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INTERVIEW: The current product being dished up to audiences isn't pleasant.

SPOTLIGHT: The ever-evolving Western Province Rugby Football Union financial saga is about to get another new and intriguing chapter. Jan de Koning reports.

INTERVIEW: Jan de Koning asked probing questions about Western Province's future income streams. Watch as Ebrahim Rasool answers.

BREAKING NEWS: The first, critical, steps in securing the financial sustainability of the game in the Western Cape was taken at the weekend. Jan de Koning reports.

WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber talks about the World Cup draw, announced on Monday. Jan de Koning reports.

WATCH as we bring you the new Springbok jersey that will be worn against the British and Irish Lions in 2021.

NEWS: Ulster unveiled the plans for back row forward Marcell Coetzee to return home to South Africa and play for the Bulls.

CURRIE CUP MATCH REPORT: Western Province moved to second place on the standings, at least for the next 24 hours.

WATCH as we bring you some of the game's biggest and fiercest scrums.

TRANSFER NEWS: The Bulls may just have let the cat out the bag with their latest teaser.

NEWS: The Pro14 have scrapped another Christmas derby due to the pandemic.

REACTION: The Executive Council of South African Rugby has declined to react to the reports of the arbitration involving Jurie Roux and his former employer, Stellenbosch University at this stage.

REFEREES: South Africa’s two leading referees, Jaco Peyper and Marius van der Westhuizen, are the only two referees officials from  the Southern Hemisphere appointed to officiate in the Six-Nations Championship that kicks off in February.

READERS' VIEW: The Lions, the form team of the Currie Cup, got an overwhelming vote of confidence from the @rugby365com readers.

OPINION: Josh Raisey takes a stab at naming his alternative team of the decade!

BEARS CHALLENGE: After the lost matches at Kingston Park and The Recreation Ground, the weekend kicks off at Stoop Memorial Ground.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Five encounter between Western Province and Griquas at Newlands.

REACTION: The Sharks will field a team in Bloemfontein on Sunday, come what may!

BOXING DAY BATTLE: Rugby on December 26. It has been a source of much banter in the last couple of months, but what is going to happen at Newlands on Saturday will be no joke.

DERBY WEEKEND: The expected humdinger and standout match in this weekend's Pro14 fixtures, between Munster and defending champions Leinster at Limerick on Saturday has been postponed.

TRANSFER: Gloucester has announced the signing of Seb Nagle-Taylor on a permanent contract with the Club for the 2021-22 season.

TOP 14 PREVIEW: Toulon coach Patrice Collazo said New Zealand centres Ma'a Nonu and Isaia Toeava are "at ease" with each other.

DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: The European Cup disciplinary committee has revealed the verdict on two hearings - both the result of Round Two matches.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sharks coach Sean Everitt made four changes to his side take on the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein in a Currie Cup Round Five clash on Sunday.

REACTION: Ciarán Kennedy chatted to six experts from the Celtic Nations to get their view on South Africa's participation in the Pro16.

BREAKING NEWS: Pro14's return to action was dealt a blow by a COVID-19 outbreak in the Leinster camp.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie has been forced into making changes, yet again, for his team's Currie Cup Round Five encounter with the Sharks.

COACHING: When Steve Hansen’s contract as All Blacks head coach came to an end following the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, New Zealand Rugby reached out to 26 candidates they considered viable options who could have a role to play in the post-Hansen era.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Griquas flank Gideon van der Merwe has recovered from injury and was named in a reshuffled starting XV.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Western Province has been boosted by the return of a number of key players for their Currie Cup encounter with Griquas at Newlands on Boxing Day.

SPOTLIGHT: One in five professional players in England suffered concussion during the 2018-19 season.

BREAKING NEWS: The name for the new, expanded, competition that South Africa's franchises will play in has been revealed.

SPOTLIGHT: Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie used the word 'composure' to describe this past weekend's drought-breaking Currie Cup win over the Pumas.

REACTION: Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone moved swiftly to dispel the suggestion that his franchise is being favoured in the Currie Cup fixture rescheduling. Jan de Koning reports.

COACHING: When Scott Robertson called time on his playing career in New Zealand, the maverick loose forward headed offshore in search of new challenges. Now, as one of the most respected coaches in world rugby, Robertson could be set to do the same at the end of 2021.

IN THE NEWS: Montpellier Hérault looks set to wield their considerable financial clout in the transfer markets with reports that they are to fill a Bismarck du Plessis void in the team with a like for like replacement.

CONTRACT NEWS: Birthday boy David Havili has inked a new contract with the Crusaders which will keep him in New Zealand until the end of 2023.

BREAKING NEWS: Leicester's English Premiership match at Newcastle on December 26 has been cancelled because of a COVID-19 outbreak in the Tigers squad.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Nigel Owens speaks about the highs and lows of his career - including coming out and saving a young boy's life!

NEWS: London Irish's Premiership match with Bath on Saturday has been cancelled.

BREAKING NEWS: Experienced administrator and former player Andy Marinos has been appointed as Rugby Australia's new chief executive officer.

IN THE NEWS: Mr Arthob Petersen, who held the post of Springbok manager on three separate occasions and was a powerhouse on the Boland rugby scene, has been fondly remembered following his untimely death from the effects of the COVID-19 virus.

TRANSFER NEWS: Argentina back Emiliano Boffelli has signed for Racing 92 and will join in January, subject to a medical.

TOP 14: Brive clawed themselves back from a 15-point half-time deficit to win 25-24 at Castres on Tuesday in a Top 14 match postponed from the weekend of October 10 by a coronavirus outbreak.

INSIGHT: It was that 'moment of magic' so many coaches talk about. The one incident that wins a game.

INJURY UPDATE: Western Province, desperate to stray in the Currie Cup play-off race, received a timely boost on Monday. Jan de Koning reports.

CLUB NEWS: Saracens’ season in the Greene King IPA Championship will not begin until March 6 but the club is looking to set up a separate competition to keep players fit in the lead-up to their shortened season.

NEWS: All Black forward Jerome Kaino, a double World Cup winner who plays for Toulouse, told French radio on Tuesday that he planned to retire at the end of the season.

BREAKING NEWS: The kick-off dates of two Currie Cup matches have been moved to combat the threat of COVID-19 infection.

REACTION: Argentina captain Pablo Matera said he was just "an immature boy" when he posted tweets deemed to be racist and which saw him briefly suspended from the Pumas team earlier this month.

TRANSFERS: Newcastle Falcons has completed the signing of Argentina flanker Santiago Grondona and Argentina 7s wing Mateo Carreras.

REACTION: For more than a century the Currie Cup has been a testing ground for South African talent and a great source of entertainment.

WATCH as we bring you some of the best genius passes and offloads in the game.

IN THE NEWS: Former England captain Nigel Melville has been announced as the new Chairman of the Premiership Rugby Investor Board which represents the clubs at Premiership Rugby.

NEWS: The Reds will play a pre-season match in Japan next December after forming an alliance with Japanese Top League powerhouse Wild Knights.

NEWS: Ten former Rugby League players will reportedly take action against the sport's England authorities over concussion-related health issues.

TRANSFER NEWS: Bath have dipped into the Scottish market to replenish its playing stocks.

READERS' VIEW: It is that time of the week again. You get to vote for your team of the week.

REACTION: Since the start of the Currie Cup half of the revamped domestic season, the Lions have beaten all-comers.

REACTION: It was a game that gave a group of South Africans bragging rights over another bunch of Saffas.

IN THE NEWS: Formidable Argentina international, Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro, is set to join Bristol Bears on a short-term deal in January 2021.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: Racing 92 ran in seven tries as they proved much too good for Harlequins at Twickenham Stoop on Sunday.

COVID-19 REACTION: Toulon are considering appealing the decision to award the Scarlets a 28-0 European Champions Cup victory.

SPOTLIGHT: Serial code-hopper Sonny Bill Williams has reflected on being the first All Black to be red-carded in 50 years during the British and Irish Lions tour in 2017.

CHALLENGE CUP SATURDAY WRAP: George North produced a dramatic late score as Ospreys beat Worcester Warriors in Round Two in an enthralling eight-try game at the Sixways Stadium.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: Sale sharks threw away a 12-0 lead at the break through rank indiscipline to allow Edinburgh to sneak it 16-15 at the end.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: An 85th minute try from George Barton gave Gloucester a dramatic 38-34 win over Ulster in a classic Champions Cup encounter at Kingsholm Stadium.

CURRIE CUP MATCH REPORT: The Lions made a massive statement with a comprehensive 27-12 win over the Sharks in a Round Four encounter at Ellis Park on Saturday.

REACTION: Johann Van Graan’s Munster men became only the second side to earn a Champions Cup triumph at Stade Marcel Michelin.

NEWS: Toulon has informed European officials that the club will not be fulfilling their Champions Cup, Round Two fixture against Scarlets.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: Bristol Bears secured all five points to get their Champions Cup campaign back on track with a 27-18 win over Connacht.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: A hat-trick of tries from wing Santiago Cordero was the catalyst for Bordeaux Begles as they demolished Dragons 47-8 at the Stade Chaban-Delmas.

SPOTLIGHT: When the All Blacks next take on the Springboks, the game won’t really start on a Saturday.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the European Cup Round Two encounter between Harlequins and Racing 92 at Twickenham Stoop.

OPINION: The votes are in. You, the readers, have spoken and here is your Team of the Week - after the third week of Currie Cup action.

EUROPEAN CUP REPORT: Alfie Barbeary bagged two tries and Star of the Match award as Wasps cruised to a 33-14 win over 14-man Montpellier in Coventry on Friday.

WATCH as a group of doctors explain what happens inside the brain of a player when he/she gets concussed.

WATCH as we bring you the highlights from the main matches at the weekend-Currie Cup Round Four and European Cup Round Two.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: Munster pulled out all the stops in the second half to come back from a 28-9 deficit at one stage to win the match in thrilling style 39-31

REACTION: Academics at British universities has called dramatic for government intervention in the escalating head injury saga.

CURRIE CUP MATCH REPORT: The Cheetahs won their first match in the second half of the season, when they beat a willing Pumas team 35-31 in Nelspruit on Friday.

CHALLENGE CUP WRAP: Carlo Canna kicked a penalty with a minute left on the clock to hand Zebre victory in a tense encounter against Brive on Friday.

REACTION: The Bulls - coaches, staff and players alike - will have a few sleepless nights after the COVID-19 outbreak in the camp. Jan de Koning reports.

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS CUP MATCH REPORT: Leinster proved far too strong for bottom dwellers Northampton Saints cruising to a 35-19 win at the RDS Arena.

NEWS: Super Rugby veteran Angus Cottrell has become the latest Australian-based player to sign with United States franchise LA Giltinis.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Four encounter between the Lions and Sharks at Ellis Park.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the European Cup Round Two encounter between Gloucester and Ulster at Kingsholm.

Former England player Austin Healey has launched a withering attack on Danny Cipriani just days after the maverick flyhalff surprisingly quit Gloucester with immediate effect just 19 months after he was voted the Premiership players’ player of the year.

BREAKING NEWS: All Blacks captain Sam Cane admitted he's concerned about his future health after a series of concussions, as World Rugby faces a lawsuit from ex-players with dementia and other problems.

REACTION: World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said he was "saddened" by the plight of former players suffering from concussion-related health problems after six more ex-professionals joined a lawsuit against the sport's authorities.

NEWS: Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones faces a race against time to be fit for the Six Nations, with Ospreys head coach Toby Booth predicting on Thursday that he could be out for at least 10 weeks.

SIGNING: Gloucester  has confirmed that England international hooker Jack Singleton has penned a permanent deal to remain at Kingsholm.

AGM: The Brumbies announced an A$468,484 (R5,2 million) loss after a difficult year for sporting franchises across the globe at their Annual General Meeting on Thursday evening.

COVID-19 CHAOS: The Champions Cup has been thrown into chaos.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Four encounter between the Pumas and Cheetahs in Nelspruit.

LEVEL PLAYING FIELD: The playing field has been levelled, almost, as South Africa's premier domestic moves closer to the home stretch.

NEWS: Toulon has pulled out of their European Champions Cup match against Scarlets, scheduled for Friday.

REACTION: Sport Employees Unite (SEU), the representative trade union of non-playing staff in rugby, welcomed the announcement by the Western Province Professional Rugby Board to make changes to its governance and leadership in the company.

REACTION: Western Province Rugby Football Union President Zelt Marais is looking for 'trustworthy' partners that "respect confidentiality". Jan de Koning reports!

WATCH as World Cup-winning Springbok Eben Etzebeth gets into it with one of his teammates in a warm-up.

BREAKING NEWS: The COVID-19 pandemic has claimed another game in South Africa.

REACTION: Toulouse's Australian lock Rory Arnold admitted he was feeling "underdone" after this Sunday's eagerly awaited European Champions Cup semi-final rerun against Exeter Chiefs was cancelled due to a Covid-19 outbreak at the English club.

REACTION:  World Rugby, the Rugby Football Union and the Welsh Rugby Union have issued a joint statement in response to a class-action lawsuit over the escalating concussion saga.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sharks coach Sean Everitt has made a few changes to his side for their Currie Cup Round Four encounter with the Lions.

SPOTLIGHT: The Cheetahs are set to enter a new 'international' competition next year that will give them a pathway back into Europe.

REACTION: The importance of player welfare remains a priority, which is why Springbok Sevens coach Neil Powell has endorsed the decision by World Rugby to move the World Rugby Sevens Series tournaments in Singapore and Hong Kong next year, despite the fact that it will leave teams short on match time before the Olympic Games in Tokyo in July.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Consistency is key for Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen.

NEWS: Hong Kong's famous rugby sevens tournament was postponed from next April to November on Thursday over continuing COVID-19 uncertainty after it was scrapped altogether this year.

NEWS: Argentina wing Santiago Cordero has signed a two-year contract extension with Bordeaux-Begles, the French side said on Thursday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse made a handful of changes to his team, ahead of the Currie Cup Round Four encounter with the Cheetahs.

UPDATE: Retired England and Wales rugby union internationals are among six former players suffering from concussion-related health problems to have joined a lawsuit against the game.

DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Testicle-grabbing Stade Francais flank Charlie Rorke has been given a proverbial slap on the wrist - a two-week ban.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie has made a host of changes to his team ahead of their Currie Cup Round Four encounter with the Pumas in Nelspruit on Friday.

REACTION: The Rugby Football Union Chief Executive Bill Sweeney stands accused of being 'disingenuous'.

BREAKING NEWS: Two matches in Round Two of the Champions Cup have been cancelled as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak.

All Blacks captain Sam Cane has received the top honour at the 2020 Rugby Awards, claiming the Kelvin R Tremain Memorial award for overall Player of the Year after also picking up the All Black of the Year title.

INTERVIEW: It may be crunch time as the run-in to the Currie Cup play-offs approaches, but the Bulls' coach Jake White is sticking to his guns.

SPOTLIGHT: Expect a tough battle when the Sharks travel to Ellis Park this weekend for their Currie Cup match against the Lions.

INTERVIEW: Every Currie Cup side has its own goals, and with their play-off chances gone the Pumas have changed their focus.

OPINION: Tom Vinicombe looks at how history is repeating itself and what impact it could have on New Zealand's prospects at the 2023 World Cup.

TRANSFER: Gloucester's latest signing comes after impressive performances in the recent Autumn Nations Cup.

REACTION: A pragmatic Jake White remains upbeat about the Bulls' Currie Cup chances despite their loss to the Sharks this past weekend.

DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Stade Francais back row forward Charlie Rorke has been cited by Challenge Cup organisers.

BREAKING NEWS: Danny Cipriani has left English Premiership club Gloucester after falling out of favour this season.

NEWS: Japanese rugby star Ayumu Goromaru announced his retirement on Wednesday.

WATCH as New Zealander utility back Baden Kerr from Counties Manukau makes the most incredible kick ever.

REACTION: The Southern Kings are dead. Long live the Mighty Elephants. Jan de Koning reports!

REACTION: New Zealand coach Ian Foster said facing hosts France in a mouthwatering 2023 World Cup pool game will be "special".

NEWS: The Rugby Football Union has cleared England coach Eddie Jones to continue in his role as consultant for Japan's Sungoliath club.

NEWS: England World Cup winner Steve Thompson is among a group of former internationals planning legal action against authorities over brain injuries.

REACTION: The Western Province Rugby Football Union is willing to fight tooth and nail to retain their most prized asset. Jan de Koning reports.

CONFIRMED: The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport released details of disgraced Springbok wing Aphiwe Dyantyi's doping ban.

REACTION: Sharks coach Sean Everitt believes his team is beginning to hit the right notes, as the Currie Cup heads towards the home stretch.

SPOTLIGHT: Coach Hawies Fourie’s concern remains that his team’s most pressing problem has not been rectified.

NEWS: All of Australia and New Zealand's Super Rugby outfits will play in one location over one weekend as part of next year's Trans-Tasman competition.

REACTION: Japan rugby coach Jamie Joseph is relishing a 2023 World Cup reunion with 'Miracle of Brighton' architect Eddie Jones.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: Defending champions Exeter Chiefs got off to the perfect start in the Champions Cup.

VOTE NOW: Round Three of the Currie Cup produced some interesting results, which will make for some interesting selections in the Team of the Week.

EUROPEAN CUP REPORT: Munster scored two second-half tries to secure a 21-7 Champions Cup win over Harlequins.

NEWS: Wallaby captain Michael Hooper won his third John Eales Medal, narrowly pipping last year's winner Marika Koroibete for the top honour.

EUROPEAN CUP REPORT: Racing 92 were made to battle all the way against Connacht in a 26-22 Champions Cup win in Paris on Sunday.

BREAKING NEWS: Defending champions South Africa will have two Six Nations teams in their pool at the 2023 World Cup.

REACTION: South Africa will have a massive challenge when they defend their title at the 2023 World Cup.

POST-MATCH: Toulon's World Cup-winning Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth suffered a worrying head injury in Toulon's impressive 26-14 win over Sale Sharks.

TRANSFER NEWS: Gloucester is delighted to confirm the availability of Argentine international Santiago Carreras until the end of the 2020-21 season.

Wasps head coach Lee Blackett not impressed with European rugby bosses with being kept in the dark until the last minute about Dragons players testing for COVID-19

READERS' FORUM: Follow live and debate the draw for the 2023 World Cup in France!

NEWS: One of the darkest periods in the Bulls' storied history came to a head on Friday.

REACTION: There was a zip in the Lions team that hasn't been seen for some time, especially on the attack. Jan de Koning reports!

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS CUP REPORT: Leinster's quest for a fifth European star got off to the perfect start on Saturday.

CURRIE CUP MATCH REPORT: The Lions scored a bonus-point win over the Cheetahs on Saturday, to put them back in the race for a top-two finish.

REPORT: Troubled Springbok Aphiwe Dyantyi has been informed of his punishment for doping according to South African media.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the European Cup Round One match between Munster and Harlequins at Thomond Park.

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS CUP MATCH REPORT: Late tries from forwards Jack Willis and Thomas Young punctuated a 24-8 victory for Wasps against Dragons.

NEWS: French Rugby Federation President and World Rugby vice-chairman Bernard Laporte said he expects the investment in the Six Nations by a private equity firm to be concluded by next month.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the European Cup Round One match between Exeter Chiefs and Glasgow Warriors at Sandy Park.

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS CUP REPORT: Scarlets won a breathtaking encounter against Bath 23-19 in the opening round at The Rec on Saturday.

Toulon took an easy win over the embattled Sale Sharks who lost their director of rugby Steve Diamond at the beginning of the week.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: Lyon laid down a Champions Cup marker on Sunday as they ran in eight tries in a 55-10 win over Gloucester.

Clermont came to Ashton Gate Stadium, the home of the Bristol Bears and put on an attacking masterclass outscoring the home side 7 tries to 5 to win the match 51-38

VIDEO: South Africa's World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe said he was stunned by his own ability.

OPINION: The @rugby365com readers wanted to have a vote and got their wish. They were rather Bullish when selecting their Currie Cup Round Two Team of the Week.

WATCH: There have been some highly controversial tries scored over the years and we thought we'd relive some of them.

WATCH as veteran World Cup-winning Springbok Duane Vermeulen comes up with a classic chirp in the wake of two contentious yellow cards.

CURRIE CUP MATCH REPORT: Western Province put their campaign back on track with a bonus-point win over the Pumas at Newlands on Friday.

CURRIE CUP MATCH REPORT: The Sharks closed the gaps on the table-topping Bulls with an impressive win in a hot and humid Durban on Saturday.

NEWS: Discarded Wallaby Karmichael Hunt is eyeing up a potential return to the NRL.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the European Cup Round One match between Toulon and the Sale Sharks at Stade Felix-Mayol.

CHALLENGE CUP WRAP: An 80th minute try from Antonie Erbani secured a 24-20 victory for Pau against Worcester Warriors in the opening round on Saturday.

EUROPEAN CUP MATCH REPORT: La Rochelle kicked off their Champions Cup campaign with a gritty 13-8 win over Edinburgh at Murrayfield.

CHALLENGE CUP WRAP: Three tries in the final 20 minutes helped Leicester to a bonus-point win over Brive in their opening match of the campaign.

SPOTLIGHT: New Zealand and South Africa dominated the awards at World Rugby's virtual prize giving on Monday.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Three encounter between the Cheetahs and the Lions in Bloemfontein.

EUROPEAN CUP REPORT: A remarkable 74th minute try from Argentine wing Santiago Cordero gave Bordeaux-Begles a pivotal away success in the opening Champions Cup match of the season.

NEWS: Nigel Owens, world rugby's most capped referee, has brought his 17-year international career to an end.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Three encounter between the Sharks and the Bulls at Kings Park.

BREAKING NEWS: Just hours after the announcement that Flyt is going to claim damages, the WPRFU has been told that their American partners are walking away. Jan de Koning reports!

SPOTLIGHT: Without serious change in the game, rugby will suffer a dementia "epidemic" among former professional players, says the lawyer representing players who have suffered.

NEWS: The All Blacks are likely to play Australia and Italy three times next year if NZ Rugby's fixture wish list comes off.

REACTION: Ulster coach Dan McFarland bemoaned his side’s wasted opportunities and the conceding of “soft tries” after they opened their Champions Cup campaign with a 29-22 home defeat to Toulouse.

EUROPEAN CUP REPORT: South Africa's World Cup-winning superstar Cheslin Kolbe scored twice as Toulouse started their campaign with a 29-22 victory at Ulster on Friday.

SPOTLIGHT: World Cup winner Schalk Brits believes Matt Proudfoot’s inside information on the Springboks could have a massive influence on the three-Test series.

A TASTE OF THINGS TO COME: There will be no shortage of South African interest when the Champions Cup gets underway this weekend.

AWARDS: Queensland prop Taniela Tupou has won his second Australian Super Rugby player of the year award, continuing the Reds' recent dominance of the award.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Three encounter between Western Province and the Pumas at Newlands.

INJURY UPDATE: Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones faces an absence of "weeks not days" after being injured on international duty in the year-end Nations Cup.

CRUNCH TIME: There may still be five rounds, including this week, remaining. However, this could be season-defining for some teams.

CONTRACT NEWS: cotland head coach Gregor Townsend has signed a two-year contract extension that will take him up to the 2023 World Cup.

CURRIE CUP SPOTLIGHT: As that old adage goes: 'Where there's smoke, there's fire.'

NEWS: The top-of-the-table Currie Cup showdown between the Sharks and Bulls have a new kick-off time.

SPOTLIGHT: Former Ireland and Munster scrumhalf Peter Stringer says there is “no doubt” the Pro14 needs to expand to include the South African Super Rugby franchises.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Bulls coach Jake White has brought back some serious beef ahead of his team's top-of-the-table Currie Cup encounter with the Sharks.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Lions made three changes to their starting line-up for the Currie Cup match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Sharks received a timely boost ahead of their Currie Cup Round Three encounter with the Bulls at Kings Park on Saturday.

HEAD INJURY SPOTLIGHT: Rugby Players' Association chief Damian Hopley says training methods need to be addressed "very quickly".

BREAKING NEWS: The Flyt marriage with the Western Province Rugby Football Union is officially on the rocks.

SPOTLIGHT: The Sharks are determined to enhance their growing reputation as an impenetrable force in Durban.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie was forced to change his team ahead of their Currie Cup Round Three outing against the Lions in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Harlequins have suffered a massive blow ahead of their European Cup Round One encounter with Munster in Limerick on Sunday.

NEWS: Pau coaches Nicolas Godignon and Frederic Manca paid the price for six successive defeats when they were sacked on Wednesday, the French Top 14 club announced.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Tiaan Botes, who celebrated his 19th birthday on Monday, will have the task of guiding the Pumas backs against Western Province at Newlands on Friday.

OPINION: Josh Raisey names his British and Irish Lions form XV, based on the year-end Nations Cup performances.

REACTION: English Premiership club Bristol is to make a formal complaint to World Rugby over Fiji's injury management of their star player Semi Radradra.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: There are seven changes to the Western Province team for the Currie Cup encounter with the Pumas at Newlands on Friday.

NEWS: Japan rugby star Ayumu Goromaru who enjoyed cult status after leading his country to a historic World Cup win over South Africa, will retire at the end of the 2021 domestic season.

REACTION: Jan de Koning continues to dig and ask questions over the aeonian and mutable Newlands redevelopment saga.

WATCH as we relive the head butt from Bakkies Botha on Jimmy Cowan that ended in a 9 week ban for Botha

Retired veteran referee Jonathan Kaplan analyses the weekend’s Currie Cup calls, controversies and more.

REACTION: The Springboks had their 'bomb squad'. The Lions have a booming boot to go with their bench.

SPOTLIGHT: Western Province may not have been able to do much about his departure, but the loss of the value Cobus Wiese can add to a team was clearly illustrated the past fortnight.

NEWS: The Waratahs and Reds will go head to head in Narrabri, northern New South Wales, in a pre-season face-off in February.

BREAKING NEWS: England will finally get their chance for revenge against South Africa!

INJURY UPDATE: The Sharks have returned from their bye a fitter and healthier squad.

WATCH: World Cup-winner Eben Etzebeth made a 100kg opponent look like a ragdoll while turning out for his French-based club Toulon.

DISCIPLINARY NEWS: Former England captain Chris Robshaw was among 13 Barbarians players suspended on Tuesday after breaching coronavirus protocols.

NEWS: Sale Sharks revealed that Steve Diamond has left the club with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

TRANSFER NEWS: The exodus of Springbok players to Europe is not showing any signs of slowing down.

OPINION: It was by no means perfect.

OPINION: Eddie Jones and his England team wrapped up their Nations Cup campaign with a fortuitous win against France.

CURRIE CUP SPOTLIGHT: Jan de Koning takes a look at the road to the play-offs, with five round of absorbing and riveting action remaining.

REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones said critics of their style were being "disrespectful" to his players.

SPOTLIGHT: All Black coach Ian Foster speaks out about his first season in charge, the challenges and the haters.

REACTION: SANZAAR says a centralised Rugby Championship is a possibility following the success of the Tri-Nations hosted by Australia and won by New Zealand.

REACTION: Video replays circulating online are calling into question the nature of England’s crucial late try, which forced their Nations Cup Final into sudden-death extra time with France.

INJURY UPDATE: Winless Western Province went from five concussions to just one.

NATIONS CUP SPOTLIGHT: The year-end competition ended in dramatic fashion, when Owen Farrell's penalty saw England beat France 22-19 - 15 minutes into sudden-death extra-time - to win Sunday's final at Twickenham.

CHAMPIONS CUP SPOTLIGHT: The fascinating prospect of two Springbok giants going head-to-head in the opening round of Europe's Champions Cup is in doubt.

WATCH as we bring you the World Rugby 2020 awards - including the Team of the Decade!

TOP 14 WRAP: Stade Francais and Toulon paid a fitting tribute to their former player Christophe Dominici.

REACTION: Owen Farrell admitted it was "my fault" that England needed sudden-death extra-time to see off a third-string France team 22-19 on Sunday.

CURRIE CUP TEAM OF THE WEEK: Following an intriguing Round Two of the Currie Cup, we give you a chance to vote for your favourite player.

NEWS:The Sharks have managed to retain the services of one of the biggest players.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Not even Springbok Andre Esterhuizen’s dismissal in the 45th minute could stop Harlequins from a 34-24 victory over Gloucester.

REACTION: The rousing success of Rugby Australia's move to have the Wallabies sing an Indigenous version of the national anthem could lead to permanent change.

TRANSFER NEWS: The Western Force has added more World Cup and Tri-Nations experience to the squad for 2021.

Sale Sharks score 8 unanswered points in the second half to beat London Irish 21-13

DISCIPLINARY NEWS: Wallaby bad boy Lukahan Salakaia-Loto has been banned for 'four weeks'.

REACTION: Frustrated Wallabies coach Dave Rennie blasted his team's "dumb errors" after another erratic and ill-disciplined performance against Argentina.

NATIONS CUP REPORT: England won the silverware, but France won the accolades.

SPOTLIGHT: Eddie Jones will be delighted if England supply the bulk of the squad for next year's British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa.

REACTION: Western Province, apart from being winless in the Currie Cup and in a tight race to make the play-offs, suffered some cruel injury setbacks.

The Bulls kept their winning streak intact with an impressive 40-13 win over  the Cheetahs on Saturday. 

WATCH as we bring you all the drama from the weekend's main international and domestic matches!

WATCH as we bring some of the most amazing, uproarious and skilful scenes ever seen on the field.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Beauden Barrett has revealed his positional preference and how he’d ideally like to operate within the All Blacks next year.

MATCH REPORT: A last-gasp penalty kick by Tiaan Swanepoel handed Lions a narrow 22-19 win over the Western Province on Saturday.

READER'S VIEW: The opening round of South Africa's premier domestic competition had it all - intrigue, controversy and most of all an upset.

MATCH REPORT: A brace from Keith Earls ensured Ireland finished 2020 on a high as they came from behind to defeat Scotland 31-16 and secure third place in the inaugural Nations Cup.

Wales held on to beat a spirited Italy 38-18 in their final match of the Autumn Nations Cup.

NATIONS CUP FINAL: The inaugural year-end tournament finishes with England facing fellow pool winners France in a Twickenham showdown on Sunday in front of 2,000 spectators.

TRI-NATIONS MATCH REPORT: Australian and Argentina played to their second consecutive draw of the competition in a very wet Parramatta on Saturday.

Wallaby Lukhan Salakaia-Loto is to appear before the citing commissioner on Monday 7th for a dangerous tackle after being sent off with a red card in Saturday's match against Argentina.

REACTION: Wayne Pivac insisted Wales would be in contention for the 2021 Six Nations title.

REACTION: Former England wing Ugo Monye has accused Argentina's Rugby Union of being more concerned about protecting captain Pablo Matera than dealing with racism.

NATIONS CUP FINAL: The inaugural year-end tournament finishes with England facing fellow pool winners France in a Twickenham showdown on Sunday in front of 2,000 spectators.

TEAM UPDATE: Ellis Genge has been drafted into the starting XV for England’s final International of the year against France.

PREMIERSHIP, SATURDAY WRAP:  Bath overcame the early loss of two key players to pick up their first win of the Premiership season with a 33-17 demolition of Worcester at Sixways.

REPORT: As the Maori All Blacks and Moana Pasifika laid down their challenges ahead of their clash in Hamilton, the passion that would be on display was clear to see.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Two match between the Lions and Western Province at Ellis Park.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Nations Cup third-place play-off match between Ireland and Scotland in Dublin.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Two match between the Blue Bulls and Free State Cheetahs at Loftus Versfeld.

It was the Nemani Nadolo show as Fiji ended a difficult Nations Cup with a 38-24 win over Georgia.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Around 400 people congregated in Hyeres on Friday for the funeral of former France wing Christophe Dominici.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Tri-Nations Round Six match between Australia and Argentina in Sydney.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round Two encounter between the Pumas and Griquas in Nelspruit.

REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones hopes to put the pain of last year's World Cup Final defeat to good use when his side face France.

SPOTLIGHT: Depth, or rather the lack of it, will remain the biggest challenge for 'minnows' like the Pumas and Griquas.

SPOTLIGHT: Former Springbok assistant coach Alan Solomons explains how the influx of South African players in the Premiership is damaging the domestic game.

SPOTLIGHT: The Cheetahs plan to make a BIG announcement within the next three weeks.

MATCH REPORT:  Jimmy Stonehouse's Pumas held out in the face of a determined and desperate Griquas side to win the Currie Cup Round two match on Friday. 

NATIONS CUP, ROUND FOUR: Andy Farrell and Gregor Townsend will both hope to end a difficult year with a win when their respective sides Ireland and Scotland meet on Saturday.

BREAKING NEWS: Former Springbok coach Peter de Villiers has a new gig.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Eddie Jones has named his England team to face France in the Final of the Nations Cup tournament this weekend.

MATCH REPORT: A last-minute penalty kick by Sam Bedlow made sure Bristol Bears record a narrow 18-17 win over Northampton Saints on Friday. 

REACTION: The Highlanders are a classic example of how some great players can't convert their class into coaching success.

THE FANS ARE BACK: Supporters are returning to Premiership Rugby this weekend with three of our clubs seeing fans back in the stands.

SPOTLIGHT:Exactly what role All Black legend Dan Carter will play at the Blues next year remains unclear.

NATIONS CUP, PLAYOFFS: Wales aim to bounce back from defeat to England last weekend and end the calendar year on a high when they welcome Italy to Llanelli on Saturday.

REACTION: World Cup-winning Springbok scrumhalf Herschel Jantjies has not been axed because of poor form. Jan de Koning reports!

ENDING THE BULL RUN: The Free State Cheetahs, the last and only team to beat them in the current season, will look to end the Blue Bulls' winning streak.

REACTION: Coach Gregor Townsend said on Thursday he has no qualms over Jaco van der Walt becoming Scotland's latest South Africa-born international.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Crusaders coach Scott Robertson will 'likely' join the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa in 2021.

SPOTLIGHT: Former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika revealed he still harboured ambitions to lead an international side.

TRI-NATIONS ROUND SIX: Australia skipper Michael Hooper called for "a complete performance" in the final Test of the year against a weakened Argentina.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wing Alivereti Raka is among six changes named by coach Fabien Galthie on Friday for this weekend's year-end Nations Cup Final with England.

SPOTLIGHT: Alex McLeod takes a look at the five biggest posers facing New Zealand's Super Rugby franchises in 2021.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Gregor Townsend believes the fact he can select Test debutant Jaco van der Walt as Scotland's fifth flyhalf of the end-of-year campaign is a sign of the Dark Blues' growing depth.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White has made several changes to his matchday squad for the Round Two Currie Cup encounter with the Free State Cheetahs in Pretoria on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Head Coach Vern Cotter has named his Fiji team for their first and final Nations Cup match against Georgia on Sunday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen made two changes to his team that will host Western Province at home at Ellis Park on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Pumas have made a handful of changes for their Currie Cup Round two match against the Griquas.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland captain Johnny Sexton returns to partner Conor Murray at scrumhalf as head coach Andy Farrell hopes to end a difficult first year in charge with a morale-boosting win over Scotland on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Crusaders star Michael Alaalatoa will lead the Moana Pasifika against the Maori All Blacks in a historic match on Saturday in Hamilton.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Argentina's rugby union lifted the interim suspensions of skipper Pablo Matera and two other players.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Australia have changed their flyhalf ahead of their final Test for the year - a Tri-Nations encounter with Argentina in Sydney on Saturday.

NEWS: Experience and continuity run through the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa squads announced Wednesday, with just 26 rookies across New Zealand's five franchises and just nine player transfers.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie is not afraid to thrust young players into the firing line.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wales coach Wayne Pivac has made nine changes to the starting line-up for their final year-end Nations Cup game against Italy in Llanelli on Saturday.

SPOTLIGHT: Anthony Watson says England have multiple motivations to win the inaugural year-end Nations Cup when they face France at Twickenham on Sunday.

SPOTLIGHT: In the space of a year and a half, wing Gabin Villiere's career has taken him from the third-tier French Federale 1 to potentially winning the year-end Nations Cup on just his second Test appearance.

NEWS: The disputed red card of Blue Bulls prop Jacques van Rooyen will stand.

NEWS: World Rugby chief Brett Gosper is to step down in January to take up a new role as head of the NFL in Europe and the UK.

SPOTLIGHT: England boss Eddie Jones is confident rugby will emerge from a dull period dominated by defences after conceding it is currently a sport that excites only purists.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Cyril Velleman will earn a first start for Griquas in round two of the Currie Cup.

SPOTLIGHT: Ball-playing genius Lloyd Walker would love to see more adventurous play from the Wallabies in their final Test of the year against Argentina on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland centre Duncan Taylor admits it will be a waiting game to discover how much rugby he can play during the next two months.

INTERVIEW: Ireland captain Johnny Sexton says nothing motivates him more to carry on playing than being written off by the media and former players.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: There are less than 24 hours until fans across New Zealand will know who exactly has been named in their Super Rugby squads for the upcoming campaign next year.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Western Province backline has been shuffled for the Currie Cup encounter with the Lions in Johannesburg on Saturday.

REACTION: Former Argentina lock Patricio Albacete has defended his compatriots Pablo Matera following the revelation of historical tweets that were deemed offensive.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Maori All Blacks have named a strong side, featuring two capped All Blacks, to face off against Moana Pasifika in their historic clash at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton on Saturday.

NEWS: The Highlanders have found themselves a new defence coach and he has a reputation for his brutal tackling.

SPOTLIGHT: The Springboks will travel to Edinburgh to face Scotland on November 13, 2021 as one of their end-of-year Tests in Europe next year.

INJURY UPDATE: Fresh from his vote of confidence from IRFU high-performance boss David Nucifora, Andy Farrell has been busy sifting through a lengthy Ireland medical list ahead of next Saturday’s third-place Nations Cup playoff versus Scotland.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: England have included Wasps hooker Alfie Barbeary in their squad for Sunday's Nations Cup final against France.

NEWS: KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union (KZNRU) has revealed its new president at the organisation’s Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM).

SPOTLIGHT: World Rugby has put together rugby's most-capped team.

REACTION: Western Province appear to be faltering both on and off the field.

TRANSFER NEWS: The Chiefs confirmed the signing of flyhalf Bryn Gatland until 2023.

REACTION: The Irish Rugby Football Union would be "very supportive" of the four South African Super Rugby franchises competing in what would become a Pro16 tournament, IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora said.

NEWS: The Melbourne Rebels confirmed the signings of exciting prospects, Jeral Skelton and Ilikena Vudogo, for the upcoming 2021 Super Rugby season.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Andy Farrell's position as Ireland head coach is not under threat despite results in his first year in charge being an "average return", said Irish Rugby Football Union Performance Director David Nucifora.

NEWS: Argentina rugby skipper Pablo Matera said he was "deeply ashamed" as he was stripped of the captaincy and suspended along with two other players over racist tweets.

SPOTLIGHT: Lyon's 23-year-old scrumhalf Baptiste Couilloud will lead a weakened France side out against England at Twickenham for their year-end Nations Cup decider on Sunday.

REACTION: Moving Springbok Damian Willemse is an option, but Western Province may look at alternative choices as replacement for injured Springbok Warrick Gelant.

PRO14 MONDAY WRAP: It was a double Irish rout on Monday as Round Eight of the competition concluded.

TRANSFER NEWS: Bay of Plenty Steamers scrumhalf Luke Campbell will return home to Wellington for 2021 to take up a contract with the Hurricanes.

INJURY UPDATE: The Lions have suffered a cruel blow following their Currie Cup opener against the Griquas.

TRANSFER NEWS: Sale Sharks have boosted their playing squad with one of the tallest players in the game.

INJURY UPDATE: Springbok fullback Warrick Gelant looks set to ruled out of competing against the British and Irish Lions next year in South Africa.

OPINION: The All Blacks have all but won the Tri-Nations after defeating the Pumas 38-0 in Newcastle on Saturday.

OPINION: After recording victories over Georgia and Ireland, England wrapped up their pool stage journey at the Nations Cup with a laboured 24-13 win over Wales at Parc y Scarlets in Llanelli.

NEWS: All Black and Chiefs scrumhalf Brad Weber has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the Chiefs for another year.

TRANSFER NEWS: The United States has emerged as the latest threat on Australia's Super Rugby stocks after Queensland Reds identical twins Ruan and JP Smith's exit to play in Los Angeles next year.

SPOTLIGHT: England coach Eddie Jones is braced for a gruelling encounter when his side go in search of year-end Nations Cup glory at Twickenham.

REACTION: A deeply disappointed Andy Farrell labelled Ireland's performance as "not good enough" after their 23-10 win over Georgia in the Nations Cup at Lansdowne Road on Sunday.

OPINION: Never had Wales been such heavy underdogs going into a home game against bitter rivals England, and the questions how would they react to the scale of the defensive edifice facing them at the Parc Y Scarlets.

OPINION: The RugbyPass Form XV has plenty of new faces this week - consisting of five French players, four English, and two players each from Argentina, Australia and Wales. 

PRO14 SUNDAY WRAP: Glasgow Warriors ended their four-match losing streak with a hard-fought 19-10 win over Cardiff Blues at Rodney Parade.

NATIONS CUP REPORT: Ireland secured a Nations Cup play-off against Scotland next weekend with an edgy 23-10 victory over a tenacious Georgia at Lansdowne Road on Sunday.

CURRIE CUP REACTION: Western Province head coach John Dobson and captain Siya Kolisi admitted that poor decisions were made on the field during their 20-22 loss to the Bulls on Saturday.

TRI-NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: James O'Connor has lauded an "almost magnetic" understanding between young centres Jordan Petaia and Hunter Paisami as the Wallabies prepare for their final Test of the year, against Argentina in Sydney on Saturday.

CURRIE CUP REACTION: Jake White expressed his disappointment with the decision-making process which led to his team being reduced to 14 men in their match against Western Province

SPOTLIGHT: Jerome Kaino left New Zealand with some big boots to fill - has Akira Ioane eventually solved the headache for All Black selectors and filled them?

REACTION: All Blacks coach Ian Foster was a relieved man on Sunday after New Zealand restored order by thumping Argentina.

MATCH REPORT: A three-try blitz helped France convincingly beat Italy 36-5 in Paris to top Group B.

TOP14 WRAP: South African World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe scored in his first game since mid-October as Toulouse hammered bottom side Agen 63-18 on Saturday in the French Top 14.

REACTION: England head coach Eddie Jones was relieved that there was no repeat of last years "Psycho" horror movie drama where they succumbed to Wales 21-13 after taking a seven point lead into the second half.

MATCH REPORT: Bulls continue their winning streak with a 22-20 win over Western Province at Newlands on Saturday - despite being down to fourteen men.

MATCH REPORT: Henry Slade and Mako Vunipola scored a try each as England battled past Wales to secure top spot in Group A and cement their place in the finals.

TRICKY TEST: Ulster face a tough challenge to the unbeaten run they have enjoyed in the early stages of the Pro14 season, when they travel to Edinburgh for a repeat of last year's semifinal on Monday.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: London Irish’s historic homecoming to London was one to remember.

TRI-NATIONS REPORT: The All Blacks crushed Argentina on Saturday as they roared back from two straight defeats to all but win the Tri-Nations title.

PREMIERSHIP SATURDAY WRAP: Billy Twelvetrees scored 20 points as a superb second-half performance from Gloucester secured a 40-24 victory over Premiership rivals Wasps at Kingsholm.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round One match between Western Province and the Blue Bulls at Newlands.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Nations Cup Round Three encounter between Wales and England in Llanelli.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup Round One match between Griquas and the Golden Lions in Kimberley.

The Wallabies face the daunting task of having to score more than a century of points against Argentina to win the Tri-Nations.

NORTH-SOUTH DERBY: One swallow does not a summer make. However, Daniel Johannes Vermeulen is a factor worth taking note of.

NATIONS CUP, ROUND THREE: Billy Burns' ability to direct Ireland's play in his first Test start against Georgia should not be in doubt given the fearless manner he showed in dealing with his father as a teenage referee.

MATCH UPDATE:  The Lions were awarded the match points after their Currie Cup game against Griquas in Kimberley was called off on Saturday.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Tri-Nations Round Five match between Argentina and New Zealand in Newcastle.

REACTION: The Cheetahs are banking on a more hearty and infrangible run when the defending Currie Cup champions return from this week's bye.

NEWS: The Blue Bulls Company confirmed that they have reached a mutual settlement agreement with one of their Springboks.

NOTHING ELSE MATTERS: It is with acknowledgement to the American heavy metal band Metallica that I document the build-up to the opening round of South Africa's premier domestic competition.

CURRIE CUP MATCH REPORT: The Sharks moved to the top of the standings, for at least 24 hours, after a bonus-point demolition of a hapless Pumas team in Durban on Friday.

NATIONS CUP, ROUND THREE: England and Wales have been playing against each other for 139 years but Saturday's Nations Cup match marks a new chapter in one of international rugby union's oldest rivalries.

WATCH as the late Paul Dobson takes us back to the days of Newlands as a venue of glory and grandeur.

New Zealand captain Sam Cane laid an All Blacks No.10 jersey emblazoned with Diego Maradona's name in the centre circle ahead of their match against Argentina.

TRI-NATIONS, ROUND FIVE: NZ can't bear to think about a rare third straight defeat as the Pumas look to "do it for Diego" in Saturday's crunch match in Newcastle.

SPOTLIGHT: Nigel Owens has said Rugby Union "saved" his life as he prepares to become the first referee to take charge of 100 Tests.

NATIONS CUP, ROUND THREE:  Italy will be out to cause an upset when they face France in Round three of the Nations Cup on Saturday.

WATCH as Western Province coach John Dobson gives his solution to the negative impact COVID-19-enforced cancellations could have on the Currie Cup competition.

NEW STADIUM: After a compelling kick-off to Premiership Rugby last weekend it’s now time for Round 2 and a celebration in west London as London Irish move into their new stadium, the 39th venue to host a Premiership Rugby fixture.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Newcastle Falcons stole a sensational victory over northern rivals Sale Sharks, Toby Flood scoring with the last play in Friday's Kingston Park clash.

NEWS: The Brumbies have added a familiar face to their coaching team.

READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Currie Cup match between the Sharks and the Pumas in Durban.

NEWS: A New Zealand found himself in hot water in Europe.

TEAM UPDATE: The Pumas have made some late changes to their team for Friday's Currie Cup clash against the Sharks in Durban.

REACTION: Diego Maradona epitomised what it meant to wear the Argentina jersey.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Lions have named their side for the Currie Cup opener against the Griquas.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Bulls have named their side for the opening Currie Cup clash against Western Province at Newlands on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England will have a new pivot when they face Wales at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Captain Alun Wyn Jones returns to Wales' starting line-up to face England at Parc y Scarlets on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Siya Kolisi will captain Western Province in their opening  Currie Cup encounter against the Blue Bulls at Newlands on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: France head coach Fabien Galthie handed back-row Sekou Macalou a first cap since 2017 as he was forced to make 13 changes to his team to host Italy in the Nations Cup this weekend.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Griquas coach Scott Mathie has made a few changes to his team for their opening match in the Currie Cup leg of South Africa's domestic competition.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Coach Ian Foster made three changes to his forward pack Thursday to face a new-look Argentina on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse has made several changes to his team for their opening match of the Currie Cup[ half of the domestic season.

SPOTLIGHT: Young Wallabies back row forward Harry Wilson says being Test captain leading into the 2023 World Cup isn't on his radar.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland named a much-changed team for the Round Three Nations Cup encounter with Georgia in Dublin on Sunday.

TRANSFER NEWS: Waratahs have secured the services of Jack Whetton on a two-year deal, with the second-row joining Rob Penney’s squad for the 2021 Super Rugby season.

NATIONS CUP: England forwards coach Matt Proudfoot said Joe Marler is in contention to face Wales this weekend for what would be the prop's first Test since he was banned for grabbing the testicles of the opponents' captain Alun Wyn Jones.

CURRIE CUP SPOTLIGHT: Western Province is looking forward to getting their own back when they host the Blue Bulls at Newlands on Saturday.

FOCUS: The mighty All Blacks have seemed almost invincible in recent years, but back-to-back defeats have left their new coach and captain under fire.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Jeremy Ward will lead the Sharks in their Currie Cup campaign opener when they welcome the Pumas to Kings Park on Friday.

TRI-NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: The Wallabies have high hopes for youngster Hunter Paisami emerging as a “triple threat” as he develops his test game.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Argentina team named Thursday to play New Zealand in a Tri-Nations Test in Newcastle, north of Sydney, on Saturday.

STATS ATTACK: The All Blacks must improve in one crucial area if they are to avoid a third straight loss against the Pumas on Saturday, says former All Black and Maori All Blacks coach Tabai Matson.

NATIONS CUP SPOTLIGHT: Veteran wing Nemani Nadolo has provided a fascinating insight into quarantine life with the Fiji squad in France.

INJURY UPDATE: England centre Ollie Lawrence will miss Saturday's year-end Nations Cup clash against Wales due to a hip injury.

NATIONS CUP NEWS: Jaco van der Walt is the latest South African to join the Scotland squad.

INJURY UPDATE: Western Province received a timely boost ahead of their big north-south derby with the Blue Bulls on Saturday.

NATIONS CUP SPOTLIGHT: Stand-in Ireland captain James Ryan has pleaded with his country's rugby fans to be patient after disappointing defeats to France and England.

INTERVIEW: The Sharks, like the other six teams in the 2020-21 version, are shifting their focus to South Africa's most prized domestic championship.

SPOTLIGHT: Ma’a Nonu and Sergio Parisse were forced to restrain a Toulon teammate after his remonstrations with the referee saw him place his hands on the official.

WATCH: Springbok legend Jean de Villiers goes on a trip down memory lane to 2009 when he scored what was one of the best tries of that Super Rugby season.

INJURY UPDATE: Wales, who finally ended a long losing streak last week, suffered an injury setback.

TRI-NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: The crestfallen Wallabies have undertaken a new intensive match review process, seeking "nuggets of gold" as they look to rebound from their disappointing 15-15 Tri-Nations draw with Argentina.

OPINION: Alex Shaw has compiled his player ratings for Argentina after their 15-all draw with Australia.

NEWS: France centre Virimi Vakatawa has extended his contract with Racing 92, the Top 14 club announced on Tuesday, without giving more details.

OPINION: Finn Morton  rates the Australian players after their 15-all Tri-Nations Round Four draw with Argentina.

SPOTLIGHT: Fitness or fatigue won't be factors as the Pumas bid to turn the Tri-Nations upside down.

TRI-NATIONS SPOTLIGHT: All Blacks coach Ian Foster has turned to unusual coaching methods to help his team bounce back from their consecutive defeats. 

R.I.P.: Former international Christophe Dominici, who was found dead at the age of 48 in a park near Paris on Tuesday, was undoubtedly one of the legends of modern French rugby.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Māori All Blacks Head Coach Clayton McMillan named eight new caps in a 24-strong squad to prepare for a one-off match against Moana Pasifika at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton.

NEWS: World Rugby has finally reacted to criticism of its World Cup bid process by agreeing that the hosts for the 2027 and 2031 tournaments will be decided by an open electronic vote.

TRANSFER NEWS: Argentina wing Bautista Delguy will join French team Bordeaux-Begles as an emergency replacement after the Pumas finish their Rugby Championship fixtures, the Top 14 club confirmed.

TRANSFER NEWS: The teenage son of Australian great Michael Lynagh has been snapped up by the Queensland Reds after he drew comparisons with his father when playing in England.

NEWS: French international Christophe Dominici has been found dead at the age of 48 in a park near Paris, police said Tuesday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Spectators are set to return to sports venues next month as coronavirus restrictions are eased in areas with lower infection rates in England.

PRO14 REPORT: Munster claimed their first win at Scotstoun since 2016 as they overcame Glasgow Warriors 27-13 to continue their unbeaten start to the campaign.

NEWS: Scrumhalf Baptiste Serin will replace Charles Ollivon as France captain against Italy, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) announced on Monday.

SPOTLIGHT: The Sharks' reserves will be tested to the full, as the Currie Cup half of South Africa's revamped domestic season gets underway.

OPINION: After comfortably dispatching Georgia in their Nations Cup opener, England recorded their second victory over Ireland in the calendar year with an 18-7 win at Twickenham on Saturday.

OPINION: This was another sobering fixture for Ireland against England, the fourth in a row – and the second under Andy Farrell – where they just repeatedly ran into a white wall and suffered the frustratingly bruising consequences.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: The colours of Pacific nations Fiji, Samoa and Tonga will come together under the first-ever Moana Pasifika squad named by head coach Tana Umaga.

INJURY UPDATE: Ireland has issued a squad update following their year-end Nations Cup loss to England last weekend.

SPOTLIGHT: Eddie Jones is a well-known cricket fan but the England rugby coach has been looking to Premier League football champions Liverpool in a quest to improve his Six Nations kings.

SPOTLIGHT: The All Blacks want to silence their "haters".

Wales beat Georgia 18-0 in dour conditions scoring two tries in the process. Here's how RugbyPass rated the indivivual players

NEWS: A star has reaffirmed his commitment to the Waratahs.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Eddie Jones has named a 35-man England squad ahead of their Nations Cup fixture against Wales in Llanelli

OBIT: Former Wales and British and Irish Lions prop Ray Prosser, who enjoyed a highly successful coaching career with Pontypool, has died at the age of 93.

REACTION: Maro Itoje wants England to make more of their dominance after an 18-7 win over Ireland in the year-end Nations Cup at Twickenham at the weekend.

REACTION: The day of their departure from Newlands is fast approaching, but the last big North-South derby at the famed venue will take place this week.

REACTION: Scotland captain Stuart Hogg admitted he had made a "schoolboy error" after a failure to find touch denied his side the chance of a dramatic draw against France at Murrayfield on Sunday.

SPOTLIGHT: Argentina has developed an unwanted reputation - as the new 'bullies' of the game.

NEWS: Bulls have two of the Cheetahs' top players on their wishlist for next year's Pro16.

PRO14 SUNDAY WRAP: Scott Penny snapped up two tries during Leinster's 40-5 win over Cardiff Blues at the RDS.

PREMIERSHIP REPORT: Tom Willis' try two minutes from time proved just enough for Wasps to deprive severely-depleted Bristol of a remarkable victory in their season opener.

NATIONS CUP REPORT: Virimi Vakatawa scored the only try of the match as France beat Scotland 22-15 in a year-end Nations Cup international at Murrayfield on Sunday.

REACTION: Wales coach Wayne Pivac, after an 18-0 win over Georgia, has shifted his attention to a high-flying England team.

With the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc with the South African economy SA Rugby has been forced to approach World Rugby for a loan.

REACTION: Australian coach Dave Rennie says his players appeared to get bored, after blowing a chance to beat a stoic Argentina.

In their quest to win the Rugby Championship for the first time since 2015 Wallaby Nic White suggests that a draw in the upcoming match between New Zealand and Argentina could be the best result for Australia.

REACTION: England wing Jonny May said he had been running on instinct after scoring a stunning solo try in an 18-7 year-end Nations Cup win over Ireland at the weekend.

TOP14 WRAP: Fullback Gaetan Germain scored 25 points as Bayonne notched up an invaluable 35-29 victory over Toulon in the Top 14 on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: The Cheetahs concluded their Super Rugby Unlocked campaign with a 28-9 win over the Griquas on Saturday at Bloemfontein.

MATCH REPORT: The Bulls have been crowned Super Rugby Unlocked champions with a 21-5 win over Pumas on Saturday.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Round Two Nations Cup encounter between Scotland and France at Murrayfield.

THICK AND FAST: The action is coming thick and fast in the Pro14 as this weekend sees five more games take place over two days, with spectacular tries and bucket loads of drama guaranteed.

WATCH: The 2010 Super 14 Final remains a vivid memory for Bulls and Springbok legend Victor Matfield, as the Pretoria-based franchise took the final to the Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

WATCH as we bring you highlights for all the weekend's major matches!

NEWS: The Western Province Rugby Board has been strengthened by the inclusion of two new Directors.

PREMIERSHIP FRIDAY WRAP: Sale Sharks started their 2020/2021 Premiership campaign with a 32-23 win over Northampton Saints at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday.

MATCH REPORT: Two superb Jonny May tries set England on their way to an 18-7 win over Ireland at Twickenham as Eddie Jones’ side continued their unbeaten start to the Nations Cup.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Round Two Nations Cup encounter between England and Ireland at Twickenham.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Round Seven Super Rugby Unlocked match between the Bulls and Pumas at Loftus Versveld.

TRI-NATIONS MATCH REPORT: Argentina came from nine points down to earn a 15-all draw with Australia and remain unbeaten.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Round Seven Super Rugby Unlocked match between the Cheetahs and Griquas in Bloemfontein.

PREMIERSHIP SATURDAY WRAP: Steve Borthwick’s first full season in charge of Leicester got off to a cracking start with a 38-15 try bonus point victory over Gloucester in their Premiership opener at Welford Road.

MATCH REPORT: Louis Rees-Zammit and Rhys Webb both crossed for tries as Wales ended their six-game losing streak with an 18-0 win over a stubborn Georgia side at Parc y Scarlets.

NEWS: Organisers of the year-end Nations Cup announced the cancellation of yet another match.

NATIONS CUP ROUND TWO: Gregor Townsend says Scotland will need to be "close to their best" if they are to beat France on Sunday.

NEWS: England can expect the Irish to battle to the final whistle of Saturday'sNations Cup match at Twickenham.

NATIONS CUP, ROUND TWO: Eddie Jones has questioned whether Ireland can back up a convincing win over Wales with another dominant display against England at Twickenham on Saturday.

READERS' FORUM: Welcome to our coverage of the Round Four Tri-Nations encounter between Argentina and Australia in Newcastle, Sydney.

CHEIKA FACTOR: Former Wallaby coach Michael Cheika could come back to haunt his old team on Saturday.

NATIONS CUP, ROUND TWO: Wayne Pivac has labelled Wales "our own worst enemies" as his struggling side look to end a damaging losing streak with a victory over Georgia on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Gregor Townsend says Scotland will need to be "close to their best" if they are to beat France on Sunday.

NEWS: Premiership Rugby have introduced a new points system for its clubs should Covid-19 force matches be cancelled this season.

NEWS: Northampton Saints confirmed that Director of Rugby, Chris Boyd, has signed a contract extension to keep him at the Club until at least the end of the 2021/22 season.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Exciting Bordeaux-Begles flyhalf Matthieu Jalibert returns to the France team that takes on Scotland at Murrayfield in the Nations Cup, coach Fabien Galthie announced Friday.

SPOTLIGHT: The Springboks Women will face England, France and debutantes Fiji in Pool C of the 2021 Women's World Cup in New Zealand.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Pumas made seven changes for their final Super Rugby Unlocked fixture against the Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday.

NEWS: Premiership Rugby Chief Executive Darren Childs said he was optimistic fans could return before the end of the 2020/21 season.

INJURY UPDATE: The Cheetahs were forced into a late change ahead of their final Super Rugby Unlocked match.

NEWS: The Hurricanes announced the signing of young utility back, Ruben Love, for the next three years.