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Following a thrilling opening round on Monday, the Varsity Shield cracks on with the second round of fixtures on Thursday.

With several regulars missing through injury, Springbok coach Paul Treu will be hoping that his reshuffled squad will be able to go all the way at the Wellington leg of the IRB Sevens world Series.

A European Cup quarterfinal will be staged at Twickenham Stadium for the first time.

The South African Rugby Union (SARU) has come out in enthusiastic support of the South African Institute for the Drug-Free Sports' (SAIDS) new Anti-Doping education and testing programme in high schools.

The Stormers head into the first of their two warm-up games against the Cheetahs on Friday needing to get the ball rolling quickly.

Southern Kings coach Alan Solomons has named four of his five foreign imports in the 29-man squad that will face a Franchise XV.

The Bulls will do anything for their fans.  

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee named Springbok Duane Vermeulen as captain of the team to face the Cheetahs in Saturday's pre-season friendly in Bloemfontein.

Springbok flank Deon Stegmann will lead the Bulls on Saturday when they take on the Lions in the Gauteng Challenge at Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

The Rebels have announced four captains and 11 debutants for their first trial match against the NSW Waratahs in Tasmania this Saturday.

Former Bok coach Jake White has joined the outcry against Wallaby mentor Robbie Deans' plans to rob Aussie franchises of leading players.

Hans Coetzee, great rugby man, is back at Hoërskool Monument and running the rugby. He is just one of recent Monnas movements.

The Melbourne Rebels have suffered a pre-season blow with the news that New Zealand import Jason Woodward has been ruled out for six weeks.

The RFU were preparing to receive a review co-authored by Ian McGeechan, just as his fellow Scotland great Jim Telfer slammed England.

Injuries and a lack of game time may have curtailed Lionel Cronjé's career in the last two years, but he is ready to express himself at Ellis Park.

The referees for Day 1 of the Wellington leg of the IRB's Sevens Series have been appointed and Rasta Rashivenga of South Africa will blow the whistle to start the day's fun.

Uncapped Gloucester centre Billy Twelvetrees is part of England’s matchday squad for their Six Nations opener against Scotland at Twickenham.

The Cheetahs are hoping to get their crop of injured Springboks back in action before they head overseas on their crucial early-season tour.

Four key members of the Worcester Warriors pack have committed their futures to the club.

Matthew Rees insists Wales can return to winning ways when they kick-off their Six Nations title defence against Ireland in Cardiff on Saturday.

Stuart Lancaster is confident England have the midfield options to cope with the absence of Manu Tuilagi on Saturday.

Ireland great Brian O'Driscoll was among several senior players restored by Declan Kidney to the starting XV for Saturday's Six Nations clash with Wales in Cardiff.

The Cheetahs have made 14 changes to the side that played the Lions last week for their pre-season clash with the Stormers in Bloemfontein this weekend.

We bring you a collection of some humorous sayings by rugby people!

Sharks assistant coach Hugh Reece-Edwards said the teams is getting "annoyed" with not being able to win finals.

Sean Maitland is set to join the ranks of Scotland's 'kilted Kiwis' when he makes his Test debut in the Six Nations clash against England at Twickenham on Saturday.

The Six Nations starts this week with its special burst of excitement. The referees are meeting at Lensbury Cup Abd will be as enthusiastic as everybody else concerned with this most ancient of international competitions.

London Welsh captain Jonathan Mills and front row forward Arthur Joly have both agreed new two-year deals with the club.

Harlequins have strengthened their front row resources for next season with the signing of Northampton Saints and England prop Paul Doran-Jones on a two year contract.

The road back from the rugby wilderness could be coming to an end for former Wallaby flyer Clyde Rathbone.

Meticulous planning, preparation and hard work by South Africa’s top referees are the reasons why they consistently rank amongst the best in the world.

Hoërskool Monument of Krugersdorp, on the top rugby schools in the land, starts early and finishes late in the year, a brave school happy to take on all-comers.

A corked thigh to Cameron Clark has forced a late change to the Australian Sevens squad for the Wellington leg of the Sevens World Series at Westpac Stadium this weekend.

Thirteen players, including South African flyhalf Sias Ebersohn, will make their debut for Western Force when they face the Brumbies in their pre-season fixture on Friday.

Reds centre Anthony Faingaa will captain a 28-man trial side which boasts 11 Wallabies from 2012 in the Reds' hit-out against the Blues in Toowoomba on Saturday.

Scrumhalf Brendan McKibbin will lead the Waratahs in their pre-season clash against the Rebels at the North Hobart Football Club on Saturday.  

Now it is the Six Nations Champoionship - the International Championship - and it kicks off this  exciting weekend.

Kings captain Luke Watson says the franchise was painted into a corner by SARU and left with no other option but to sign foreign players.

The impact of record-breaking retired Springbok Victor Matfield as a coach is already being felt by the Bulls.  

Centre Mathieu Bastareaud, recalled after a near three-year absence, made the cut on Monday for France's Six Nations opener in Rome on Sunday.

Don't expect too many of the Stormers' big name stars to run out against the Cheetahs in a pre-season Super Rugby match.

Peter de Villiers'  UWC side started the Varsity Shield  with a bang, beating the TUT Vikings 42-4 in Bellville on Monday.

Kings captain Luke Watson has expressed his remorse for saying that rugby in South Africa was ‘run by Dutchmen’ three years ago.

The Southern Kings were dealt another cruel blow with the news that one of their high-profile imports, Michael Killian, will the start of their Super Rugby debut.

Kelly Brown has been retained as Scotland captain by interim coach Scott Johnson for the Six Nations opener against England on Saturday.

England centre Manu Tuilagi will miss Saturday's Six Nations opener against Scotland at Twickenham with an ankle injury.

All Black Carlos Spencer had a huge impact on Elton Jantjies and now the Sharks hope he can do the same for their Springbok flyhalf, Pat Lambie.

The SACS season kicks off just down the road at Newlands with the annual schools day and they follow this with the Brackenfell Rugby Day. Then they swish up to Johannesburg before the second term starts the official season.

London Welsh have strengthened their options at centre with the signing Argentina's Gonzalo Tiesi.

Henry Thomas of Sale Sharks will train with England ahead of Saturday's Six Nations match against Scotland at Twickenham Stadium.

Biarritz back row forward Wenceslas Lauret became the third player in three days to withdraw from France's Six Nations squad when he was ruled out for Sunday's opener with Italy with concussion.

France rugby should follow England's example when it comes to looking after their players and not overloading the schedule French coach Philippe Saint-Andre said.

Australian coach Michael O'Connor has welcomed back a number of key players for the Wellington leg of the IRB Sevens World Series.

It is official! SARU confirmed on Monday that the Kings will not be allowed more than the regulation two foreign players.

Veteran Springbok flank Juan Smith could be the bolter in the Cheetahs team when they face the Stormers in a pre-season match on Saturday.

A 33-man Ireland squad have been announced ahead of the opening game of the Six Nations against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.

Former France captain Thierry Dusautoir is looking forward to the challenge of proving he is worthy of inclusion in the matchday squad.

France and England will battle for Six Nations supremacy when Europe’s finest kick-off the international season this weekend.

SARU have reportedly turned down the Kings’ request to field more than two foreign players in their Super Rugby debut for the second time.

Reformed centre Mathieu Bastareaud's French comeback is not yet complete as he awaits Monday's matchday squad announcement.

Cheetahs captain Robert Ebersohn says there is a lot of work to be done following their demoralising defeat to the Lions on Saturday.

Springbok and Stormers flyhalf Elton Jantjies's father died on Saturday after he was stung by a bee.

Lions captain JC Janse van Rensburg praised the newcomers in the side following Saturday’s 33-17 win over the Cheetahs.

The Varsity Rugby season will get underway on Monday when the FNB Varsity Shield presented by Steinhoff International kicks off.

The South Africa Under-20 team scored a convincing 52-19 win over UCT at a wind-swept Brookside on Saturday.

The Lions send the South African Rugby Union a very strong message from Ellis Park on Saturday.

France suffered a blow ahead of next week's Six Nations opener with Italy as Vincent Clerc was ruled out because of a thigh injury on Saturday.

France go into their opening Six Nations game with Italy on a four-game winning streak, but face a very tough task if they are to win the title.

Worcester Warriors revealed that Australian flyhalf Paul Warwick has agreed a move to Sixways from next season.

Toulon stretched their lead in the French Top 14 to seven points.

Castres fullback Brice Dulin was forced out of France's Six Nations squad and replaced by Toulouse's Maxime Medard.

World Cup-winning former Springbok captain John Smit has dismissed as 'nonsense' reports that he is about to leave Saracens.

While the Western Force encountered a tough season in 2012, one player whose stocks were enhanced was outside back Alfie Mafi.

Uncapped Harlequins lock Olly Kohn said it felt "surreal" to have been added to Wales's squad.

Troubled All Black wing Zac Guildford will take an indefinite break from the Crusaders as he seeks treatment for personal issues.

The Waratahs are set to unleash Rugby League convert Israel Folau in their warm-up matches to give him the best chance to hit the ground running in Super Rugby.

Scarlets have received a front row boost with the news that experienced Prop Phil John and hooker Emyr Phillips have signed new contracts.

Former Connacht prop Dan McFarland is to remain in the position of assistant coach at the club and will work alongside incoming head coach Pat Lam.

On the 1st day of 2013, SACS 1st XV coaches Graeme Wepener and Nick Maurer set off to the United Kingdom  for a wonderful coaching experience.

With three Wallaby players in the mix along with two young guns, new recruit Chris Alcock is prepared for some stiff competition in the Western Force loose trio.

Lions hooker Martin Bezuidenhout will join the Stormers at the start of next week, as injury cover in  the front row.

Ireland and Leinster flyhalf Jonathan Sexton has informed the Irish Rugby Football Union that he will not be renewing his contract with them.

The Cronje twins, Guy and Ross, will start their first game together for the Lions when the men from Johannesburg host the Cheetahs.

The position may have changed, but the sayings are the same!

Wales are rated rank outsiders to defend their Six Nations title after yet another disastrous European campaign by Welsh regions.

Declan Kidney has overseen some notable decisions during his five years as Ireland coach but denying Brian O'Driscoll the captaincy definitely stands out.

Dawie Theron, the South Africa Under-20 coach, has made nine changes to the starting line-up for their last practice match against the UCT on Saturday.

They may have lost in their last three finals, but the Sharks are adamant they are capable of breaking their recent trophy drought.

No one, not even Scott Johnson himself, knows for certain how long his time in charge of Scotland will last.

Stuart Lancaster says he's pleased with England's strength in depth, but wants a decision to be made on Manu Tuilagi's fitness before the weekend.

The South African Institute for Drug-free Sport (SAIDS) is doing the rounds of the schools.

Cardiff Blues will welcome Mathew Rees to the Arms Park next season, with the Wales and B&I Lions hooker having signed a two-year contract with the capital city region.

Lions captain JC Janse van Rensburg resisted joining the progression at the exit for a Super Rugby contract elsewhere.

Toulon fullback Delon Armitage has been suspended for eight weeks for a tip tackle on Montpellier No.15 Pierre Bérard.

Gloucester will face Biarritz in the first of the European Challenge Cup quarterfinals when the clubs meet at Kingsholm on April 4.

Connacht have captured the signing of Exeter Chiefs lock Aly Muldowney on a three-year contract.

New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens has named a 19-man squad ahead of next weekend's Wellington Sevens.

Scott Johnson has stressed there was "no tokenism" about the selection of New Zealand-born wing Sean Maitland in his Six Nations squad.

SANZAR CEO Greg Peters says they are mulling over expanding Super Rugby to Canada, America, Argentina and Asia from 2016.

Northampton Saints have announced that Samoan scrumhalf Kahn Fotuali’i has signed on to wear the black, green and gold from the start of next season.

The Highlanders have drafted former Chiefs utility back Trent Renata into their squad as an injury replacement for Declan O'Donnell.

World Cup winner John Smit is not on the Stormers' wish-list, but what are their options as they look for a short-term replacement at hooker?

Media are invited to attend a media briefing during the annual camp for South African Rugby Union referees, which will take place at the Sediba Kwele Adventure Camp, some 40km beyond Brits, from Sunday, 27 January 2013.

Who told whom about the changes to the scrum engagement for schools in South Africa?

The ERC on Thursday announced the dates and kick-off times for the European Cup quarterfinals.

Mpumalanga champions White River face the longest journey when the SARU Community Cup kicks off on February 16.

After seven years with Cardiff Blues, Wales wing Tom James has decided to take up a new challenge by joining Exeter Chiefs.

Jamie Heaslip said he foresaw no problems in leading an Ireland side in the Six Nations set to feature former captain Brian O'Driscoll.

This time last year Stuart Lancaster had not long been appointed as the "interim" England coach, with many questioning whether he was the right man.

Next weekend sees the start of what promises to be another intriguing Six Nations, with Europe's showpiece event given additional interest.

Still smarting from their shock European Cup exit, Toulouse return to domestic action on Friday intending to concentrate on a third successive Top 14 title.

Six Nations statistics ahead of the 2013 tournament that kicks off next weekend.

The Sharks are sweating over the fitness of Bok Tendai Mtawarira, following the news that prop Dale Chadwick has suffered an injury setback.

Reds Director of Coaching Ewen McKenzie said competition is "fierce" between players pushing to earn their place in the starting team.

Experienced Wallaby front row forwards Stephen Moore and Ben Alexander have provided Australia with a major boost ahead of a pivotal 2013 season.

WP remain so reluctant to make the Cape Town Stadium their base that their are handing 'home ground advantage' to Boland.

Wales captain Sam Warburton is confident they will regain their champion form when they begin their title defence at home to Ireland on February 2.

Italy captain Sergio Parisse believes France are in pole position to win the 2013 Six Nations Championship.

Veteran lock Michael Swift has signed a one-year contract extension with Connacht.

Argentina international back row Leonardo Senatore has agreed a move to Worcester Warriors from next season.

England flank Tom Johnson has been ruled out of the upcoming Six Nations with a knee ligament injury.

Colourful Blues lock Ali Williams insists his new role as captain for the 2013 Super Rugby won’t change him as a player or a person.

Despite boasting the best combined set-piece in the competition in 2012, Force prop Pek Cowan believes there’s significant improvement left.

After shifting between the midfield and different wings last season, Blues livewire Rene Ranger is focussing on making the No.13 jersey his own in 2013.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee dismissed the notion of an SOS going out to former Springbok captain John Smit to play for his team.

The Maties team, which is preparing for the Varsity Cup, beat the South African Under-20 team, which is preparing for the Junior World Championship, 26-17 at the Markötter Sports Ground in Stellenbosch on Wednesday.

The Rebels have bolstered their 2014 Super Rugby squad with the signing of Leinster's Melbourne-born hooker Tom Sexton.

Super Rugby rookies the Southern Kings got their pre-season preparations off to a winning start.

Robert Ebersohn will lead the Cheetahs when they face the Lions in their first Super Rugby pre-season outing in Johannesburg on Saturday.

Injuries to several key players have forced Springbok coach Paul Treu to make three changes to his squad for the forthcoming Sevens World Series tournaments.

Lions captain JC Janse van Rensburg has put his team on notice ahead of the second outing of their 2013 Challenge Series.

A 17-year-old, Grade 11 pupil at Newcastle High School in Northern KwaZulu Natal died in a rugby trial at the school on Monday.

Springbok and Ulster scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar has been named on the longlist for the ERC European Player of the Year 2013 award.

Lewis Moody has urged Harlequins not to take their foot off the gas ahead of the third round of the Anglo-Welsh Cup this weekend.

Saracens and Cardiff Blues will make history on Sunday as they play the first professional match in Europe on artificial turf.

Harlequins announced on Tuesday that five of its brightest young English talents have committed their future to the club.

Northampton's Calum Clark faces a spell on the sidelines after it was announced on Tuesday he would be undergoing shoulder surgery.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre is totally opposed to the introduction of bonus points for the Six Nations tournament.

Italy coach Jacques Brunel has drafted in lock Valerio Bernabo for the Azzurri's opening two Six Nations matches against France and Scotland.

Connacht announced on Tuesday that Munster hooker Sean Henry has signed a two-year contract with the province.

Samoa international Setaimata Sa will join up with the London Irish squad this week.

Andries Pretorius is determined to earn a matchday spot for Wales after being included in Rob Howley's Six Nations squad.

Cape Town Stadium will host the traditional pre-season friendly between the Boland Cavaliers and the Stormers on Saturday, February 9.

England great Jonny Wilkinson is due to undergo a minor operation to relieve inflammation round his groin area on Saturday.

As the proverb goes: An old poacher makes the best keeper. This certainly applies to New Zealand bad boy Zac Guildford.

Coach Dawie Theron has announced the starting line-up for the South African Under-20 training squad’s match on Wednesday morning against Maties in Stellenbosch.

England captain Chris Robshaw admitted he'd been laid low by the flak he encountered after some questionable decision-making.

New UWC Director of Rugby Peter de Villiers believes he has more work to do off the field than on it ahead of the Varsity Shield.

Johnnie Beattie is looking forward to getting his Scotland career back on track following a pre-season move to France.

Aviva, who sponsor England's Premiership, have put £2 million into the premiership programme which aims to introduce school children to rugby football.

Saracens captain and England lock Steve Borthwick, will spend a week with the Bulls to learn more ahead of a possible future coaching career.

Worcester Warriors are investigating a new device to ensure the scoring of a goal at rugby. It is called GoalScan.

Bulls lock Wilhelm Steenkamp will miss the opening weeks of the 2013 season due to a shoulder injury, it was announced on Tuesday.

The Cheetahs may have betrayed the Lions, but the latter will hold no grudges as the two franchises look to put the past behind them.

All Black and Blues scrumhalf Piri Weepu is back … and he's fit and raring to go.

The Western Force will travel to Darwin to take on the Brumbies before returning to host a Tongan Select XV in Mandurah in their two pre-season fixtures next month.

London Wasps have secured the services of two newcomers in scrumhalf Stuart Commins and centre Charlie Hayter - to add some depth in depleted positions for the remainder of the season.

We look at a time when getting there took almost as long as the tour itself!

Lions coach Johan Ackermann will continue to introduce new faces to the team in the weeks ahead.

World Cup-winning Springbok Juan Smith has made a welcome return to the training field with the Cheetahs.

Four players have been cited following the final round of pool matches in the European Cup and European Challenge Cup competitions.

Chris Robshaw was on Monday re-appointed England captain for the Six Nations.

The Scarlets will welcome back flyhalf Steven Shingler next season with older brother Aaron Shingler also committing to a new three-year contract.

Former Sportsground favourite Fionn Carr will return to Connacht at the beginning of the 2013/14 season.

After all the tension and drama of the final pool rounds in Europe there is a week's breathing space before the Six Nations breaks out. But there is club stuff, weather in Europe permitting and there are two Tests.

The European Cup and European Challenge Cup quarterfinal qualifiers and their rankings have been confirmed.

Richard Cockerill believes his Leicester Tigers side are on their way to creating their own slice of European Cup history.

Ulster are still hurting from the home defeat by Northampton Saints that cost them home advantage in April's European Cup quarterfinals.

Ireland coach Declan Kidney has called up seven additional players to the training squad, as injuries continue to play havoc with the national team.

Bath have signed Irish scrumhalf Peter Stringer as short-term injury cover.

The problem of forbidden substances still exists for rugby-playing schoolboys in South Africa.

Having won promotion to the Varsity Cup, newcomers Wits have the comfort of knowing there is no relegation at the end of this season.

One of the Southern Kings' most experienced hookers, Hannes Franklin, is unlikely to feature in his team's debut season in Super Rugby.

The 2013 Varsity Cup season will have an exciting air of unpredictability hanging over the main tournament.

Dale College has appointed Luke Smith to head up rugby coaching at the great school, an Old Dalian who brings international playing experiences to coaching at Dale.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder believes that New Zealand bad boy Zac Guildford is in need of professional help for what he regards as a "deeply rooted" alcohol problem.

Uncapped Worcester back row forward Matt Kvesic was among three players added to England's Six Nations squad as injuries took a toll.

Defending champions Leinster and Toulouse crashed out of the European Cup on Sunday as Munster and Leicester sneaked into the quarterfinals.

The recruitment of former All Black flyhalf Carlos Spencer could be a masterstroke by Sharks coach John Plumtree.

Star Wales flank Dan Lydiate has revealed that he may play no part in his side's defence of the Six Nations due to injury.

Jim Mallinder conceded that the Saints deserved to go out of the European Cup after their defeat to Glasgow on Saturday.

It's going to be "a wonderful French derby with a European perfume" when Clermont and Montpellier collide in the European Cup play-offs.

Montpellier head coach Fabien Galthie has hailed his players for reaching the last eight in the European Cup for the first time.

All Black bad boy Zac Guildford has voluntarily stood down from the Crusaders following his involvement in a late-night incident.

The Lance Armstrong saga has caused all sports to reflect on the influence of doping.

Two-time defending champions Leinster defeated Exeter 29-20 on Saturday to stay alive in the European Cup, but they face a nailbiting Sunday.

In the first of their 15-match Lions Challenge, the Lions beat Russia 51-13 at wet Ellis Park on Saturday night after leading 20-3 at the break.

Harlequins boss Conor O'Shea believes his side's attitude was key to maintaining their unbeaten European Cup record against Biarritz.

The South African Under-18 team won the Sevens gold medal at the 2013 Australian Youth Olympic Festival in Sydney after defeating Australia 22-7 in the final.

Newport Gwent Dragons' narrow one-point home defeat by London Wasps left coach Darren Edwards frustrated at his team's failure to put sides away.  

Melbourne Rebels coach Damien Hill faces a tricky decision over whether to favour Kurtley Beale or James O'Connor as his playmaker.

Pat Lam will join Connacht  in April to work alongside current head coach Eric Elwood for the remainder of the season.

The South African Under-20 side beat a University of the Western Cape team 65-7 in a match at the Markötter  Stadium in Stellenbosch on Friday night. They led 31-0 at half-time.

Agen finished their European Challenge Cup campaign on a high as they saw off Calvisano 19-9 at the Stade Alfred Armandie on Friday.

Harlequins kept their European Cup unbeaten streak intact as they secured a 16-9 victory over Biarritz on Friday.

Baby Bok coach Dawie Theron expressed his satisfaction on the performance of his squad in their 65-7 win over UWC in Stellenbosch on Friday.

European Cup rugby chiefs insist they have contingency plans in place, as cold weather threatens to play havoc with the final round of pool fixtures.

England prop Alex Corbisiero has dismissed fears that he might be forced to retire due to a knee injury.

London Wasps edged Newport Gwent Dragons 20-19 in their European Challenge Cup pool match at Rodney Parade on Thursday.

Former Wales hooker Jonathan Humphreys has earmarked Richard Hibbard to win a place in the British and Lions squad for the tour of Australia.

Scarlets have secured experienced former Ospreys coach Sean Holley to boost the their coaching set-up during the international window.

Munster flyhalf, Ronan O'Gara has been suspended for one week for kicking Edinburgh lock Sean Cox at Murrayfield.

Russia play the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday evening, the second match of their tour to South Africa. as part of the Lions Challenge series.

A new "think-tank" of rugby coaches has been established by SARU general manager of high performance Rassie Erasmus to assist elite teams at all age levels.

The Bulls will lock horns with the Cheetahs at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on February 9 in a pre-season fixture.  

Former Stormers and Western Province prop Morné van der Merwe has passed away following a battle with brain cancer.

The South African Under-18 team hat the Australian Youth Olympic Festival has had an outstanding first day in the Sevens competition at the Jesuit school, St Ignatius, at Riverview on Sydney Harbour.

Springbok scrumhalf Michael Claassens is set to join Toulon at the end of the season if Jonny Wilkinson decides to finally hang up his boots.

The Sharks have recruited former All Blacks flyhalf and Lions assistant coach Carlos Spencer as they prepare for the upcoming Super Rugby season.

Four-time champions Toulouse face a winner-takes-all clash with Leicester in the final round of European Cup group matches.  

Ex-All Black winger Joe Rokocoko has extended his contract with Top 14 club Bayonne until 2015.

Paarl Boys' High, ranked No.1 on the FNB Top 20 in 2012, again have a tough list of fixtures  in 2013.

Former Crusaders wing Sean Maitland has expressed his pride in his Scottish roots after being named in Scotland’s Six Nations squad.

The annual course for South African referees takes place towards the end of the month – a big and comprehensive course for top match officials and their coaches.

Racing Metro have admitted their chances of signing either Dan Carter or Jonathan Sexton are slim to none.

South Africa's Under-20 coach Dawie Theron has named the starting line-up for the SA Under-20 training squad’s match against the University of the Western Cape (UWC), to be played on Friday afternoon at the Markötter Sports Field in Stellenbosch.

Dawie Theron has named a strong starting line-up for the South African Under-20 training squad’s match against UWC on Friday.

It is nigh impossible for the South African Rugby Union to keep their leading players in South Africa.

Montpellier will pay tribute to deceased coach forwards coach Eric Béchu this weekend.

Jamie Heaslip has kept his place as Ireland captain in the Six Nations training squad, despite the return of former skipper Brian O'Driscoll.

Springbok and Bulls flyhalf Morné Steyn says he has not received a formal offer from Top 14 club Stade Francais.

London Welsh have secured the services of 22-year-old Nick Scott for a further year after the wing signed a contract extension with the Premiership club.

England coach Ben Ryan has made three changes to his squad for next month's Sevens in New Zealand, including South African-born star Mathew Turner.

Prolific try-scoring wing Tom Varndell has committed his future to London Wasps, signing a new contract extension this week.  

Waratahs coach Michael Cheika has hit out at the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) after lock Kane Douglas was injured shooting an advertisement at a Wallabies logistics camp.

Johan du Plessis, a Pretoria engineer with a passion for schools rugby had queries about the recent scrum changes to be introduced into schools rugby in 2013.

Wallabies flyhalf Kurtley Beale has admitted that he would love to make the switch to Rugby League at some stage in his career.

Lions coach Johan Ackermann has named five debutants in the starting line-up to face the Russian Bears at Ellis Park on Saturday.  

With their Super Rugby debut fast approaching, the Kings still have to resolve their issues with SARU over the number of foreign players in their squad.

The RFU is confident the build-up to the 2015 World Cup will be free of pay disputes after agreeing a new four-year deal with the England players.  

Cardiff Blues hooker Marc Breeze and young scrumhalf Lewis Jones are the latest players to extend their contracts with the region.

George North has been given the green light to return to action after recovering from a neck injury.

British and Irish Lions legend Ian McGeechan will attend England's training camp in Leeds next week ahead of the start of the Six Nations.

Springbok utility back Gio Aplon believes the arrival of Elton Jantjies and Jaco Taute will give the star-studded Stormers backline a newfound attacking zest. 

Schalk Burger says he is reinvigorated and champing at the bit to return to the pitch and lead the Stormers to their maiden Super Rugby title.

Johan du Plessis, an engineer with a passion for schools rugby, queries the changes to the scrum settings, which limit the force of the contact which front rows can make - from no pushing up to Under-9 to a 'mini-hit' at Under-17. He writes:

Wing Tom Williams has signed a two year contract extension with Harlequins that will keep him with the Premiership champions until 2015.

Harlequins, Clermont Auvergne, Ulster and Toulon have all qualified for the quarterfinals of the European Cup, but who will join them in the last eight?

Fit-again Springbok flank Schalk Burger has been confirmed as Stormers captain for 2013, taking the reins from Bok skipper Jean de Villers.

A new four-year England Elite Player Squad agreement has been reached between the RFU, the Rugby Players Association and Premiership Rugby.  

Northampton Saints have bolstered their front row resources by signing England prop Alex Corbisiero, whilst Alex Waller and Tom Mercey have both signed new contracts.  

Reds coach Ewan McKenzie has been doing his research on new Waratahs signing Israel Folau who is expected to make a big impact in Super Rugby this year.

SARU CEO Jurie Roux believes that club rugby is on the brink of a new era with the inaugural Community Cup set for kick-off next month.  

Wallabies scrumhalf Will Genia is on the comeback trail from injury, but admits that the physical and mental break from the game has been invaluable.  

The Sharks are determined to make a more convincing start to the Super Rugby season after having to fight their way into the play-offs last year.

Glasgow Warriors centre Troy Nathan is to leave the club following the European Cup match against Northampton Saints this Saturday.

Eric Bechu, the highly-regarded joint coach of Top 14 side Montpellier, died on Tuesday at the age of 53 after a long battle with cancer.

Wales interim coach Rob Howley expects Mark Jones to be a "great addition" to his backroom staff for the Six Nations.

Hurricanes lock Jason Eaton has a word of advice for his junior charges ahead of next month’s pre-season game against the Chiefs.

Former Melbourne Rebels hooker Heath Tessmann has signed a short-term contract with the Western Force for the start of the 2013 Super Rugby season.

The Bulls concluded a kicking camp outside of Pretoria on Tuesday ahead of their first warm-up match against the Lions on February 2.

Wasps boss Dai Young has expressed his disappointment at loose forward Billy Vunipola's decision to join Saracens at the end of the season.

Springbok props Dean Greyling and Werner Kruger have both extended their contracts with the Blue Bulls until 2015.  

Francois Botha has started the trash talk ahead of his fight with Sonny Bill Williams.

Wales have named South African-born loose forward Andries Pretorius in a 35-man squad for the defence of their Six Nations title.  

Scarlets attack coach Mark Jones will join the Wales set-up for the forthcoming Six Nations tournament as Rob Howley's side look to retain their title.

The Lions have confirmed their 35-man squad for the Lions Challenge series which kicks off against the Russian national side in Johannesburg this weekend.

Springbok flyhalf Morné Steyn is reportedly set to leave the Bulls at the end of the Super Rugby season to join Top 14 club Stade Français.

The full draw for the 2013 Rugby Championship has been confirmed with the All Blacks and Wallabies kicking things off in Sydney on August 17.

Ulster No.8 Nick Williams will be sidelined for eight weeks after suffering a knee injury in the win over Glasgow on Friday.

These guidelines have been produced to assist match officials in the application of the TMO global trials ensuring that they comply with Law and the TMO protocol and that decisions are accurate.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.