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Leinster are “confident” Brian O'Driscoll will be fit for their final European Cup pool encounter away to Exeter Chiefs on Saturday.

Munster flyhalf Ronan O’Gara is one of three players who will face a disciplinary hearing on Thursday after being cited for four play.

France were dealt a blow ahead of the Six Nations when up-and-coming centre Gael Fickou was ruled out for a month with an ankle injury.

England coach Stuart Lancaster wants to use the team's record-breaking win over New Zealand as a springboard to success in the Six Nations.

Saracens have signed Harlequins prop James Johnston and Wasps No.8 Billy Vunipola.

Ulster coach Mark Anscombe believes Ruan Pienaar’s future lies at scrumhalf following calls for the Springbok to be switched to flyhalf.

David Carrigy of the IRB has sent out to the rugby world the details of the global trial of extended TMO (television match official) jurisdiction.

Scotland have included 10 uncapped players, including fast-tracked former Crusaders back Sean Maitland, in a 35-man squad for the Six Nations.

As January flies away, the European competitions reach a critical stage - the last round of pool matches. The massive one is Leicester Tigers vs Toulouse in Leicester with George Clancy to referee.

Hooker Conraad Johannes (Boetie) Britz has been called up to the Southern Kings squad following Hannes Franklin's knee injury sustained during training last week.  

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has assembled a 49-man training squad in Sydney in preparation for the British and Irish Lions tour this year.

England lock Geoff Parling has agreed terms on a new contract to stay with Leicester Tigers beyond the end of this season.  

Welsh rugby endured another troubled European weekend with Ryan Jones the latest addition to a lengthy injury list ahead of the defence of their Six Nations title.

Wallaby flyhalf Quade Cooper believes that his boxing debut will toughen him up.

Coach Richard Cockerill insists Leicester Tigers can maul Toulouse at Welford Road to reach the European Cup quarterfinals.  

Blues centre Rene Ranger has been asked by coach John Kirwan to step up and play a leadership role in Super Rugby this season.  

The IRB has extended the TMO's powers to include foul play and infringements before a try is scored. This will now be used around the world.

SANZAR has adopted law changes for the 2013 Super Rugby season which SANZAR's game manager Lyndon Bray believes will be positive for the game.

A 15-all draw with Leicester Tigers at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday knocked the Ospreys out of European Cup play-off contention.

The Lions Challenge will be a breath of fresh air when the innovative series gets under way in earnest on Saturday.

England coach Stuart Lancaster plans to employ Premiership coaches on the team's tour of Argentina in June.

Leinster coach Joe Schmidt has admitted his side is still "vulnerable" as they try to conjure up an escape route into the European Cup quarterfinals.

Having clinched their place in the European Cup play-offs, Harlequins turn their focus to earning home advantage in April's quarterfinals.

Toulon are through to the European Cup play-offs but flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson has warned that it will only get tougher from here on out.

Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall believes his side came of age on the European stage in the win over Racing Metro.

The race for the Western Force No.7 jersey vacated by David Pocock is on ahead of the Perth franchise’s Super Rugby campaign.

French giants Toulon and Clermont, as well as English champions Harlequins, joined Ulster in the European Cup quarterfinals on Saturday.

Romain Poite, the top French referee, has withdrawn from his match on Sunday because of illness and has had to be replaced.

The Cheetahs have received a boost with the news that Springboks Johan Goosen and Coenie Oosthuizen will be fit for the start of the Super Rugby season.

World Cup-winning Springbok skipper John Smit is expected to join some of his former teammates at Toulon next season.

Wales have suffered another injury scare in the build-up to the Six Nations after Cardiff Blues revealed on Saturday that lock Bradley Davies has sustained an ankle injury.

Glasgow Warriors' went down to their fifth straight tournament defeat of the season - but head coach Gregor Townsend promises they will give their all when they take on Northampton Saints at Scotstoun.  

Ulster are through to the tournament quarter-finals for the third season in a row - but they still have unfinished business to attend to.  

Connacht have appointed former Blues coach Pat Lam to replace the outgoing Eric Elwood.  

Cardiff Blues flyhalf Jason Tovey is in the doghouse with his club after he was ruled out of Saturday's European Cup game against Toulon because a Labrador puppy ate his passport.

Gloucester booked their place in the quarterfinals of the European Challenge Cup with a last-gasp win at Bordeaux-Begles on Friday night.

Rory Kockott hauled Castres back into possible contention for a quarterfinal slot with a last gasp penalty at Franklin's Gardens on Friday.

André Watson, the SARU manager in charge of refereeing in South Africa, has issued a summary of law changes applicable in South Africa in 2013, that is to senior rugby.

New Blues captain Ali Williams is so excited about the upcoming season he has joined the squad earlier than expected.

Wales and the Ospreys have been dealt a blow after Ashley Beck was ruled out for up to two months.

Edinburgh centre Nick De Luca looks set to miss Scotland's Six Nations campaign as he needs to undergo surgery.

The Stormers are in the market for a hooker as two of their three hookers will not be fit for the start of the Super Rugby season.

The competitive season starts for Affies on 16 March 2013 in Kimberley, the beginning of a tough programme of matches..

Stormers head coach Allister Coetzee has named a 36-man squad for next week's pre-season camp in Hermanus ahead of the Super Rugby season.

Waratahs league convert Israel Folau would love to face the British and Irish Lions in June as he gets set for his first season in Rugby Union.

Lock Pascal Pape is to stay as captain of France for the Six Nations tournament despite the return to the squad of Thierry Dusautoir.

After chasing Springbok wing Bryan Habana's signature since 2007, Toulon have finally got their man.

And nobody asks Eben who? He has only just turned 21 and already he is a household name - Eben Etzebeth.

Schalk Burger is being tipped to take the Stormers captaincy back from Bok skipper Jean de Villiers after a year on the sidelines.

Mike Phillips was Bayonne's Challenge Cup hero as he grabbed the match-winning try in the dying moments of their clash with Newport Gwent Dragons.

The Highlanders have suffered a blow with the news that All Blacks centre Tamati Ellison will miss most of the season through injury.

The Waratahs have signed lock Mitchell Chapman from Japanese Top League club NTT Docomo as a replacement for injured hooker Damien Fitzpatrick.

South Africa Referees have appointed the referees for friendly matches in January and February 2013 as more and more rugby becomes a summer sport.

Northampton know they risk going out of the European Cup when they face French club Castres at Franklin's Gardens on Friday.

Springbok centre Wynand Olivier could miss the Bulls' first two Super Rugby matches due to club commitments in Japan.

The Southern Kings have suffered two injury setbacks ahead of their maiden South Rugby campaign. 

The Golden Lions Rugby Union launched the much anticipated Lions Challenge series in Johannesburg on Thursday afternoon.

Undefeated Harlequins and Clermont can book European Cup quarterfinals this weekend with Toulon also close to securing their spot in the last eight.

Italy coach Jacques Brunel called on the Azzurri to build on their promising November Test campaign as he named his 30-man squad for the Six Nations.

Lock Pascal Pape will stay as captain of France for the Six Nations tournament despite the return to the squad of Thierry Dusautoir, according to reports.

Brumbies coach Jake White believes it is unlikely that players will play for both club and country against the British and Irish Lions.

Reports that Springbok and Stormers wing Bryan Habana has signed for French Top 14 club Toulon are premature.

On Wednesday, 9 January 2013, Helen Zille, the premier of the Western Cape, congratulated Craig Corbett who in 2012 was the captain of the Paarl Boys' High rugby team.

Clermont Auvergne will be targeting a remarkable 54th straight win at "Fortress" Stade Marcel Michelin when they clash with Exeter Chiefs on Saturday evening.

Edinburgh defence coach Billy McGinty believes a win from this Sunday's Murrayfield clash with two-time champions Munster can help sooth the club's Euro woes.

Treviso forwards Manoa Vosawai and Simone Favaro have been suspended for foul play in the Pro12 match against Glasgow Warriors.

SANZAR have announced that half-time breaks for the 2013 Super Rugby season will be extended to 12 minutes.

Scotland coach Scott Johnson has still to decide who will be called up to replace Mike Blair following the record-breaking scrumhalf's Test retirement.

Ben Mowen will captain the Brumbies in this season's Super Rugby competition once again ahead of Wallabies David Pocock and Stephen Moore.

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans is keen to stay in the job until the 2015 World Cup, but will have to reapply when his contract runs out.

England coach Stuart Lancaster is confident Calum Clark will repay his trust after he called the controversial forward into his squad for the Six Nations.

Connacht quartet George Naoupu, Jason Harris-Wright, Mick Kearney and Eoin McKeon have all signed two-year contract extensions.

As Rounds Five and Six of the European Cup approach, thoughts are turning to the accumulation of ERC European ranking points.

All Black and Chiefs centre Richard Kahui hopes to enjoy an injury free 2013 after missing most of last season due to a shoulder injury.

Frans Steyn looks set to be ready for the start of the Sharks’ Super Rugby campaign but Bismarck du Plessis’ fitness remains a concern.

In South Africa this year age-group players will have different engagement calls in scrums from those of senior (above 19) players.

England coach Stuart Lancaster has included uncapped pair Calum Clark and Billy Twelvetrees in his 33-man squad for the Six Nations.  

Wales lock Alun-Wyn Jones says he is on course to feature in Wales' Six Nations campaign after undergoing shoulder surgery two months ago.  

Cardiff Blues have received a boost with the news that both prop forward Scott Andrews and loose forward Josh Navidi have signed contract extensions.

Everybody, it seems, can see the ball being put in skew into a scrum, but rarely does the referee do anything about it.

The Springbok playing schedule for 2013 has been confirmed, with a venue switch to accommodate another sporting event in June.

South African-born England flank Hendrie Fourie has been offered some options which could enable him to remain in the United Kingdom.

Leicester's England flyhalf Toby Flood has been cleared by an RFU disciplinary panel over an alleged tip tackle on Worcester's Andy Goode.

South Africa will be sending two Under-18 teams to the annual Australian Youth Olympic Festival (AYOF) in Sydney on 18 and 19 January 2013 - a boys' team and a girls' team.

Bill Pulver, the head of a linguistics technology company, has been named as John O'Neill's successor at the helm of the Australian Rugby Union.

France lock Romain Millo-Chluski has extended his contract with French champions Toulouse until 2016

Former Sharks scrumhalf Rory Kockott has admitted his yearning for international honours, be it with France or South Africa.

Warren Gatland wants his British and Irish Lions to face the strongest teams possible on their tour of Australia ahead of the Test series with the Wallabies.

Preparations for the Reds’ two February trial games are in full swing with all Wallaby representatives back on deck.

Wales interim coach Rob Howley admits 19-year-old Cardiff Blues flyhalf Rhys Patchell has thrown his hat into the Six Nations selection ring.

Stormers lock Andries Bekker is the latest Springbok at the top of the wish list of big-spending overseas clubs.

The Rugby Football Union's Head of Elite Referee Development Ed Morrison, formerly a Test referee himself, the referee in the 1995 Rugby World Cup Final, one year honoured by the IRB for his services to refereeing, says public criticism of officials could discourage current and future referees after Conor O'Shea's public outburst at the weekend.

Limpopo will play in the Vodacom Cup as a separate team for the first time when this 16-team competition kicks off on the second weekend of March.  

The recent release of the 2012 Matric results has come and gone in a flurry of optimistic newspaper analyses, counterbalanced by pessimism concerning the value of the qualification.

The Southern Kings have announced a 40-man squad ahead of their Super Rugby debut season, with some experienced players falling by the wayside.

Mathieu Raynal of France has been forced to withdraw from his European Cup match and has been replaced by Neil Paterson of Scotland.

With the previous sponsor opting not to renew their contract, the Lions' stadium in Johannesburg will be known as Ellis Park once again.

With Super Rugby just around the corner there will be some tasty appetisers coming up soon as all the teams get involved in  warm-up matches.

French international flank Wenceslas Lauret will play for Top 14 side Racing-Metro next season after signing from rivals Biarritz.

Australia-eligible Waikato flyhalf Sam Christie has claimed the final playing squad contract with the Western Force ahead of the new Super Rugby season.

Wales interim head coach Rob Howley has ruled out a trip to Poland for a pre-Six Nations training camp.

London Irish on Monday announced that lock Kieran Low has extended his contract with the club for a further two years.

Powerful prop Franck Montanella has signed a two-year contract extension with London Welsh.

Cheetahs and Springbok flank Juan Smith will make a decision about his playing future at the end of January.

Wales fullback Morgan Stoddart has retired after failing to make a full recovery from a double leg fracture suffered in a World Cup warm-up match against England in 2011.

The South Africa Under-20 side will begin preparations for the IRB Junior World Championships this year with a series of matches against Maties, UCT and UWC.

Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall,  forwards coaches Paul Gustard and Alex Sanderson, kicking coach Dan Vickers and backs coach Kevin Sorrell have all extended their contracts and will remain at the club until the end of the 2014/15 season.

Scotland's most-capped scrumhalf Mike Blair has announced his retirement from international rugby at the age of 31.

Intercountry activity is back in Europe with the Heineken Cup, the Amlin Challenge Cup and the British & Irish Cup. It's a great employment and travelling opportunity for match officials!

Some of rugby's greatest clichés during media interviews!

Brumbies coach Jake White will not be holding back in his team's pre-season build-up, with the franchise primed for a fast start to the season.

The majority of the Waratahs' Wallabies reported back for club duty Monday, a week earlier than required, but coach Michael Cheika has a major poser.

Preparations for the Queensland' Reds two February trial games got into full swing on Monday, with all Wallaby representatives back on deck.

Racing-Metro put the mixed start to their season firmly behind them with a shock 19-15 victory over star-studded Top 14 leaders Toulon on Sunday.

Retired flank Hendre Fourie  was good enough to play for England, but now that he has quit rugby he is set to be repatriated by the country he represented.

Paul Willemse may be some way down on the national pecking order, but the South African Under-20 star is determined to 'jump the queue'.

Harlequins Director of Rugby Conor O'Shea admitted his side showed their best and worst traits.

Edinburgh head coach Michael Bradley is urging his players to become more clinical if they are to halt a run of three straight Pro12 defeats.

Eric Elwood was relieved his troops' hard work finally got the reward it deserved.

Cardiff Blues coach Gareth Baber hopes his side's stunning 17-6 victory over Munster can be the start of a Pro12 charge.

The 2013 season promises to be bigger and better than that of 2012 with the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia set to take centre stage.

Danny Care helped Harlequins cement their place at the top of the Premiership, as he starred in a bonus-point win on Sunday.

Ruaridh Jackson insists Glasgow Warriors have the strength in depth to stay in the Pro12 hunt as they head into the European break.

Ulster paid a dear price for their emphatic five-try demolition of second-placed Scarlets in a Pro12 encounter at the weekend.

The last remaining bastion of the amateur era's traditions looks set to fall.

In turning over Gloucester on their home patch, Brian Smith insists his London Irish side drew a line under two heavy defeats.

Northampton Saints skipper Dylan Hartley admitted his side had answered their critics in emphatic fashion.

Jonny Sexton admits he is desperate to tour Australia with the British and Irish Lions later this year.

Gay rights advocates in New Zealand have called for a homosexual All Blacks player to openly declare his sexuality.

Robin Copeland's solo second-half try ensured Cardiff Blues clung on to a shock 17-6 Pro12 away victory at Munster.

Clermont extended their unbeaten home streak to 53 games on Saturday with an ultimately convincing 36-18 victory over Montpellier.

London Irish coach Brian Smith admitted England prop Alex Corbisiero is struggling to be fit for the Six Nations.

Scarlets and Wales wing George North has suffered "no significant or serious" damage to his neck in Friday's Pro12 encounter with Ulster.

England flyhalf Toby Flood has been cited for an alleged tip tackle during Leicester's 19-14 win at Worcester.

London Irish eased their relegation fears when they batted their way to their first road win of the season.

Glasgow Warriors boss Gregor Townsend insists the officials made the right decision to red card Manoa Vosawai for a spear tackle on Alastair Kellock.

Ospreys flyhalf Dan Biggar believes the Welsh side will have to raise their game if they are to compete for silverware in the Pro12 this season.

There is almost always a bolter on a B&I Lions tour, but George Gregan reckons Australia can spring a couple of surprises of their own.

The Waratahs will play three pre-season trial matches, in preparation for their 2013 Super Rugby campaign.

Tigers boss Richard Cockerill refused to apologise for using his front row to earn a 19-14 victory over Worcester Warriors in the Premiership.

The history of Springbok players is a rich one and so worth preserving. Some if has been lost in time and so there are some mysteries.

Wales suffered a Six Nations injury scare on Friday when Scarlets wing George North was stretchered off.

A penalty try a minute from time saw Leicester Tigers complete a brilliant fightback to beat Worcester Warriors 19-14.

Ulster got back into the winning mood after producing a stunning five-try display to run rampant in the Pro12 competition.

Northampton Saints on Friday announced that Alex King will be joining the club’s coaching staff ahead of the 2013/14 campaign.

London Welsh have confirmed that they are not currently in negotiations over the purchase of the Kassam Stadium - their home stadium in Oxford.

Former England No.8 Dean Ryan and Scotland hooker Stevie Scott have joined Scott Johnson’s Scotland management team.

The European rugby Cup has announced the match officials for the Heineken Cup and the Amlin Challenge Cup in Rounds 5 and 6.

Although his versatility may have been to the detriment of a promising England career, Worcester Warriors' Chris Jones insists it is now paying dividends.

South African-born Cardiff Blues captain Andries Pretorius is determined to make his Test debut for Wales this year.

Wing David Strettle believes Saracens have the strength in depth to challenge on three fronts.

JPR Williams has played more Tests at fullback than any other British and Irish Lion.

Nick Koster has yet to make his Premiership debut, but the talented South African loose forward is earmarked  for a breakthrough at Bath soon.

Clermont will look to keep up the pressure on Top 14 leaders Toulon when they host Montpellier on Saturday.

Castres have dismissed claims that South African scrumhalf Rory Kockott has threatened not to return to France if they refuse to release him from his contract.

Young front row prospects Simon McIntyre and Alec Hepburn have extended their contracts at London Wasps.

Nine of Munster’s most talented players have signed contract extensions with the Irish club.

Freddie Burns will look the lead Gloucester to victory over London Irish in a key Premiership clash at Kingsholm on Saturday.

The Sharks will play warm-up games against the Leopards and the Pumas ahead of the Super Rugby season.

Andy Irvine has issued a stern warning to all would-be B&I Lions players to prepare for "the toughest tour since 1993" when they head to Australia this year.

Despite their loss to Munster at Thomond Park last Saturday, Ulster remain clear at the top of the Pro12 table as we start the New Year.

Bath prop Paul James insists he and his teammates have got a long way to go to right the wrongs of the recent loss to Saracens.

Rob Andrew rates the 1989 B&I Lions tour to Australia as one of the highlights of his career.

Leicester Tigers centre Anthony Allen admits he's determined to shed his tag as just a good Premiership player and return to the Test arena.

Former Western Province and Stormers prop Morne van der Merwe is fighting for his life and has mere days to live.

London Irish lock George Skivington hopes the New Year brings with it a fresh start at the Madejski Stadium.

Cardiff Blues centre Jamie Roberts insists he can't wait to get back into Pro12 action after a sooner-than-expected recovery from injury.

London Wasps Director of Rugby Dai Young says his team is staying grounded ahead of Sunday’s game against Bath.

The free-scoring Harlequins might be no more, but flyhalf Nick Evans insists the lack of tries is down to opposition skullduggery.

Former Australia coach Bob Dwyer was recovering in hospital Thursday after suffering a heart attack, the Australian Rugby Union said.

Struggling Sale Sharks have been boosted by the arrival of All Black Dan Braid, who have signed to play for the club until the end of the season.

The scrums are still unsatisfactory. Referees find them hard, players and coaches get annoyed, people don't trust referees and improvement is not always clear and obvious.

Tonga wing Fetu'u Vainikolo is set to return to the Connacht fray for Saturday's home clash with Newport Gwent Dragons.

Scarlets received mixed news following the disciplinary hearings of Rob McCusker and Gareth Owen in Dublin on Wednesday.

Glasgow Warriors hooker Pat MacArthur has re-signed with the club until at least May 2016.

Sale Sharks winger Mark Cueto admits his job was on the line last weekend after his side ground out a vital win against Worcester Warriors.

Wales prop Adam Jones’s New Year's resolution is to earn a place in the British and Irish Lions squad for the upcoming tour of Australia.

Wales’ bid to retain their Six Nations crown has received a major boost as star flank Dan Lydiate is in line to be fit for the start of the championship.

Wallaby and Brumbies hooker Stephen Moore is eager to face the British and Irish Lions on two fronts in June.

Jonathan Humphreys has warned his Ospreys players they need to stay focused on the Pro12 game against Zebre on Friday.

Edinburgh hooker Steve Lawrie believes now is not the time to panic following their 21-17 defeat to Glasgow Warriors at the weekend.

Ulster coach Mark Anscombe is desperate for his side to learn from their mistakes after their first defeat of their Pro12 campaign last weekend.

Saints lock Mark Sorenson knows they will have to improve their away record if they are to secure a Premiership play-off spot.

Paul O'Connell is still hopeful of playing for the British and Irish Lions after undergoing successful back surgery in Dublin on New Year’s Eve.

Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards has stepped down from his consultancy role with English club London Irish.

Wales veteran Ryan Jones has been granted a Testimonial Year by the Ospreys in recognition of his services to rugby.

With 2012 now firmly behind us, we take a look at some promising players who could make their Springbok debut in 2013.

Former England captain and England Rugby 2015 Ambassador Lawrence Dallaglio believes the current All Black team is one of the best ever. 

Leinster coach Joe Schmidt says they will not fall into the trap of overlooking struggling Edinburgh ahead of the teams’ Pro12 clash this weekend.

Leinster are set to be boosted by a number of internationals ahead of Friday's trip to face Edinburgh in Murrayfield in the Pro12.

Despite their lowly 10th place on the Premiership table, London Welsh head coach Lyn Jones hailed 2012 as a great year for the club.

Springbok prop Brian Mujati suffered a calf injury in Northampton Saints’ 17-16 Premiership loss to Saracens on Sunday.

Australian Olympic shot putter Dale Stevenson is determined to make a successful crossover to rugby as a prop for the Melbourne Rebels.

Eli Walker and Ashley Beck tries were enough to keep Ospreys' Pro12 play-off charge on course with a 14-3 victory over the Dragons on Monday.

The Blue Bulls Rugby Union honoured their oldest living player, Lourens Smit, who celebrated his 100th birthday on Monday.

Sandwiched between a World Cup (2011) and the B&I Lions tour (2013) you would have expected 2012 to have been like a flat warm beer.

The Ospreys have handed a first professional contract to young second row Lloyd Peers.

Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter has spoken of his disappointment after it was confirmed prop Brett Sturgess is set for a spell on the sidelines.

These are the brave men bursting through the barrier of hedonism to get out onto icy fields and referee rugby matches. There are no Tests but still a testing time for many top players in top club matches.

Seldom has one player polarised the rugby fraternity like Quade Cooper did this year.

Leinster head coach Joe Schmidt admits he faces a selection headache when his injured stars return.

Harlequins boss Conor O'Shea revealed that his team has set their sights on a rare double.

Clermont captain Aurelien Rougerie will be out for up to six weeks after suffering a badly sprained ankle in a shocking sliding tackle by Benjamin Boyet in weekend Top 14 action.

Man of the match Geoff Parling believes Leicester Tigers' resilience was the difference as they held firm to secure a 17-12 victory over Gloucester at Welford Road.

Kenyan export Daniel Adongo has admitted he is pondering whether to pursue an All Black cap or continue chasing his Springbok dream.

Mark McCall admits his nomadic Saracens side are getting used to life on the road after grinding out a nerve-racking 17-16 Premiership victory over Saints.

Coach Paul John is hoping the building blocks his side have put in place for the IRB Sevens World Series will reinforce Wales' hopes.

The poor form of Scotland is a major concern to B&I Lions coach Warren Gatland, who is hoping to end a 16-year drought in Australia next year.

Jonny Wilkinson was in imperious form as he kicked 26 points and set up two tries to help Toulon consolidate their lead of the Top 14.

The season was filled with positives and negatives from a refereeing perspective. Paul Dobson gives his verdict on refereeing in 2012.

A try by John Smit helped Saracens to a nail-biting 17-16 victory over Northampton Saints on Sunday.

Ospreys scrumhalf Rhys Webb has been suspended for one week for stamping on an opponent during the Pro12 derby against Scarlets on Boxing Day.

John Mitchell’s latest failed coaching stint at Sale begs the question; is the former All Black boss a martyr or simply misunderstood?

England fullback Ben Foden refuses to give up hope of earning a call-up to the British and Irish Lions squad for next year’s tour to Australia.

Former Wales and B&I Lions wing JJ Williams has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours list for his services in rugby and charity.

The Chiefs are set to play the Pumas in a one-off fixture in Buenos Aires during their mid-season Super Rugby break.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre will, with his assistants Yannick Bru and Patrice Lagisquet, now take charge of team selection.

Ulster failed in their quest to close out the 2012 stage of the Pro12 campaign with their 100 percent record intact.

Munster revealed on Saturday that Paul O'Connell will undergo surgery to correct the back problem that has sidelined him since October.

Nick Evans scored 16 points with the boot as defending champions Harlequins ensured they will stay of the Premiership table at the turn of the year.

Former All Blacks coach John Mitchell has walked out on yet another team, leaving Sale Sharks under a cloud after just a month.

Rob Howley and Graham Rowntree have pinpointed selection as the key to series success in Australia next year.

Lions trio Brian O'Driscoll, Rob Kearney and Luke Fitzgerald could be playing again as early as next week.

Top 14 leaders Toulon enter the second half of the season on Sunday with coach Bernard Laporte calling for more of the same from his men.

Sale Sharks Director of Rugby John Mitchell has called on Danny Cipriani to maintain the form he showed on Friday.

Wales interim coach Rob Howley believes the incentive of a place in the B&I Lions squad will bring an extra buzz to the 2013 Six Nations.

Mark Cueto equalled Steve Hanley's Premiership all-time try-scoring record to give Sale Sharks a 33-27 win over Worcester Warriors on Friday.

Ospreys scrumhalf Rhys Webb has been cited for stamping on an opponent during the ill-tempered Pro12 match against Scarlets on Boxing Day.

The return of inspirational South African back row forward Josh Strauss will have a big impact for the Glasgow Warriors.

Ospreys confirmed that James King has recommitted to the franchise, putting pen to paper on a new three-year deal.

Leicester Tigers announced that Niall Morris has agreed a new contract with the club.

We know rugby players 'overindulge', but you will have to go a long way to beat this...

Cardiff Blues Director of Rugby Phil Davies insists his side fully deserved their 12-10 Pro12 victory over Newport Gwent Dragons.

Ulster head coach Mark Anscombe admits he is relishing the challenge of keeping his side focused.

A relative unknown to the Top 14 before his arrival at Castres, South African scrumhalf Rory Kockott has been one of the season's sensations.

At the half-way point of the regular season Ulster sit atop of the Pro12 table with a perfect won 11 out of 11 record.

This is the age of communication, growing wider and faster by the day. Communication is seen as a virtue. Is it?

Gloucester flyhalf Freddie Burns’s brilliant form could see him being a surprise selection for the British and Irish Lions for next year’s tour Down Under.

Itembelihle Comprehensive School of Zwide Township in Port Elizabeth are set to change the face of Township rugby in 2013.

Leicester Tigers will play host to Gloucester at Welford Road on Saturday in the key clash of the last round of the Premiership in 2012.

London Wasps captain Hugo Southwell predicts a hugely physical task awaits his side in this Saturday's Premiership match against London Welsh.

Cardiff Blues wing Alex Cuthbert has set his sights on victory over the Ospreys at the inaugural 'Judgment Day'

Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter is predicting a bright future ahead for three of the club's rising stars.

London Welsh revealed that Hudson Tonga'uiha and Greg Bateman have both agreed new deals with the club.

The 2012 South African season provided a beacon of hope for the country's rugby future as a new wave of promising young stars burst onto the scene.

London Welsh were forced to work harder than most to earn their Premiership status and they are not going to give that privilege up easily.

This week marked the centenary of Swansea RFC's famous win over the touring South Africans at St Helens.

Ospreys coach Steve Tandy felt his team was "in a good place" after their 32-3 demolition of the Scarlets.

If you are looking for acclamation, they don't get much better than when they come from Welsh legend Gareth Edwards.

Flyhalf Dan Biggar did his international chances no harm at all as he kicked 14 points to help give Ospreys the local bragging rights.

Sale Sharks captain Dave Seymour has called on the experienced core of the side to guide them out of their tricky situation.

We take a look at which was the most improved team of the year.

France international flyhalf David Skrela rejoined Second Division Colomiers from Top 14 giants Clermont on Wednesday.

Four penalties from Rhys Patchell were enough to give Cardiff Blues a vital 12-10 Pro12 win over the Dragons.

Gloucester lock Tom Savage admits his side is flying under the radar in the Premiership.

The Premiership is one code that need not worry about the big freeze, thanks to the adoption of a pitch-covering system.

After defeating Edinburgh at home last Friday, Glasgow Warriors will go into the second leg of the 1872 Cup at Murrayfield with a little added spring in their step.

Michael de Vries takes a look at a host of talented young players who burst onto the scene.

It may be in the middle of the Christmas season, but the Premiership doesn't allow off weeks.

The B&I Lions are determined to take advantage of the one major weakness in the Australian make-up, their scrums.

On this wonderful day, let us take time out to think of those less fortunate.

Gloucester have announced the passing of former captain and one of the true legends of the club, Mike Nicholls.

Edinburgh loose forward Roddy Grant says they are fully focused on turning the tables on the Glasgow Warriors this Saturday.

Sale Sharks' controversial new mentor John Mitchell has defended his decision to axe England flyhalf Danny Cipriani last week.

Bayonne back row forward Francois Carrillo has been moved out of intensive care as his condition improved.

Troubled English Premiership club Sale Sharks have sacked one of their media managers.

Round 12 of the Pro12 competition kicks off on December 26 with two Welsh festive derbies.

Director of Rugby Dai Young insists it is too early to say the glory days are on their way back to London Wasps.

Poor results and financial constraints may force the Welsh Rugby Union to cull another one of their franchises.

Happy Christmas to all match officials.

Drew Mitchell have spent more time on the treatment bench than on the pitch the last two year, but the he is geared for a "massive" 2013.

To all our Christian readers: Merry Christmas - wishing you good friends and happy memories!

Jonny Wilkinson overcame a nervous display but still kicked all of Toulon's points in a gritty 15-9 win over struggling Agen at the weekend.

Bayonne loose forward Francois Carrillo's condition was improving on Sunday after he was hospitalised following what appeared to be a heart problem.

We take a look at what each of the Super Rugby franchises want most for Christmas ahead of the 2013 season. 

Billy Vunipola provided the killer blow as a spirited Sale Sharks side went down 25-18 to London Wasps at Adams Park on Sunday.

Ulster coach Mark Anscombe hailed South African stars Ruan Pienaar and Robbie Diack after Friday’s 27-19 win over Leinster.

Prop Brett Sturgess and flyhalf Gareth Steenson have agreed new contracts with the Exeter Chiefs.

Wallaby wing Cooper Vuna has signed a two-year contract extension with the Melbourne-based Rebels.

Welsh lock Luke Charteris has been ruled out of the 2013 Six Nations after rupturing ligaments in his right knee in Perpignan's win over Montpellier on Saturday.

Bayonne back row forward Francois Carrillo was taken to hospital on Saturday.

Munster won a tough, uncompromising, but thoroughly engrossing Pro12 game against Connacht 16-12 at the Sportsground.

Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall admits his team are looking forward to home comforts.

Harlequins scrumhalf Danny Care claimed Christmas had come early for the Premiership champions.

Leicester Tigers agreed to new contracts with forward duo Steve Mafi and Julian Salvi.

Sale Sharks have been on the receiving end this season - both on and off the field.

Charlie Hodgson produced a masterclass of wet-weather rugby to lead Saracens to a comprehensive 22-0 win away at Bath.

Sale Sharks' controversial new mentor, former All Black coach John Mitchell, has wasted no time in putting his mark on the team.

We look at a few of the most memorable quotes from 2012!

London Welsh head coach Lyn Jones admits the Exiles had only themselves to blame after slipping to a narrow defeat.

Wallaby legend Phil Waugh was arrested and charged with drink driving in the early hours of Friday.

Two late penalties from Australian flyhalf Brock James helped Clermont edge past struggling Bordeaux 28-24 in the French Top 14 on Friday.

Veteran Irish captain Brian O'Driscoll would relish the chance of leading the British and Irish Lions one more time.

Semisi Taulava's second-half try was enough for Worcester to move clear of London Welsh with a 13-6 Premiership success.

Ulster made it 11 wins from a possible 11 in the Pro12 competition as they bounced back in style.

Lots of people celebrate Christmas, amongst them lots of referees, so we thought we should decorate a Christmas tree for referees.

All Black star Sonny Bill Williams' return to the NRL has finally been approved after a drawn out process. 

Rising England star Joe Launchbury feels next year’s British and Irish Lions tour to Australia will come too soon for him to realise his Lions dream.

The world's best player, All Black flyhalf Dan Carter, is the latest target of the cash-flush French clubs.

Exeter Chiefs captain Tom Hayes expects a tough battle against Gloucester at Kingsholm on Saturday.

Western Force lock Toby Lynn is looking to utilise his learnings from Nathan Sharpe and take the mantle as the team’s line-out general for 2013.

France's Top 14 resumes this weekend after a two-week break for European Cup action with the three pace-setters - Toulon, Toulouse and Clermont all looking for away wins.

Sale Sharks flank Dave Seymour insists his side cannot afford to dwell on their European humbling at the hands of Toulon, insisting the Christmas period will almost certainly define their season.

Former Wallabies hooker David Nucifora has resigned as general manager of the ARU High Performance Unit to pursue the next chapter of his career.

Star Brumbies and Wallabies flank David Pocock has committed to Australian Rugby for a further three years.

It is silly season and even though there is plenty of Northern Hemisphere action, we felt it's a good time to select an alternative XV.

After their forays into Europe, this weekend sees the start of the festive derby fixtures for the Pro12 teams.

The battle between the four frontrunners for pole position on the Premiership standings will heat up in this weekend’s Round 11 action.

Ireland has been dealt a major blow with the news that Ulster wing Tommy Bowe has been ruled out of the Six Nations due to a knee injury.

Alastair Kellock has signed a new contract with the club, which will see him through to the end of his professional playing career.

The European Rugby Cup has appointed the referees for Rounds 5 and 6 of the Heineken Cup and Amlin Challenge Cup. The appointments have been made known.

Cardiff Blues wing Richard Mustoe has been forced to retire due to a chronic pelvis injury

The dates, venues and kick-off times for the European Cup Round Five and Six fixtures have been announced.

Scott Johnson has been confirmed as Scotland’s interim head coach for the 2013 Six Nations Championship and the tour of South Africa.

London Welsh have re-signed scrumhalf Rob Lewis on loan from Cardiff Blues for the remainder of the season.

New Zealand coach Gordon Tietjens offered seven players contracts for the first to time to play for the All Blacks Sevens squad.

Fullback Luke Arscott has become the latest player to commit his future to Exeter Chiefs until 2015.

The ability to rid themselves of the financial burden that is Otago allowed the Highlanders to move into the black.

Alex Cuthbert has given the Cardiff Blues an early Christmas present by signing a new three-year contract with the region.

The ARU and the B&I Lions have warned fans to ensure they are dealing only with official travel and hospitality providers.

Gloucester's England lock Alex Brown has been forced to retire because of a shoulder injury.

Makhaya Ntini is best known as a cricketer, but he is not too shabby as a rugby player either.

The South African Rugby Union may find themselves caught up in legal drama next year if a long-standing contractual dispute is not resolved soon.

Rob Howley reckons the top two inches will be crucial if the British and Irish Lions are to secure series success over the Wallabies next year.

Veteran boxer Francois Botha has cancelled his plans over the holiday period as he prepares for his fight against Sonny Bill Williams.

Toulon flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson will decide in February whether he will retire at the end of the season.

Australian Scott Johnson will reportedly be revealed as the interim coach of Scotland later this week.

Paul Goze, the president of France's domestic rugby union leagues says he has no concerns about the future of European competitions.

Castres flank Ibrahim Diarra was on Wednesday suspended for eight weeks for stamping at a disciplinary hearing in Dublin.

Tom Croft is on the verge of finally returning to action as he seeks selection for a second successive British and Irish Lions tour.

Spectators will be able to get up really close as England tries out the RefCam in the match between Newcastle Falcons and London Scottish on Sunday.

Will Genia is confident he'll be fit and firing for what he describes as an 'amazing' opportunity when the B&I Lions arrive in Australia next year.

Yet again the Blue Bulls have pulled most of South Africa's young rugby talents into their kraal.

Two stars of the Maties Sevens team have been called up by Springbok Sevens coach Paul Treu to train with his squad in Stellenbosch.

SANZAR produced a few bolters when they named the Super Rugby referees for 2013. There has been a changing of the guard.

The Reds will host reigning Super Rugby champions the Chiefs in their second and final trial game on the Sunshine Coast on Friday, February 8.

The Crusaders may have failed to add to their seven Super Rugby titles in 2012, but their biggest victory of the year has been off the field.

Glasgow Warriors back row James Eddie says the Warriors supporters will play a massive role in this Friday’s highly anticipated derby clash with Edinburgh.

London Wasps Director of Rugby Dai Young is reading very little into recent results as his side prepare to host Sale Sharks this Sunday.

Toulon manager Tom Whitford has ruled out the possibility that Wales prop Gethin Jenkins will return to the Cardiff Blues at the end of the season. 

Former Springbok coach Peter de Villiers has urged SARU to become “trendsetters” by finding a solution for the amount of matches being played in a season.

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll looks set to be ready for the Six Nations after returning to training at Leinster following ankle surgery.

Castres flank Ibrahim Diarra has been cited for stamping in his team’s 10-8 European Cup win over Glasgow Warriors on Sunday.

Exeter Chiefs flank James Scaysbrook insisting they must maintain their recent momentum over a busy festive period.

The year 2012 saw five new coaches at international level, all with ambition and expectations of success. Jan de Koning rates the 'rookies'.

The Kings have admitted they went ahead and signed additional foreigners, despite a SARU statement that they are allowed just two imports.

Ulster lock Dan Tuohy has  a torn calf muscle and will be out for up to four weeks.

Brumbies scrumhalf Nic White was assaulted at a music festival and has fractured his jaw, but is not expected to miss the start of the Super Rugby season.

The Crusaders have effectively retained ownership of their Super Rugby franchise, following the announcement of a new licence agreement.

NZRU boss Steve Tew is wary of increasing the powers of the TMO.

The Bulls have revealed that Springbok lock Juandrè Kruger will join up with French club Racing Metro next year.

New Zealand provincial unions are set to receive a cash injection as a result of the All Blacks’ much-maligned sponsorship deal.

Didier Faugeron was reunited with Biarritz legend Laurent Rodriguez on Monday when he was named backs coach of the out of form Top 14 giants.

Wales and Clermont fullback Lee Byrne looks set for a long lay-off after breaking a bone in his back during Saturday's European Cup clash with Leinster.

England and London Wasps lock Joe Launchbury has been voted the Premiership Player of the Month for November.

Ireland hooker Richardt Strauss is the latest Leinster casualty following last Saturday's European Cup clash against Clermont at the Aviva Stadium.

Sam Warburton insists Cardiff Blues must address their defensive deficiencies after Montpellier claimed a bonus point win on Saturday.

Glasgow Warriors wing Tommy Seymour has signed a new deal with the club which will see him stay on at Scotstoun until at least 2015.

The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) have secured a vital alcohol sponsorship.

England Rugby 2015 (ER 2015), the Organising Committee for Rugby World Cup 2015, has announced the appointment of Bill Beaumont and Paul Deighton to its Board.

Christmas is coming when some people pray, lots of people enjoy a joyful relaxation and some people play. In the warm south there is lots of joyful relaxation, but in the cold north there are still people who are doing serious playing, players and match officials, and need to be careful even at this time of invitations to indulgence.

Toulon lock Bakkies Botha will be sidelined for up to two months as the Springbok international undergoes surgery on a fractured eye socket.

Wales are capable of defending their Six Nations title, despite an abysmal run of recent defeats and a stack of injuries, according to prop Adam Jones.

Saracens have gone top of their European Cup pool, but captain Steve Borthwick insists they will stay firmly grounded in the New Year.

Ospreys prop Adam Jones gave Welsh rugby an early Christmas present by making a successful return to action in his side's 17-6 win over previously unbeaten Toulouse.

Thierry Dusautoir believes Toulouse have no cause to panic - despite losing their unbeaten record against the Ospreys.

The Southern Kings have signed Toulouse hooker Virgil Lacombe as their fourth international player for Super Rugby next year.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has accused Robbie Deans of playing the 'martyr' in the duel for the All Blacks job in 2007.

Waratahs coach Michael Cheika has included 10 school and club players in his Super Rugby training squad in a bid to monitor the available talent.

Newport Gwent Dragons made light of hugely challenging conditions at Rodney Parade to romp home with a 53-3 bonus point win over Mogliano on Sunday.

Saracens edged two-time European Cup champions Munster 19-13 victory in an engrossing contest on Sunday to go top of Pool One.

Ulster and Ireland wing Tommy Bowe faces a lengthy lay-off after suffering a knee injury during Saturday's defeat to Northampton Saints at Ravenhill.

The Welsh Rugby Union will consider installing a synthetic pitch at the Millennium Stadium ahead of the 2015 World Cup.

The inaugural Sevens Premier League staged in George at the weekend was a rip-roaring success both on and off the field.

SANZAR CEO Greg Peters has intimated that it's unlikely that Super Rugby will adopt television match official rule changes next year.

Recovering Wallaby and Western Force utility forward Ben McCalman is looking forward to play a major role in next year’s Super Rugby season.

England players could make up the bulk of the British and Irish Lions squad for the tour to Australia next year.

The year was full of spectacular highs and disappointing lows; we name and shame the best and worst in our 2012 rugby365 Awards.

Defending champions Leinster were left on the edge of going out in the pool stage of the European Cup after being outplayed by Clermont on Saturday.

Makhaya Ntini played Sevens for Kaizer Chiefs in George on Saturday.

Samurai claimed the R 1million prizemoney at the Sevens Premier League in George with a resounding 29-14 victory over the Cheetahs.

Mont de Marsan made it back-to-back wins over Bordeaux-Begles with an 18-7 success on Friday night.

New Zealand moved smoothly from winning the World Cup on home soil to dominate 2012 despite a blip in their final match against England.

Racing Metro recorded a dogged 15-3 win over Edinburgh on Friday to keep their European Cup quarterfinal hopes alive.

Four SARU Academies have been appointed coaches in a ground-breaking initiative funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF).

Tom Savage has become the latest player to commit his future to Gloucester, with the news that he has signed a new three year contract to remain at Kingsholm.

Experienced former Sharks XV, Griquas and SA Under-21 coach Swys de Bruin has been appointed as the new assistant coach for the Golden Lions.

South Africa's Player of the Year, record-breaking Springbok wing Bryan Habana, is yet again in the sights of Toulon's eccentric boss Mourad Boudjellal.

A their annual awards ceremony in Auckland, Glen Jackson, formerly an outstanding player, received the award for Referee of the Year. It is second such award recently.

The All Stars and Samurai were the only teams to finish unbeaten on the opening day of the Sevens Premier League in George.

All-conquering All Black captain Richie McCaw has been named New Zealand's Player of the Year.

The Hurricanes are once again heading to Palmerston North with one of their most high profile games in next year.

The NZRU again changed the format of their premier domestic competition, the NPC.

Stephen Jones edged the battle of the boots at Adams Park to help London Wasps move a giant step closer to Euro Challenge Cup quarterfinal qualification.

Grenoble have been deducted four match points and fined €10,000 ($13,075) following a hearing by an independent Disciplinary Committee on Thursday.

Scotland lock Tom Ryder has signed a new deal with Glasgow Warriors, which will keep him at Scotstoun until at least May 2015.

Wales and Cardiff Blues scrumhalf Lloyd Williams has been suspended for five weeks for a tip tackle on Montpellier scrumhalf Benoit Paillaugue.

Northampton Saints hooker Dylan Hartley was on Thursday suspended for two weeks for striking Ulster hooker Rory Best.

An exciting and youthful Western Province Sevens squad will be hoping to make its presence felt at the Sevens Premier League this weekend.  

Two-time defending European Cup champions Leinster host Clermont in the fourth round of the competition this weekend.

Northampton Saints fullback Ben Foden has warned Ulster not to underestimate them in the return tie at Ravenhill this weekend.

It is all about pride and proving what they are capable of for Glasgow Warriors when they take on Castres at Stade Pierre Antoine on Sunday.

Clermont will be determined to avoid another Dublin disaster when they take on defending champions Leinster in a crunch clash this weekend.

British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland said he needed some 'fresh faces' in his backroom staff for the 2013 tour of Australia.

Head coach Rob Baxter has spoken of his delight after another two of his current Exeter Chiefs squad committed their futures to the Devon club.

Gloucester announced on Thursday that Jonny May, one of the brightest young talents in the English game, signed a new contract to remain at Kingsholm.

The Waratahs will relocate to Newcastle next week, taking to the Hunter region for short training camp before the Christmas break.

Tributes are being paid throughout the world to former Sale Sharks and Scotland Sevens star player David Tait, following his sad death at the age of 25.

British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland fired the first verbal salvo ahead of his team's tour to Australia next year.

The inaugural Sevens Premier League in George this weekend will end the rugby year in South Africa with an intriguing high stakes party.

Discussions about the future format of European club competitions ended in stalemate following another meeting of ERC stakeholders.

After an action-packed year, we acknowledge the leading players of 2012 in our annual Team of the Year.

British and Irish Lions assistant coaches Rob Howley and Graham Rowntree are determined to make amends for the pain they felt in Pretoria four years ago.

Robin McBryde is to step up as interim head coach of Wales during the 2013 two-Test mid-year tour of Japan.

English Premiership side Gloucester on Wednesday announced the departure of their captain Jim Hamilton to France and the arrival of Tongan international Lua Lokotui.

Mike McCarthy has announced his intention to leave Connacht at the end of the current season.

England head coach Stuart Lancaster congratulated Andy Farrell and Graham Rowntree on their appointments as British & Irish Lions assistant coaches.

Warren Gatland will have some familiar faces around him when he takes his 2013 British & Irish Lions tour party to Australia next year.

Gloucester prop Dan Murphy is ready to put another one over his old club, London Irish, in their Pool One European Challenge Cup match in Round Three.

London Wasps and Bayonne play in a potential "winner-takes-all" Challenge Cup showdown on Thursday

French outfit Grenoble will face a misconduct complaint, the ERC announced.

The referees have been appointed to the 2013 Six Nations matches. The only new referee in this ancient competition is Jaco Peyper of South Africa.

Legendary Wallaby lock Nathan Sharpe will walk of into rugby's sunset with one more gong added to his long list of awards.

We bring you the rules of rugby in an easy to understand and sexy way!

South Africa's 1995 World Cup winning captain Francois Pienaar says he is hoping that hospitalised Nelson Mandela "will be celebrating his 95th birthday and many more to come".

Embattled Wallaby coach Robbie Deans looks likely to keep his job and be in charge for the British and Irish Lions tour next year.

Wales and Dragons flank Dan Lydiate says he is undecided on where he'll be playing next season.

Former Wallaby lock Mark Chisholm signed a three-year contract extension with struggling Top 14 side Bayonne on Tuesday.

Top 14 giants Biarritz on Tuesday sought to arrest an alarming loss in form by suspending coaches Serge Milhas and Jack Isaac.

England loose forward James Haskell feels at home back at Wasps as they prepare for a crucial European Challenge Cup clash against Bayonne on Thursday.

Ireland lock Paul O'Connell is still struggling to recover from a lower back injury that has kept him sidelined since October.

Cardiff Blues scrumhalf Lloyd Williams and Dragons lock Jevon Groves face possible suspensions after being sent off for spear tackles.

National club champions College Rovers will play Despatch in the opening match of the inaugural SARU Community Cup on February 16.

EP Rugby CEO Anele Pamba has resigned from his position with immediate effect, leaving President Cheeky Watson in "shock".

Wales flyhalf Rhys Priestland will be out of action for six months after suffering a ruptured left Achilles tendon during Scarlet's European Cup game against Exeter last Saturday.

Ireland scrumhalf Tomas O'Leary will miss next year's Six Nations after undergoing surgery on a longstanding back injury.

Wallabies star David Pocock knows that he will only get one chance to play the British and Irish Lions, and he wants to make the most of it.

Ulster wing Tommy Bowe has warned his teammates to be on their guard in their return European Cup fixture with Northampton Saints this weekend.

Saracens boss Mark McCall is relishing the opportunity to hit back at Munster this weekend when the teams clash at Vicarage Road.

Rugby continues to grow in Australia, with over 300 000 participants recorded this year - the most in their history.

Top 14 bottom side Mont-de-Marsan have named former Scotland international lock Scott Murray as their new forwards coach.  

Brian Smith has been unveiled as the Brumbies' new defensive consultant after being axed by Rugby League outfit Sydney Roosters.  

England hooker Dylan Hartley has been cited for alleged foul play during Northampton's European Cup defeat against Ulster.  

Steve Botha, master in charge of rugby at Maritzburg College, is to leave College for a post in the United Arab Emirates.

Ex-All Black scrumhalf Justin Marshall regards former rival Joost van der Westhuizen as the greatest No.9 in Springbok history.

Rhys Priestland will have scans on Monday as Wales and the Scarlets sweat on the flyhalf's fitness.

Fit-again Western Force loose forward Locky McCaffrey plans to make a statement leading into the 2013 Super Rugby season.

The Blue Bulls have assembled a host of fresh faces for the Sevens Premier League in George this weekend.

There are eight Tests this week - six men's and two women's.

Leicester Tigers were give a welcome wake-up call by Benetton Treviso at Welford Road before banking the maximum five points on Sunday.

Dan Carter might be the best player in the world, but he is not rated worthy of being a finalist in New Zealand's Player of the Year awards.

Following their victory in Port Elizabeth New Zealand head up Pool A in their home leg of the Sevens World Series in Wellington.

Quade Cooper wants his skills to do the talking on the field.

Sevens legend Ben Gollings is ready to rock the inaugural Premier League tournament in George on Friday and Saturday.

Leinster's defeat to Clermont Auvergne has forced their coach Joe Schmidt to plot an alternative route to the knock-out stages of the European Cup.

Springbok coach Paul Treu expressed his disappointment, despite South Africa's third-place finish in Port Elizabeth at the weekend.

The Australian Rugby Union on Monday adopted a new governance model that will give more power to the country's franchises.

The Blues on Monday named veteran lock Ali Williams as captain for the 2013 season, with coach John Kirwan saying he will prove his doubters wrong.

New Zealand won their four successive Cup title on South African soil after beating France in the Cup final, giving head coach Gordon Tietjens an extra special present.

Clermont ended two-time defending European Cup champions Leinster's 17-match unbeaten run in the competition, beating them 15-12.

The Ospreys are down by eight points on Pool Two leaders Toulouse - but insist they are not out of the running for a European Cup quarterfinal spot.  

Harlequins have raced six points clear at the top of their European Cup pool - but director of rugby Conor O'Shea is looking no further ahead than the return tie against Zebre in Round Four.

Exeter Chiefs hooker Chris Whitehead requires neck surgery and has been ruled out of action for the next three months.

New Zealand beat France in the final of the Port Elizabeth leg of the Sevens World Series to claim a record fourth consecutive SA Sevens victory.

Drunken New Zealanders have added another black mark to the good name of their country.

Eddie Jones believes that the arrogance shown by England centre Manu Tuilagi should be cause for concern.

French champions Toulouse face an anxious wait to find out how long they might lose former All Black flyhalf Luke McAlister and France centre Florian Fritz.

South Africa's coach Paul Treu paid tribute to the home crowd at the Port Elizabeth leg of IRB Sevens World Series.

Bath had a field day in their Round Three contest against Cammi Calvisano as they ran in 10 tries at the Recreation Ground on Saturday.

Four-time European Cup winners Toulouse overran Welsh side Ospreys on Saturday.

Unbeaten Ulster have paid a dear price for their impressive 25-6 European Cup win over Northampton Saints on Friday.

The South African Rugby Union has been awarded the IRB Development Award 2012.

Host South Africa laid down a big marker on Day One of the Port Elizabeth leg of the IRB Sevens World Series.

Jake White has made no secret of the fact that he would jump at the opportunity to take charge of Australia's national team.

Ulster won their 13th game in 13 outings this season when they clinched an impressive 25-6 triumph over Northampton on Friday.

Grenoble jumped to the top of Pool Five in the European Challenge Cup as they secured a hard-fought win over London Welsh.

Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) Chief Executive Roger Lewis has expressed his disdain for "vultures" who are recruiting Wales' leading players.

Japan coach Eddie Jones says consistency is the major challenge facing England following their 38-21 win over the All Blacks at Twickenham last Saturday.

Ollie Phillips returns to the England side after a three-year absence, for the third leg of the IRB Sevens World Series in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

Wales centre Jamie Roberts faces six weeks on the sidelines, after injuring his elbow, and is in a race against time to be fit for the Six Nations.