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Stormers captain Duane Vermeulen allayed fears that his early departure from Newlands at the weekend could result in a long-term injury.

REACTION: Brumbies captain Stephen Moore and coach Stephen Larkham denied it was a pre-planned strategy to niggle the Stormers.

REACTION: Stormers captain Duane Vermeulen was rather subtle, but coach Allister Coetzee did not hold back in his criticism of the Brumbies' tactics.

Springbok Morné Steyn's long-range kicking capability took centre stage as Stade Francais beat Parisian rivals Racing-Metro 28-19.

Toulon's flyhalf Frederic Michalak will miss the end of the season because of a hand injury, local daily Var Matin announced on Sunday.

Ken Owens scored the only try of the match as Scarlets boosted their chances of a top-half Pro12 finish by running out 16-6 winners against Cardiff.

Thomas Waldrom continued his sensational try-scoring record to help Exeter Chiefs secure a stunning 24-20 Premiership victory over Saracens.

REACTION: Northampton Saints Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder admits that his team still has some way to go towards defending their title.

REACTION: Leicester Director of Rugby Richard Cockerill praised his side's "exemplary" attitude, after they overcame the sending-off of Seremaia Bai.

VODACOM CUP WRAP: The Lions and Western Province finished the league phase of the Vodacom Cup unbeaten and will host quarterfinals.

WRAP: Fiji moved to the top of the Sevens World Series standings, after after a 24-17 victory over New Zealand in an enthralling Glasgow Cup Final.

There were FNB Classic Clashes this weekend with matches in Bloemfontein, Grahamstown, Uitenhage, Wolmaransstad, Worcester, Port Alfred and Potchefstroom. It was busy weekend in schools rugby.

Affies came down from Pretoria to take on Grey College of  Bloemfontein and won 29-18 in a keenly contested match on Saturday afternoon, an FNB Classic Clash.

REPORT: Paddy Jackson's heroic last-minute conversion earned Ulster a 23-all draw against rivals Munster in a ferocious Pro12 encounter.

REPORT: John Cooney ran in two first-half tries to set Connacht on their way to a comprehensive 40-10 victory over Zebre in the Pro12.

REPORT: Mark Cueto celebrated his final home match for Sale Sharks in style as he touched down for his 90th Premiership try.

REPORT: Jonny May's first-half try helped Gloucester overcome a one-man disadvantage to comfortably beat a sub-par London Irish 35-13 at Kingsholm.

REPORT: Wasps' hopes of a top-four finish came to an end as a 14-man Leicester Tigers secured a 26-21 victory.

REPORT: Luther Burrell and Lee Dickson both crossed over twice to secure Northampton Saints top spot in the Premiership this season.

Toulon showed no signs of a hangover after their unprecedented third consecutive European title with a 37-21 demolition of Castres.

REPORT: The Stormers held on in the face of a late rally by the Brumbies to record a crucial 25-24 Super Rugby win at Newlands on Saturday.

REPORT: The Lions produced the most impressive comeback of the season when they beat the Highlanders 28-23 at Ellis Park on Saturday.

GLASGOW Sevens WRAP: South Africa will face Fiji in the Cup quarterfinals in round eight of the Sevens World Series in Glasgow on Sunday.

REPORT: The Western Force did the season double of the defending champion Waratahs, beating them 18-11 in their Super Rugby derby on Saturday.

They have been at it for well over 120 years, one of the great schools matches in South African rugby, and this promises to be another close encounter.

REPORT: The Hurricanes stretched their lead at the top of the Super Rugby standings with a thrilling 32-24 win over the Sharks on Saturday.

REPORT: New Zealand bear Australia 46-29 at Bond University on the Gold Coast on Saturday, to win the inaugural Final of the Oceania junior championship .

If you travel from East London up into the mountains you could well make contact with three of South Africa's greatest, most traditional rugby schools - Selborne College in East London, Dale College in King William's Town and Queen's College in Queenstown. This Saturday Dale and Selborne meet in King and Dale have sent a fascinating perspective on the match, one of the oldest matches in South Africa.

Two teams recently trekked to the North Pole to set a NEW WORLD RECORD.

NEWS: The Reds, struggling to stay off the bottom of the Super Rugby standings, sent an SOS to former Reds and Wallabies coach John Connolly.

Jamie Heaslip scored the only try of the game as Leinster sealed a narrow 10-0 victory over Benetton Treviso.

Ugo Monye signed off at the Stoop with a try-double but it wasn't enough as Bath secured an Premiership top-four finish with a 27-26 victory.

Hugh Gustafson's first Pro12 try of the season helped Newport Gwent Dragons enact some revenge on Edinburgh 19-5.

Rhys Webb scored a superb second half try as Ospreys triumphed 21-10 over Glasgow Warriors to move into pole position.

INTERVIEW: South Africa have revisited their biggest triumph in Sevens to inspire the team ahead of their Glasgow leg of the World Series.

Tony McGahan has heaped praise on Colby Fainga’a and Jordy Reid, as well as record breaking captain Scott Higginbotham.

BlitzBok Carel du Preez will replace Philip Snyman in the 12-man team to contest the Scotland leg of the Sevens World Series this weekend. 

New Zealand Under-20 coach Scott Robertson named a powerful team to face Australia in their final match of the Oceania Junior Championship on Saturday.

Richard Graham admits that their heavy 17-58 loss to the Crusaders is one of the most disappointing performances he has ever been involved in.

NEWS: Double World Cup-winning former Springbok prop Os du Randt has become the latest South African to look for career opportunities abroad.

Wolmaransstad will host arch rival Schoonspruit in what is sure to be a massive Classic Clash as both sides are set to produce hard, physical rugby.

REPORT: The Rebels set a new franchise record when they beat the Blues 42-22 in their Super Rugby Round 13 encounter in Melbourne on Friday.

Brandwag will be looking to make it three wins in a row when they meet their rivals and neighbours Daniel Pienaar in this weekend's Classic Clash in the Eastern Cape.

HTS Drostdy will be looking to maintain their winning ways over bitter rivals Worcester Gimnasium when the schools lock horns in a Classic Clash.

The quaint town of Worcester will come to a stand-still when Worcester Gimnasium host arch-rivals HTS Drostdy in a gigantic Classic Clash encounter.

BREAKING NEWS: Long-standing Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské has decided to retire from the sport.

MATCH REPORT: The Crusaders produced a devastating second half for a 58-17 rout of a very ordinary Reds team Christchurch on Saturday.

World Rugby has announced referees appointed to The Rugby Championship matches in July and August 2015 which gets underway in Christchurch on 17 July.

Brandwag captain Stephan Janse van Vuuren says that it is not only an honour, but also a huge responsibility when he leads his side onto the field.

All Black flyhalf Aaron Cruden's knee reconstruction surgery, which took place on Friday, was successful and he is expected to make full recovery.

Grey College will be looking to restore some pride when they take on Affies in an FNB Classic Clash in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Another tough match is expected in the North West when Potchefstroom Boys' High and HTS Potchefstroom meet for their Classic Clash on Saturday.

INTERVIEW: The Stormers will have their work cut out for them at the breakdown, when they clash with the Brumbies at Newlands on Saturday.

EXCLUSIVE: rugby365 columnist Matt Hawkins looks at the last two legs of the Sevens World Series and the start of the Olympic qualifiers.

It is not often teams rest players when they face the Sharks, but the Hurricanes feel they can do without key backs Julian Savea and TJ Perenara.

Affies captain Eduard Fouche says that being chosen to lead the first team this year is the highlight of his rugby career.

Wasps can give their top-four hopes a serious shot in the arm this weekend and Joe Simpson insists confidence is sky high.

EXCLUSIVE: The Lions' notoriously slow starts could cost them dearly when they host the high-flying Highlanders on Saturday.

Bill Meakes and Ross Moriarty, have been suspended for two weeks following a disciplinary earing in Dublin.

Springbok captain Jean de Villiers gave a stirring motivational speech to the Junior Springboks on Thursday at their base camp in Stellenbosch.

Whilst the four teams that will contest the 2014/15 Pro12 play-offs are now known, it is still not confirmed which teams will have a home draw.

Zebre flyer Giulio Toniolatti has been found guilty of contravening Law 10.4 after receiving three yellow cards in the Pro12 tournament to date.

Some entertaining moments from the recent matches in Super Rugby!

Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth return to the starting line-up, as the Stormers gear up to face the Brumbies in a Super Rugby crunch match on Saturday.

NEWS: Springbok captain Jean de Villiers has described his recovery process from a serious knee injury as a "miracle".

HTS Potchefstroom scrumhalf Amogelang Gaobonwe said it was a privilege being named captain ahead of his side's Classic Clash with rivals Potch Boys High.  

Bath flyhalf George Ford and centre Jonathan Joseph have been shortlisted for the England Player of the Year Award.

Grahamstown will come to a stand-still as St Andrew's College play hosts to Graeme College in a much-anticipated Classic Clash on Saturday.

Never before has the penultimate round of a Sevens World Series carried so much weight as in Glasgow, Round Eight of the 2014/15 series.

Springbok Marnitz Boshoff has shifted to flyhalf for the Lions clash with the Highlanders, while Elton Jantjies moves onto the bench.

Potchefstroom Boys High captain Romario Fish has a philosophy to the game that could be compared to seasoned player, who knows exactly what to do to lift his team.

Queensland Reds rising star Adam Korcyzk will make his first appearance for the Australia Under-20 side as they take on the Junior All Blacks.

Daniel Pienaar captain Heino Bezuidenhout says he will not have any problems motivating his team ahead of their Classic Clash against Brandwag on Saturday.

St.Andrews College are preparing for their local Grahamstown derby as they take on rivals Graeme College in a classic clash on Saturday.

Nic White and Rory Arnold return to the starting side this Saturday when the Brumbies take on the Stormers in Cape Town. 

Rebels' head coach Tony McGahan has adjusted his midfield and made three changes to the starting line-up.

Adam Coleman will make his return for the Western Force when they take on reigning champions, the Waratahs, in Perth on Saturday.

The Waratahs have made two changes to the side that trumped the Brumbies in Canberra last weekend.

The Sharks have made a number of changes for the Hurricanes match, with a new front row, loose forward trio, half back pairing and centre pairing.

The Highlanders have named an unchanged side for this weekend's clash with the Lions in Johannesburg.

Hurricanes backs Julian Savea and TJ Perenara will be rested when their side clashes with the Sharks on Saturday.

Ihaia West will start at flyhalf in a much-changed Blues team for Friday's match against the Rebels in Melbourne.

Jake Schatz will make his return from a four-week injury layoff this week as he slots straight back into the starting side to take on the Crusaders,

There is no escaping the spotlight in Christchurch on Friday, as a couple of All Black legends look set to make their final appearance in the city as Crusaders.

It is a match that evoked great enthusiasm from both schools even though the results, at least of 1st XV matches, have been somewhat lopsided.

Pau, newly-promoted to the Top 14, announced they had signed Fijian international wing Mosese Ratuvou and New Zealander prop Chris King.

A shortlist of eight has been drawn up from 66 candidates to replace Philippe Saint-Andre as France coach, the French rugby federation announced.

INTERVIEW: The GLRU is "desperate" for a quick solution to their long-standing dispute with former Springbok assistant coach Dick Muir.

Relegated London Welsh will complete the last two weeks of their Premiership obligations without the services of their Tongan loose forward Chris Hala'ufia.

INTERVIEW: Stephen Larkham may have gone a long way towards evolving the Brumbies' game, but they still can't escape the Jake White influence.

Schoonspruit are preparing themselves for an epic battle against bitter rivals Wolmaransstad in a Classic Clash on Saturday.

NEWS: The Sharks have scored a major coup with the signing of the Waratahs' Springbok loose forward Jacques Potgieter on a two-year contract.

Gloucester will have home advantage in Match one of the play-offs for the 20th place in next year's European Cup.

Drostdy will field their most experienced side for their upcoming Classic Clash against Worcester as they look to maintain their winning record against their rivals.

The Leopards XV and Falcons will have all to play for when they travel to Windhoek and Polokwane respectively.

EXCLUSIVE: rugby365 cartoonist Matthew Ackermann, looks at what awaits the Sharks in Wellington this week.

Graeme College 1st XV captain Heino Gaiser says it is an hounour and privilege to lead his team as they take to the field  on Saturday.

NEWS: The Bulls received a timely boost ahead of their four-match Australasian Super Rugby tour.

John Smit has written an open letter to fans stating that, despite their misfortunes, the management will not hang any individuals out to dry.  

Gloucester Centre Bill Meakes was dismissed with a Red Card for tackling Sam Beard high and without the ball in their Challenge Cup Final against Edinburgh.

INTERVIEW: The Stormers are well aware that their defective line-out will be targeted by the Brumbies when the two teams meet on Saturday.

Paul Roos Gymnasium, in their 150th year, won the Sanix World Rugby Youth Tournament, played in Fukuoka, Japan, when they beat Brisbane Boys' College 35-3 in the Final on Wednesday, 6 May 2015.

World Rugby has begun the process of looking at the laws which have come under increasing scrutiny as the game is perceived to have become increasing stodgy and predictable. World Rugby, rugby's lawmakers who were previously called the International Rugby Board, have issued a press release on the process of change.

Darren Waters will be part of London Welsh's quest for a third Championship title next season after penning a new deal with the club.

Blues back George Moala has been discharged without conviction for an assault committed in 2012.

All Black Steven Luatua has been named to lead the Blues for the rest of the season after captain Jerome Kaino was ruled out with injury.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: All Back captain Richie McCaw will play, what is likely to be his final game in Christchurch for the Crusaders, from the bench.

EPCR has received a citing complaint against the Gloucester's loose forward, Ross Moriarty, following the European Challenge Cup Final.

The 28-man Wales Under-20 squad to compete at the World Rugby U20 Championship next month has been announced.

Blue Bulls lock RG Snyman was withdrawn from the Junior Springbok touring squad to Argentina due to an ankle ligament injury.

The big European matches ended last week with that thriller at Twickenham, won narrowly by Toulon who had just four Frenchmen in their starting XV. Europe is clearly an elastic place!

EXCLUSIVE: In some ways the last while has been the most difficult time of the year, when matches tend to happen erratically.

With the Sharks sitting in 11th, after suffering seven losses, the only thing left to play for is pride, as the play-offs seem an almost impossible dream.

Nick Abendanon has been named as the European Player of the Year 2015 after an outstanding individual performance in the Final.

INTERVIEW: Wallaby legend Stephen Larkham has done his homework on the Stormers, as he looks to turn the Brumbies' season around.

All Black wing Zac Guildford has ended his contract with Clermont a year early to return home for personal reasons as soon as possible.

Grey College captain Werner Roberts has never lost a game against Affies, and he does not intend to let that change this weekend.

The Sharks have been dealt another blow with Springbok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach returning to Durban from New Zealand with a fractured hand.  

Paul Roos beat Truro College of England 63-0 on Tuesday morning to head into the Final of the Sanix World Rugby Youth Tournament being played in Fukuoka, Japan.

Welsh internationals Adam Jones and Alex Cuthbert will represent the Barbarians against England and Ireland this month.

Heyneke Meyer has dropped a bombshell in Johannesburg by announcing that Flip van der Merwe has made himself unavailable for international duty.

Frankie Horne says that playing Sevens gives young professional rugby players an edge over the competition.

Wolmaransstad head into their Classic Clash with Schoonspruit  knowing they will be in for a tough battle, having already played against each other earlier in the year.

Australia and New Zealand continue their winning ways as the Oceania Junior Championship culmintates in them playing each other.

The Australian Rugby Union and Di Patston have resolved a discrimination claim brought forward by the former Wallabies business manager.

Lima Sopoaga must continue his rich vein of Super Rugby form backed up with a strong finish to the season to force himself into contention for the All Blacks.

Brett Gosper has said the three-year residency rule, which allows  foreign-born players to be selected for national teams, could be reviewed.

Sean McMahon has been cleared of any serious damage to his hip, after limping off against the Chiefs in considerable pain last Saturday.

Hurricanes playmaker, and All Black flyhalf, Beauden Barrett will miss four weeks of Super Rugby action with a knee ligament injury.

INJURY UPDATE: Springbok captain Jean de Villiers is ahead of schedule on his road to recovery ahead of the World Cup in England.

NEWS: Varsity Cup-winning Shimlas coach Franco Smith has been confirmed as the new Free State Cheetahs Currie Cup coach.

The Springboks will return to Buenos Aires for the first time in 10 years, when they face Argentina in a special round of matches in preparation for the World Cup.

INJURY UPDATE: The Bulls were dealt a cruel blow a week out from their departure on their Australasian Super Rugby tour.

It will be an emotional send-off as Dan Carter prepares to make his final appearance in the red and black of the Crusaders in Christchurch.

NEWS: More than half of the Springbok training squad could not participate in the first of the two camps, in Johannesburg on Monday, due to injury.

INTERVIEW: The Reds believe the ARU's revised contracting system could convince star playmaker Quade Cooper to remain in Brisbane.

Some impressive rugby was seen coming out of the Kiwi camps this weekend, especially from the Hurricanes, Crusaders and even the Blues.

Loose forward CJ Stander is looking to permanently turn his back on South Africa as he wants to take his form onto the International stage for Ireland.

The Stormers' injury woes continue as lock Ruan Botha is the next casualty on the list of sidelined players.

Wallabies hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau says he will consider retiring if he suffers another bad head knock.

EXCLUSIVE: Reports of a mass exodus from the Bulls at the end of the season have been rubbished by the franchise. Jan de Koning reports.

Kearsney hosted DHS on a warm afternoon in Botha’s Hill and ran out 55-15 winners.

The banks of Gilfillan were packed – albeit by a small crowd by Hilton/ Michaelhouse derby day standards – with spectators eager to witness the spectacle.

Of course, the 1st XV counts greatly. When we say we beat X, we mean our 1st XV did, But here we acknowledge the efforts of all the teams, their enthusiasm and their chance to enjoy the great game.

Brumbies scrumhalf Nic White has arrived in Cape Town ahead of Saturday's clash against the Stormers at Newlands. 

Former Wallaby and Waratah captain Mick Mathers has been appointed President of New South Wales Rugby Union.

On Saturday May 2, the town of Mooi River came to a standstill as the two High Schools in town took to the  field for the annual Treverton v Weston classic clash.

Australian Under-20 head coach Adrian Thomson has backed the depth of his squad for Tuesday's match against Japan, making 13 changes.

Rugby365's Editor continues to ride the rollercoaster that is score prediction as he tumbles down the table.

The Hurricanes have managed to hold onto impressive backs Matt Proctor and Nehe Milner-Skudder until the end of 2017.

REACTION: Toulon captain Carl Hayman reckons teams will have their work cut out trying to match his side's unprecedented achievement.

All Black Carl Hayman has hit out at the "political decisions" that could end up barring Steffon Armitage from England duty at this year's World Cup.

The Bulls will take the attacking mindset they showed against the Lions with them overseas and play positive rugby on their tour.

SA Sevens coach Neil Powell has focused on ensuring his squad is mentally prepared for the final two legs of the Sevens World Series.

Lions coach Johan Ackermann knows his side face a steep climb if they are to challenge for a play-off spot this season.

Paul Roos beat Gose Industrial 38-0 to head into the semifinals of the Sanix Rugby World Youth Tournament in Fukuoka, Japan. It was their fourth win in five days.

Seven of the eight Vodacom Cup quarterfinalists have cemented their positions in the play-offs, with three teams battling for the final spot.

Another long weekend which was busy for schoolboy rugby, with Paarl Boys picking up their first-ever win over Grey College in Bloemfontein.

Hurricanes flyhalf Beauden Barrett will see a specialist to determine the extent of the knee injury he sustained against the Crusaders.

The battling Blues may have to do without All Blacks duo Jerome Kaino and Charles Piutau for the rest of the season.

Matt Giteau said he would love to return to Twickenham with the Wallabies at this year's World Cup after guiding Toulon to a third straight European Cup title.

Stormers captain Duane Vermeulen pointed to his side's arrogance as the main reason behind their defeat to the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

Chiefs wing James Lowe has had no further sanction imposed by the SANZAR Duty Judicial Officer after receiving a third yellow card.

EURO CUP REACTION: All Black Ali Williams happily celebrated Wallaby Drew Mitchell's match-winning try for Toulon against Clermont.

History does not win your a match nor does in lose one for you. Paarl Boy's High went up to Bloemfontein and won for the first time ever. 

REPORT: The Bulls moved to the top of the South African conference and second place on the global standings on Saturday.

REPORT: Toulon were crowned European Cup champions for the third consecutive year, after beating Clermont 24-18 at Twickenham.

REPORT: The Cheetahs produced another upset on a weekend of Super Rugby surprises, beating the Stormers 25-17 in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

REACTION: The Crusaders felt they produced their best performance of the season, despite going down 23-29 to a rampant Hurricanes team.

REACTION: David Humphreys admitted that winning the European Challenge Cup wasn't on his agenda when he took over as the Director of Rugby.

James Lowe of the Chiefs is to appear before a SANZAR judicial officer after receiving a third yellow card in the 2015 season.

Chris Hala'ufia could be facing another lengthy time on the sidelines after being called to a RFU disciplinary hearing following his red card on April 25.

Unsurprisingly Paul Roos won their third match in Four days to ease into the quarterfinals of the Sanix Rugby World Youth tournament being played in Fukuoka in Japan.

After a record 223 appearances for the Ospreys, Duncan Jones has announced his retirement due to injury.  

Eddie Jones admitted his side were "a long way off" being ready for the World Cup despite crushing Hong Kong 41-0 on Saturday.

The Rebels pulled off one of their greatest victories with a tenacious 16-15 win over two-time champions, the Chiefs.

The Australian and New Zealand Under-20s have started their Oceania Rugby Junior Championship with a win each.

The Blues managed to pick up only their second win of the year against fellow strugglers the Western Force with a 41-24 win.

The Hurricanes survived on meagre possession and with a misfiring line-out to down the Crusaders 29-23 in a high octane clash.

Jonny May gave England coach Stuart Lancaster a reminder of his skills after playing a key role in Gloucester's 19-13 Challenge Cup win. 

INTERVIEW: Nick Abendanon insisted he'll have no problem putting the debate about his England future to one side when he lines up for Clermont.

REPORT: Gloucester survived the sending-off of centre Bill Meakes to beat Edinburgh 19-13 in the European Challenge Cup Final.

The Cheetahs have a handful of former Western Province players in their team for the game against the Stormers on Saturday in Bloemfontein.

EXCLUSIVE: Lions coach Johan Ackermann admitted his team will be out of their 'comfort zone' when they head to Pretoria on Saturday.

Tevita Kuridrani of the Brumbies has been issued with a Citing Commissioner Warning for contravening Law 10.4 (e) Dangerous tackling.

Two  players have been hit with criminal charges after an ugly post-match brawl.

One of European sport's great weekends is about to kick off with only hours to go before the London 2015 Finals get underway.

Treverton will be the host for an enthralling Classic Clash between two schools that are separated by the Mooi River in the KZN midlands.

REACTION: The Sharks were left with more questions than answers, after they opened their Australasian tour with a 15-48 loss to the Highlanders.

Carl Hayman is determined to add to his 'amazing' time at Toulon by leading the side to an unprecedented third successive European title.

London Welsh and head coach Rowland Phillips has agreed a new deal after joining the club in 2014 as a defence coach.

Weston College captain Lulamile Kama aims to unite his team as they prepare for their Classic Clash with Treverton College on Saturday in the thrilling Mooi River derby.

REPORT: The Waratahs scored a crucial 13-10 win over the Brumbies in a brutal Australian derby in Canberra on Friday.

Newcastle Falcons have added further international class with Italian international wing Giovanbattista Venditti joining on a two year deal.

Irish centre Gordon D'Arcy has called time on his illustrious career, making himself available for the World Cup one last time.

REPORT: The Highlanders handed the hapless Sharks another lesson, beating the troubled South African team 48-15 in Dunedin on Friday.

Coach Scott Robertson has opted for a side with numerous players already in professional rugby environments.

Day one matches of the Oceania Junior Championship have been postponed due to extreme weather conditions on the Gold Coast.

The European Cup Final will be a battle between two French giants, but also between two wealthy French businesses.

A blue and white horde has travelled by bus the nearly 950 km to Bloemfontein to take on Grey College - two of south Africa's very best rugby schools. It is a Premier Interschools match.

Day 1 of the Oceania Rugby Junior Championship was scheduled to start on Friday, 1 May 2015, but it has been put off to the next day.

It is getting tight at the front-end of the Super Rugby play-off race. Jan de Koning looks at Saturday's matches.

Last week's long weekend meant that there were few interschool matches, as will again occur this weekend though there are schools eager to get matches in before Workers Day and despite Workers Day.

Clermont's habit of imploding in crucial matches means they are seen to have no chance when they face Toulon, Morgan Parra suggests.

Greig Laidlaw insisted there will be no divided loyalties on his part when he faces former club Edinburgh in the European Challenge Cup Final.

NEWS: The Premiership's best forwards, a shortlist of five players, were unveiled on Thursday.

Edinburgh will attempt to be first Scottish club to win a major European trophy when they face Gloucester in the Challenge Cup Final in London on Friday.

NEWS: CJ Stander became the first overseas player to be named the Munster Player of the Year.

INTERVIEW: Bernard Laporte and his RC Toulon side have become used to preparing for major finals - both in Europe and France.

Treverton Captain Alejandro Rodo is honoured to captain his first team from Mooi River, and is excited for the Classic Clash against Weston this weekend.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wallaby flank rivals Michael Hooper and David Pocock go head-to-head, with leadership of the Australian conference on the line.

Neil Powell has made two changes to his squad for the final two rounds of the Sevens World Series tournaments in the United Kingdom.

Paul Roos Gymnasium of Stellenbosch won their second match at the Sanix Rugby World Youth Tournament at Fukuoka in Japan.

Billy Twelvetrees says his charges are relaxed but ready to deliver an accurate, intense performance in Friday’s European Challenge Cup Final.

Oliver Kebble has been named in the Stormers starting XV for the first time, as the Cape outfit prepare to take on the Cheetahs.

Last week's long weekend meant that there were few interschool matches, as will again occur this weekend though there are schools eager to get matches in before Workers Day and despite Workers Day.

Players such as Tim Stimpson and Ollie Phillips begin their preparation for the Wooden Spoon Arctic Challenge

Leinster head coach Matt O'Connor has confirmed that Isa Nacewa will come out of retirement and re-join the Irish outfit ahead of the 2015/16 campaign.

For the inaugural Oceania Under-20 Championship, New Zealand's coach Scott Robertson has been able to name a powerful squad even without three players required by Super Rugby sides.

The Australian Under-20  has been named their team for their opening Oceania Rugby Junior Championship match against Pacific heavyweights Samoa.

Exeter Chiefs forward Brett Sturgess has spoken of his delight after agreeing terms on a new deal that will take him into a ninth season with the English outfit.

Victor Matfield has taken over the captaincy for the Bulls this weekend, as they prepare to take on the Lions at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday

Former Crusaders player Joe Maddock has been appointed assitant coach for Canterbury ahead of this year's ITM Cup.

The Lions have brought Marnitz Boshoff in for the injured Lionel Mapoe and made two positional changes for the Bulls clash at Loftus.

Australia Sevens head coach Geraint John has named an extended 14-man squad for the penultimate leg of the 2014/15 Sevens World Series in Glasgow

Six of the Reds' most promising young players have committed themselves to the franchise for the 2016 season beyond after signing new contact extensions.

The Chiefs have made a number of changes to their team to play the Rebels, with Brodie Retallick ruled out for four weeks with a shoulder injury.

The Australian Under-20 side to play Samoa has been named as the Australian side looks to start the quadrangular Oceania Rugby Junior Championship off with a win against Pacific heavy weights, Samoa.

Jordy Reid will make his first start for 2015, in one of two changes to the starting lineup to face the Chiefs on Saturday at AAMI Park.

Todd Blackadder has made just two changes to the starting line-up for the clash against the Hurricanes with Wyatt Crockett reaching his 150th game.  

Three players - Dean Greyling, Basil Short and Hencus van Wyk - have been withdrawn from this weekend's matches for the Bulls and Blue Bulls.

Dane Coles will make an earlier than expected return to the Hurricanes as they get ready to host the Crusaders at Westpac Stadium.

The Blues welcome back captain Jerome Kaino and fellow All Blacks Charles Piutau and James Parsons for their game against the Force.

South African-born Ryan Louwrens will make his Super Rugby run-on debut when the Western Force takes on the Blues at Eden Park on Saturday.

The Waratahs are mustering their big gun forwards in Wycliff Palu and Jacques Potgieter to break a four-year drought in Canberra on Friday.

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph has made four changes to the starting forward pack for their encounter with the traveling Sharks.

Wallabies Sam Carter and Ben Alexander return to the Brumbies starting side when their team takes on the Waratahs in Canberra this Friday.

KANTLYN KAF: AussieBoer, in sy jongste bydrae vir rugby365, ontleed fir Springbok oefengroep.

The opening day of Super Rugby's round 12 is divided between winners and losers. Jan de Koning looks at Friday's matches.

Harlequins announced that the club will prepare for the 2015/16 season with a pre-season tour to Philadelphia, culminating in a unique friendly against the USA.

Leinster and Ireland hooker Sean Cronin faces a race to regain fitness in time for Ireland’s World Cup campaign after being sidelined with a shoulder injury.

INERVIEW: Brock James is determined to give the rugby-mad Clermont supporters a first European Champions Cup title.

INTERVIEW: The Sharks believe they can resurrect their season and get back into play-off contention. However, that will mean getting back to basics.

NEWS: Hanro Liebenberg will lead the South African Under-20 team on their tour of Argentina next month.

It was a long journey from Stellenbosch to the 15th Sanix Youth Rugby Tournament at the Global Arena in Fukuoka on the island of Kyushu in Japan.

Saracens announced that forward duo Billy Vunipola and Mako Vunipola have committed their futures to the club.

Grahamstown schools St Andrew's and Kingswood will be itching to get back into action this weekend when they open their schools rugby programmes after the first-term holidays.

NEWS: The Cheetahs will rest Springbok flyer Cornal Hendricks when they host the Stormers in a Super Rugby encounter in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

While the top teams have all but secured their places in the quarterfinals, home ground advantage in the play-offs is still up for grabs.

EXCLUSIVE: rugby365 cartoonist Matthew Ackermann, looks at what an all-South African derby does to the Springbok coach.

Waratahs’ Gen Blue star Andrew Kellaway has been named Captain of the Australian Under-20 side for the Oceania Rugby Junior Championship.

INTERVIEW: Toulon's Australian star back Matt Giteau admits rivals Clermont are the favourites for the all-French European Champions Cup Final.

Scarlets' confirmed that No.8 Jack Condy has committed his future to West Wales and will join the Region ahead of the 2015/16 season.

There is a new star on the horizon at the Blues in Akira Ioane, and his first taste of Super Rugby was testimont to his well groomed pedigree.

Queen’s College hosted Welkom Gimnasium at The Recreation Ground, on Friday the 24 April, for the first time in the two schools’ history.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Sharks wasted no time in rushing back a number of Springboks for the opening match of their Australasian tour.

Queensland Reds have signed Melbourne Rebels lock Cadeyrn Neville for two years.

NEWS: The high-flying Lions are running the risk of being without one of their star players, Springbok training squad member Lionel Mapoe.

A traditional rivalry took place in Graaff-Reinet as Union High played host to Muir College. Muir sneaked in as victors 19-16 when the final whistle went.

Huw Jones was born in Scotland and raised in England, but after two years in Cape Town he is challenging his way into the Stormers team

After some intense rugby over the long weekend, there have been changes to the Top 20 with the feeling that these changes are not the last for this year.

Samoa have named an enlarged 58-man playing squad which includes Chiefs back Tim Nanai-Williams.

It's all eyes on Twickenham this week with the Challenge Cup Final at The Stoop and the Cup Final at the stadium. The referees, especially Nigel Owens and Jérôme Garcès, will be well prepared and enthusiastic.

Bismarck du Plessis returns to the Sharks this weekend after serving a period of time away from the game, but will not be selected as captain.

Joe Rokocoko and Rene Ranger, as well as David Smith, will provide the firepower for the Barbarians against Ireland and England next month.

Glasgow Warriors have signed Australian centre Sam Johnson from the the Reds and USA international lock Greg Peterson from Leicester.

rugby365 and Vodacom have combined to give five lucky readers a chance to win tickets to Loftus Versfeld for the Lions match

Newcastle Falcons' Director of Rugby says it will be a huge honour to play the Georgian national team as each of them prepare for their respective tournaments.

The battle for the inaugural Champions Cup at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday won't just be a European affair, but a truly global occasion.

The Rebels are hopeful that Luke Jones and Telusa Veainu will be in contention for selection this week against the Chiefs.

The Crusaders have ruled All Blacks captain Richie McCaw out of Saturday's clash with the Hurricanes after a head knock.

Key Sevens All Black Gillies Kaka has been included in coach Gordon Tietjens' squad for the final two tournaments of the Sevens World Series.

On a lovely autumn day at the Cape, as the leaves keep turning and falling in leafy Wynberg, the Wynberg Festival enjoyed the freedom to play rugby on Freedom Day.

NEWS: Gloucester was handed a suspended two-point deduction and were fined £5,000 for breaching Premiership Regulation 3.3(a).

INJURY UPDATE: Bulls stalwarts Victor Matfield and Jan Serfontein both returned to the training field on Monday.

INTERVIEW: Improved co-operation between the franchises and the national team have allowed the Springboks to 'close the gap' on the All Blacks.

WRAP:The University of the Free State added the Varsity Sevens trophy to their cabinet to be crowned the undisputed university rugby champions.

Brumbies fullback Jesse Mogg still harbours hopes of pulling on a Wallaby jersey for the World Cup but feels his return to action may be too late.

Bishops ran Pretoria Boys High to a heavy defeat on the second day of Jeppe's 125 celebratory festival.

The Ireland Under-20 squad, has been announced for the Under-20 World Championship. The tournament is taking place in Parma, Italy from June 2 to 20.

NEWS: English Premiership side Wasps have launched a retail bond on the London stock exchange.

We bring you some interesting facts about the European Champions Cup Final between Clermont and Toulon at Twickenham on Saturday.

The Armitage brothers, Delon and Steffon, will miss out on a potential piece of European history this weekend.

Cardiff Blues have confirmed that centre Dafydd Hewitt is to retire on medical grounds, with immediate effect.

The Stormers'  victory over the Bulls at Newlands put them as front runners for the South African conference, as well as for Team of the Week.

Cardiff Blues have confirmed that centre Dafydd Hewitt is to retire from professional rugby on medical grounds with immediate effect.

Cardiff Blues have confirmed that centre Dafydd Hewitt is to retire from professional rugby on medical grounds with immediate effect.

Cardiff Blues have confirmed that centre Dafydd Hewitt is to retire from professional rugby on medical grounds with immediate effect.

Cardiff Blues have confirmed that centre Dafydd Hewitt is to retire from professional rugby on medical grounds with immediate effect.

Cardiff Blues have confirmed that centre Dafydd Hewitt is to retire from professional rugby on medical grounds with immediate effect.

Lee Dickson says that he will cherish the memories of a memorable day at Franklin's Gardens in which he hit 200 appearances for Northampton Saints.

NEWS: Jaco Taute looks ready to return to the field this weekend, for the first time this year, as he makes his way back from a knee injury.

Scarlets confirmed that experienced loosehead prop Phil John has signed an extension to his contract keeping him at the club for the 2015/16 season.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: John Philip Botha is already a legend. Saturday the 35-year-old Bok could add another trophy to his already brimful cabinet.

The 71st encounter between the two schools was played out in front of a large crowd on Meadows. 

London Welsh's Chris Hala'ufia decks streaker during Leicester game.

Landboudal beat Augsburg Landbou 43-3 in what was a first ever Classic Clash meeting between the two agricultural schools.

It was a beautiful autumn day in Kimberley, when Day 2 of the Wildeklawer Topskole Toernooi got going at Hoërskool Diamantveld.

Ben Vorster of Tzaneen kicked off the early-morning match in the lovely ostrich capital of the world in the K2 Topskole Toernooi.

In a weekend of fairly predictable results, the top three in rugby365's SuperBru pool have all stayed put.

The best Under-20 talent will compete in a four-nation blockbuster tournament at the inaugural Oceania Junior Championship.

The Brumbies and Waratahs will square off this weekend with a massive battle expected between two of the best openside flanks in the business.

Flyhalf Bernard Foley says the recent contract concessions by the ARU have put the Wallabies in good stead to regain former glories.

The top three teams in the North Section of the Vodacom Cup have all but secured their playoff spots, but the South Section is still wide open.

REACTION: Reds coach Richard Graham feels he has identified the reasons for his team's ongoing struggles.

Wasps edged closer to a place in next season's European Champions Cup with a 36-29 victory at home to Exeter.

A knock on over the line and a rolled ankle for England No.8 Billy Vunipola summed up Saracens unlucky performance against Northampton Saints.

WRAP: New Varsity Sevens champions will be crowned as defending champions Maties lost out on points difference at Villagers FC on Sunday.

It is the second day of the K2 Topskole Toernooi on Monday, hosted by Hoërskool Oudtshoorn, the Struisies.

Joe Simpson's superb late try sealed a vital Wasps win as they held off a fine Exeter Chiefs fightback to close the gap on their rivals in the battle for the Premiership top four.

WEEKEND WRAP: Schools have used the long weekend to organise and attend festivals and matches in various parts of the country.

After doing the season double over the Bulls the Stormers know that the South African conference is there for the taking.

James Broadhurst of the Hurricanes has been issued with a citing commissioner warning for contravening Law 10.4 (g) dangerous charging.

The defeat at Newlands means the Bulls will have to claim some big scalps on tour to make the Super Rugby play-offs this year.

Ian Prior has been banned for three weeks after a tip tackle, and subsequent red card, on Chiefs wing Tim Nanai-Williams.

Richie McCaw's concussion incident has put him in serious doubt for the Super Rugby clash with the Hurricanes in Wellington.

The Hurricanes fought back from an early setback to beat the Reds 35-19 and retain the Super Rugby lead in Brisbane on Sunday.

A list of 19 uncapped players, including three brand new faces, have been invited to the Springboks' first two training camps of the season.

WRAP: Toulon and Clermont suffered shock defeats on Saturday, just a week before they collide in the European Champions Cup Final.

WRAP: UJ have ended Day One of this year's Varsity Sevens on top of of the standings after winning four out of their five games.

REPORT: Billy Burns' last-gasp try capped a stirring Gloucester comeback and denied Newcastle Falcons just a second Premiership away win in 18 months.

REPORT: Laurence Pearce's double early in the second-half proved the difference, as Leicester Tigers overcame London Welsh 38-17.

MATCH REPORT: Ken Owens' first-half try helped Scarlets on their way to a 29-10 Judgement Day victory over Welsh rivals Newport Gwent Dragons.  

REPORT: Six Stephen Myler penalties and a wonderful Samu Manoa try got Northampton Saints back to winning ways.

MATCH REPORT: Tommy O'Donnell celebrated his 100th cap for Munster with a try as the hosts completed a bonus-point victory over Benetton Treviso.

It was a good day's rugby at Oudtshoorn High School with most mnatches in the balance throughout.

 It was a good day's rugby at Oudtshoorn High School with most mnatches in the balance throughout.

It was a good day's rugby at Oudtshoorn High School with most mnatches in the balance throughout.

MATCH REPORT: Dan Biggar's 16 point contribution secured Ospreys a victory that keeps them in the hunt for a home semifinal in the Pro12 play-offs.

NEWS: England prop Joe Marler is set to miss the rest of the season after suffering a shoulder injury.

REPORT: The Stormers held on in the face of a fierce second-half comeback by the Bulls to eke out a 15-13 Super Rugby win at Newlands on Saturday.

REPORT: The Lions held on in the face of a fierce comeback to edge the Cheetahs 34-29 in an eight-try Super Rugby thriller at Ellis Park on Saturday.

REPORT: Harlequins held off a dramatic late fightback to see off Sale Sharks 25-23 and boost their hopes of European Champions Cup qualification.

MATCH REPORT: Nikola Matawalu's first-half double proved vital as Glasgow Warriors returned to the summit of the Pro12.

There have not been any real upsets in the first day of the Wildeklawer Super Schools Tournament taking place at Hoërskool Diamantveld in Kimberley.

REACTION: The Rebels were left to rue a slow start, as they were edged out 18-16 by the Waratahs in Sydney on Saturday.

NEWS: The Crusaders, and indeed the entire New Zealand, will be sweating over the fitness of All Black captain Richie McCaw in the next few days.

We have four significant tournaments this weekend - Jeppe's 125 celebration, Oudtshoorn's Festival, Wynberg's Festival and the Wildeklawer.

REPORT: The Waratahs held off a desperate late charge by the Rebels to edge their rivals 18-16 in a Super Rugby encounter in a wet Sydney.

NEWS: Stade Francais flyhalf Jules Plisson will miss the rest of the season after dislocating his left shoulder in the Top-14 game against Toulouse.

South Korea withstood a second-half fightback to defeat Hong Kong 33-26 and earn their first victory of the inaugural Asia Championship on Saturday.

REPORT: The Crusaders kept alive their Super Rugby play-off hopes with an impressive 29-15 win over the Blues Christchurch on Saturday.

REACTION: Coach Mike Ford admits Bath have their sights on a home Premiership semifinal after a bonus-point victory over London Irish.

Toulouse clinched a 21-12 victory over Stade Francais in the Top 14 on Friday, capitalising on the Paris club having to play more than half the match with 14 men.

NEWS: The game of rugby is set for a significant boost on the American continents with confirmation that a new Six Nations tournament is on the cards.

NEWS: Saturday's Super Rugby clash between the Stormers and the Bulls at Newlands is officially a sell-out.

Edinburgh's superb run of form continued against Zebre at Murrayfield, as they secured a vital 37-0 bonus-point victory in the race for the Pro12 top six.

Craig Gilroy's 11th try of the season put Ulster into the semifinals of the Pro12, with a 26-10 victory over Leinster.

Bath produced a stirring second half blitz to boost their chances of a home Premiership semifinal with a 43-18 bonus-point triumph over London Irish at the Rec.

Top 14 leading duo Toulon and Clermont return to domestic duties on Saturday with one eye on their European Champions Cup final on May 2.

REACTION: For the second time this year, the Reds have been left fuming about an early announcement on the departure of one of their players.

NEWS: World Cup-winning former Springbok assistant coach Eddie Jones will return to Super Rugby after eight years.

Ian Prior of the Force received a red card for foul play during a Super Rugby match against the Chiefs on Friday.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee knows that the Bulls will be a completely different prospect from the team they beat at Loftus Versfeld.

REPORT: The Brumbies produced a commanding first-half performance to run out 31-18 winners over the Highlanders on Friday.

BREAKING NEWS: Wallaby playmaker Quade Cooper has turned his back on Australia. He signed a two-year contract with French giants Toulon.

Maties skipper Braam Venter knows that with Varsity Cup players available, his side have their work cut out to retain their Varsity Sevens title.

REPORT: The Chiefs recorded a bonus-point 35-27 win over the Western Force on Friday, to reclaim first place on the Super Rugby standings.

NEWS: The Sharks were dealt a cruel blow on the eve of their departure on a four-week Australasian Super Rugby tour.

Classic Clashes are once again upon us with Landboudal taking on Augsburg Landbou this Saturday.

NEWS: The ARU locked away two key members of the Wallabies' forward pack - re-signing the experienced Reds duo James Slipper and Rob Simmons.

England should scrap their "old-fashioned" policy of refusing to select overseas-based players, according to World Cup-winning coach Clive Woodward.

Saturday will truly be a derby day. However, it is at Newlands were the spotlight will shine brightest. Jan de Koning shares his predictions.

If the attacking talents of George Ford and Jonathan Joseph were not enough to worry about, London Irish will be just as wary of Bath's pack.  

EXCLUSIVE: Pierre Spies still has  a "burning desire" to play for the Springboks, that is why is also why he has 'evolved' his own game.

INTERVIEW: Schalk Burger will have fetching obligations for the Stomers, as he starts at No.6 jersey for their Super Rugby encounter with the Bulls.

Toulouse face a tough challenge against Stade Francais on Friday in a revival of their Top 14 "Classique" as the chase for play-off spots intensifies.

Newport Gwent Dragons' former Wales fullback Lee Byrne has been forced to retire due to a shoulder injury.

Harlequins have signed Samoa centre Winston Stanley from New Zealand Super Rugby side the Highlanders.

Injuries have been forced the Stormers into changing their wings for Saturday's North-South Derby against the Bulls at Newlands.

Springbok scrumhalf Piet van Zyl will earn a third start for the Bulls on Saturday when the Pretoria franchise play the Stormers in Cape Town.

EXCLUSIVE: AussieBoer, in his latest contribution to rugby365, spoke to Springbok great Theuns Stofberg.

Landboudal captain Teubes Brits has warned his team to not have excuses for any slipups when they face Augsburg Landbou in their Classic Clash this weekend.

Augsburg Landbou captain Bruwer van Zyl said he feels honoured to lead his team in their Classic Clash against Landboudal this weekend.

Tony McGahan has re-introduced Sam Jeffries and Dom Shipperley into the squad, after naming his teams to face the Waratahs.

Michael Cheika has made a number of changes to his team to face the Rebels at ANZ Stadium, as he welcomes back Wallaby hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau.

Only the top five teams can now make the Pro12 play-offs, but with European Cup spots up fro grabs there is still everything to play for.

Waratahs lock and captain Dave Dennis has re-signed with the ARU and Sydney outfit until the end of 2017.

REACTION: Former Wales captain Dai Young has urged England to stick with their policy of only selecting home-based players for Tests.

Derrick Minnie has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury picked up in training, as the Lions prepare to face the Cheetahs.

NEWS: The NZRU said they had no plans to emulate Australia and relax eligibility rules so overseas-based players can represent the All Blacks.

Wallaby flank Matt Hodgson will make his long awaited return to Super Rugby for the Force when he runs out against the Chiefs on Friday.

Nehe Milner-Skudders has been ruled out of action this week due to a calf injury and is replaced by James Marshall for the Hurricanes trip to Suncorp Stadium.

Richard Graham has made four changes to his starting side, with injuries playing their part in a backline shuffle for when the Reds take on the Hurricanes.

Todd Blackadder has made four changes to last week’s starting line-up, including a return for All Black centre Ryan Crotty.

NEWS: Toulon fullback Delon Armitage will miss the European Champions Cup Final against Clermont.

For the first time Brumbies history, brothers will start together in the front row, with JP Smith and Ruan Smith lining up for the clash against the Highlanders.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Keven Mealamu has been handed the Blues' captain in the absence of regular skipper Jerome Kaino.

This week's Round 11 Super Rugby matches will see the Australian Rugby Union and New Zealand Rugby Union join forces.

SHORTLIST: Players from the Champions Cup finalists, ASM Clermont and RC Toulon, are in the running for the EPCR European Player of the Year.

All eyes will be on Diamantveld High School in Kimberley, when the only two unbeaten teams left in the South Section of the Vodacom Cup clash.

EXCLUSIVE: The Lions may be on a four-match winning streak, but it is tries they desire to add to their already impressive resume.

Edinburgh confirmed that Ulster utility back, Michael Allen, will join the club at the end of this season.

The Brumbies have granted lock Sam Carter a leave of absence to be with his family after the death of childhood friend Nicholas Tooth.

Saracens and England centre Brad Barritt has committed his future to the club signing a long-term deal at Allianz Park.

Omar Mouneimne has become the latest addition to the Pumas coaching contingent after he controversially departed from the EP Kings setup earlier this year.

The Rebels have secured two-time Super Rugby winner Toby Smith until the end of the 2017 season.

Western Force stalwart Pek Cowan will earn his 100th Super Rugby cap for the club when he runs out against the Chiefs this Friday in Waikato, New Zealand.

EXCLUSIVE: rugby365 cartoonist Matthew Ackermann, in his latest contribution, looks at the amazing story of Schalk Burger

OPINION: Alan Zondagh has made some suggestions for law changes which could break the cycle of stodgy predictability plaguing the game.

The Cheetahs were dealt another blow ahead of their Super Rugby encounter with the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday.

Unsurprisingly, Nigel Owens of Wales has been appointed by the European Professional Rugby Clubs (EPRC) to referee the Final of the Champions Cup while Jérôme Garcès of France will referee the Challenge Cup Final.

The Reds returned home from South Africa boasting one victory, and will next face the tall order of competing against the Hurricanes at Brisbane on the weekend.

Oudtshoorn's High School is hosting a rugby tournament over the long weekend with matches on Saturday and Monday, and they have a good array of schools to take part.

Warren Gatland has confirmed he will be joining the crowd at Judgement Day  to run the rule over potential Wales World Cup squad members.

The New Zealand Under 20 squad assembles in Auckland on Friday, 24 April 2015, ahead of the 2015 Oceania Rugby Junior Championship to be played on Australia’s Gold Coast next week.

NEWS: The Australian Rugby Union relaxed eligibility rules to allow senior players at overseas franchises and clubs to represent the Wallabies.

Neil Powell chatted to Tauriq Ebrahim about the BlitzBoks preparation for the Glasgow leg of the World Sevens Series and the Varsity Sevens event.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has made several changes to his side to play the Western Force on Friday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph has overhauled his team for this Friday's Super Rugby encounter with the Brumbies.

Die Brandwag went up from Uitenhage into the mountains to Marlow Agricultural School outside Cradock and beat the Wolramme a close 22-20.

REPORT: The Junior Springboks were made to work hard for their 31-24 victory over the Varsity Cup Dream Team in front of an electric crowd in Stellenbosch.

Kobus van Wyk has been ruled out of action for six weeks, after picking up a patella injury against the Western Force last weekend.

Leicester Tigers may have won ugly at times this season but Matt Smith admits his side will take victories any way they come in pursuit of the semifinals.

Toulon have quashed reports that Paul O'Connell has signed for them, but rumours are still circulating around Quade Cooper.

Scarlets' coach Wayne Pivac admits there is no guarantee Rhys Priestland will start the Scarlets' Pro12 clash with Newport Gwent Dragons this weekend.

Europe's finalists were decided last weekend and now it's back to club contests - but with internationals in Europe, Asia and South America. No rest for referees.

With the Pro12 drawing to a close and just three matches left, Ulter captain Rory Best believes there is no margin for error.

Owen Farrell will remain at the club that he has called 'home' since the age of 14, after he put pen to paper on a new deal at Saracens.

One is a man who clearly loves his guns, the other played Rambo.

In a highly anticipated match, two of the Borders’ archrivals met at Queen’s College. The conditions at the Recreation Grounds were perfect for running rugby.

Cheetahs general Joe Pietersen has been moved to fullback in a forced change to their injury-depleted starting line-up to face the Lions.

The upheavals of this week are of such a magnitude as to register in the Richter scale and cause big changes to the Top 20. 

Leicester Tigers have agreed a move for second row forward Mike Fitzgerald from the Chiefs.

The Cheetahs have offered Varsity Cup winning Shimlas coach, Franco Smith, the Currie Cup job at the Free state side for 2015.

Aaron Cruden's World Cup hopes have been diminished severely, while Highlanders in-form flyhalf Lima Sopoaga has played himself into All Blacks' contention.

After suffering their first defeat, the Hurricanes have taken a second blow as Jason Woodward's season was prematurely ended by a broken ankle.

Muir hosted Kirkwood on a perfect day for rugby. Muir convincingly beat a spirited Kirkwood side 51-10. The College led 29-3 at the break.

Wynberg Boys' High have organised their annual rugby Festival, with some 60 teams to take part in the two-day Festival which takes place on 25-27 April.

The Crusaders, a few weeks after dishing out a performance that caused the Sharks to apologise to their fans, have now had to do the same.

The Australian Rugby Union has announced a AU$6.3-million loss for 2014.

Nicolaas Hanekom has been cleared to play, after recovering from a knee injury sustained just before the Currie Cup play-offs last year.

RUBRIEK: Jan de Koning is van mening dat Pierre Spies besig is om Springbok afrigter Heyneke Meyer 'n hele paar hoofbrekens te besorg.

OPINION: There is no doubt. Pierre Spies is currently causing a few headaches for Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer. Jan de Koning reports.

Itembelihle Comprehensive School went down from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town and with Table Mountain as its background played rugby.

NEWS: The Bulls suffered a double injury setback ahead of their big north-south Super Rugby derby this coming weekend.

NEWS: The hapless Cheetahs were dealt a number of injury setbacks ahead of their Super Rugby Round 11 encounter with the Lions on Saturday.

The Waratahs showed their credentials by finally halting the Hurricanes' unbeaten streak, as such, they are the favourites in the team.

Australia and Waratahs wing Peter Betham has agreed a move to join Leicester Tigers at the end of the Super Rugby Season.

London Irish have announced the signing of Eoin Sheriff from Saracens.

Scarlets Coach Wayne Pivac said he is pleased with the signing of Australian-born loosehead prop Dylan Evans.

Not just the 1st XV plays and though their results are most noteworthy, there are lots of other schoolboys playing with enthusiasm, skill and bravery. We hope by these results to reflect their efforts.

The Hurricanes need to get used to being targeted as the team to beat according to Assistant Coach Clark Laidlaw.

A little reminder of what Willie le Roux can do on his day.

Jeppe High School for Boys turns 125 this year and a part of the celebrations is a 1st XV rugby festival over the coming long weekend.

Blues coach John Kirwan is set to give his most prolific player, captain Jerome Kaino, a break when they head to Christchurch this week.

Matt O'Connor said his Leinster players were 'gutted' in the dressing room after an intercept try all but won the semifinal in extra-time for the Toulon.

Western Force captain Matt Hodgson is confident his body will not surrender to another injury for the remainder of the Super Rugby campaign.

NEWS: James Broadhurst has decided he likes what's going on at the Hurricanes and is keen to stay put.

Wallabies and Waratahs centre Kurtley Beale admits contract talks have been playing on his mind.

Two newbies have entered the rugby365 Super Bru pool with a bang, Suicidal Racoon comes straight into 11th, while Budz tops the standing.

The Australia and NSW rugby unions have been shocked by the news that club player Nicholas Tooth has died after suffering a blow to the head.

REACTION:  Matt Giteau has said that they will never replace Johnny Wilkinson, but having Leigh Halfpenny to knock over kicks is almost as good.

Bryan Habana is hoping to help write Bakkies Botha, Carl Hayman and Ali Williams into the history books against Clermont  in the European Cup Final.

NEWS: All Black flyhalf Aaron Cruden is holding out faint hope, despite reports that he has been ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury.

The South Africa College High School (SACS) hosted the farmers from Boland Landbou in the first league game of the season.

Hope may not be lost for the Chiefs and All Blacks should Aaron Cruden's knee injury turn out to be a severe ACL problem.

A Bryan Habana try in extra time gave the reigning champions a 25-20 victory over Leinster in a tight European Cup semifinal.

Gary Gold has said his suspended players owe the team a lot when they return from their respective bans on the Sharks' overseas tour.

The Baby Boks have named four players who represented the team at the 2014 Junior World Championship to face the Varsity Cup Dream Team.

Allister Coetzee believes that his team may have gone into their last fixture on tour expecting an easy victory, especially after the highs of Sydney.

A try in the left-hand corner by playmaker Cornel Smit was enough to see Bishops edge out visitors Paarl Gym 35-32 in a truly spectacular advertisement for the schoolboy game.

Matt Hodgson is set to make his return to Super Rugby after being named in the Western Force’s 25-man travelling squad.

REACTION: After leading the way to a drought-breaking win, James O'Connor believes the Reds can beat any team on their day.

The Bulls see their victory in Durban as the perfect foundation for their remaining fixtures away from home, as well as their Australasian tour.

There were surprises this weekend - Glenwood's huge victory over College, Paul Roos's big win over Grey PE and Bishops beating Paarl Gim.

WRAP: There were tries aplenty as the Vodacom Cup shifted up a gear with the quarterfinals moving into sight for the 16 teams vying for the title.

Michael Foley has lashed out at SANZAR's 'farcical' Super Rugby fixturing, leaving the coach pondering why they have been treated so poorly.

REACTION: Saracens skipper Brad Barritt said his side left St Etienne with their heads held high - despite losing to Clermont.

In a curtainraiser to the Sharks match with the Bulls on Saturday Glenwood played Maritzburg College and produced a record win of 57-12 after leading 25-7 at half-time.

REACTION: Nick Abendanon believes this is going to be Clermont's season and they can finally win the European Cup after so many years of trying.

REACTION: The Stormers were happy to have 'won ugly', after they held on to record a hard-earned 13-6 win over the Force on Saturday.

REPORT: The Reds survived a late charge from the Cheetahs to record their first win on the road this season - a 18-17 triumph on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: The Bulls outmuscle the Sharks in a tense Super Rugby encounter in Durban on Saturday, winning 17-10.

REPORT: Clermont scored a 13-9 win over Saracens on Saturday to become the first team to reach the 2015 European Champions Cup Final.

POST-MATCH REACTION: The Waratahs tackled like demons and the Hurricanes were uncharacteristically sloppy.

Their focus firmly on this year's World Cup, Japan struggled to beat South Korea 56-30 on Saturday in the opening game of the inaugural Asian Championship.

REPORT: The Stormers ended the Australian leg of their tour unbeaten when they edged a willing Western Force 13-6 in Perth on Saturday.

The Rebels handled the slippery conditions better to pick up a 13-8 victory over the Brumbies and win for the first time in Canberra.

EXCLUSIVE: RUGBY365 COLUMNIST MATT HAWKINS LOOKS AT THE LAST TWO LEGS OF THE SEVENS WORLD SERIES AND THE START OF THE OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS.