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EXCLUSIVE: Jan de Koning chatted to Lions coach Johan Ackermann about the different circumstances his team finds themselves in.

Willem Alberts has not been included in the Sharks 40-man Super Rugby squad as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury.

NEWS: South African called up Rosko Specman in place of the injured Justin Geduld for the next leg of the Sevens World Series, in Las Vegas.

France  coach Philippe Saint-André has called up Vincent Debaty and Jocelino Suta as his side prepare for the Six Nations clash against Ireland.

taly suffered a setback in their preparations for the clash with England Saturday - with Alessandro Zanni and Michele Campagnaro ruled out due to injury.

There is a growing self-belief in the England team, but coach Stuart Lancaster is wary of the threat posed by lowly Italy.

NEWS: The Bulls are looking rather thin when it comes to front row resources, as they head into their Super Rugby season-opener.

St Valentine's day is celebrated with roses, chocolates, sweet music and, hope against hope, a pleasant result, but this weekend it falls in the midst of a lot of tough rugby which is celebrated with combat, hard effort, harsh whistle and, hope against hope, sweet victory.

There were two thrilling draws in an intense opening round of Varsity Cup action on Monday.

Ireland No.8 Jamie Heaslip, flank Sean O'Brien and hooker Rory Best are on course to be fit for their second Six Nations game against France.

Rynier Bernardo will undergo surgery later this week and has been ruled out of the remainder of the season.

BREAKING NEWS: The Cheetahs, in a surprise move, named Francois Uys as their captain for the Super Rugby season.

OPINION: England put down an early Six Nations marker and they are rewarded in rugby365's famous selection!

Lock Sam Wykes will captain the Western Force for the start of the Super Rugby competition – the club’s 10th in the tournament.

The Stormers have been boosted by the return to fitness of Springboks Nizaam Carr and Damian de Allende as well as Ruan Botha ahead of their encounter against the Bulls.

Fullback Stuart Hogg is convinced Scotland know what went wrong against France and that they can upset Wales in Edinburgh.

Ian Keatley said his nerves almost overtook him in his fourth cap for Ireland as he steered his team to a comfortable victory against Italy.  

England fullback Mike Brown has warned his teammates that Italy would punish any hint of complacency on Saturday.

IN DIE KOLLIG: Jan de Koning neem 'n terugblik in die verlede, na 'n vergete era - toe Super Rugby nog SUPER was!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Jan de Koning glances back into the past, to a forgotten era - when Super Rugby was still SUPER!

The game time of a number of key Springboks will be managed throughout the Super Rugby series in the coming months.

SA Referees have announced the variation on the Laws of the Game as they will apply to primary schools in 2015.

England have been boosted by the return of three frontline players ahead of their Six Nations clash against Italy on Saturday.

South African born scrumhalf, Michael Claassens, who currently plays for Toulon, has been signed on a two-year deal at the Sharks. 

Australian Sevens coach Geraint John has named an unchanged squad for the fifth round of the Sevens World Series in Las Vegas.

Scott Curry will captain the All Blacks Sevens side in next weekend's tournament in Las Vegas.

It is that time, time to brag about your rugby knowlege by predicting scores AND naming teams!

NEWS: The South African influence at the Western Force remains massive - with David Wessels and Kevin Foote extended their stay in Perth. .

Duane Vermeulen was the star of the annual Player of the Year Awards when he walked off with three awards, including the main award.

Michele Campagnaro and Alessandro Zanni could miss Italy's biggest test of the Six Nations away to England.

A number of Scottish players will need medical assessment o determine the extent of their injuries including wing Tommy Seymour.

Scotland skipper Greig Laidlaw admitted his side blew their chance to make history in Paris by letting France off the hook on Saturday.

France need to make their dominance count if they are to threaten Six Nations holders Ireland next weekend according to Philippe Saint-Andre.

Italian captain Sergio Parisse called on the Azzurri to overhaul their failing lineout or face serious punishment against the English.

REACTION: Joe Schmidt believes England set the Six Nations 'benchmark' with victory over Wales, leaving Ireland chasing to keep up.

The Varsity Cup returns to action on Monday with a big Cape Town derby headlining the first round of matches.

Godlen Masimla showcased why he is a scrumhalf to watch when he helped the Stormers claim a comprehensive 45-7 victory over the Boland.

The Australian team finished the Wellington leg of the World Sevens Series in a disappointing sixth place, after defeats to New Zealand and Fiji.

REACTION: England fell at the final hurdle of the Wellington Sevens, finishing second behind hosts New Zealand - after losing a tense Final 21-27.

The Welsh Rugby Union face scrutiny in the wake of the concussion suffered by wing George North during his team's Six Nations defeat by England.

MATCH REPORT: France held firm in the face of a fierce Scottish onslaught to start their 2015 Six Nations campaign on a winning note.

REPORT: A young Stormers team claimed a resounding 45-7 win over the Boland Cavaliers in pre-season action on Saturday.

REPORT: Ireland required just two minutes and two tries to secure a 26-3 win over Italy, as they started the defence of their Six Nations crown.

REACTION: South Africa may have hung on to their first place on the Sevens World Series table, but their mental aptitude came under scrutiny.

NEWS: Wales will be sweating over the fitness of a few key players ahead of next week's crucial Six Nations Round Two encounter with Scotland.

REACTION: Warren Gatland insisted there is no panic after his side lost 16-21 to England in their Six Nations opener in Cardiff.

REACTION: Stuart Lancaster briefly let the emotion of the moment get to him as he celebrated England's Six Nations victory in Cardiff.

REPORT: New Zealand retained their title at the Wellington leg of the Sevens World Series on Saturday, to close the gap on South Africa.

England showed great character to fight back in the second half and claim a 21-16 Six Nations win over Wales in Cardiff.

Bulls locks Jacques du Plessis and Flip van der Merwe will both take up contracts in France at the end of the domestic 2015 season.

Italy captain Sergio Parisse said the Azzurri are ready to "spit blood" in a bid to beat defending Six Nations champions Ireland.

REACTION: The Reds new flyhalf, Rugby League recruit Karmichael Hunt, has stolen the jump on his rivals to wear the Reds' No.10 jersey.

The Hurricanes depart for South African on Saturday without veteran All Black Ma'a Nonu.

Bernard Laporte has dismissed the Sharks' North-South victory over his Toulon side, stating that a match against the Waratahs would be a true test.

The Reds have passed their final pre-season test with flying colours, stunning the Crusaders 35-12 at Ballymore.

EXCLUSIVE: Matt Hawkins, rugby365's specialist Sevens columnist, takes us behind the scenes at Wellington - Round Four of the World Series!

The Waratahs ran in six tries to the Chiefs' four in a close 38-36 victory to the home side in Sydney on Friday as part of the teams pre-seaon preparation.

New Zealand managed to lift the trophy in their own backyard - here is how!

This weekend sees the beginning of the Six Nations with an important game between England and Wales up first!

The Waratahs have signed former Sharks XV player Kotaro Matsushima from Suntory Sungoliath in Japan for the 2015 Super Rugby Season. 

The Rebels have named co-captains for the first time in their history as they unveild Scott Fuglistaller and Scott Higginbotham as leaders for the season.

The Blues managed to make it one from two in pre-season games as they took the result but not the spoils from the Hurricanes with a 32-29 win in Albany on Friday.

Ireland and Italy may have finished at the opposite ends of the 2014 Six Nations table, but Joe Schmidt's camp is not viewing this as an opening-round banker.

REPORT: The United States and Kenya both topped their pools to reach the quarterfinals at the fourth round of the 2014/15 Sevens World Series.

The match officials for Rounds 1-3 of 2015 Super Rugby are known.

The Sharks completed a very impressive warm-up match against Toulon at Stade Mayol, running out narrow 12-10 victors.

Scotland have not tasted success on French soil for 16 years, but if they could handpick a coach then Vern Cotter would probably be the choice.

England will be up against it when they get their Six Nations campaign underway against Wales in Cardiff on Friday.

The All Blacks' most capped centre and Hurricanes captain Conrad Smith has confirmed that he is leaving New Zealand at the end of the 2015 season.

EXCLUSIVE: The Crusaders' famed production line, a conveyor belt that constantly produces world class players, will again play a key role this year.

NEWS: Italian coach Jacques Brunel named an experienced side to take on defending champions Ireland in their 2015 Six Nations opener.

SA Referees have laid down the playing time for school matches, from high schools to primary schools.

SA Referees have laid down the playing time for school matches, from high schools to primary schools.

SA Referees have laid down the playing time for school matches, from high schools to primary schools.

The Rebels have completed their pre-season schedule with a 25-24 come-from-behind victory over the Highlanders in a thrilling encounter.

Ian Keatley will start at flyhalf in Ireland's opening Six Nations clash with Italy in Rome on Saturday.

NEWS: Scotland coach Vern Cotter named three debutants for their Six Nations opener against France at the Stade de France on Saturday.

Friday night games in Cardiff are set to become a feature of the Six Nations Championship, after the fixtures for 2016 and 2017 were confirmed.

Scotland defensive coach Matt Taylor is predicting attacking fireworks when his side head to Paris to face France.

England Sevens star Mat Turner has been given a chance to impress with the Stormers after being included on the bench for the their final pre-season game.

Eddie Jones has dismissed reports that he will move to South Africa and take over as coach of the Stormers Super Rugby side after the World Cup this year.

EXCLUSIVE: New Western Province Currie Cup coach John Dobson spoke to Jan de Koning about his appointment and the road ahead.

The Chiefs have named a large squad that includes Sonny Bill Williams as well as Hosea Gear to play the Waratahs in their final warm-up game.

Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd has named his team to face the Blues with a large contingent of All Blacks sitting out the final preparation match.

The Blues have named a team of exciting youngsters alongside some veterans of the game for their final pre-season fixture against the Hurricanes this weekend.

The Simba XV from Kenya, due to participate for a second season in the Vodacom Cup, have withdrawn from the competition at short notice.

The Cheetahs ran in 10 tries to the Griffons one in what can only be described as a practice match as the men from Bloemfontein tweaked their final preparations.

All Black legend Dan Carter completes his comeback from an off-season calg strain when he starts at flyhalf in the pre-season friendly against the Reds.

NEWS: Queensland Reds recent recruit Karmichael Hunt will start at flyhalf in his side's final pre-season clash against the Crusaders.

South Africa will step into the backyard of arch rivals New Zealand, determined to entrench their first place on the Sevens World Series standings.

PREVIEW: The Sharks may face a fatigued, injury-riddled Toulon fielding a host of fringe players, but it will not be a walk in the park.

NEWS: Veteran Bryan Habana will line up against his Springbok teammates when Toulon hosts the Sharks at Stade Mayol on Thursday.

There were sound reasons why Billy Millar should not have achieved any of his great achievements, right from his childhood.

BREAKING NEWS: Veteran Springbok Bismarck du Plessis will lead a star-studded Sharks team in their pre-season outing against Toulon.

NEWS: Scrumhalf Tomas Cubelli headlines a numer of players to commit to Argentina's new Super Rugby franchise.

The EP Kings once again finds themselves at loggerheads with another union, with the Leopards accusing them of illegally poaching.

Veteran All Black Sevens player Tim Mikkelson has been ruled out of Wellington and United States legs of the World Series by a groin injury.

David Pocock escaped conviction on Wednesday over a protest against an Australian coal mine in which he locked himself to a digger.

Reds head coach Richard Graham will trial recent Rugby League recruit Karmichael Hunt at flyhalf in the pre-season match against the Crusaders.

South African-born scrumhalf Rory Kockott will make his first start for France in their Six Nations opener against Scotland on Saturday in Paris

SIX NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: Welsh veteran Jamie Roberts gives his views ahead of the season-opener, against England on Friday.

Recently Super Referees for 2015 with administrators met in Sydney under Lyndon Bray, SANZAR's game manager, a portfolio that includes refereeing. At the end of it Bray spoke of the objective of producing a ‘high intensity, high octane’ game.

NEWS: Luther Burrell and Jonathan Joseph form a new-look midfield partnership, as England recalled four British and Irish Lions.

Shane Christie will captain the Highlanders  as  they complete their two-match preseason tour of Australia - against the Rebels.

Sharks defensive coach Michael Horak is looking forward to the test an unstructured Toulon team can give the Sharks defensive line.

New signing Ben Whittaker will make his first appearance for the Rebels they host the Highlanders in a Super Rugby pre-season outing.

Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské named a powerful team, including his available Springboks, to face the Griffons in their Super Rugby pre-season outing Wednesday.

OPINION: Aussieboer, rugby365's well-versed reader, tells us why women's rugby will become the next big thing!

Harlequins No.8 Nick Easter is among 25 players recalled by Stuart Lancaster for the Six Nations opener against Wales in Cardiff on Friday.

Allister Coetzee says he will not lack for commitment in his eighth and final season as Stormers coach.

Matt Stevens believes that the Toulon game will be the best preparation for the Cheetahs match as the two teams have similar playing styles.

Ryan Tongia of the Highlanders has been found not guilty of foul play and the red card shown to him against the Brumbies has been removed from his record.

Les Kiss has taken an unorthodox approach to fine-tuning the Ireland squad and Rory Best is hoping it can give them the edge in the Six Nations.

Allister Coetzee has chosen not to extend his contract at Western Province and will, instead, take up an opportunity abroad at the end of this year.

With the Six Nations kicking off this weekend, who do you see lifting the trophy at the end?

Northampton Saints announced that Ahsee Tuala has joined the club until the end of the 2014/15 season.

SANZAR has announced the match officials for the first week of Super rugby, starting on 13 February 2015.

NEWS: What was mean to be a day of celebration has turned into a very somber mood at the Western Province and Stormers headquarters.

Reports from France seem to suggest that Will Genia will finally make his much anticipated move to France along with the latest in the All Black post-World Cup exodus, Conrad Smith.

Coach Jamie Joseph rates the Highlanders' draw for this season's Super Rugby competition as the most difficult of his tenure.

The Sharks match against Toulon will see 2014's best European team take on the last year's best South African team, but will it be rust versus readiness?

NEWS: The Bulls will be without the services of two key Springbok forwards when the Super Rugby season gets underway next week.

VARSITY SHIELD WRAP: The UKZN Impi lead the way after the opening round of the Varsity Shield after notching a valuable away win against UWC.

NEWS: The Stormers' Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth and fellow second row forward Manuel Carizza will miss the start of the 2015 season.

INTERVIEW: All Black legend Dan Carter gives his views on up-and-coming scrumhalf Mitchell Drummond, who could be his halfback partner soon.

Bath and England tighthead David Wilson will miss the tournament opener against Wales through injury but should be covered by Dan Cole.

NEWS: The Rebels have been forced into an 'emergency change' to their Super Rugby squad. Japanese hooker Shota Horie will not return.

The Six Nations bursts into life this weekend. On Friday Jérôme Garcès of France will blow the whistle in Cardiff that gets the great tournament going.

The Cheetahs will welcome back their Japanese based duo of Heinrich Brussow and Johan Sadie after their team was knocked out.

Ireland received a timeous boost ahead of the start of their Six Nations campaign, with Conor Murray and Dave Kearney both cleared from injury.

Captain Sam Warburton will win his 50th cap against England on Friday as he leads a Wales side that contains two changes from the one that beat South Africa.

OPINION: rugby365's law guru, Paul Dobson, gives his view of referees who sometimes have an inflated belief in their ability.

Captain Matt Hodgson will miss the beginning of the of the Western Force’s season after suffering a hamstring injury in the team’s 38-19 win over the Asia Pacific Dragons.

Wales flyhalf Dan Biggar insists he is not taking a starting place for granted ahead of Wales' Six Nations opener with England next Friday.

EXCLUSIVE: Springbok Braam van Straaten, in Part Three of his exclusive pre-season interview with rugby365, gets into the prediction game.

The final week of pre-season sees many teams wrapping up their preparations with the biggest game being the Sharks going up against Toulon.

The All Black Sevens have dropped two veterans and picked up four new caps for the upcoming home series of the Sevens circuit in Wellington.

MJ Mentz has been handed the reigns for the Pumas in their upcoming Vodacom Cup campaign and the coach is looking to keep a similar system going.

Now it is the Six Nations Championship - the International Championship - and it kicks off this  exciting weekend with a brand new trophy.

Keven Mealamu looks set to ease his way through the Super Rugby season as the All Black attempts to hold on for the upcoming World Cup.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Just five days out from the Wellington leg of the Sevens World Series there are seven things you should know.

PREVIEW: The World Cup countdown is officially on, as the Six Nations sides get the first opportunity in the spotlight.

Glasgow prop Ryan Grant has been drafted into Scotland's squad for the Six Nations after being cleared of an assault charge.

Racing Metro fullback Brice Dulin has been recalled to the France squad for the Six Nations opener against Scotland.

Sonny Bill Williams says that fellow Rugby League convert Sam Burgess needs time to adapt to the new code.

The first shots in the 2015 Varsity Rugby season will be fired on Monday when the Varsity Shield kicks off with matches in Bellville and Pretoria.

Although satisfied with their win over the Cheetahs, the Stormers still have work to do before they face the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld.

Despite going down to the Rebels in their pre-season outing in Cairns, the Reds were able to take a few positives from the performance.

Cheetahs coach Naka Drotske admits that their lack of tight five depth is a concern heading into the Super Rugby season.

Bulls captain Pierre Spies believes his team is well set for the start of the Super Rugby season after beating Saracens in London on Saturday.

Clermont and Stade Francais slumped to shock French Top 14 defeats on Saturday, leaving them locked together with Toulon.

Reds prop Greg Holmes will be sidelined for up to nine weeks, after tearing a ligament in his left thumb earlier this week. 

Sam Burgess will train with the senior England squad ahead of next week's Six Nations opener away to Wales.

REPORT: The Bulls produced an exhibition of power and precision to record a deserving 39-26 win over Saracens in London on Saturday.

The Lions took to a wet Potchefstroom pitch to test out their squad in a warm-up match against the NWU-Pukke and the Leopards.

REACTION: Western Force coach Michael Foley was not entirely happy, despite his team's unbeaten start to the year.

The Western Force have completed their pre-season campaign with a 38-19 win over the Asia Pacific Dragons at McGillivray Oval.

The Rebels’ 2015  pre-season campaign began with a solid 28-13 victory over the Reds in Cairns.

The Highlanders managed to overcome a 19-point deficit to defeat the Brumbies 24-19 in their second pre-season outing in Wagga Wagga.

FEATURE: This season's edition of Europe's Six Nations Championship will see the biggest influx of foreigners - ahead of the World Cup.

Sam Burgess endured an underwhelming debut for England Saxons as he failed to showcase his credentials for a Six Nations call-up.

Toulon put concerns over an upcoming Steffon Armitage court case for assault to one side on Friday to notch up a 24-17 victory over Bayonne.

REPORT: Dan Carter made an impressive appearance in Eketahuna, but it was not enough to prevent the Hurricanes from defeating the Crusaders.

NEWS: Stormers coach Allister Coetzee celebrated a win over quality opposition, but he will be sweating over injuries to key players.

Andries Pretorius has been forced to retire with immediate effect, after being diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder at the age of 29.

REPORT: The Stormers scored a 39-31 win over the Cheetahs in an entertaining Super Rugby pre-season match at Newlands on Friday.

EXCLUSIVE: How to manage the key Springboks in his team. That is one of the biggest pickles confronting Bulls coach Frans Ludeke.

Jacques Brunel has called up Treviso lock Marco Fuser to his squad for the opening two Six Nations fixtures as a replacement for the injured Quintin Geldenhuys.

Italy captain Sergio Parisse expects his side to more than justify their place in the forthcoming Six Nations following a lacklustre campaign last year.

There have been some alterations to the use of the White Card challenge in the Varsity Cup after a meeting on Sunday afternoon involving the Varsity Cup coaches and André Watson.

Some of the UK's best rugby journalists give their thoughts on the 2015 tournament.

PREVIEW: Toulon return to Top 14 action against Bayonne this weekend fresh from qualifying for the European Champions Cup play-offs.

Vern Cotter has said the success of his one-time protege Joe Schmidt was no surprise to him as they both spoke of their previous encounters.

Melbourne Rebels prop Max Lahiff has returned to England to link up with Bath effective immediately

Sevens World Series leaders South Africa head to New Zealand aiming for a hat-trick of tournament titles after wins in Dubai and Port Elizabeth.

INTERVIEW: The Queensland Reds' new recruit Karmichael Hunt speaks about his team's pre-season trip to Cairns!

EXCLUSIVE: Jan de Koning chatted to Lions coach Johan Ackermann about his team's Super Rugby draw from hell and pre-season plans.

Frans Steyn will join last season's captain Bismarck du Plessis and Currie Cup captain Lubabalo Mtembu alongside flyhalf Pat Lambie as part of the Sharks leadership quartet.

Cheetahs scrumhalf Sarel Pretorius will be moving to Newport Gwent Dragons at the end of the Super Rugby season.

Giorgio Intoppa appeared before an independent Pro12 disciplinary committee, having been charged with misconduct.  

England Sevens have named their squad for the Wellington leg of the Sevens World Series, with two players in line to make their debuts.

New Zealand Sevens have named a 16-man squad which includes four new players in preparation for their home tournament, as well as for the Las Vegas leg.

Four players will be making their first Wales appearance of the season in Wellington, in Round Four of this season's Sevens World Series.

Australia Sevens head coach Geraint John has named an extended 14-man squad for the Wellington Sevens which kicks off next Friday.

NEWS: The Boland Cavaliers and Stormers will play at the Cape Town Stadium in Green Point in their annual pre-season outing next Saturday.

The Sharks have selected a powerful squad that includes most of their new signings to travel to France to take on Toulon.  

Sharks defensive coach Michael Horak believes that their system of six coaches will put them 'half a yard ahead of the opposition'.

NEWLANDS DERBY: The Cheetahs have worked hard on plugging the gaps that made their defence the leakiest in Super Rugby last year.

Paris has had its fair share of South African rugby exiles, plying their trade with capital and Top 14 rivals Stade Francais and Racing-Metro.

EXCLUSIVE: Matt Hawkins, rugby365's specialist Sevens columnist, returns from his mid-season slumber with more great insight!

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Kelly Brown will lead a powerful Saracens team against the Bulls at Allianz Park on Saturday.

NEWS: The Brumbies have been bolstered by a large contingent of Wallabies, as they head into their final Super Rugby trial game.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph will face another Super Rugby pre-season outing without his Test stars.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Rugby League convert Duncan Paia'aua has been given the first shot at the Reds' vacant flyhalf spot.

New Zealand international scrumhalf Brendon Leonard has joined the Ospreys from Italian side Zebre on a three-year contract.

Brad Shields will lead the Hurricanes in their first Super Rugby pre-season match, when they take on the Crusaders in Eketahuna on Saturday.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has resisted the temptation to rush back some of his high-profile All Blacks.

The Asia Pacific Dragons have named six international players in their 24-man squad to take on the Western Force in their pre-season fixture.

NEWS: Wasps' Springbok back row forward  Ashley Johnson has been suspended for three weeks, following a disciplinary fearing.

Austin Lockington talks of his journey from Malawi to Melrose, via Michaelhouse and Stellenbosch on a Sevens Express.

REPORT: The Chiefs struck an early psychological blow when they beat the Blues 41-20 in a Super Rugby pre-season clash in Whangarei.

The Ackermann legacy looks set to continue at the Lions, with young Ruan Ackermann named on the bench for the team's only pre-season outing.

INTERVIEW: The naysayers may be ready to write off SA's World Cup prospects, but Bok Willie le Roux believes the best is yet to come.

NEWS: Australia have signed two-year contract extensions with 20-year-old back row forward Sean McMahon and wing Rob Horne.

NEWS: Toulon flank Steffon Armitage and prop Xavier Chiocci have been arrested and questioned by police over a fight last month.

EXCLUSIVE: Crusaders and All Black lock Luke Romano chats about the pre-season build-up in this World Cup year.

Western Province schools are gearing up for the rugby season.

Wales coach Warren Gatland has insisted England's injury crisis won't give his side an advantage when they meet in their Six Nations opener.

NEWS: England coach Stuart Lancaster is holding out faint hope that Brad Barritt and Geoff Parling will be available for the start of the Six Nations.

Glasgow Warriors forward Ryan Wilson has been banned indefinitely, following an off-field brawl.

NEWS: Flank Deon Stegmann will lead the Blue Bulls when they take on Saracens in a pre-season friendly in London on Saturday.

England and British and Irish Lions wing Mark Cueto will retire at the end of the season, the 35-year-old Sale Sharks player said Wednesday.

NEWS: Vincent Koch is looking forward to testing himself against the best forwards that Super Rugby has to offer when he runs out for the Stormers.

The Western Force included their Wallaby contingent to take on the Asia Pacific Dragons in the franchise's final Super Rugby pre-season fixture.

Scotland's controversial new recruit, Hugh Blake, has urged fans to let him prove his worth following the furore over his call-up into the Six Nations squad.

Are prop forwards in the process of committing suicide, of making such a constant mess that they are in danger of being written out of the game?

NEWS: Willie Britz will lead the Cheetah when they tackle the Stormers in a Super Rugby pre-season outing at Newlands on Friday.

Toulon's South African lock Bakkies Botha will hang up his boots at the end of the season, he announced on Tuesday.

The Crusaders will no longer play a Super Rugby match in Suva, it was announced on Wednesday.

EXCLUSIVE: Jan de Koning finally caught up with Lions coach Johan Ackermann and chatted about their pre-season progress.

Following last weekend's pool stage conclusion of the European Cup the longlist for the European Player of the Year award has been announced.

Springbok Ashley Johnson has been cited for a dangerous tackle on Dave Kearney in the opening minutes of their game against Leinster.

Former Waratahs defence coach, Joe Barakat, is to join Ulster Rugby as assistant Coach on a two-year contract from July.

Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie has extended his contract with the Chiefs and will continue to lead the Super Rugby team for another two years.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee has picked his best available team in their only warm-up game against Super Rugby opposition this weekend.

The two-day, annual rugby Festival at Wynberg Boys' High takes place at the school on 25-27 April 2015.

England flyhalf Owen Farrell and centre Brad Barritt have been ruled out of next week's Six Nations Championship opener against Wales in Cardiff.

The Stormers have pulled together a formidable starting team to take on the Cheetahs at Newlands on Friday in their second pre-season game.

Chris Dry and Justin Geduld have returned to the Springbok Sevens squad for the tournaments in New Zealand and the United States.

Harlequins tighthead prop Will Collier will miss the rest of the season after suffering a serious knee injury.

Ally Hogg has put pen to paper on a new two year contract at Kingston Park, becoming the fifth member of the current squad to commit their future to the Falcons.

January ends, the European pools have ended and soon the Six Nations and Super Rugby will start.

Scotland duo David Denton and Sean Maitland will miss the start of the Six Nations next month because of injury.

Former Australia coach Robbie Deans will take charge of the Barbarians for their two upcoming matches against Ireland and an England XV in May.

 Springbok Waylon Murray has been handed a lifeline, with a one-year contract at his home union the Sharks.

The Australian Men's Sevens program has announced its list of contracted players for 2015 and will be centrally based at Narrabeen.

The Rebels have named a 28 man travelling squad for this Saturday’s pre-season trial against the Reds with a possible seven debutants.

Jerome Kaino is in the process of weighing up his post World Cup future and is looking to make a decision by the start of Super Rugby.

Dan Carter has dismissed concerns about a calf strain and has said he wants to play the Crusaders Super Rugby pre-season match against the Hurricanes.

OPINION: Aussieboer, rugby365's well-versed reader, puts on his selection hat - as he looks to find an all-time XV ahead of the World Cup.

NEWS: Leicester Tigers flank Tom Croft and Northampton Saints lock Christian Day have been called up to the England training squad.

BREAKING NEWS: Star Stormers lock Eben Etzebeth is likely to be unleashed on the Cheetahs in Friday's pre-season clash at Newlands.

Saracens loose forward Will Fraser has been ruled out of the remainder of the European season, because of a longstanding back problem.

The growing trend of other countries poaching South African players at a young age was a worrying one, SARU Chief Executive Jurie Roux said.

Ireland remain hopeful that scrumhalf Eoin Reddan will recover from a knee injury in time for the opening match in defence of their Six Nations crown.

INTERVIEW: Injured Wallaby flyhalf Quade Cooper has endorsed teenage prodigy Duncan Paia'aua to fill his No.10 slot in the Reds squad.

BREAKING NEWS: The Bulls will be without Springbok hooker Bandise Maku for the entire Super Rugby season.

Belfast has been chosen as the host city for the Pro12 Final on Saturday May 30, to be held at Kingspan Stadium, the home of Ulster Rugby. 

TOURNAMENT LAUNCH: The eighth edition of the Varsity Cup will bring with it another batch of intriguing innovations.

Wasps have confirmed, after much speculation, that All Black wing Frank Halai will join the club from the Auckland Blues next season.

New Sharks boss Gary Gold and Springbok Frans Steyn will both be back in Durban soon.

NEWS: At their annual course for referees in Manly, Sydney, SANZAR revealed its 16 referees for Super Rugby in 2015.

EXCLUSIVE: Pierre Spies may not be everybody's cup of tea, but the Bulls believe in him as a player and leader. Jan de Koning reports.

London Irish continued their spending spree by signing Super Rugby title winning scrumhalf Brendan McKibbin from the Waratahs.

Bath came good when it really mattered to claim a quarterfinal place despite losing their opening two group matches.

Castres No.8 Johnnie Beattie has been added to the Scotland squad to re-enforce the group for the forthcoming Six Nations.

Todd Blackadder will have to put his faith in some young and inexperienced scrumhalves for the Crusaders with Andy Ellis involved in Japan and Willi Heinz out with a broken leg.

The knock-out stages have begun for the Euro Cup, but who will contest the Final?

England flyhalf Owen Farrell is in doubt for the Six Nations, after hobbling off with a knee injury during Saracens' 6-18 Euro defeat at Clermont.

NEWS: The French clubs got the best of the draw for the European Champions Cup quarterfinals.

Clermont extended their unbeaten run at home in European matches to 22 games as they avenged their first round defeat at Saracens 18-6.  

Munster ended their European Rugby Champions Cup campaign on a high with a 65-10 thumping of Sale Sharks at Thomond Park.

Bath wrote their name into the history books by becoming the first club to qualify for the quarterfinals as group winners after losing their opening two matches.

Montpellier defied the odds to secure a 27-26 triumph and send Toulouse out of the European Champions Cup at the Altrad Stadium.

Warren Gatland has thanked Adam Jones for his contribution to Wales and offered best wishes for his future in the game.

REACTION: Stormers coach Allister Coetzee is hoping the scrum dominace against SWD Eagles proves itself against sterner opposition.

Springbok fullback Bevin Fortuin has given his backing to the Stormers in this year's Super Rugby season because of the fire power in the back three.

Forwards coach Chris Gibbes did not pull any punches in his blunt assessment of the Ospreys' defeat in Italy.

Springbok trio Marnitz Boshoff and Julian Redelinghuys and Warren Whiteley have all extended their contracts until 2016 with the Lions.

Toulon may not have racked up 60 points like last weekend against Ulster, but Steffon Armitage believes his coach should still be happier this week.

Wales prop Adam Jones has announced his retirement from international rugby, after being omitted from the Six Nations squad.

REPORT: Centre Darren Cave ended Leicester Tigers hopes of Euro glory with his hat-trick of tries in Ulster's 26-7 victory in Belfast.

REPORT: Reigning champions RC Toulon secured a home Champions Cup quarterfinal with a comfortable 26-3 triumph at the Scarlets.

REPORT: Benetton Treviso finally broke their two season duck in the top-tier of European Cup, as they once again turned on the Ospreys.

REPORT: Racing Metro 92 are through to the knock-out stages for the first time at the fifth attempt - and they did it in real bonus point style.

REPORT: The Stormers recorded a 34-3 Super Rugby pre-season win over the lowly SWD Eagles side in very humid conditions in George.

REPORT: The Bulls laid down an early marker with an impressive 30-13 win over a hapless Cheetahs in Polokwane on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: Harlequins were dumped out of the European Champions Cup despite scoring seven tries in the snow in Castres.

REPORT: Leinster survived a remarkable comeback from Wasps in the battle of the former champions at the Ricoh Arena.

Danny Cipriani is in line to sign a new deal with Sale, the English Premiership side said Saturday.

REACTION: The Western Force opened their 2015 pre-season campaign with an impressive 31-21 victory over the Brumbies, but felt they were well below par.

REACTION: The Brumbies lost the game and, by their own admission, were well of their best. Yet, they found reason to celebrate.

REPORT: The Crusaders were dealt a cruel blow in their first pre-season outing, with scrumhalf Willi Heinz likely to miss the entire season.

REPORT: Sam Hidalgo-Clyne claimed a club Challenge Cup record 28 points as Edinburgh advanced to their third European quarterfinal.

Ulster has signed former Highlanders openside flank Tim Boys on a short-term contract until the end of this season.

World Rugby (nee IRB) has issued a memorandum, written by Tim Gresson, the chairman of its judicial panel, on accumulated yellow cards and warnings by the citing commissioner.

Gavin Henson has agreed a one-year deal with Bristol Rugby from Bath and will join at the end of the season.

MATCH REPORT: The Western Force got their 2015 pre-season underway on a positive note, beating the Brumbies 31-21 in Perth on Friday.

Jake White has revealed that he has been asked by Montpellier president Mohed Altrad to remain on as coach of the French Top 14 side.

Quade Cooper will be sidelined for 10 to 12 weeks after suffering a fractured collar bone during a training session at Ballymore Stadium on Thursday.  

EXCLUSIVE: Jan de Koning chatted to the Highlanders' South African import, Ross Geldenhuys, about the journey that took him to Dunedin.

The next few weeks should give Michael Rhodes the opportunity to show what he can offer as a blindside flank in Super Rugby.

Israel Folau could soon be making an appearance in the Waratahs - and even the Wallabies - midfield as he continues to be an unpredictable threat.

EXCLUSIVE: Springbok Braam van Straaten, in Part Two of his interview with rugby365, speaks about tactics that lead to tries.

The Pool stages of the European Cup concludes this weekend - Which are the biggest games?

European Cup try-machine Chris Ashton reckons Saracens are in top-form ahead of their winner-takes-all clash at Clermont Auvergne on Sunday.

Juandre Kruger is ready to return to Northampton in order to knock the English side out of the automatic qualification spot.

The Melbourne Rebels have selected a group of five players for their leadership group in 2015 but have delayed announcing their captain by a week.

Ecstasy and agony are certain to figure in varying amounts this weekend as Europe's elite clubs ready themselves for an explosive Round Six.

There is a distinct pre-season look to the Highlanders side that will take on the Crusaders in their opening trial match in Timaru on Saturday.

Stuart Lancaster has pledged to make it cleat to Dylan Hartley that any more lapses in discipline could blow England's Six Nations chances.

Joe Schmidt selected the duo of Cian Healy and Sean O'Brien in his wider Six Nations squad despite both still battling long-term injuries.  

EXCLUSIVE: Bulls coach Frans Ludeke spoke to Jan de Koning about his goals for the pre-season outing against the Cheetahs on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wales legend Jonathan Davies said Warren Gatland must take more risks in the Six Nations or risk losing out in the World Cup.

London Irish have secured the services of Scotland international and British and Irish Lion Sean Maitland from Glasgow Warriors.

Nick Cummins' return to the Western Force will be delayed for a few rounds as the Wallaby wing goes under the knife for minor surgery on his ankle.

Pieter-Steph du Toit is looking to fight his way back into contention for a Super Rugby spot with the Sharks after a bad knee injury last year.

The Stormers' warm-up match against the SWD Eagles is a massive chance for Springbok Bevin Fortuin's men to get recognised by Allister Coetzee.  

South African lock Ben Venter revealed that he is set to join Top 14 side Bordeaux-Begles.

It is not only in France where the Southern Hemisphere's top players are leaving their mark. Other Six Nations countries are littered with imports.

Loose forward Ben White became the latest Exeter Chiefs player to commit his long-term future to the Premiership club.  

John Schwalge has sustained further blood clots on his lungs and has been ruled out for a majority of the Super Rugby campaign.  

Sam Burgess has said he had been given a "great opportunity" after being selected for the England Saxons squad barely two months into his Union career.

New Crusaders captain Matt Todd will lead a very inexperienced team south to Timaru to take on the Highlanders in the first pre-season outing.

Pat Lam has signed a new three-year deal with Connacht and the Irish Football Union to remain in the position of head coach until at least 2018.

NEWS: Northampton Saints revealed that Jamie Gibson will be joining the club ahead of the 2015/16 season.

The London Irish hooker David Paice has been suspended for three weeks, following a disciplinary hearing in Dublin on Wednesday.

Self-confessed sports nut Roger Federer is in no doubt who he'll be cheering at this year's rugby World Cup - South Africa.

NEWS: All Black prop Charlie Faumuina has bucked the trend and re-committed to the Blues and New Zealand Rugby to the end of 2017.

Who was the game's best finisher in 2014? Here's the top five...

World Cup-winning former Wallaby lock Nathan Sharpe feels the All Blacks are the best team going into the World Cup, yet doesn't think they'll win it.

IN DIE KOLLIG: rugby365 se rubriekskrywer Aussieboer het 'n paar glasies gaan klink met die voormalige Bok stut Hempies du Toit.

NEWS: Wallaby Nathan Charles will make his comeback from injury when the Western Force tackle the Brumbies in Perth on Friday.

Toulouse No.8 Louis Picamoles won't take part in France's training camp ahead of the Six Nations tournament after picking up a thigh injury.

NEWS: The Rebels have signed loosehead prop Jed Gillespie to their extended playing squad for the 2015 Super Rugby season.

REACTION: There is no chance of an early release for Stormers flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis, who is being courted by French club Montpellier.

BREAKING NEWS: Harlequins No.8 Nick Easter and Sale Sharks flyhalf Danny Cipriani have been named in England training squad.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee has plenty of different boxes he needs to tick in their three warm-up matches.

Australian international prop Sekope Kepu has become the latest addition to the conveyor belt moving players from the Southern Hemisphere to France.

The modern scrum with all is processes, despite criticism at many levels, is proving safer according to BokSmart - a lot safer.

Northampton fullback Ben Foden's chances of an international comeback were dealt a cruel blow with confirmation that he will miss the rest of the season.

Stormers flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis is the latest player linked to a move abroad, with French club Montpellier reportedly his destination.

The Brumbies will field eight Wallabies, including David Pocock, this Friday - when they head to Perth to face the Force in the first Super Rugby hit-out.

NEWS: The Blues have allowed controversial wing George Moala to return to Super Rugby training, while he awaits sentencing for assault.

Neil Powell admitted he will have to make some tough choices when announcing his touring party of 12 players for the next two Sevens tournaments.  

Former All Blacks captain and loose forward Jerry Collins has joined second-flight French club Narbonne as a stop-gap for the injured Rocky Elsom.

Vern Cotter has named four new caps in his squad for the Six Nations, which will once again be led by Gloucester scrumhalf Greig Laidlaw.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Stormers hooker Siyabonga Ntubeni knows the threat that new recruit Mbongeni Mbonambi poses to his starting place.

New Zealand-born Gareth Anscombe has been included at flyhalf in Warren Gatland's 34-man Wales squad to contest the Six Nations.

EXCLUSIVE: Springbok Braam van Straaten speaks to Jan de Koning about what will be the key to winning Super Rugby.

The 2015 Super Rugby season will be Nic White’s last with the Brumbies after he announced he would move to France in 2016. 

New captain Duane Vermeulen will lead a starting Stormers team with four Test players – three Springboks and an Argentine international.

Bulls captain Pierre Spies is due to make his long-awaited comeback at Allianz Park when the South Africans take on Saracens.  

Captain Will Welch on Tuesday agreed a new two year contract with the Newcastle Falcons.

London Irish confirmed one of rugby's wort kept secrets on Tuesday when they unveiled All Black Ben Franks as their latest acquisition.

Saracens wing Chris Wyles has told Clermont to expect a visit from a side full of confidence in their winner-takes-all clash

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie is on the verge of signing a new contract with the franchise, with a deal set to be confirmed next week.

Versatile Chiefs back Tim Nanai-Williams, while pushing for qualification to play for Samoa, could be forced to choose club over country.

Blockbusting centre Manu Tuilagi could miss England's Six Nations campaign after revealing his recovery from a groin injury is progressing slowly.

NEWS: Scotland flyhalf Duncan Weir will miss the upcoming Six Nations Championship due to an arm injury.

Newport Gwent Dragons have become the latest European outfit to land the signature of a high-profile New Zealand player.

NEWS: Lock Francois Uys will lead a new-look Cheetah team when they take on the Bulls in their first Super Rugby pre-season outing.

NEWS: The Stormers will head into their opening Super Rugby pre-season game without the services of two Springbok loose forwards.

These are some of Nigel Owens' best moments.

INJURY UPDATE: Injured Springbok captain Jean de Villiers is holding on tight to his dream of recovering in time for the World Cup tournament.

EP Craven Week and SA Schools prop Lupumlo Mguca, is being provided a once in a lifetime opportunity to finish his studies at Burnside High School in Christchurch, New Zealand. 

NEWS: The French transfer merry-go-round is beginning to spin out of control, spewing out a couple of Springbok brothers in the process.

New Bulls recruits Pieter Labuschagne and Trevor Nyakane will face their former Cheetahs teammates in Polokwane on Saturday.

Young Sharks flyhalf Tim Swiel is using his short stint with English outfit Harlequins as a way to speed up his development.

Wenceslas Lauret has been called up in the France squad to replace the injured Charles Ollivon ahead of next month's Six Nations opener against Scotland.  

Schalk Burger’s fightback from a life-threatening illness to once again play a key role for the Springboks is one of the most inspirational sporting stories of the year.

The Bulls will be without the services of young Pierre Schoeman for the entire Super Rugby season after he tore his cruciate ligament in pre-season.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder feels his team needs to get out the blocks a lot faster this year, as they look to end a six-year title drought.

Paddy Jackson may sit out the Six Nations due to injury, this comes after Johnny Sexton was ruled out from an early return for the opening round.

NZ coach Gordon Tietjens  ended speculation about Rugby League star Shaun Johnson joining Sony Bill Williams in an all-star Sevens team.

Europe's competitions enter the crucial stage this weekend with the end of the pool matches. The teams for the quarterfinals will be decided.

The newest All Black returned to training with the Blues on Monday, marking the end of an eight-week break after the year-end tour.

NEWS: England lock Courtney Lawes is set to miss the first few weeks of the upcoming Six Nations Championship because of an ankle injury.

REACTION: Jim Mallinder says Northampton Saints' victory over the Ospreys has set up "a belter of a game" against unbeaten Racing Metro 92.

MATCH REPORTS: Racing Metro sneaked past Northampton Saints at the top of Pool Five in the European Cup to set up a thrilling decider next week.

MATCH REPORT: Francois Louw scored Bath's fourth try to inflict Toulouse' heaviest home defeat in the European Cup competition.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: He may be off to Gloucester next season, but Jeremy Thrush has plenty to focus on in New Zealand before he packs his bags.

Sonny Bill Williams has been given a May deadline to confirm his availability for New Zealand's Sevens team next year.

REPORT: Jake White's French club, Montpellier, remained winless in Europe, after falling to a second successive defeat on Sunday.

Unlike other New Zealand franchises the Hurricanes will not rest their All Blacks back for the opening rounds of Super Rugby.

REPORT: New champions were crowned after the Final of New Zealand's national Sevens tournament in Rotorua on Sunday.

REACTION: Irish giants Munster and Ulster, with three titles between them, exited the European Cup competition in limp fashion.

Leinster gave themselves a huge boost ahead of their massive European Cup Pool Two showdown with Wasps at the Ricoh Arena in Round Six.

REACTION: Clermont Auvergne have it all to do against Saracens at Stade Marcel-Michelin in their final European Cup group showdown.

POST-MATCH REACTION: Toulon head coach Bernard Laporte is obviously a tough man to please.

Champions Toulon became the first side to qualify for the European Cup quarterfinals when they handed Ulster a 60-22 thrashing.

The Scarlets will have plenty of pride to play for when they clash with Toulon in their final match of the campaign at Parc y Scarlets.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee is not concerned by the inexperience of his squad, and says they are in better shape than last year.

Veteran World Cup-winning prop BJ Botha is happier than ever at Munster and hopes to sign on for another year with the Irish side.

Leicester Tigers Director of Rugby Richard Cockerill credited his side's clinical edge for keeping them in the European Cup quarterfinal race.

Wing Frank Halai is the latest All Black linked to a move overseas, with Premiership side Wasps reportedly set to sign him.

'Football chameleon' and new Reds recruit Karmichael Hunt has his sights firmly set on making the Wallabies World Cup squad.  

Leicester Tigers maintained their European Cup ambitions with a bonus-point 40-23 victory over the Scarlets.

Scotland will face France, Ireland and Italy as part of the national team's preparations for the World Cup.

Now that rugby is a summer sport, competitions start early and so there are warm-up matches. And even such friendlies need referees.

Stormers captain Duane Vermeulen believes that the best way to get the most out of his team is to stay on top of his own game.

Connacht have managed to secure one of their established centres in Dave McSharry who has signed a new deal that will keep him at the Sportsground until at least 2017.

Traditional English powerhouses Leicester and Bath face a make-or-break weekend in the European Champions Cup.

Super Rugby starts in a month's time with a match in Christchurch with Nick Briant to referee it.

BREAKING NEWS: Springbok star Duane Vermeulen will captain the Stormers in 2015, in the absence of injured Springbok Jean de Villiers.

Harlequins scrumhalf Karl Dickson has extended his contract with the Club until the end of the 2016/17 season.

EXCLUSIVE: Brendan Venter may be a technical director at the Sharks, but his systems will also make an impact at the Cheetahs.

NEWS: Wallaby and three time Super Rugby Champion Radike Samo will join the Rebels for the 2015 Super Rugby season.

The Blues and New Zealand Rugby have reached agreement with loose forward Peter Saili to terminate his employment with immediate effect.  

Blues' George Moala has been found guilty of assault with intent to cause injury and common assault following a nasty brawl in 2012.  

The Reds have named James Slipper as their captain as last year's captain, James Horwill, steps down from the leadership role.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: All Black legend Ali Williams vowed to spend his time fishing and hunting after announcing his retirement from the game.

Defending European Cup champions Toulon will have their work cut when they host former champions Ulster at Stade Felix Mayol at the weekend.

EXLUSIVE: Jan de Koning chatted to GLRU boss Kevin de Klerk about claims that not enough is being done for 'disadvantaged' players.

The Stormers have been busy preparing for their Super Rugby season, but one notable exclusion was Nizaam Carr -  who was admitted to hospital.

ON THE COUNTER: There is no truth in reports that Toulon have won the race for services of in-demand Springbok star Duane Vermeulen.

Italian coach Jacques Brunel has named his 30-man Six Nations squad with an experienced pack blending with a young backline

The Kings defence coach for their Super Rugby campaign in 2013, Omar Mouneimne, has returned to Port Elizabeth from Edinburgh.

INTERVIEW: A change in the mental approach to the game is at the forefront of changes UWC's head coach Peter de Villiers needs to make.

Legendary former Ireland outside centre Biran O'Driscoll has some interesting views!

New recruit Jack Wilson believes that the Sharks are stepping up their attack this year as they build on their defensive strength from last season.

BREAKING NEWS: The Nelspruit-based Pumas have retained the bulk of their coaching squad, without appointing a new head coach.

South African-born trio Rory Kockott, Scott Spedding and Bernard le Roux all maintained their places in France's initial 31-man squad.

Leinster will definitely be without Jack McGrath and Zane Kirchner for their final two European Rugby Champions Cup matches this month.

Centre Matt Hooper and loose forward Luke Wallace, who have almost 180 club appearances between them, have committed their future to the Club.

Louis Picamoles is bracing himself for a massive revenge mission from Bath when they travel to Stade Ernest Wallon on Sunday.  

Exeter Chiefs have bolstered their front-row options with the signing of young prop Alec Hepburn from Australian club Perth Spirit.

Northampton Saints prop Salesi Ma'afu received a one-week ban on Wednesday for racking up three yellow cards in the season thus far.

BREAKING NEWS: Nic White and David Pocock will help lead the Brumbies as vice-captains in the 2015 Super Rugby competition.

NEWS: Springbok flyhalf Morne Steyn is free to play for his French club, Stade Francais, in their European Challenge Cup game this weekend.

NEWS: Cardiff Blues lock Jarrad Hoeata will miss the remainder of his club's European commitments, after he was banned for six weeks.

INTERVIEW: Wing DTH Van de Merwe has set his Glasgow Warriors side a nine-point target from their final two European Champions Cup pool stage.

NEWS: The Scarlets will have to head into their Euro Champions Cup clash with Leicester Tigers without four international front row men.

EURO SPOTLIGHT: Saracens can dictate their own European fate and Petrus du Plessis is fully focused on ensuring they come out on top.

EXLUSIVE: Jan de Koning chatted to the secretary of the newly-formed Soweto Rugby Union, Zola Ntlokoma, about the reasoning behind the move.

BREAKING NEWS: Former Stormers lock Quinn Roux could soon be joining the growing list of South Africans that are available to Ireland.

FEATURE: Varsity Cup champions UCT underlined the strength of the university game in SA by beating Community Cup champions Rustenburg Impala.

NEWS: Chiefs assistant coach Tom Coventry has become the latest to join the growing exodus from the Southern Hemisphere to the north.

Matt Todd may have been surprised by the call, but Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said the flank is a natural fit for the captaincy.

NEWS: Saracens lock George Kruis will be available for the start of England's Six Nations campaign, despite a three-week ban being slapped on him.

Richard Smith, who enjoyed a great season with the Welsh region, has signed a new contract at the region.

Kieran Brookes will join the Premiership champions from Newcastle Falcons ahhead of the 2015/16 season.

Salesi Ma’afu will face an RFU disciplinary panel after totting up three foul play yellow cards/evel one citings this season.

EXCLUSIVE: Word from inside the Sharks camp is that the Durban team is looking to keep the ball alive this season - so says Lubabalo Mtyanda.

London Irish have granted Director of Rugby Brian Smith early release from his contract that was due to expire in June.

Leinster skipper Jamie Heaslip is rated at only '50-50' to be fit in time to lead his side against Castres this weekend.

EXCLUSIVE: The injury that has ruled out Springbok Flip van der Merwe, has opened the door for a few youngsters to step onto the Super Rugby stage.

BREAKING NEWS: Gloucester have gained the services of Jeremy Thrush from the Hurricanes after the World Cup this year.

Jonathan Joseph has committed his future to Bath, renewing his contract with the West Country Club.

As the All Blacks gear up to defend the World Cup there is also an undercurrent of departing stars with Ben Franks thought to be the next to go.

Sam Burgess's second Premiership start saw him starting to make an impact in Rugby Union

Frenchman Marc Dal Maso is spending some time with the Highlanders forwards, working on their scrums, during their preseason.

CJ Stander says Munster's match against Saracens is the sort of Cup rugby that players want to experience.

South African born French international Scott Spedding will leave Bayonne at the end of the Top 14 season to join Clermont Auvergne.

NEWS: Saracens lock George Kruis' chances of playing in the opening round of the Six Nations are looking grim.

IN THE SUPER RUGBY SPOTLIGHT: The Stormers wasted no time in drafting their Springboks back into pre-season training.

EXCLUSIVE: Jan de Koning chatted to Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské about his flyhalf options ahead of the Super Rugby season.

Wasps and England flyhalf Andy Goode has been around the block a few times but his numbers in the European Cup are mighty impressive.

Northampton Saints flyhalf Steve Myler will reach 50 appearances in European competitions if he plays in the final two Champions Cup fixtures this month.

Sevens Springbok Jamba Ulengo sees his move to the Bulls as his chance to showcase his talents and see how far he can go with his rugby career.

French national captain Thierry Dusautoir has extended his contract with Top 14 club Toulouse for a further two seasons.

In a surprise move Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has named Matt Todd as the captain for the opening rounds of the Super Rugby competition.

Community Cup champions Rustenburg Impala will host the tournament’s 2015 Easter weekend play-offs.

Former Wales and Scarlets flyhalf, and fans favourite, Stephen Jones will make a return home at the end of the season to Scarlets.

REACTION: Outspoken World Cup winner Jake White was given a taste of his own medicine at the weekend.

Scarlets attack coach, and former club captain, Mark Jones will leave the region at the end of the season.

One bosses the All Black pack. The other bosses the Hollywood elite

European Cup and Challenge Cup are back in action this weekend and dominate the appointments. There are also two qualifying matches.

European Cup and Challenge Cup are back in action this weekend and dominate the appointments. There are also two qualifying matches.

Prop Samson Lee has become the latest Welsh international to commit his future to the Scarlets and Wales by signing a National Dual Contract.

NEWS: The Blues' pre-season preparations continue to be disrupted by unwanted distractions.

The New Zealand Super Rugby teams have decided to expand their apparel with some basketball singlets

World Cup hosts England suffered a cruel setback with the confirmation that Ben Morgan is likely to miss the whole of the forthcoming Six Nations.

PRO12 WRAP:  Ospreys have climbed to the summit following a 22-11 victory over Newport while Ulster hung on to overcome Treviso 24-20.

PREMIERSHIP WRAP: There was mixed results for the Exiles on Sunday as London Irish claimed a last-gasp win while London Welsh remain winless.

REACTION: Glasgow Warriors head coach Gregor Townsend paid tribute to Mike Cusack, after the prop made a big impact on his return to the field.

REACTION: Josh Navidi believes Cardiff Blues can still climb up the Pro12 table, after a pocket of good form came to an end at the hands of Leinster on Saturday.

REACTION: Munster head coach Anthony Foley says his side showed glimpses of their class, in their 31-7 Pro12 win over Zebre on Saturday.

REACTION: Bath boss Mike Ford refused to get carried away about Sam Burgess' International future, despite his best Union performance yet.

REACTION: After an excellent performance against Leicester on Saturday, many have called for Nick Easter's return to the International scene.

REACTION: Sale Sharks director of rugby, Steve Diamond admits his charges are in prime position to attack the top half of the Premiership table.

A sparkling performance by Matt Giteau on his return inspired champions Toulon to a 32-23 victory over Racing-Metro on Saturday

The returning Jimmy Gopperth ensured Leinster continued their winning start to 2015 as they battled back from a half-time deficit to down Cardiff Blues 22-13.

Sale Sharks reinforced their Premiership play-off credentials in a dominant 20-7 performance over champions Northampton Saints.

Johnny Sexton has confirmed he will not be available for Ireland’s opening game of the Six Nations despite hope he would be cleared to play.  

Eight All Blacks will miss the first round of Super Rugby as the World Cup in September looms over the tournament.

EXCLUSIVE: MATT HAWKINS, RUGBY365'S SPECIALIST SEVENS COLUMNIST, TAKES US BEHIND THE SCENES AT WELLINGTON - ROUND FOUR OF THE WORLD SERIES!

EXCLUSIVE: MATT HAWKINS, RUGBY365'S SPECIALIST SEVENS COLUMNIST, RETURNS FROM HIS MID-SEASON SLUMBER WITH MORE GREAT INSIGHT!