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London Wasps lock Marco Wentzel says playing without fear of relegation has him loving his rugby this season.

London Wasps eighthman James Haskell is one of ten players released from the England squad for this weekend’s Premiership matches.

Harlequins boss Conor O'Shea has poured cold water over talks of him taking over as Ireland coach should Declan Kidney vacate the position.

Toulon president Mourad Boudjellal said Tuesday he'd extend Jonny Wilkinson's contract by four years if the former England flyhalf wanted to.

London Welsh are to appear before a RFU Competitions Hearing charged with fielding an ineligible player in a number of Premiership matches.

Back row stalwart Roddy Grant has signed a new two-year deal with Edinburgh.

Sharks flyhalf Pat Lambie is aiming to use the Super Rugby season to help him further improve his development at No.10.

The Hurricanes have made just one change to their starting line-up for their second match of the Super Rugby competition against the Reds in Brisbane on Friday.

The referee freekicks France for early engagement at a scrum. Andy Goode of England steps up and kicks a high up-and-under. England players chase after the ball.

Exeter Chiefs coach Rob Baxter spoke of his delight as his side returned to winning ways in the Premiership with a 47-16 demolition of London Welsh at Sandy Park.

London Wasps have signed 20-year-old London Irish scrumhalf Jack Moates who will join them at the end of the season.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre has called up lock Sebastien Vahaamahina and utility back Maxime Medard into his 23-man squad for their Six Nations tussle with Ireland.

Accusations have been passed that Reds coach Ewen McKenzie would never coach the Wallabies because of his past as a front-row forward.

Cardiff Blues captain Andries Pretorious will not make his debut for Wales during the Six Nations after being ruled out until May because of shoulder surgery.

Scotland international Richie Vernon will rejoin the Glasgow Warriors next season after signing a three-year deal with the club.

The Blues may have opened their Super Rugby account with a bonus point victory, but coach John Kirwan is keeping his team's feet firmly on the ground.

Connacht Rugby have bulked up their front row options as props Rodney Ah You and JP Cooney have signed one and two-year contract extensions respectively.

Ulster centre, Paddy Wallace, looks certain to miss the European Cup knockout stage after suffering a knee injury.

Michael Cheika was backed-up by Wallibies coach Robbie Deans over his decision to start Israel Folau at fullback against the Reds last Saturday.

Australian Rugby Union will bid farewell to the game’s longest-serving executive when Matt Carroll stands down next month as Deputy CEO.

Scotland hooker Ross Ford should be fit to play against Wales in their next Six Nations match despite having suffered a facial injury in Sunday's 12-8 defeat of Ireland.

Former  Manawatu, Taranaki and Munster Centre Jason Holland has been appointed as Canterbury Assistant Coach for the 2013 National Provincial Championship campaign.

Wallaby fullback James O'Connor will skipper the Rebels against the Waratahs this weekend in place of Gareth Delve who is being rested.

Marlize Jordaan of the Free State Referees' Society, made news in Rio de Janeiro last weekend.

Influential Highlanders No.8 Nasi Manu will miss most of the rest of the season due to a foot injury he picked up against the Chiefs last week.

Former Hurricanes scrumhalf Chris Eaton has joined the Western Force on a short-term contract for the 2013 Super Rugby season.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee is not about to wield a heavy axe, but he does feel the players need to take ownership of their performances.  

The Reds have named speedy Aidan Toua at fullback in a tactical change for their clash with the Hurricanes at Suncorp Stadium on Friday.  

The year is speeding by and there may not be Test matches this weekend but there will be lots of activity to test match officials.

FNB Maties got revenge for their defeat in last year's Varsity Cup Final with a late 18-16 victory over FNB UP-Tuks in Pretoria on Monday.

Edinburgh centre Nick De Luca will appear before an independent Pro12 disciplinary committee in Dublin on Wednesday, February 27.

Errie Claassens of Worcester Warriors is to appear at an RFU disciplinary hearing.

Ever wondered how teams are separated on a Super Rugby table?

The Stormers, still reeling from their loss to the Bulls at the weekend, suffered another injury setback.

It was a weekend of intrigue and surprises. Our famous weekly selection reflects these results.

Bulls Springbok Dewald Potgieter has not given up on the prospect of accompanying the team on their Australasian tour next week.

Scotland's Australian interim head coach Scott Johnson jokingly compared his side to boxing great Mohammed Ali after they came from behind to see off Ireland.

There were several decisions at the weekend which are worth debating, including the try scored by Chiliboy Ralepelle of the Bulls.

The plaudits went to Morné Steyn, but one of the unsung heroes at Loftus Versfeld at the weekend was scrumhalf Francois Hougaard.

George Smith has become the second Wallaby star to rejoin the Brumbies this year after a lengthy absence.

Treviso caused a stunning Pro12 upset as they romped to a 34-10 win over Munster at Stadio di Monigo on Sunday.

The Southern Kings can continue their Super Rugby stint with pride and confidence after their gutsy maiden victory at the weekend.

Home is where the heart is for London Irish as they recorded back-to-back Premiership victories with a 30-19 win over capital rivals London Wasps on Sunday.

Scotland showed great character as they came from behind to seal an unlikely 12-8 win over Ireland at Murrayfield on Sunday.

USA Eagles captain Todd Clever is looking forward to welcoming the Lions to Southern California for their clash against the North American All Stars in April.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre repeated his call for a cut in the number of foreign players in French rugby after a 23-13 loss to England.

Wales interim coach Rob Howley hailed the flexibility of his players as they maintained their title defence hopes with a 26-9 victory over Italy.

England coach Stuart Lancaster said there was more to come from his side after their 23-13 victory over France at Twickenham on Saturday.

Slapchip soared to the top of the rugby365 prediction challenge after the second round of this year’s Super Rugby tournament.

Captain Frans Steyn lauded the Sharks' pack after the coastal side bagged a 29-22 over the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Stand-in skipper Andries Strauss has warned the Kings to keep their feet on the ground after their historic win on Saturday.

Allister Coetzee says a lack of momentum, caused by basic errors, contributed to the Stormers' downfall against the Bulls on Friday night.

Wild cards Raiders recorded their second big victory in the second round of the Community Cup on Saturday.

Leinster saw off play-off rivals Scarlets 32-5 to move clear of the Welsh region in the fight for a top-four place in the Pro12 table.

David Strettle starred for Saracens as they sealed a sensational 32-27 win over Leicester Tigers at Welford Road on Saturday.

History was made in Port Elizabeth when the Southern Kings marked their debut in Super Rugby with an impressive 22-10 win over the Force.

England showed good composure to secure a 23-13 victory over France in their Six Nations encounter at a chilly Twickenham on Saturday.

The Sharks held on in the face of a powerful late surge by the Cheetahs to win 29-22 in an entertaining Super Rugby match in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Wales scored two tries in the second half to cruise to a comprehensive 26-9 Six Nations victory over Italy in a wet Rome on Saturday.

The new-look Waratahs were searching for positives after they went down 17-25 to the Reds in their opening Super Rugby match of the season.

The Queensland Reds got their Super Rugby season back on track at the Suncorp Stadium with a win.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke pinpointed his side's defensive efforts and the performance of flyhalf Morné Steyn, following their victory over the Stormers.

The penalty try, awarded in favour of the Hurricanes in the match against the Blues in Wellington, has become the most talked-about incident in the match.

The Reds got back on the winning track with a 25-17 win over interstate arch rivals the Waratahs in their Super Rugby showdown in Brisbane on Saturday.

New Blues coach John Kirwan got his career at the Auckland franchise off to a winning start, when they recorded a comfortable 34-20 win over the Hurricanes.

Niko Matawalu inspired Glasgow Warriors as they closed the gap on Pro12 leaders Ulster with an attritional 20-14 win in a gripping top of the table clash.

Charlie Matthews grabbed two tries in seven second-half minutes to hand Harlequins a hard-fought 30-21 victory over the Premiership's bottom side Sale Sharks.

The Brumbies will celebrate their four-try bonus-point win (30-13) over the Rebels on Friday, but they are already shifting their attention further afield.

Defending Super Rugby  champions the Chiefs feel they can improve on their 41-27 victory over the Highlanders on Friday.

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph may well relish the opportunity of an early bye, after his team's injury list received another casualty.

The Bulls opened their account with a credible 25-17 win over the Stormers in the opening derby of the South African Super Rugby season.

The Western Force will welcome captain Matt Hodgson, wing Nick Cummins and off-season recruit Hugh McMeniman into their starting XV.

England starter Courtney Lawes admits that there is pressure on him to put in a big performance against France on Saturday.

Six Nations champions Wales expect a tight match against Italy on Saturday despite the hosts missing influential captain Sergio Parisse.

France captain Thierry Dusautoir says Saturday's clash against England at Twickenham could be a "career-defining" match for his struggling side.

Wales and British and Irish Lions prop forward Gethin Jenkins will rejoin Cardiff Blues for the 2013/14 season.

Lions captain JC Janse van Rensburg is not lost to South African rugby yet following confirmation that he has not signed with Bayonne.

The Scots will feel this as good time as any to put one over their rivals across the Irish sea when they take on Ireland at Murrayfield on Sunday.

Jake White has been recognised as an Adjunct Professor by the University of Canberra.

Forward Adam Thomson has become the latest All Black to sign a lucrative contract to play in Japan, joining the Canon Eagles on a two-year deal.

The Brumbies lived up to their pre-season billing as one of the fancied Australian sides, when they beat the Rebels 30-13 in Melbourne on Friday.

The Chiefs started the defence of their Super Rugby crown with an impressive bonus-point win (41-27) over the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday.

EXCLUSIVE: Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer chats to Jan de Koning about the Super Rugby season and his expectations of the South African teams.

Italy play Wales in Rome on Saturday. The teams have each beaten France and each lost a match. This could just be an interesting encounter.

Rarely can France have been in such need of a win at Twickenham as they will be when they try to salvage a flagging season.

Utility back and Sevens ace Ed Stubbs will fly out to join the Western Force on their two-match Super Rugby South African leg.

History will be made when the Southern Kings host the Western Force in their first ever Super Rugby match in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

The Springbok Sevens have been paired against Wales, Argentina and Australia for the Hong Kong Sevens on March 22-24.

Fiji-born Manoa Vosawei will fill the gaping hole at No.8 left by the suspended Sergio Parisse in Saturday's game against Wales in Rome.

Brad Barritt may not be a fans' favourite but so long as he has the respect of his teammates he is perfectly happy to keep adding to his tackle count.

Harlequins will look to cement their place at the top of the Premiership standings when they visit Salford City Stadium on Friday.

There will be much more on offer than just rugby at Loftus on Friday.

We have a bumper weekend of rugby lined up with a full round of Super Rugby fixtures and the Six Nations. Catch it all LIVE right here.

The Cheetahs' coaching staff will head into their opening Super Rugby match with a sense of having been 'let down'.

With just seven rounds left in the regular season of the PRO12, the race is really on for a top four finish, and qualification for the play-offs.

Four teams will be making their Community Cup debuts on Saturday in the second round of the new national club competition.

For Alan Solomons it is akin to climbing a rugby Everest, but the Southern Kings coach is 'excited' about the massive challenge ahead.

Paul Dobson chats to Jonathan Kaplan, who will referee his 100th Super Rugby match in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre on Thursday made seven changes to his side to take on England in a Six Nations match at Twickenham.

England coach Stuart Lancaster has made three changes to his team to face France in their Six Nation crunch encounter at Twickenham.

Israel Folau will make his Super Rugby debut on Saturday when he pulls on the Waratahs No.15 jersey against the Reds.

All Black scrumhalf Piri Weepu will play his 100th Super Rugby game when the Blues go head-to-head with his old franchise, the Hurricanes.

Reds lock Rob Simmons will play his milestone 50th game for Queensland in Saturday's Templeton Cup grudge match against the Waratahs.

Brumbies coach Jake White has been forced to make a change to the starting side which beat the Reds last weekend.

The Highlanders will have to wait at least another week before they are able to list legendary All Black Brad Thorn on their team sheet.

After last week's appetisers it is time to get stuck into the main feast of Super Rugby action, starting with three big derbies on Friday.

Francois Trinh-Duc said Wednesday he was desperate to pull back on the No.10 shirt for France when they go up against unbeaten England.

Italian captain Sergio Parisse looks set to miss the rest of the Six Nations Championship, after picking up a 30-day ban on Wednesday for swearing at a referee.

The injury list may be extensive, but Sharks coach John Plumtree is adamant it will be a more settled team that will start their 2013 campaign.

Paddy Jackson is set to make his Ireland debut against Scotland on Sunday after being selected ahead of veteran flyhalf Ronan O'Gara.

The Hurricanes have announced their side that is set to host the Blues in their season opener this Saturday at Westpac Stadium.

Sharks coach John Plumtree admitted he had to make some tough calls when he named his team to face the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Prop forward Geoff Cross has been called up into the Scotland side for Sunday's Six Nations international against Ireland.

Hurricanes openside flank Ardie Savea, who has been suspended for four weeks following a judicial hearing, has apologised for his 'clumsy" tackle.

Hoërskool Duineveld, the powerful Upington school, will again have a demanding fixture list in 2013 and many kilometres to travel to fulfil it.

Kings captain Luke Watson speaks about his team's upcoming Super Rugby debut!

Stormers captain Jean de Villiers is positive his team can make an early impact on the South African Conference when they face the Bulls at Loftus on Friday.

Because of some confusion, André Watson, South Africa's refereeing boss, has clarified the scrum procedures in South Africa which will differ from those applied in other countries.

The Cheetahs received a double boost ahead of their Super Rugby season-opener against the Sharks, with two Springboks returning to the team.

France's hopes of causing an upset over England in their Six Nations clash at Twickenham on Saturday are not borne out by the statistics.

On Saturday in Brisbane referee Chris Pollock will wear equipment that will show to the television viewer a referee's eye view of the action.

Castres signed South African back row forward Wessel Jooste as emergency cover.

Northampton Saints announced on Wednesday that Stephen Myler has signed a new contract to stay at Franklin’s Gardens for the foreseeable future.

The Rebels have named an unchanged side for their match against the ACT Brumbies in Melbourne on Friday.

The defending champion Chiefs will be minus four of their big stars when they start their 2013 campaign against the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday.

The Sharks' Springbok centre Frans Steyn admits that the captain's armband came as a surprise to him ahead of the start of the Super Rugby season.

The great north-south derby, the Bulls versus Stormers, equates to a Test match. It may sound cliched, but it is a fact!

London Wasps lock Marco Wentzel has signed a contract extension in the same week that the club have signed Kearnan Myall from Sale Sharks.

Bath have bolstered their pack with signings of Pumas tighthead prop Juan Pablo Orlandi and eighthman Leroy Houston.

England forwards coach Graham Rowntree has told his pack to expect a fierce French onslaught when they meet in the Six Nations at Twickenham on Saturday.

Stuart Lancaster has named an unchanged match day squad for the Six Nations clash with France on Saturday.

Kurtley Beale resisted the lure of a big-money move to Rugby League in order to face the British and Irish Lions in June.

Springbok legend Juan Smith, who last week announced his retirement on medical advice, could make a dramatic return to the pitch.

Wales' Sam Warburton will have to make do with a place on the bench after interim head coach Rob Howley confirmed his replacements for Saturday's Six Nations clash against Italy.

Allegations of spying have surrounded the Southern Kings ahead their match against the Force this weekend.

The Southern Kings team to take on the Western Force in their debut Super Rugby game in Port Elizabeth on Saturday does not feature any foreign players in the starting line-up.

Toulon's Argentina captain Juan Martin Fernandez-Lobbe will be out for around six weeks with a ruptured spleen, the French Top 14 leaders Toulon announced on Tuesday.

The Sharks have named a very settled 35-man squad for their Super Rugby campaign starting this weekend.

Wing Lionel Mapoe and prop Morne Mellett will both make their debut for the Bulls in their Super Rugby opener against the Stormers at Loftus Versfeld on Friday.

Namibia captain Jacques Burger has extended his contract with Saracens and is set to return to the playing field soon after recovering from a long-term injury.

England coach Stuart Lancaster has warned that France will be no pushovers in Saturday's showdown at Twickenham despite starkly contrasting starts to the Six Nations for the sides.

James Horwill's ankle injury has yet again meant that he will unable to take the field for the Reds against the Waratahs this coming weekend.

The hype surrounding the Southern Kings' debut in Super Rugby is unprecedented, but that could have an undesirable spin-off for the players.  

Vincent Clerc may be in line to break the French try-scoring record, but he is focused solely on getting one over England at Twickenham this weekend.  

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has expressed his disappointment at utility back Richard Kahui's decision to play in Japan next year.  

The British and Irish Lions tour of Australia is being billed as the most successful ever with fans after the last tickets for the three Tests sold out within 15 minutes.

Ireland were hit by a new injury blow when it was announced that loose forward Chris Henry is out of the rest of the Six Nations with a knee injury.

The Cheetahs coaching staff will hope Springbok flyhalf Johan Goosen comes through Tuesday's training session unscathed.

Jonathan Kaplan reaches another milestone this weekend when he referees his century of Super Rugby matches - yet another record for him.

The Stormers have opted to start their season without several key players, because it means avoiding long-term, recurring injuries.

The table-topping FNB Maties continued their unbeaten start to the 2013 Varsity Cup with a tense 13-8 victory over a determined FNB NMMU side in Stellenbosch on Monday.

England coach Stuart Lancaster is hopeful Ben Morgan will recover from his ankle injury in time to play some part in the Six Nations tournament.

Stormers captain Schalk Burger has been ruled out of his team's opening Super Rugby clash against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Friday.

Sharks and Springbok forward Willem Alberts will undergo a minor shoulder operation and will be out for a further four weeks.

Super Rugby 2013 kicked off in Australia over the weekend and the stats tell us that it was a drab start.

The Chiefs will be assessing their backline resources in their build-up the start of their Super Rugby title defence.

Connacht Rugby has captured a major international signing for the 2013/14 season with Craig Clarke coming in to further strengthen the forward pack.

Former England and Scotland coach Andy Robinson was appointed as Director of Rugby for Championship club Bristol on Monday.

One of South Africa's most iconic stadiums, Kings Park, will no longer have a sponsor's name attached to it.

Wilhelm Steenkamp and Dean Greyling will not be considered for the Bulls' opening Super Rugby match of the season, against the Stormers on Friday.

There may only have been two matches in Round One, but we are so excited about the new season that we named our 15 best players anyway.

Hurricanes openside flank Ardie Savea has been cited after in last Saturday's Super Rugby pre-season match against the Chiefs in Mangatainoka.

Sam Lane has been released from his Waratahs contract, at his own request, to get as much game-time as possible after surgery on both knees.

Loose forward Brad Shields and prop Reggie Goodes have re-committed to the Hurricanes and Wellington Lions.

Do you want to be dressed like a King - the Southern Kings variety? Then enter our Kings jersey giveaway.

Prolific try-scorer DTH van der Merwe has committed to Scotstoun for at least a further two years.

London Wasps edged Gloucester 33-29 in a thrilling match at Adams Park on Sunday to keep their semifinal hopes alive.

Harlequins returned to the top of the Premiership log thanks to an enthralling 21-25 win over Leicester Tigers at The Stoop on Saturday.

The Western Force have added four Wallabies to their 26-man squad for their two-match South African Super Rugby leg.

Italy coach Jacques Brunel on Sunday named Mauro Bergamasco in his 31-man squad as cover for captain Sergio Parisse.

South African players will want to put their best foot forward and impress Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer this weekend.

South African-born Antonie Claassen insists that his heart belongs to the French after being called up to the France squad.

The Varsity Rugby season will be in full swing on Monday with the start of the FNB Varsity Young Guns and Steinhoff Koshuisrugby competitions.

Man of the Match Owen Williams put the boot into Munster to guide Scarlets to an 18-10 win at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday.

College Rovers kicked off the Community Cup with an impressive win over Despatch, while there were also wins for African Bombers, Raiders and Roses United.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre said on Saturday that next weekend's game with England at Twickenham would be their grand slam match.

It is one of the most anticipated matches of the year - the Southern Kings making their Super Rugby debut.

With their season opener against the Stormers looming on the horizon, the Bulls feel they have laid a solid foundation for a successful season.

Rebels coach Damien Hill never lost faith that his team would hold on to their lead to start the season on a winning note on Friday.

The Reds will look to put the loss to the Brumbies behind them when they return to Suncorp Stadium next Saturday and host the Waratahs.

Brumbies captain Ben Mowen admitted that his team had revenge on their mind when they took on the Reds in Canberra on Saturday.

Supertrooper71 is in pole position in the rugby365 prediction challenge after the opening round of Super Rugby.

Wallaby coach Robbie Deans hopes Super Rugby will provide a proper springboard for his players before the arrival of the B&I Lions in June.

Loose forward Sean O'Brien insists Ireland can still win the Six Nations after their defeat at home against England.

Centre Jamie Roberts has urged Wales to turn winning into a habit after kick starting their Six Nations campaign.

Two tries from fullback Jesse Mogg saw the Brumbies secure a comfortable 24-6 victory over the Reds in Canberra on Saturday.

England wing Chris Ashton is determined to keep improving and says he is as hungry for tries as he has ever been.

The Chiefs wrapped up their pre-season preparations with a 25-21 win over the Hurricanes in Mangatainoka on Saturday.

South African centre Gavin Hume scored the only try as Perpignan defeated Toulouse 19-18 on Friday to shatter Guy Noves' dream of celebrating his 1,000th match with the French champions with victory.  

The Six Nations have responded to suggestions in the media that Ireland prop Cian Healy's recent citing was somehow unprecedented and/or outside the scope of the relevant regulations

Experienced rugby administrator Willie Small has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Boland Rugby Union with immediate effect.

Two tries from Robbie Diack and one each for Rob Herring and Ricky Andrew earned Ulster a bonus-point victory over Zebre to keep their spot on the top of the Pro12 log.

Prop Joe Marler has said England would back themselves to win the World Cup if it started tomorrow.

Western Province Referees' Society have just held the first of 10 meetings to explain the law changes to clubs, schools and referees.

The Sharks completed their pre-season commitments with a 50-19 win over the Pumas at KaNyamazane Stadium on Friday.

Ireland centre Gordon D'Arcy has been ruled out of the remainder of the Six Nations Championship with a foot injury.

With another exciting week of Premiership fixtures on the cards we focus on the clash between Harlequins and the Leicester Tigers.

The Rebels drew first blood in the Australian Conference with victory over the Force in the Super Rugby season opener at AAMI Park on Friday.

Serena Boyle is this week’s winner of our Maybru competition with this response to Quintin van Jaarsveld's column 'Time is right for SA Champs'.

The New Zealand Conference will be the most competitive of the three national Super Rugby Conferences this season.

We look at the five franchises that make up the South African Conference and expect the Stormers and Sharks to battle for top spot.

Cardiff Blues have re-signed key youngsters, brothers, Lloyd and Tom Williams

Fiji will face the Barbarians at Twickenham on November 30 and officials hope to stage Tests with France, Wales and Russia.

Tickets to the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia are set to go on sale next week with the Lions’ match in Newcastle expected to sell fast.

The ARU has announced Adrian Thompson (head coach) and Sean Hedger (assistant coach) as the Australian Under-20 coaches.

Exeter Chiefs forward Tom Johnson says he was more than happy to put pen to paper on a new deal with the Premiership club.

The Rebels recorded a 30-23 victory over a Force side that was reduced to 13 men at one stage in their Super Rugby opener on Friday.

The most successful South African franchise, the beaten finalists and the defending champions. That is what awaits the Stormers at the start of 2013.

Despite a Hosea Gear hat-trick, the Highlanders went down 31-29 to the Blues in their final pre-season hit-out in Queenstown on Friday.

The Reds have backed inexperienced centre Aidan Toua to provide a midfield spark in their Super Rugby clash with the Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday.

Warren Gatland has assured England coach Stuart Lancaster selection for this year's British and Irish Lions tour of Australia will be based solely on merit.

Everyone loves a good comeback. And this one has the makings of a Hollywood blockbuster.

The Stormers have named their 34-man squad for the Super Rugby tournament.

With a pause in the international matches, the Pro12 takes centre stage again this weekend with games in Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Hayden Parker has been named at No.10 for the Highlanders for the warm-up match against the Blues in Queenstown on Friday.

It is Super Rugby time and we bring you Round One's action LIVE!

Scrumhalf Dave Lewis will be donning the colours of Exeter Chiefs next season after he agreed a move from Premiership rivals Gloucester.

Springbok loose forward Ashley Johnson believes that the toughest games are yet to come for London Wasps.

Renowned England-baiter David Campese waded into a major row over how many English players should be in the B&I Lions squad.

The Waratahs will go into next week's Super Rugby opener against the Reds with a good hit out under their belts, after a tough final trial match against the Crusaders.

The Community Cup finally gets underway in Durban on Saturday when current national club champions College Rovers host Despatch.

The Crusaders may have recorded their first win of the year, but they may have paid a dear price for the result.

World Cup-winning Springbok flyhalf Andrew James has undergone a surgical procedure which will see him miss the start of the Super Rugby season.

It is just on 40 years since the most famous try in the history of the game happened at Cardiff Arms Park. Since then there have been lots of 'improvements' that had not equalled it.

Two pre-season wins will always create a good vibe, but the Bulls have ample reason to be positive ahead of the  Super Rugby season.

As usual before a new season of Super Rugby some game management issues are being highlighted.

Prop Pek Cowan will become the seventh player to captain the Western Force when he leads the side onto the field against the Rebels on Saturday.

Wallaby star Clyde Rathbone will complete a remarkable comeback when he runs out on the left wing for the Brumbies against the Reds on Saturday.

Reds boss Ewen McKenzie has opted to keep the Brumbies guessing, ahead of their season-opening Super Rugby encounter in Canberra on Saturday.

The 2013 Super Rugby season will have a fractured start - with two Australian derbies getting the show on the road this week.

A late try from replacement hooker Simon Westraadt saw Griquas snatch a dramatic 30-27 victory over the Southern Kings in Port Elizabeth.

Ireland's Cian Healy will miss the Six Nations matches against Scotland and France after receiving a three-week ban for stamping on England's Dan Cole.

Talented young centre Jan Serfontein has extended his contract with the Blue Bulls for the foreseeable future.

Stormers captain Schalk Burger will undergo three days of intense fitness testing to determine if he will lead the team against the Bulls next week.

British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland insists he would happily field an entire XV of England players in the first Test against Australia.

Sharks coach John Plumtree has named a strong squad with a number of big names in the mix to take on the Pumas in their last warm-up game in Nelspruit on Friday.

Piri Weepu will make his first appearance of the year for the Blues on Friday when they take on the Highlanders in Queenstown in their final pre-season hit-out.

Down in Melbourne on Friday evening Angus Gardner will blow the whistle that will start Super Rugby in 2013.

Although the 2013 Super Rugby season will see the introduction of split rounds, SANZAR will continue to award 'free' points for byes during 'full' rounds.

Chiefs and All Black midfielder Richard Kahui has announced that he will leave New Zealand at the end of the Super Rugby season to play in Japan.

British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland has admitted that he is wary of picking too many English players for the tour of Australia.

Ireland flyhalf Jonathan Sexton was rated 'doubtful' for their Six Nations clash against Scotland after the defeat by England on Sunday left them with several injury worries.

Uncapped 22-year-old flyhalf Ben Volavola will pull the strings for the Waratahs in their pre-season clash with the Crusaders in Sydney on Saturday.

He may be rated as a legend by his peers and even some pundits, but retired Springbok loose forward Juan Smith was never paid the real homage he deserves.

All Black Conrad Smith has been named captain of the Hurricanes team to host the Chiefs on Saturday.

Wales captain Sam Warburton will have to wait for a recall after interim coach Rob Howley said Tuesday he would name an unchanged starting XV.

Springbok flyhalf Elton Jantjies has returned to training following the tragic loss of his father and will be available for the Stormers' clash against the Bulls.

Wales have recalled Ospreys lock Alun Wyn Jones into their Six Nations squad.

UP-Tuks President and 1981 Springbok captain Wynand Claassen was lost for words when his son, and former Tuks captain, Antonie got the call-up to the French squad.

Southern Kings boss Cheeky Watson has denied that they have breached any regulations by naming five foreigners in a 35-man Super Rugby squad.

World Cup-winning Springbok midfielder Frans Steyn will take over the captaincy of the Sharks.

Jonathan Kaplan, the world's most capped Test referee ever, has made it known that his professional refereeing career will come to an end.

The South African Rugby Union on Tuesday joined the chorus of praise for retired Springbok legend Juan Smith.

Griquas will put a few youngsters on trial, but also provide the Southern Kings with a stern test on Wednesday.

The Southern Kings appear to be heading for a stand-off with the South African Rugby Union over their quota of foreign imports.

Centre Richard Kahui has given himself an outside chance of being available when the Chiefs start the defence of their Super Rugby title.

The Waratahs are sweating over a number of key players as they head into their final warm-up game against the Crusaders on Thursday.  

All Black wing Cory Jane was resigned to sitting out the Super Rugby season with the Hurricanes and may also miss New Zealand's end-of-year tour due to a ligament injury.

The Melbourne Rebels have announced their match-day 22 to take on the Force in their opening Super rugby fixture at AAMI park in Melbourne on Friday.

Prop James Slipper will captain the Reds in their Super Rugby season opener against the Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday.

They may be the tournament rookies, but the Southern Kings will not be short on Super Rugby experience in 2013.

The Crusaders have called up all their big guns, including captain Kieran Read, for their third and final pre-season game, against the Waratahs in Sydney on Thursday.

It's a quiet weekend - the quiet before the storm to be followed by Six Nations, European Nations Cup and the outbreak of Super Rugby.

The Maties secured a 23-15 bonus-point victory over Shimlas in Bloemfontein on Monday to move to the top of the standings in the 2013 Varsity Cup.

Gareth Steenson insists the hard work has already started as Exeter Chiefs look to banish the disappointment of Friday's defeat to Sale.

Springbok legend Juan Smith has given up his two-year battle to overcome a long-standing Achilles injury.

The Southern Kings will bring out their big guns for the first time when they play Griquas in Port Elizabeth on Wednesday.

London Welsh have signed versatile Argentina forward Julio Farias Cabello from Tucaman.

Ireland prop Cian Healy has been cited for stamping on Dan Cole during last Sunday's 12-6 Six Nations defeat to England in Dublin.

As the Six Nations Championship takes a two-week break, it is England who have emerged as the pacesetters.

Springboks Zane Kirchner and Arno Botha have been declared fit for action and will be available for selection for the Bulls' opening match of the season.

French coach Philippe Saint-Andre made five changes to the side which has had such a calamitous start to the Six Nations. One of the new men is Antonie Claassen.

Bath's England hooker Lee Mears has retired on the advice of doctors, after an abnormality was detected during a cardiac screening.

The Sharks paid a dear price on their first pre-season hit-out, losing captain Keegan Daniel for six weeks.

England coach Stuart Lancaster was delighted by the maturity of his youthful side after they emerged from a brutal encounter in Dublin.

Ireland coach Declan Kidney refused to give up on his side's Six Nations Championship title chances after a 12-6 defeat by England.

South Africa produced a stunning performance to beat IRB Sevens World Series leaders New Zealand 40-21 and claim the United States title in Las Vegas.

Federico Anselmi refereed the Final of the IRB's Sevens in Las Vegas on Sunday, his second Final on this year's circuit.

Coach Paul Treu was full of praise for his team after South Africa won the United States leg of the IRB Sevens World Series.

Scotland have no serious injuries after their 34-10 Six Nations Championship victory over Italy at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Ireland wing Simon Zebo is set to miss the rest of the Six Nations Championship with a broken bone in his right foot.

With an ace up their sleeve, the Sharks and Stormers will have their greatest chance yet to end their Super Rugby trophy drought this year.

Glasgow Warriors defeated Zebre 36-20 on Sunday to claim their fourth successive Pro12 win and move up to second place.

England took a massive step towards clinching the Six Nations title with a 12-6 victory over Ireland in challenging conditions in Dublin on Sunday.

Stormers lock Eben Etzebeth will miss the start of his team's Super Rugby campaign after being ruled out of action for six to eight weeks.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre said their goal now was to win respect following their 16-6 defeat to Wales.

Wales interim coach Rob Howley said his side's 16-6 win over France in their Six Nations clash was a special day.

Scotland scrumhalf Greig Laidlaw dedicated the 34-10 Six Nations win over Italy to Murrayfield's long-suffering, success-starved fans.

It's once again the usual suspects of the South African franchises showing who the smart money should be on in Super Rugby this year.

Munster produced a clinical display against an ill-disciplined Edinburgh to seal a 30-3 win on Saturday.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee says his team met the objectives that had been set for the pre-season friendly against Boland on Saturday.

Samoa took another step toward retaining their USA Sevens crown on Saturday when they booked a Cup semifinal showdown with South Africa.

The referees have been appointed to the Bowl and Cup quarterfinals at the IRB Sevens in Las Vegas on Saturday afternoon.

London Wasps snapped Harlequins' ten-game winning streak at the Stoop with a thrilling 17-16 win on Saturday.

The Damelin Night Series is well on the way already, hosted again by Port Natal.

A late George North try saw Wales snatch a 16-6 victory over France in an otherwise dour Six Nations clash in Paris on Saturday.

The Stormers are awaiting news on the fitness of Eben Etzebeth after he limped off with an injury in the friendly against Boland on Saturday.

The Bulls made it two pre-season wins in a row when they secured an impressive 32-10 win over the Cheetahs in Polokwane on Saturday.

Scotland scored four tries on their way to a dominant 34-10 victory over Italy in their Six Nations clash at Murrayfield on Saturday.

England captain Chris Robshaw has insisted his side won't be caught unawares by Ireland when they try to end a decade of Six Nations defeats in Dublin on Sunday.

Sonny Bill Williams has defended his controversial unanimous points heavyweight victory over veteran Frans Botha in Brisbane on Friday.

Rob Kearney believes that whoever wins the Six Nations match between Ireland and England in Dublin on Sunday will still struggle to complete a Grand Slam.

Brian O'Driscoll and Chris Robshaw will be two of the players looking to impress British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland in Dublin on Sunday.

The Stormers found their rhythm in the second half to romp to a 57-0 victory over neighbours Boland at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.

The Lions bounced back from their loss to the Bulls last weekend with a 41-31 win over the Southern Kings at Ellis Park on Saturday.

It is Round Two of the Six Nations and we bring you all of the action live right here.

The Hurricanes edged the Rebels 47-45 in an entertaining pre-season clash which saw each side score seven tries in Geelong on Saturday.  

Ospreys handed Ulster their first home Pro12 defeat of the season when they secured a thrilling 16-12 win at Ravenhill on Friday.

Sevens heavyweights Samoa, Fiji, South Africa and New Zealand all went unbeaten on Day One in Las Vegas after disappointing displays in Wellington last week.

Mark Cueto's record-breaking Premiership try helped Sale Sharks to their third victory of the season as the league's bottom club downed Exeter Chiefs 21-16.

A try to Peter Saili in extra time snatched a thrilling 40-36 victory for the Blues over the Waratahs in their pre-season match in Whangarei on Saturday.

Paul Dobson pays tribute to one of the true greats of Springbok rugby, Jan Ellis, who passed away on Friday.

Toulon will stage a first ever European Cup quarterfinal at Stade Félix Mayol against Leicester Tigers on the Côte d’Azur on Sunday, April 7.

Wales have been urged by scrum coach Robin McBryde to produce a performance against France on Saturday which will erase memories of their defeat against Ireland.

Ireland captain Jamie Heaslip insists it is the memory of last year's heavy defeat rather than an inherent hatred of England that will drive his side on on Sunday.

EXCLUSIVE: Southern Kings captain Luke Watson will make a welcome return to the playing field when they take on Griquas on Wednesday.

All Black and Glasgow Warriors back row forward Angus MacDonald is to retire from rugby.

The South African Rugby Union on Friday expressed its deep sadness at the passing of legendary Springbok loose forward, Jan Ellis.

The Sharks scored 11 tries en route to a 71-8 win over the Leopards in their first pre-season warm-up match in Pietermaritzburg on Friday.

The Force wrapped up their pre-season preparations with a resounding 46-0 win over a Tonga Select XV at Meadow Springs on Friday.

Ireland coach Declan Kidney announced an unchanged side on Friday to play England in Sunday's Six Nations international in Dublin.

Two tries to comeback king Clyde Rathbone and another to David Pocock secured a 38-7 win for the Brumbies over the ACT XV at Viking Park on Friday.

The majority of South Africa’s registered rugby agents on Wednesday joined forces to collectively protect their industry and ensure their bargaining rights.

There is a healthy list of FNB Classic Clashes for 2013, starting on St Patrick's Day. There are some 52 matches all over the country.

The Reds lost their friendly against the Chiefs on the Sunshine Coast on Friday but Ewen McKenzie was satisfied with the hit-out.

Qondakele Sompondo has become the first reader to win our Maybru competition with this response to Quintin van Jaarsveld's column 'Kings of controversy'.

The Lions' fans may be baying for the Kings' blood, but the management of the Johannesburg-based franchise are not as bitter and sanguinary.

World Cup-winning All Black Sonny Bill Williams added another crown to his career on Friday after beating veteran boxer Frans Botha.

Ma’a Nonu starred on debut as the Highlanders beat the Crusaders 38-21 in their pre-season friendly in Oamaru on Friday.

Some of South Africa’s best Under-19 talent will be participating this year at Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival.

Billy Twelvetrees has retained his place in the England side that will face Ireland in the Six Nations in Dublin on Sunday after seeing off a challenge from Manu Tuilagi.

St John's of Johannesburg will be holding their 18th REaster Festival this year. There will be primary schools and 1st XVs.

The Australian Rugby Union will significantly expand its integrity unit and conduct more than 200 drug tests this year after revelations of widespread doping in Australian sport.  

France will be looking to get back on a winning track on Saturday and inflict a ninth successive defeat on Wales in their Six Nations clash.  

Italy coach Jacques Brunel has warned his side to expect a fierce Scotland backlash when they try to make it two wins out of two this Six Nations at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Kieran Read has already proved his merits as a captain. Now he wants to add the 'fun factor' as leader of the Crusaders this season.

Worcester Warriors flank Matt Kvesic will be moving to Kingsholm for the 2013-14 season.

Edinburgh have announced the contract extension of 22-year-old Dougie Fife in a deal that will keep him at the club until 2015.

Centre Guy Armitage has committed to London Irish for the next two seasons.

Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter has confirmed that flyhalf Ignacio Mieres is to leave the Premiership club at the end of the season and join rivals Worcester Warriors.

Wellington champions England are being urged to keep on improving as they prepare for this weekend’s USA Sevens in Las Vegas.

Back row forward Lewis Evans and hooker Hugh Gustafson have signed new contracts with Newport Gwent.

London Wasps have added 27- year-old second row Alex Rae to the squad this week, providing some depth at lock.

Brian O'Driscoll will be aiming for his eighth successive win over England when the Six Nations Championship title rivals clash in Dublin on Sunday.

Bakkies Botha will be back in action after almost two months on the sidelines for the clash with Bordeaux on Saturday and has insisted he will come back "stronger".

Kenya’s impressive form in the IRB Sevens World Series sees them head into this weekend's USA Sevens ranked second in the standings behind New Zealand.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee says it is imperative that his side get off to a good start if they are to break their Super Rugby drought this year.

Wales captain Sam Warburton has been ruled out of the Six Nations clash with France on Saturday with a 'stinger' injury.

A number of injuries have forced Southern Kings Director of Rugby Alan Solomons to test the depth of his squad in the match against the Lions on Saturday.

Scotland flank Alasdair Strokosch could feature again in this Six Nations despite breaking a bone near his eye during last week's opening defeat by England.

Italy coach Jacques Brunel made only one change for the Azzurri's second Six Nations challenge against Scotland on Saturday.

An exciting weekend of Pro12 action awaits with a number of teams still being able to make a charge at a top spot in the league.  

With an exciting weekend of Premiership rugby the focus seems to be on the clash between table-topping Harlequins and fourth placed London Wasps.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke feels the Bulls have adequate depth to avoid fading out of contention in this year’s Super Rugby tournament.

The Lions have made a few changes as they go into their much anticipated clash with the Southern Kings in Johannesburg on Saturday.

Pat MacArthur will be on the Scotland bench to face Italy in Saturday’s Six Nations Championship match at Murrayfield.

France on Thursday announced two changes as they prepare to take on Grand Slam champions Wales in Saturday's Six Nations showdown in Paris.

It is not just the Cheetahs who are jumping for joy at the successful return from injury of veteran Springbok loose forward Juan Smith.  

The Waratahs have named six Wallabies in their 28-man squad to take on the Blues in a trial fixture in Whangarei on Saturday.

Leigh Halfpenny has said talk of a Wales "crisis" is misplaced as they attempt to end their losing streak against France in Paris this weekend.

Ireland great Brian O'Driscoll said he has made no plans yet to call time on his rugby career after suggesting recently this could be his "last" Six Nations.

The Lions' supporters are working themselves into a frenzy ahead of the visit by the Kings. However, the men from Port Elizabeth will not attach any significance to the result.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee admits players can force their way into the starting line-up with a strong performance in Saturday’s match against Boland.

All-action Argentinean hooker Agustin Creevy will become a Warrior from next season after agreeing a move to the Sixways club.

Loosehead prop Ashton Constant will lead Boland in their pre-season friendly against the Stormers at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee says they will look to play an expansive game against Boland at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.

The Crusaders appear to be preparing for a return by Zac Guildford sometime this Super Rugby season.

The Community Cup was borne out of a need to revive and modernise club rugby in South Africa.

The Cheetahs' Springbok flyhalf, Johan Goosen, does not require surgery for the heel injury that is troubling him.

Springbok captain Jean de Villiers will lead the Stormers into battle in their second pre-season friendly.

Springbok Pierre Spies will lead an experienced Bulls side for their pre-season outing against the Cheetahs in Polokwane on Saturday.

All Black Liam Messam is considering switching to Sevens as the chance to win Olympic gold threatens to lure players from the 15-a-side ranks.

England coach Stuart Lancaster kept Ireland guessing by including centres Billy Twelvetrees, Brad Barritt and Manu Tuilagi in his 25-man squad.

All Black scrumhalf Alby Mathewson will captain the Western Force against a Tongan XV in a pre-season trial in Mandurah on Friday.

Prop James Slipper will now captain the Reds in Friday's Super Rugby trial match against the Chiefs on the Sunshine Coast.

Waratah’s lock Ollie Atkins has been suspended from all forms of the game for one week.

Dave Dennis will lead the Waratahs for the 2013 Super Rugby season because it is the "right decision" for the team.

Ireland are waiting on the fitness of backs Gordon D'Arcy and Keith Earls ahead of their Six Nations Test against England.

France lock Pascal Pape could be available for his country's third Six Nations match against England on February 23.

He will be available for the start of the season, but the Cheetahs are anxiously waiting for the result of a scan on star flyhalf Johan Goosen.

Super Rugby's most successful franchise, the Crusaders, are determined to reproduce the distinctive high-paced game that have won them seven titles.

Francois Steyn has been handed the captaincy for the Sharks opening warm-up game against the Leopards in Pietermaritzburg on Friday.

Wallaby and Waratahs back Berrick Barnes remains unsure about his playing career,  after his contract at the franchise expires at the end of the season.

Robert Harley will make his first start at Murrayfield and in the Six Nations Championship, in the Scotland team to play Italy on Saturday.

There will again be a powerful group of schools at Kearsney for its Annual Easter Festival.

Hoërskool Outeniqua of George, each year one of the top schoolboy teams in South Africa, will again embark on a demanding fixture list.

Johan Ackermann's Lions suffered a double injury blow in the wake of their first loss of the year.

Influential Ulster captain Johann Muller has signed a one year contract extension which will keep him at the club until 2014.

England coach Stuart Lancaster will have to decide whether to keep faith with new star Billy Twelvetrees after Manu Tuilagi was declared fit.

Italy's time surfing a wave of euphoria since their stunning Six Nations victory over France is about to come to an end as Murrayfield looms on the horizon.

Thierry Dusautoir will captain France on Saturday against Wales in their Six Nations clash after coach Philippe Saint-Andre named his squad.

Rebels wing Cooper Vuna is out for the next six weeks, after injuring his shoulder in last Saturday's trial.

The Reds have received a major boost ahead of the Super Rugby season, with Wallabies captain James Horwill set to return from injury.

Ryan Crotty will lead a more experienced Crusaders team against the Highlanders in their second Super Rugby pre-season outing in Oamaru on Friday.

Southern Kings Director of Rugby Alan Solomons said his team has "some way to go" before their Super Rugby debut.

Defending champs Tuks began their 2013 Varsity Cup campaign with a defeat, whilst there were wins for the Maties and Shimlas and a draw in Cape Town.

Italy's reward for making it back-to-back Six Nations wins over France is a one place climb in the latest IRB World Rankings.

France captain Pascal Pape will miss Saturday's Six Nations match against Wales in Paris.

The fixtures are out for the St Stithians Easter Festival, the father of all schools festivals in South Africa,

The date for Stormers captain Schalk Burger to resume his playing career has been pushed back once more.

Australian prop Salesi Ma'afu has joined Northampton Saints from Perth outfit Western Force.

Former Lions loose forward and current United States Eagles captain Todd Clever looks set to captain the North American All Stars team in April.

Springbok No.8 Ryan Kankowski will bolster the Sharks when he arrives back in Durban this week.

What an exciting start to the Six Nations - a thriller in Cardiff, creative England at Twickenham and the excitement of Rome. The prospect of the second week is mouth-watering as the Six Nations move to Edinburgh, Paris and Dublin.

Enter the rugby365 prediction challenge and stand a chance of winning a Super Rugby jersey.

The three-time Super Rugby champion Bulls played in a special commemorative jersey at the weekend. You can now win one of those!

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre said it's back to the drawing board ahead of their date against Wales in Paris.

Waratahs lock Ollie Atkins has been cited for foul play during the Tahs' opening trial match at the weekend.

Wallaby and Force utility forward Ben McCalman is staying Down Under after extending his contract with the ARU.

When the Southern Kings make their long awaited Super Rugby debut they will do so as the most polarising franchise in the tournament’s history.

Wallaby great Michael Lynagh believes it is a "miracle" he survived a stroke last year.

Italy claimed a famous victory when they stunned a much fancied France 23-18 in the final first-round Six Nations clash in Rome on Sunday.

The Reds will welcome back a number of experienced players for Friday's trial match against the Super Rugby champion Chiefs at Stockland Stadium.

Scotland blindside flank Alasdair Strokosch will see a specialist surgeon on Tuesday to decide if he can play any further part in this year’s Six Nations.

Kurt Coleman threw his name into the hat for the Stormers flyhalf berth with a man of the match performance against the Cheetahs on Saturday.

England coach Stuart Lancaster said he faced a selection debate after Billy Twelvetrees marked his Test debut with a try on Saturday.

Ireland coach Declan Kidney refused to brand next week's clash with England in Dublin as a Grand Slam showdown despite victory over Wales.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke was careful not to attach much significance to his team's 38-32 victory against the Lions at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

The FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International will get off to a mouth-watering start on Monday with replays of last year's semifinals.

Alan Read of Western Province and Tommy Symons of Transvaal, opponents on the field, died within days of each other. Both were three-quarters.

South Africa coach Paul Treu said his Sevens team will have to go back to the drawing board.

England, winners of the Wellington leg at the weekend, will face a tough draw in Round Five of the IRB Sevens World Series in Las Vegas next week.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has announced that the defending Super Rugby champions will again have two captains in 2013.

They may have allowed some late points by Scotland, but England laid down a big marker when they won their opening Six Nations match 38-18 on Saturday.

Hansie Graaff kicked a last-minute 55-metre penalty to hand the Cheetahs a dramatic 27-26 victory over the Stormers in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Ireland, on the back of a sublime first half, beat defending champions Wales 30-22 in the opening match of the 2013 Six Nations championships.

The Bulls were forced to work hard for a 38-32 victory over a spirited Lions side in their pre-season clash at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

The Queensland Reds piled on seven tries to record a thrilling 41-35 victory over the Blues in their opening trial game of 2013 in Toowoomba on Saturday.

Rugby League convert Israel Folau has spectacularly celebrated his Super Rugby debut with two tries.

Alan Read of Western Province and Tommy Symons of Transvaal, opponents on the field, died within days of each other. Both were three-quarters.

The Hurricanes got their pre-season off to a winning start when they sneaked past the Crusaders in Timaru on Saturday.

Amanzimtoti - sweet water - used to be a little holiday place south of Durban. Now it is a big town, almost attached to Durban and Kingsway High School is a big school in Amanzimtoti.

The defending Super Rugby champion Chiefs have carried straight on from where they left off last year.

England needed an extra-time score to edge Kenya 24-19 and win the Cup Final at the Wellington leg of the IRB Sevens World Series.

Italian international prop Martin Castrogiovanni said Friday that he has agreed a switch from Leicester to French Top 14 team Toulon.

The Kings managed to record another win in their build-up to their Super Rugby debut, but it was a "bad day at the office".

The referees are announced for the quarterfinals of the Cup and Bowl Sevens at the IRB Sevens series in Wellington, New Zealand on Saturday.

It is Six Nations time and we bring you all the matches LIVE, right here!

Clyde Rathbone made a victorious return to the playing field when he scored for the Brumbies in a 20-18 pre-season win over the Western Force.

It is with great sadness that the Golden Lions Rugby Union has learnt of the passing of one of South Africa's most iconic rugby figures – Louis Luyt.

The South African Rugby Union expressed its sadness on Friday at the passing of its former President, Louis Luyt. He was 80.

Louis Luyt, one of the outstanding personalities in South African rugby, died in Durban on Friday, 1 February 2013. He was 80.

The wait is almost over as the Waratahs prepare to kick off their 2013 season against the Rebels in Hobart on Saturday.

Former skipper Thierry Dusautoir has been recalled to the France team that will open their Six Nations campaign against Italy in Rome on Sunday.

Hosts New Zealand and South Africa both had lucky escapes on the opening day at the Wellington leg of the IRB Sevens World Series.

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph named three newcomers in his starting XV to play the Chiefs on Saturday.

Hurricanes and All Black wing Cory Jane's 2013 season appears it may be over before it's even started.

England's emerging young side will have to cope with the pressure of being overwhelming favourites when they play Scotland in their Six Nations opener on Saturday.

Wales will begin their Six Nations title defence against Ireland when two of Europe's most inconsistent teams meet on Saturday.

The UKZN Impi produced a stunning late comeback to secure a tense 34-31 away victory over the TUT Vikings and move to the top of the Varsity Shield standings on Thursday.

Prop Dan Cole has warned that England should not write off Scotland ahead of their Calcutta Cup clash on Saturday.

The Sharks look set to be without the services of Springbok stalwart Bismarck du Plessis for a considerable period of time.

Fijian flyer Watisoni Votu says he cannot wait to sample the matchday experience at Sandy Park having finally made his long-awaited Exeter Chiefs debut.

Italy's hope to gain at least two wins in this year's Six Nations face a first significant hurdle when the Azzurri host France at Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

Ireland great Brian O'Driscoll has revealed that this Six Nations Championship could be his last.

Only one All Black will be on display when the Hurricanes take on the Crusaders in Timaru on Saturday.

Ireland scrumhalf Conor Murray has warned Wales to expect a Six Nations backlash from Declan Kidney's men.

Western Province Schools have drawn up the fixtures for Premier A and Premier B for 2013.

Western Province Schools have drawn up the fixtures for Premier A and Premier B for 2013.

By rights, Billy Fentiman rather than Billy Twelvetrees should be making his England debut this weekend.

Southern Kings Director of Rugby Alan Solomons said his team is in need of game time as they approach their debut in Super Rugby.

Exeter Chiefs coach Rob Baxter believes there is "more to come" from Ben Moon after the loosehead prop agreed a new two-year contract club.

Scotland international prop Euan Murray has committed his long-term future to Worcester Warriors.

James Phillips has committed his future to Exeter Chiefs by agreeing a new one-year contract at Sandy Park.

Wales interim head coach Rob Howley has named an experienced side for their opening Six Nations fixture against Ireland on Saturday.

Wales Sevens coach Paul John has made two changes to his squad which picked up two Plate titles in the IRB Sevens World Series.

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The Calcutta Cup is the oldest rugby trophy and a private affair, going back to 1878, and it is up for grabs this Saturday.

Billy Twelvetrees will make his England debut in Saturday’s Six Nations match against Scotland at Twickenham.

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke said the Pretoria-based franchise did not use the squad system to its fullest in last year's competition.

Waratahs coach Michael Cheika played down reports that playmaker Berrick Barnes was leaving the side.

The Blues' young newcomers will get the chance to test themselves against a powerful Reds outfit.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has held back most of his big guns when he named the team to play the Hurricanes.

Lions coach Johan Ackermann is continuing to mix it up, as his charges head into their third challenge match of the new year.

A thorough review of the Professional Rugby Department by Ian McGeechan and Peter Keen found England rugby to be in a healthy state.

Toulouse flank Yannick Nyanga was on Wednesday axed from France's matchday 23 for their Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome on Sunday.

Irish prop forwards Cian Healy and Mike Ross have both committed to new contracts to remain in Ireland to play for Leinster.

New Zealand will be looking for a second Cup win this season when Wellington hosts the New Zealand leg of the IRB Sevens World Series this weekend.

Pumas centre Gonzalo Tiesi is delighted to be back in the Premiership and can’t wait to get stuck into the thick of the action for London Welsh.