
SPOTLIGHT: Two things that immediately struck Rosko Specman as he drove into the South Africa Sevens team’s base at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport on Wednesday, were ‘hard work’ and ‘no comfort zones’.
Top 14
Racing land a big name
TRANSFER NEWS: France prop Demba Bamba will join Racing 92 from Lyon next season, the Paris-based Top 14 club announced on Wednesday.
South Africa
VIDEO: Twickenham tiff will be 'war'
WATCH as Springbok veteran Eben Etzebeth explains why they will leave nothing in the tank in their face-off against the All Blacks at Twickenham on Friday.
Scotland
Scotland bring out the big guns for Georgia
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Jamie Ritchie will lead Scotland in their final match before the upcoming World Cup.
Namibia
Namibia v Bulls - Teams
PREVIEW: Namibia will be entering their final preparation stages for the 2023 World Cup and they will face the Bulls in Windhoek on Saturday.
New Zealand
All Blacks go all out for Boks
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: A matchday 23, with over 1000 Tests of international experience, has been given the task of taking on the current world champions South Africa in a match that will complete preparations for the 2023 World Cup in France.
South Africa
'He treasured the ethos of the game': SA Rugby pays tribute to Stofberg
UPDATE: Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, paid tribute to former Springbok captain Marthinus Theunis Steyn (Theuns) Stofberg, who sadly passed away on Wednesday following a serious car accident outside Stellenbosch on Monday.
Latest News
Cheetahs v Western Force - teams
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ruan Pienaar resumes his role at flyhalf for the Cheetahs when they face the Western Force in the opening of four Challenge Series games in Bloemfontein on Friday night.
Scotland
Duhan: 'I never thought I'd be where I am today'
SPOTLIGHT: Scotland star Duhan van der Merwe admitted that his rise on the international stage in the colours of Scotland was something that he could never envisage a few years ago.
South Africa
VIDEO: Bok coach's mirthful response to Libbok question
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber responds in mirthful fashion to a question about flyhalf Manie Libbok's declining goalkicking standards.
Australia
VIDEO: Eddie to spring another surprise
SPOTLIGHT: In another shocking move Wallabies head coach Eddie Jones has hinted that flyhalf Ben Donaldson could be in line for his first Wallabies appearance when Australia face hosts France in their World Cup warm-up.
South Africa
VIDEO: Injured Bok stars on RTT & RTP
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber clears up any doubt about the injury status of World Cup winners Handre Pollard and Lukhanyo Am and their possible return to the squad.
England
The Owen Farrell verdict is out and people won't like it
BREAKING NEWS: The verdict of England captain Owen Farrell's appeal hearing has been released and it is going to upset his critics.
News
World Rugby reveals refs for RWC pool matches
NEWS: World Rugby has announced the referee appointments for the 40 matches that comprise the pool stage of this year's World Cup in France.
News
BlitzBoks suffer massive blow
NEWS: The BlitzBoks received some bad news ahead of the Sevens season.
Australia
VIDEO - 'Like a mate having a beer': Eddie on Hansen's role in Wallabies camp
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: When days are dark, friends are few. However, that is not the case for Australia's head coach Eddie Jones.
Latest News
Purple People Eaters lose an icon
NEWS: South Africa has lost a huge figure in the coaching fraternity with the sad news that the Griffons’ assistant coach Oersond Gorgonzola has passed away.
Italy
Star fullback's return headlines Italy World Cup squad
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Ange Capuozzo will travel to the World Cup in France after being selected in the Azzurri squad announced on Tuesday.
New Zealand
VIDEO: How Boks plan to stop All Black razzle-dazzle
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks the key to success for his team against the All Blacks at Twickenham on Friday.
South Africa
Boks v All Blacks is not a 'warm-up'
SPOTLIGHT: All Black star Ardie Savea says there is no such thing as a "warm-up" for his team as they prepare to face the Springboks at Twickenham Stadium in London.
Uruguay
French presence in Uruguay World Cup squad
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Bayonne lock Manuel Leindekar and Castres scrumhalf Santiago Arata were both named in Uruguay's 33-man World Cup squad.
England
Venues for 2025 Women's World Cup
NEWS: The eight venues for the 2025 Women's World Cup in England have been announced, two years out from the start of the showpiece tournament.
Australia
VIDEO: 'Cancel his citizenship' - NZ shocked by Hansen's Aussie move
REACTION: Veteran All Blacks hooker Dane Coles said he was "gobsmacked" to hear former New Zealand coach Steve Hansen is helping rivals Australia prepare for the World Cup.
South Africa
VIDEO: Nienaber sets the Siya bar at the hour mark
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains how they will continue to ease captain Siya Kolisi back to full match fitness.
Ireland
Ireland bring in uncapped hooker
SQUAD UPDATE: Uncapped hooker Diarmuid Barron has joined the Ireland squad ahead of their warm-up clash against Samoa in Bayonne.
News
'Bunker' review system gets green light for World Cup
NEWS: The 'Bunker' review system and the shot clock will feature at the upcoming World Cup in France, World Rugby announced Monday.
Namibia
Allister Coetzee reveals Namibia squad for World Cup
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Namibia, beaten in all 22 matches they played at six previous World Cups, named 39-year-old lock PJ van Lill among 31 players on Monday for the 2023 tournament in France.
South Africa
VIDEO: Nienaber's midfield bolter has been 'on the radar' for some time
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks the reasons behind his left-field selection for the World Cup warm-up encounter with the All Blacks.
France
World Rankings: Boks' new position confirmed
NEWS: South Africa's new position in the Men's Rankings was confirmed by World Rugby on Monday.
France
Injured star included in France's World Cup squad
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Flank Anthony Jelonch was named in host nation France's World Cup squad by head coach Fabien Galthie on Monday despite suffering from a serious knee injury.
Latest News
No Folau in Tonga World Cup squad
NEWS: Israel Folau has been left out of Tonga’s World Cup squad announced by coach Toutai Kefu who named 32 players with one more name to be added.
Latest News
Lions finally manage to snag two new coaches
NEWS: The Lions have nabbed a Bull after being on the hunt for months to fill their coaching positions with the announcement that one of the most prolific kickers in South African rugby will join them as kicking consultant.
Latest News
Gatland appoints two captains in Wales' World Cup squad
NEWS: Wales coach Warren Gatland has named two captains to lead his side in the World Cup in France in two weeks.
New Zealand
Nienaber springs midfield surprise for clash against All Blacks
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber has revealed his team for their final World Cup warm-up match against the All Blacks in London on Friday.
England
England's Vunipola to learn fate on Tuesday
NEWS: England’s Billy Vunipola will know his fate on Tuesday following his red card against Ireland when the hearing for the red card offence will take place.
Australia
Eddie brings in World Cup-winning coach to help Wallabies
NEWS: World Cup-winning All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has joined the Wallabies in a short-term advisory role ahead of next month's World Cup.
New Zealand
All Blacks set to unleash big guns against Boks
SPOTLIGHT: Assistant coach Jason Ryan says the All Blacks will send out their strongest "available" "team for their World Cup warm-up match against the Springboks on Friday.
South Africa
VIDEO: Springbok coach's sage message to misfiring Manie
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber responds to questions around the poor kicking performance of flyhalf Manie Libbok in the last two Tests.
Namibia
The team that has never won a World Cup game
Which team has competed at the World Cup regularly but has never won a single game? Today we take a look at the team from Namibia, galant competitors but a victory has always eluded them.
South Africa
VIDEO: Why Siya rates Willie as the 'Bok provider'
WATCH as returning Springbok captain Siya Kolisi sings the praises of veteran fullback Willie le Roux, despite a performance that had the cynics calling for his head.
Ireland
'Fingers crossed': Ireland to keep a close eye on injured star
REACTION: Ireland head coach Andy Farrell will be hoping that the foot injury Dan Sheehan suffered against England on Saturday is not a serious one.
Australia
'It's not foreign to me': New Wallaby coach eager to work with Eddie
SPOTLIGHT: Wallabies assistant coach Jason Ryles says his new boss Eddie Jones shares similar coaching philosophies to Craig Bellamy, who he played and worked under at the Melbourne Storm.
South Africa
VIDEO: The All Blacks won't roll over this easy
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks his team's record win over Wales in Cardiff at the weekend.
South Africa
Gatland opens up on Bok drubbing
REACTION: Wales head coach Warren Gatland admitted that the Springboks physically dominated his side in all areas of the game in Saturday's World Cup warm-up match in Cardiff.
England
'I feel the disappointment': England coach calls for rapid end to red card fall-outs
REACTION: England coach Steve Borthwick was left hoping for a rapid finish to rugby's often lengthy disciplinary procedures after Billy Vunipola joined Owen Farrell as a World Cup doubt by being sent off during a 10-29 warm-up loss to Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.
Fiji
World Cup hosts Les Blues the boss of Fiji in warm-up clash
MATCH REPORT: France has beaten Fiji 34-17 in a World Cup warm-up match at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes on Saturday evening.
Top 14
Worlds' most capped player gets yellow in French Top 14
NEWS: The world's most capped player Alun Wyn Jones was shown a yellow card just three minutes into his French Top 14 debut as his Toulon side lost 27-15 at Lyon.
South Africa
Player ratings: South Africa
OPINION: @king365ed rates the South African players after their 52-16 demolition of Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.
South Africa
VIDEO: Kolisi - It felt amazing
WATCH as Springbok captain Siya Kolisi speaks about his first game after knee surgery - a 40-minute outing in a 52-16 rout of Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.
England
VIDEO: Another red card for England as Ireland ease to victory
REPORT: Another one of Steve Borthwick's stars is set to face the music in the coming days.
England
Player Ratings: England
OPINION: The ambition in Dublin was for Steve Borthwick’s team to live up to their head coach’s promise that they definitely were in the right direction towards Marseille and being pitch-perfect for their World Cup opener versus Argentina.
Ireland
Player Ratings: Ireland
OPINION: The men in green eventually got out of second gear to see off a disjointed if earnest England side, that refused to go away even after going down to 14 men.
Georgia
Georgia thump USA in World Cup warm-up
NEWS: Georgia eased past the USA 22-7 on Saturday in their second warm-up for this year's World Cup.
England
Ireland v England RECAP | International
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our LIVE coverage of the World Cup warm-up match between Ireland and England at Lansdowne Road in Dublin.
Wales
Player ratings: Wales
OPINION: Ian Cameron rates the Welsh players after their humbling 16-52 loss to South Africa.
South Africa
Boks destroy Wales in Cardiff
REPORT: The Springboks will head into their next World Cup warm-up match against the All Blacks with some momentum after they hammered Wales 52-16 at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday.
South Africa
Wales v South Africa RECAP | International
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our LIVE coverage of the World Cup warm-up match between Wales and South Africa at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
Japan
Lappies included in final Brave Blossoms World Cup squad
NEWS: Brave Blossoms coach Jamie Joseph has made four changes to the original World Cup squad for Japan that was announced three days ago.
South Africa
Kolisi on his recovery: 'My foundation was in God'
WATCH as iconic Springbok captain Siya Kolisi explains how he found strength in God to recover from knee surgery and recover in time to be ready for the World Cup.
England
Farrell's date for World Rugby appeal revealed
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: England captain Owen Farrell has been told when he must appear before an appeal hearing in his labyrinthian and disputatious saga.
England
'It's not an accident': Nigel Owens has his say on Farrell's tackle
REACTION: Former leading referee Nigel Owens warned Rugby Union is in "big trouble" if Owen Farrell's dangerous tackle against Wales is no longer regarded as worthy of a sending-off.
South Africa
Wales v South Africa - teams and prediction
PREVIEW: @king365ed unpacks the World Cup warm-up encounter between Wales and South Africa in Cardiff on Saturday and what it means for the Springboks' title defence that starts next month.
South Africa
Gatland looking past Boks: 'We can do something pretty special at this World Cup'
INTERVIEW: Wales coach Warren Gatland admitted he is planning for some short-term success and the World Cup is his target.
England
Ireland v England - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: The whole controversy surrounding Owen Farrell this week has taken some of the spotlight away from Saturday's big World Cup warm-up match between Ireland and England in Dublin.
England
'Just my opinion': Rassie shows support for Farrell
REACTION: South Africa's Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus took to social media to show his support for Ireland's head coach Andy Farrell.
England
World Rankings: Boks get another shot at top three spot
PREVIEW: There are some intriguing matches in the latest round of the World Cup warm-ups and World Rugby has published the ranking permutations.
Latest News
Drastic changes for SA Under-18's ahead of England clash
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The South African Under-18 team to face England in the International series in Paarl on Saturday underwent wholesale changes including new captain JJ Theron.
Fiji
France v Fiji - Teams and Prediction
PREVIEW: World Cup hosts France will welcome Fiji to Stade de la Beaujoire for a warm-up match on Saturday evening and there is no doubt that Fabien Galthie's side needs a strong performance against an ever improving Fiji.
England
Dad Andy talks out about 'Farrell circus'
REACTION: Ireland coach Andy Farrell slammed much of the commentary surrounding son Owen.
New Zealand
Powerhouse forward joins All Blacks' injury list ahead of World Cup
NEWS: All Black head coach Ian Foster has added another player to his injury list.
Australia
Another League expert answers Jones' coaching SOS
NEWS: National Rugby League assistant Jason Ryles has answered an SOS from Wallabies coach Eddie Jones and will join the Australian squad as a replacement for attack coach Brad Davis.
South Africa
Double injury blow for Wales ahead of Bok face-off
BREAKING NEWS: Wales suffered a double injury blow ahead of their final World Cup warm-up match against reigning champions South Africa in Cardiff on Saturday.
Latest News
Suspended prison sentence for Toulouse player for assault
NEWS: France-based New Zealand rugby player George Tilsley has been given a six-month suspended prison sentence for assaulting his girlfriend.
England
No Farrell for England as Lawes steps in as captain
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England appointed a new captain for their World Cup warm-up match against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday as a replacement for Owen Farrell, who awaits his fate after World Rugby appealed his disciplinary ruling.
Ireland
Earls' 100th cap imminent as Ireland announce team
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: James Ryan will captain Ireland in the final home match before the World Cup, while Keith Earls is in line to win his 100th Test cap in green should he feature off the replacements bench.
South Africa
VIDEO: Why cake-eating Ox don't count calories
WATCH as affable Springbok Ox Nché reveals why he almost missed a second consecutive World Cup and why he prefers cake over salad.
England
CONFIRMED: World Rugby to appeal Farrell's ruling
World Rugby has lodged an appeal against the decision to overturn Owen Farrell’s red card from Saturday’s match against Wales, placing the England captain’s participation in the World Cup in doubt again.
France
Alldritt, Willemse, Cross return for France
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: France have recalled captain Gregory Alldritt for their World Cup warm-up clash with Fiji in Nantes on Saturday while Paul Willemse and Francois Cros also return for the tournament hosts.
Italy
Capuozzo back for Italy after six months
Ange Capuozzo will return to Italy's starting line-up following six months out after being picked on Thursday for this weekend's World Cup warm-up with Romania.
Australia
VIDEO: Eddie Jones' ugly media spat - stay the pessimists you are
WATCH as Wallaby coach Eddie Jones blow up at the Australian media over their 'negative' questions.
Australia
Video: Wallabies take another big hit
NEWS: Eddie Jones' second stint as Australia's head coach has not gone as planned.
Latest News
Seven World Cup games not to be missed
OPINION: The final spot for the World Cup in France went to Portugal and now the biggest rugby spectacle in the world is just around the corner.
News
PICTURES: SA's URC teams hitting the pre-season hard
With most of the rugby stars' attention solely focused on the 2023 World Cup, the rest of the stars has been extremely busy with pre-season training.
South Africa
VIDEO: The Welsh 'banana peel' Boks must avoid
WATCH as Springboks Ox Nche and Cheslin Kolbe talk about the biggest threats they face against Wales in a World Cup warm-up match in Cardiff on Saturday.
Ireland
Ireland's World Cup squad gradually taking shape
TEAM NEWS: Ireland confirmed that five players have been cut from the 42-man World Cup training squad on Wednesday.
England
REPORT: England captain could still face World Cup ban
NEWS: It seems like England's concerns are far from over as captain Owen Farrell might still be banned for his tackle during the World Cup warm-up match against Wales at Twickenham.
Latest News
VIDEO: Hawies on the 2023 Challenge Series as dates confirmed
NEWS: The Cheetahs and the Western Force, will kick off their campaigns in the Challenge Series on Friday, August 25 against each other.
News
World Cup squad TRACKER
#RWC SQUADS: The men who will fight for the prestigious World Cup trophy from September 8 to October 28.
Latest News
Nine France-based players in Romania's World Cup squad
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Romania coach Eugen Apjok on Wednesday selected nine players based in France including Stade Francais prop Thomas Cretu in his 33-man squad for next month's World Cup in France.
Latest News
SA Under-18's need to focus on England now
NEWS: The South African Under-18 team must lift their heads and knuckle down as they start preparing for their second game in the U18 International Series against England on Saturday.
Australia
VIDEO: New Wallaby skipper - That's not my style of leadership
INTERVIEW: Shock new Wallabies captain Will Skelton is pledging to be his own man while also leaning on teammates for support during Australia's World Cup campaign.
South Africa
VIDEO: Unpacking the reasons behind starting Kolisi cold
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber unpacks the reasons behind starting captain Siya Kolisi and scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse against Wales, instead of easing them back into the fray off the bench.
News
'Arendse will only get better'
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Bulls assistant coach Chris Rossouw believes the Springbok star Kurt-Lee Arendse will only get better after claiming five individual awards at the franchise's annual awards ceremony.
South Africa
Gatland 'building depth' against Boks
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Warren Gatland has named his Wales team to play South Africa in a World Cup warm-up match on Saturday.
South Africa
VIDEO: The aspects of the Bok game that improved since 2019
WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains which aspects of the team's game and approach improved since they won the World Cup in 2019.
Latest News
Six South Africans in Barbarian team to face Samoa
NEWS: Six South Africans have been included in the Barbarian match-23 to face Samoa in Brive on Friday.
Scotland
Scotland unveil strong #RWC squad
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has named his 33-player squad for the upcoming World Cup 2023, to be held in France next month.
News
Crusaders v Chiefs to kick off Super Rugby Pacific 2024 season
NEWS: The release of the Super Rugby Pacific draw for 2024 has revealed an action-packed schedule headlined by fierce rivalries.
Latest News
The only World Cup debutant is...
NEWS: Of the 20 teams lining up in France only one is making its first appearance at the World Cup.
England
Farrell fall-out: 'It is just one bad tackle in 2,000 attempts'
REACTION: Kevin Sinfield has vituperated the critics of England captain Owen Farrell in the wake of the surprise ruling in his disciplinary hearing.
England
The Ireland injury update that would please Farrell
NEWS: Injured Ireland back row forward Jack Conan is going really well in his recovery from the foot problem which cast doubt on his World Cup participation.
England
Shock as Owen Farrell's ruling comes out
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Owen Farrell's ruling has been confirmed and it will certainly raise a few eyebrows.
South Africa
Siya is back!
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber has revealed his team for Saturday's World Cup warm-up match against Wales in Cardiff.
Canada
Tonga too good for Canada...again
REPORT: Hosts Tonga crossed for six tries in a 36-12 romp over Canada on Tuesday to claim a second straight win over the Canucks in tune-ups for the World Cup.
South Africa
'It is exciting': Boks Women add new face to coaching team
WOMEN SPOTLIGHT: In a boost to the management of the Springbok Women, the experienced Franzel September has been added to the team’s coaching staff, joining Laurian Johannes-Haupt as assistant to interim head coach Louis Koen.
Australia
'I just can't wait to get to France'
INTERVIEW: Two-Test playmaker Carter Gordon says he's ready for the World Cup pressure-cooker despite being the only specialist flyhalf in the Wallabies squad.
Australia
Quade Cooper's spectacular fall from grace
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Quade Cooper's spectacular fall from grace is complete with Wallabies coach Eddie Jones overlooking the playmaker for Australia A's team to play Portugal.
South Africa
VIDEO: Gatland's Wales to take Boks to the 'gutters' again?
SPOTLIGHT: The Springboks are bracing themselves for another tricky encounter against Wales when they meet in a World Cup warm-up match in Cardiff on Saturday.
Japan
Big omission as Japan reveal their World Cup squad
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Japan head coach Jamie Joseph has named his World Cup squad With three places in the 33-member squad still to be confirmed.
South Africa
Wales sweating over captain as Boks loom
INJURY UPDATE: Wales is the latest team sweating over the fitness of key players, just weeks out from the World Cup.