WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Japan have only played South Africa once at a Rugby World Cup but it was one of the most famous games in the tournament's history and produced one of the biggest shocks in sport.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Three head-to-heads for the World Cup quarterfinal between defending champions New Zealand and Ireland on Saturday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Three head-to-heads for the World Cup quarterfinal between England and Australia in Oita on Saturday.
There have been 37 matches played at the 2019 World Cup in Japan, There are just eight to be played, seven vital matches which will decide the en[]eventual winner.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: England coach Eddie Jones insisted he was "proud" of Australia boss Michael Cheika.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: New Zealand players and coaching staff may be paying due respect to Ireland ahead of their quarterfinal clash on Saturday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: South Africa acknowledged that they face a massive tactical battle when they take on hosts Japan in a quarterfinal in Tokyo on Sunday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Ireland and New Zealand have met only once at the World Cup, a game the All Blacks won - but they haven't had things all their own way in recent years.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Quarter-final opponents France and Wales are no strangers, owing to their annual clashes in the Six Nations, but their World Cup history is so far limited to one game: a tempestuous semi-final in 2011.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Wales squad has to honour Warren Gatland's legacy by giving the departing coaching staff "a send-off they deserve" says Josh Navidi.
OPINION: There is very little to change when it comes to the All Blacks gameplan, however, how they counter the rush defence is an area which certainly needs a little bit more attention.
WORLD CUP NEWS: Japanese police were investigating on Thursday after Uruguay players at the World Cup allegedly damaged property and tackled a staff member at a Kumamoto nightclub.
WORLD CUP UPDATE: Ireland opted not to appeal Bundee Aki's three-match ban for a high tackle on Thursday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has named his team to face Japan in their World Cup quarterfinal on Sunday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Australia coach Michael Cheika on Thursday named teen sensation Jordan Petaia in his starting side to face England in this weekend's World Cup quarterfinal in a bold gamble.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Eddie Jones has named his team to face Australia in their World Cup quarterfinal on Saturday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Head coach Joe Schmidt has kept the changes to a minimum for Ireland’s World Cup quarterfinal clash against New Zealand.
At the first eight World Cups, 12 countries have reached quarterfinals. This year a new country has got there and done really well in getting there. It is Japan, the host nation.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sonny Bill Williams was named on the bench and fellow centre Ryan Crotty missed out altogether as New Zealand named their team for Saturday's World Cup quarterfinal against Ireland.
LISTEN as @King365ed is joined in studio by @LoffieEloff - with the @rugby365com team unpacking the @rugbyworldcup quarterfinals.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Eight stand-out players from the World Cup quarter-finalists, ahead of this weekend's games.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: The prestigious tournament has set the scene for some of the great clashes between England against Australia is one of the great rivalries in sport and the World Cup is no different.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Australian coaches Eddie Jones and Michael Cheika will renew a rivalry stretching back more than 30 years.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Springbok pocket-rocket Cheslin Kolbe, one of the stars of the World Cup, admitted Wednesday he had a soft spot for the free-flowing attacking style employed by quarter-final opponents Japan.
WORLD CUP PLAY-OFFS: The All Blacks insist they will be switched on for their quarterfinal against Ireland, despite not playing genuine opposition since September.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: France have used their extra week off to prepare well for their quarterfinal clash with Wales, says back row forward Gregory Alldritt.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Scotland attempted to block a Rugby World Cup misconduct charge on Wednesday.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Prop Scott Sio senses the improving Wallabies tight five have got their timing right and could be a massive worry for their England counterparts at a World Cup.
WORLD CUP PLAY-OFFS: Liam Williams believes Wales's recent history means they can win the global showpiece for the first time.
NEWS: South Africa-born prop Maks Van Dyk, who cheekily asked President Emmanuel Macron for French citizenship at the pre-match presentation of the Top 14 Final in June, is now the proud holder of a French passport.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Oscar Wilde once said: "Rugby is a good occasion for keeping thirty bullies far from the centre of the city."
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Prop Retshegofaditswe Nché will have one last outing for the Cheetahs, before joining the Sharks.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The treatment of rugby's Pacific nations by northern hemisphere powerhouses borders on colonialism, New Zealand Rugby chairman Brent Impey revealed.
WORLD CUP PLAY-OFFS: Eddie Jones once described Japan as a "joke team" - before the Australian lit the fuse that sparked an outrageous victory over the mighty Springboks is 2015.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Ireland should not bother to show up at the Tokyo stadium on Saturday.
SUPER RUGBY NEWS: The Australians sure like their code-hoppers - baggage and all!
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: England defence coach John Mitchell has paid the ultimate compliment to Michael Cheika's Wallabies ahead of the two teams each other in a World Cup quarter-final this weekend.
REACTION: The referees for next weekend’s World Cup quarter-finals have been announced and Irish fans are slightly nervous about the appointment of Nigel Owens for their contest with the All Blacks in Tokyo.
World Rugby has announced the four referees for the 2019 quarterfinals. For two of them, it will be their third World Cup quarterfinal.
WORLD CUP PLAY-OFFS: The spotlight is shining brightly on Japan's fleet-footed wings, but perhaps the bigger threat is the New Zealand blueprint of coach Jamie Joseph.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: The Wallabies' flyhalf rotation could continue through the knockout phase, after Christian Lealiifano questioned his own durability.
UPDATE: Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth has turned to the High Court to prevent an alleged racist assault case from going to the Equality Court, according to media reports.
WORLD CUP NEWS: World Rugby chief Bill Beaumont said the standard of refereeing at the tournament had improved, after organisers took the rare step of admonishing officials for their performance.
NEWS: Japan created history on Sunday after a 28-21 victory over Scotland saw them top Pool A and progress to the quarterfinals for the first time.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Japan's stunning Rugby World Cup performances have made the rest of the game "sit up and notice", World Rugby chief Bill Beaumont said Tuesday, vowing more top fixtures for the Brave Blossoms.
DISCIPLINARY REACTION: Ireland will decide whether to appeal centre Bundee Aki's three-match ban once the written report is received.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The 2019 World Cup has officially passed the record for the most red cards issued at a tournament.
NEWS: French club Montpellier won an appeal on Tuesday against a fine imposed last week by the National Rugby League (LNR) for exceeding the league's salary cap.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus said his team had "erased" their shocking loss to Japan in the 2015 World Cup's 'miracle of Brighton'.
UPDATE: World Cup organisers filed misconduct charges against Scotland on Tuesday over comments made about Typhoon Hagibis.
European Professional Club has named the referees for the first two rounds of its 2019-20 seasons of the Heineken Cup and Challenge Cup.
WATCH as we bring five of the best crossfield kicks at World Cup 2019.
NEWS: Waratahs Head Coach Rob Penney has made the finishing touches on his coaching staff for the 2020 Super Rugby season, appointing former Wallabies Matt Cockbain and Mark Bell to his team.
OPINION: It would be churlish to judge Scotland too harshly after another titanic chapter in Japanese rugby history.
OPINION: Wales secured their spot at the top of the pool with a bonus-point victory, although they made hard work of it during an error-riddled 80 minutes.
OPINION: It was 'mission accomplished' by Ireland - a convincing seven-try, 47-5 win over Samoa in Fukuoka.
TRANSFER NEWS: The Waratahs confirmed the signing of Robbie Abel from the Melbourne Rebels on a two-year contract.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: The quarterfinal line-up after final group matches on Sunday has been confirmed.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: There is some good news for the Springboks ahead of their World Cup quarterfinal against Japan on Sunday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Japan captain Michael Leitch has warned quarterfinal opponents South Africa that lightning can strike twice.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Tournament organisers revealed they would refer Scotland's "disappointing" comments about Typhoon Hagibis to a disputes body.
NEWS: Guy Noves, the most succesful French club rugby coach, said on Monday that he is ending his career, in part because he still feels disgust at being fired by France.
INJURY UPDATE: England star Billy Vunipola is "very likely" to be available for their World Cup quarterfinal against Australia, according to defence coach John Mitchell.
NEWS: Tonga hooker Paula Ngauamo has been handed a seven-week suspension after pleading guilty to kicking a USA opponent in the head on Sunday.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Kurtley Beale's health status won't be known until midweek but the wellbeing of Australia's backline play will come under immediate focus in their preparation for the World Cup quarter-finals.
World Rugby has announced the match officials for the 2019 quarterfinals of its World Cup, which is now down to its last six matches after 37 pool matches.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: All Blacks coach Steve Hansen paid tribute Monday to an "awesome" Japan performance at the World Cup.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Past matches between Ireland and New Zealand will be irrelevant when the two teams take the pitch in the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, according to All Black coach Steve Hansen.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Ireland have lost a key player ahead of their quarterfinal clash against the All Blacks.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Scotland coach Gregor Townsend issued a timely warning to South Africa, ahead of their quarterfinal showdown with Japan.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Three of the quarterfinals will feature pit-rested teams playing against busy opponents, providing a measuring stick of what works best.
PRO14 SPOTLIGHT: Cheetahs coach Franco Smith has officially hand over control of the high-flying side on Monday to Hawies Fourie as he departs the franchise to take up the Italian national coaching position.
REACTION: Scotland is set to feel the damage of their early World Cup exit following Sunday’s 21-28 loss to Japan.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Ireland is flying a specialist lawyer into Japan in a bid to keep Bundee Aki’s World Cup alive.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: England scrumhalf Ben Youngs believes the team will have to rely on more than their recent record against Australia if they are to avoid a defeat by the Wallabies that will end their World Cup campaign.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Japan scored some sensational tries in their 28-21 win over Scotland in the Pool A decider.
This week's appointments takes us to the end of the pool matches at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, with the knock-out rounds to start.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Japan finished top of Pool A with a sensational 28-21 win over Scotland in a thrilling encounter in Yokohama on Sunday.
OPINION: Australia will celebrate the win, but also acknowledge it was a less than satisfactory performance.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Ireland's form has been far from world-class however Johnny Sexton insists his team are hitting their peak ahead of the quarterfinal showdown against All Blacks.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Wales hardly needed to get out of second gear and cruised to a 35-13 win over a willing Uruguayan team in Kumamoto City on Sunday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Japan and Scotland in Yokohama.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Tonga scored their first win of the tournament, a hard-earned 31-19 triumph over the United States in Higashiosaka City on Sunday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Michael Leitch is Japan's poster boy, but like many other players he's not representing his country of birth.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Wales and Uruguay in Kumamoto City.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Tonga and the United States in Higashiosaka City.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Pacy Japan will pit their structured ball-holding and accuracy in attack against a tough-as-teak South Africa side.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: The dramatic change in defensive systems from 2015 to 2015 has forced teams to "evolve" their attacking patterns.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Canada captain Tyler Ardron said he was left with a "pretty disappointing" and "weird" feeling after Typhoon Hagibis forced the cancellation of his side's final match.
TOP 14 WRAP: Stade Francais assistant coach Pieter De Villiers hailed his team's 33-30 win over Toulon as an "important victory" on Sunday.
The youngest national anthem at the 2019 Rugby World Cup is in Pool 5. There is also the first anthem ever used at an international sporting event.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Japan's extreme weather has forced the Wallabies to return to a familiar base to prepare for their probable quarterfinal showdown with England.
PRO14 WRAP: John Cooney scored a double to ensure Ulster ended their South African double-header on a high.
OPINION: The pool stages of the 2019 World Cup are beginning to wrap up and there has been further movement in the power rankings from week two, as a number of sides have now concluded their group stage campaigns.
SPOTLIGHT: We have not yet reached the end of the pool matches and already more players have been sent off (red-carded) at this tournament than at any of the previous eight World Cups.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Samoa appealed to the judiciary not to suspend Ireland centre Bundee Aki.
MATCH REPORT: World Player of the Year Johnny Sexton scored two tries as 14-man Ireland secured a 47-5 bonus-point win over Samoa to reach the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Australia coach Michael Cheika took a pop at England's Eddie Jones on Friday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Ireland and Samoa in Fukuoka City.
WORLD CUP NEWS: Tournament organisers gave the go-ahead for Japan's crunch match against Scotland on Sunday.
BREAKING NEWS: World Cup organisers announced the cancellation of the match between Namibia and Canada due to Typhoon Hagibis.
NEWS: World Cup organisers warned Namibia and Canada about the "potential of cancellation" of their final pool game as Typhoon Hagibis slammed into Japan on Saturday.
NEWS: The Waratahs have promoted Tom Horton and Joey Walton to the senior squad for the 2020 Super Rugby season.
PRO14 WRAP: The Cheetahs gifted Franco Smith the perfect swansong.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: An angry war of words between Japan and Scotland has injected an element of needle into Sunday's typhoon-threatened clash in Yokohama.
WORLD CUP UPDATE: Powerful Typhoon Hagibis on Saturday claimed its first victim, even before making landfall.
OPINION: Despite being given a real scare by Fiji in the opening 15 minutes of both halves, Wales were able to record a 29-17 victory over the Islanders in Oita and keep control of Pool D.
OPINION: Despite the mass changes, it was an excellent and convincing performance by Scotland.
WORLD CUP REACTION: World Rugby slammed Scotland over a "disappointing" threat of legal action on Friday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Ireland skipper Rory Best is taking a philosophical approach to Saturday's critical clash with Samoa, keeping calm as Typhoon Hagibis wreaks havoc on the World Cup schedule.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Whatever the outcome of their final pool game against Tonga, USA's assistant coach Greg McWilliams said there are plenty of positives for the Eagles to take out of World Cup 2019.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: England coach Eddie Jones insists Scotland will have only themselves to blame if they are knocked out of the World Cup, as Typhoon Hagibis threatens the Scots' game against Japan.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Wales coach Warren Gatland is billing Sunday's match against minnows Uruguay as a trial for quarterfinal spots.
INJURY UPDATE: South Africa speedster Cheslin Kolbe has an "80 to 90 percent" chance of being fit for next week's World Cup quarter-finals as he races to shake off an ankle injury, coach Rassie Erasmus said on Friday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: This is the wooden spoon battle in Pool B.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Japan have handed the captaincy back to talismanic flank Michael Leitch for their typhoon-threatened match against Scotland on Sunday as they bid for a historic World Cup quarterfinal.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Uruguay have made nine changes for the match against Wales in Kumamoto as they look to go out of World Cup 2019 on a high.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Never work with animals, small babies and 1400km-wide typhoons.
BREAKING NEWS: The Lions have parted ways with long-standing coach Swys de Bruin.
In his preparation for Under-20 competition in 2020 in Italy, Chean Roux, coach of the South African Under-20 team, now called the Junior Springboks, has named an Under-19 squad of 30 players to tour Georgia in towards the end of this year.
WORLD CUP MATCH REPORT: Australia sealed their place in the play-offs with a scrappy win in Shizuoka on Friday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: As the World Cup pool stages head into the final round, we look at some of the stand-out players so far:
WORLD CUP NEWS: The devastation of Typhoon Hagibis could send this already-chaotic tournament into the courtroom.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: "One more special hurrah," is the message from captain Siale Piutau as Tonga look to break their World 2019 duck against the USA in Hanazono on Sunday.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: History was made in Round Two of the Pro14 as 53 tries were scored - more than in any other single round in Championship history.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wales coach Warren Gatland has made 13 changes to the team that beat Fiji for the final World Cup Pool D match against Uruguay at Kumamoto on Sunday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Australia and Georgia in Shizuoka.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Head coach Gregor Townsend revealed his Scotland team for the decisive World Cup Pool A finale against Japan at the International Stadium Yokohama.
REACTION: Italy captain Sergio Parisse made no secret of his utter disappointment at the cancellation of their final Pool B match due to Typhoon Hagibis.
Wouldn't the World Cup become marvellous if no more coaches pointed fingers at referees? It remains astonishingly true that players are allowed to make mistakes but not referees, their fellow human beings.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: USA coach Gary Gold has made just three changes to his starting XV for the Pool C match against Tonga in Hanazono on Sunday.
OPINION: South Africa made a big statement during their 66-7 win over Canada.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Skipper David Pocock is demanding a Wallabies performance in their last pool game that makes rivals sit up and take notice.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has urged World Cup chiefs "to do all they can" to make sure his side's must-win match against Japan is played as an incoming super typhoon threatens to end their campaign.
WORLD CUP REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones said Super Typhoon Hagibis had given his team a "great opportunity" on Thursday after their final group game was cancelled for safety reasons.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Canada coach Kingsley Jones has gone for the most experienced line-up he can extract from his squad of 31 for Canada's final match at World Cup 2019.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Sacked rugby union star Israel Folau insists he never agreed to proposed limitations on his social media use before posting controversial Instagram remarks which led to the cancellation of his Wallabies contract.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Escaping an incoming super typhoon, Australia will warm up for the quarterfinals with a last Pool D outing on Friday against "tough" Georgia.
INJURY UPDATE: France fullback Thomas Ramos, who was sent home from the World Cup because of a supposedly tournament-ending injury, may play for Toulouse in this weekend's Top 14.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland have made eleven changes for their crucial Pool A decider versus Samoa on Saturday at the World Cup.
LISTEN as @King365ed and @LoffieEloff look at which players might improve the @Springboks in the @rugbyworldcup quarterfinals.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Namibia coach Phil Davies has opted for an experienced starting XV as he prepares for his team's match against Canada at Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium on Sunday.
PREMIERSHIP SPOTLIGHT: With one week to go until the season starts, Sale Sharks are the team that are showing the most promise from last year.
INJURY UPDATE: Flyhalf Dan Biggar will miss Wales' final World Cup pool game after a sickening head clash in the 29-17 win over Fiji, coach Warren Gatland said on Wednesday.
WORLD CUP NEWS: World Cup organisers took the unprecedented step of cancelling games on Thursday as Super Typhoon Hagibis bears down on Japan.
OPINION: It was back up to Tokyo for the All Blacks, for their second-ever match against Namibia.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Samoa coach Vaeluaga Steve Jackson has made just two changes to his side to take on Ireland on Saturday.
NEWS: Two-time World Cup winner Ma'a Nonu of New Zealand has signed with the San Diego Legion, Major League Rugby announced, giving the North American league its biggest star.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Lock RG Snyman put his hand up to be a starter for the Springboks in the quarterfinals after his "phenomenal" performance against Canada on Tuesday.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Canada replacement Josh Larsen has received the stock standard three-match ban for his shoulder charge in the 7-66 loss to South Africa.
WATCH as Canada lock Josh Larsen showed nothing but class after being red-carded during his side's 7-66 defeat to South Africa.
WATCH this special performance by the Springboks - their entry in the World Cup has got talent, 2019 edition!
WORLD CUP REACTION: Scotland will have to be "spot-on" when they take on Japan on Sunday for a place in the World Cup quarterfinals, coach Gregor Townsend has warned.
REACTION: Fiji coach John McKee says the Pacific islanders can leave the World Cup with their heads held high after showing their quality in a 17-29 defeat by Wales.
OPINION: In the first real test of England’s Rugby World Cup campaign, they looked professional against Argentina in racking up a bonus-point win and a 39-10 scoreline, even if it could have been an even larger margin.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: New Zealand have been labeled as 'cynical cheats' while their captain Kieran Read enjoys 'diplomatic immunity' at this year's World Cup.
NEWS: English club rugby player Leigh Dearden has been banned from all sport for four years following an in-competition test on March 23.
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Wales and Fiji in Oita.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Scotland will play Japan for a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals after a 26-point haul from Adam Hastings helped them to a nine-try, 61-0 thrashing of Russia on Wednesday.
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Scotland and Russia in Shizuoka.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: England will not suffer from any loss of momentum if this weekend's Rugby World Cup clash with France is cancelled due to violent weather, prop Dan Cole insisted Wednesday.
MATCH REPORT: Eliminated Argentina restored some pride with a 47-17 win against the United States at the World Cup.
MATCH REPORT: Wing Josh Adams scored a sensational hat-trick on Wednesday as Wales booked a World Cup quarter-final place with a 29-17 bonus-point win over Fiji, sending Australia through in the process.
NEWS: Scrumhalf Nic White will be returning to Australia.
OPINION: Australia got back to winning ways when they beat Uruguay 45-10 in their World Cup match on Saturday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus said the "X-factor" Cobus Reinach was a chip off an old block as the Springbok scrumhalf scored the quickest World Cup hat-trick in a 66-7 rout of Canada
TRANSFER NEWS: England international Steffon Armitage has signed a two-year deal with French second tier side Biarritz, the club announced on Wednesday.
TRANSFER NEWS: Waratahs have secured the signature of highly-rated Shute Shield loose forward, Charlie Gamble for the 2020 Super Rugby season.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: After a moment of utter madness, Italy’s Andrea Lovotti was given his marching orders against the Springboks on Friday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Michael Cheika has abandoned his safe and successful formula from the 2015 World Cup, instead turning to selection uncertainty to get the best out of his players in Japan.
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Argentina and the United States in Kumagaya City.
WORLD CUP UPDATE: A powerful typhoon that organisers have warned could impact the final weekend of the World Cup pool stage has changed course.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Wales will look to ramp up their performance to another level against Fiji on Wednesday, amid constant reminders of their costly loss to the Pacific islanders in the 2007 World Cup.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between South Africa and Canada in Kobe.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The replay technology used for tight calls in tennis and cricket is being considered as an antidote to the insidious creep of offside infringements in Rugby Union.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Scotland are targeting a bonus-point victory, and nothing less, over Russia on Wednesday to set up a Pool A showdown with hosts Japan for a spot in the quarterfinals.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Australia coach Michael Cheika has made wholesale changes to his Wallabies side to face Georgia on Friday.
NEWS: Springbok Sevens captain Philip Snyman has announced his retirement from all rugby following a career-ending back injury.
OPINION: Ireland just about bagged a bonus-point win against Russia, but it was the performance the under-pressure side needed.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: South Africa hooker (and part-time No.8) Schalk Brits is one of the most popular players on the planet
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Heading into the last round of pool games, only two teams have already booked their quarterfinal places: England and France.
MATCH REPORT: The Springboks booked their spot in the quarterfinals with a comprehensive 66-7 win over Canada on Tuesday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: The quarter-finals may be out of sight, but Argentina and USA still have plenty riding on it when the two sides meet on Wednesday.
OPINION: The Springboks overcame a big hurdle on their way to qualification for the play-offs at this year's World Cup when they beat Italy 49-3 on Friday.
NEWS: The Waratahs have confirmed CEO Andrew Hore is leaving to take on the same Super Rugby role at the Blues in Auckland.
REACTION: French club Montpellier said they were victims of a 'Stalinist system' after they were fined €470,000 (US$517,000) for exceeding the Top 14 salary cap.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: South Africa may finally throw off the shackles and go from a dour, defence-orientated side to a more dynamic outfit in their final pool match.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Canada and South Africa have played at the global showpiece before. It was a horrible match which will not be even nearly replicated in Kobe on Tuesday.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Tomas Lavanini, the most sin-binned player in Argentina's history, learns his fate after a high tackle on England captain Owen Farrell at the World Cup.
INJURY UPDATE: Billy Vunipola will discover the severity of his ankle injury on Tuesday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Flyhalf Dan Biggar was included in a strong Wales team to face Fiji as Warren Gatland's side look to book their spot in the World Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Russian coach Lyn Jones has made nine changes to his starting line-up for the Bears' final World Cup Pool A match.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Star Wallaby flank David Pocock believes he's less likely to commit a high tackle because of his lack of height.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Scotland have made 14 changes for their third Pool A fixture against Russia in Shizuoka on Wednesday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Juan Manuel Leguizamon will make his first start of the World Cup against the United States in an Argentina team that shows nine changes from the XV that started the defeat against England on Saturday.
WORLD CUP NEWS: World Cup organisers warned Monday that a powerful typhoon forming to the south of Japan could bring fierce winds and torrential rain over the last weekend of the pool stages.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Fiji coach John McKee has made one change to his starting XV for the Pool D match against Wales in Oita Stadium on Wednesday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Jordie Barrett's unruffled performance as a makeshift All Blacks flyhalf won the praise of coach Steve Hansen - and put him one up on his big brother, two-time World Player of the Year Beauden.
WORLD CUP REACTION: French celebrations at reaching the World Cup quarterfinals were short-lived Sunday as coach Jacques Brunel rattled off a list of shortcomings to be addressed before they play England next weekend.
NEWS: French club Montpellier have been fined 470 000 euros (517,000 dollars) for exceeding the Top 14 salary cap two seasons ago, the National Rugby League said Monday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Young scrumhalf Ruben de Haas will make his first start for the USA after impressing as a replacement against England and France.
WORLD CUP REACTION: South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus insisted he would never tolerate racism within his squad after a clip on social media appeared to show Springbok Makazole Mapimpi frozen out by white teammates.
WORLD CUP REACTION: A Steve Hansen rocket at half-time ignited New Zealand's second-half turnaround against Namibia at the World Cup on Sunday, culminating in a breathtaking score from TJ Perenara.
WORLD CUP UPDATE: Prop Andrea Lovotti and replacement Nicola Quaglio will miss Italy's last World Cup pool match against New Zealand.
WORLD CUP REPORT: France qualified for the World Cup quarterfinals on Sunday with a nailbiting 23-21 win against Tonga that sets up a winner-takes-all clash with England to top Pool C.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Springboks have made 13 changes to their starting XV for Tuesday’s match against Canada in Kobe to manage the four-day turnaround between their final two World Cup pool matches.
MATCH REPORT: New Zealand ran in 11 tries as they smashed minnows Namibia 71-9 at the World Cup on Sunday, putting the defending champions on the brink of a quarter-final place.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Predatory wing Cheslin Kolbe has underlined his status as one of Rugby Union's hottest properties with another scintillating display in South Africa's 49-3 drubbing of Italy.
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between France and Tonga in Kumamoto City.
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between New Zealand and Namibia in Tokyo.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Wallabies coach Michael Cheika said his side's ill-discipline and slow starts were becoming a problem after two yellow cards in their 45-10 win over Uruguay on Saturday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Canada star DTH van der Merwe is relishing the prospect of finally facing his native South Africa in XV-a-side action when the countries meet at the World Cup.
TOP 14 SATURDAY WRAP: Pressure piled on Stade Francais' South African head coach Heyneke Meyer on Saturday after a fifth defeat of the season, 16-46 to Castres, left them bottom of the French Top 14 table.
PRO14 REPORT: An Anthony Volmink hat-trick helped the Cheetahs extend their imperious start to the Pro14 season as they eased to a ruthless 63-26 victory over Ulster in Bloemfontein.
WORLD CUP REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones reveals the extent of Billy Vunipola's injury.
PRO14 REPORT: Munster’s suffocating defence and efficiency in attack helped them to a battling 31-20 bonus-point win as they made it two victories from two by beating the Southern Kings in South Africa.
MATCH REPORT: Hosts Japan conjured the samurai spirit to smash Samoa 38-19 on Saturday and take a giant step towards a historic quarter-final spot at the World Cup.
WORLD CUP REPORT: England became the first team to qualify for the World Cup quarterfinals after beating 14-man Argentina 39-10 in Tokyo on Saturday.
OPINION: The 2019 World Cup is about to enter its third week and there has been some substantial movement in the latest power rankings by Alex Shaw.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: The All Blacks have played Namibia at a World Cup before - in 2015 at the Olympic Stadium. Then New Zealand won 58-14.
PRO14 REPORT: Mark Bennett scored the match-winning try as Edinburgh made it two from two in Conference B with a 19-11 victory over Cardiff Blues at Cardiff Arms Park.
PRO14 REPORT: Owen Jenkins scored two tries as Dragons ended a four-and-a half-year wait for an away win in the Pro14 with a 52-28 bonus-point victory at 14-man Zebre.
REACTION: South Africa's rights watchdog on Friday filed legal papers against Springboks World Cup star Eben Etzebeth who has been accused of racial abuse and assault.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between England and Argentina in Tokyo.
Owen Farrell was again the victim of a massive hit where he could have easily been injured.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Teenage wing Jordan Petaia crashed over for a try on his debut as Australia routed Uruguay 45-10 to stay on course for the World Cup quarterfinals on Saturday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Australia and Uruguay in Oita.
WORLD CUP REACTION: A furious Italian coach Conor O'Shea lambasted prop Andrea Lovotti for "crass stupidity".
WORLD CUP NEWS: Italy replacement prop Nicola Quaglio has been cited for his involvement in a tackle on South Africa's Duane Vermeulen.
REACTION: Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus toned down the praise of his team after their one-sided win over Italy on Friday.
WORLD CUP NEWS: Cheslin Kolbe twisted his left ankle in the final minutes of the match against Italy.
READERS’ FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Japan and Samoa in Toyota City.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: France go into Sunday's clash with Tonga looking to erase an eight-year nightmare and produce a dominant performance that will keep them on track for a World Cup quarter-final.
OPINION: Tom Vinicombe rates the All Black players after their 63-0 demolition of Canada.
It's Pool B's turn to look at its anthems, old and new, including two that are bilingual and one that it multilingual, one that has a reference going back into ancient history.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: RugbyPass analysts Ben Smith looks at how teams are exposing robotic scrumhalves and flyhalves.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Ireland are determined that Jordi Murphy will be given the "best chance" to overcome a rib injury and remain at the World Cup.
WORLD CUP REPORT: South Africa took a huge step towards the World Cup quarterfinals on Friday with a 49-3 bonus-point win over Italy, who had a man sent off for a dangerous tackle.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Nineteen-year-old Jordan Petaia will hope to make an immediate impact for Australia when he makes his long-awaited debut in a "grand final" against Uruguay at the World Cup on Saturday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Italy and South Africa in Shizuoka.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Prop Angus Ta'avao was forced to abandon his Wallaby goal when he was rejected by the Waratahs. Now he's an All Black.
SQUAD UPDATE: France suffered two more injury blows to their World Cup campaign on Thursday.
PRO14 WRAP: Ronan Kelleher's hat-trick helped Leinster continue their imposing start to the season, thanks to an eight-try, 53-5 showing over Ospreys.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Jordie Barrett will start at flyhalf for the All Blacks and lock Brodie Retallick returns from a 10-week injury lay-off for Sunday's World Cup match against Namibia in Tokyo.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: England can become the first team to secure a World Cup quarterfinal spot Saturday if they beat an Argentina side battling for survival in a match described as "war".
The Springboks intended to dominate Italy with the sheer power of their forwards, starting with scrums. It was an important part of their strategy. But just 14 minutes into the game, their scrum power was nullified.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: @rugby365com's Law guru Paul Dobson looks at two incidents concerning touchline during the World Cup match between Australia and Wales.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: With nearly 400 points scored and 47 tries in Round One – the Pro14 returned to action in eye-catching style last weekend with games taking place across all five participating nations.
SPOTLIGHT: Former Stormers prop Olli Kebble is set to qualify for Scotland within the next 12 months, but for now he has his eyes firmly set on helping Glasgow Warriors go one better this year and win the PRO14.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Johan Deysel returns to the starting XV to captain Namibia against the All Blacks on Sunday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Tournament hosts Japan go into this weekend's clash with Samoa as favourites after winning their last two meetings.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Ireland are not looking too far ahead after their victory over Russia.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Tonga coach Toutai Kefu has again opted for a largely settled starting XV for the Sea Eagles’ Pool C match against France on Sunday.
OPINION: Scotland picked up their first win of the World Cup, a 34-0 defeat of Samoa, which also delivered an all-important bonus point.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: A year after breaking his neck, All Black Sam Cane has put the near-paralysing injury to the back of his mind as he prepares to get his World Cup back on track against Namibia.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Ireland beat Russia 35-0 as they bounced back from their stunning upset by Japan with an important bonus-point win at the World Cup on Thursday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: South African captain Siyamthanda Kolisi has finally broken his silence over the escalating Eben Etzebeth saga.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Braam Steyn may have once dreamt of pulling on the Springbok jersey but has no regrets as he seeks to help Italy provide the fatal blow to South Africa's World Cup hopes.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: The All Blacks have a nervous wait over a potential citing for captain Kieran Read following their thrashing of Canada, with media raising alarm bells over a seemingly no-arms tackle.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Ireland and Russia in Kobe.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland assistant coach Mike Blair has called on World Rugby to extend the length of the World Cup.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: France coach Jacques Brunel has made 11 changes from the team that played the USA in his starting XV for the Pool C match against Tonga at Kumamoto Stadium on Sunday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: South African captain Siyamthanda Kolisi revealed he was "excited but scared" after an earthquake in the Shizuoka region of Japan in the early hours of Wednesday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: To the victors go the spoils. In this case a place in the quarterfinals and the real possibility of global glory.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Fiji threw off the shackles with six second-half tries to outclass a willing Georgian team 45-10 in Osaka on Thursday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Japan coach Jamie Joseph on Thursday made three changes to the starting side who stunned Ireland for this weekend's World Cup Pool A clash with Samoa.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Georgia and Fiji in Osaka.
Two New Zealand schools teams are in action in Hamilton on Fir day - the New Zealand Schools who play Australian Schools/Under-18 and the New Zealand Barbarians Schools who play Fiji Schools.
WORLD RANKINGS UPDATE: Wales have returned to second place after beating Australia 29-25 in an enthralling Pool D match at Tokyo Stadium at the weekend.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Argentina coach Mario Ledesma has made just one change to his side that beat Tonga for the do-or-die match against England on Saturday in the World Cup 'group of death'.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Samoa coach Vaeluaga Steve Jackson has responded to his team's 0-34 defeat by Scotland by making six changes to the starting XV to play Japan on Saturday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Two former All Blacks believe Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has erred by establishing an "us against everyone" mentality.
BREAKING: Springbok stalwart Eben Etzebeth could be forced to return home from the World Cup in Japan.
WORLD CUP REACTION: French coach Jacques Brunel admitted his team struggled to control the game in their 33-7 win against the United States.
MATCH REPORT: Two-time defending champions New Zealand ran nine tries past Canada in a 63-0 romp to strengthen their grip on Pool B at the World Cup on Wednesday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Sexton is back. A sexton is a man who sees that a church's edifice is strong and healthy.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: England's players have hit back at accusations by Argentina that they play "boring" rugby before this weekend's World Cup clash in Tokyo, refusing to get drawn into any mind games.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Uruguay coach Esteban Meneses has made nine changes to the team that lost to Georgia for Saturday's Pool D match against Australia at Oita Stadium.
WORLD CUP REPORT: France scored three tries in the closing stages to beat a willing United States team 33-9 in Fukuoka City on Wednesday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Canada and New Zealand in the Oita Prefecture.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England coach Eddie Jones has welcomed back battering ram Mako Vunipola and backed his "kamikaze kids" to wreak havoc in this weekend's World Cup Pool C clash with Argentina.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has joined the chorus of criticism surrounding the referees at this year's World Cup.
WORLD CUP REACTION: All Black coach Steve Hansen said he was "pretty happy" with his team's 63-0 hammering of Canada.
WATCH as Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth replies to a message from a young fan, who could hardly believe the response he got!
OPINION: Wales ran out with the spoils, surviving a late Wallabies comeback attempt, who were inarguably the better team for the final thirty minutes of the match.
OPINION: The Wallabies’ valiant second-half effort was not enough to record a win over the Grand Slam Champions Wales on Sunday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between France and the United States in Fukuoka City.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: England are a lot of things and boring is certainly one of them claims Argentina hooker Agustín Creevy ahead of the teams World Cup showdown.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Nineteen-year-old sensation Jordan Petaia is set to become Australia's youngest World Cup player, after he got the nod on Wednesday for this weekend's game against Uruguay.
WORLD CUP REACTION: South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus admitted he was taking a calculated risk with his team selection for the "do-or-die" Pool B match against Italy on Friday.
OPINION: South African had no trouble to dispose of their Africa neighbours Namibia 57-3 in their World Cup Pool B match on Saturday.
NEWS: Rob Penney has been appointed Waratahs Head Coach for the 2020 Super Rugby season.
TRANSFER NEWS: Ospreys are finally able to announce the signing of Shaun Venter on a two-year deal after a prolonged delay due to difficulties with the Governing Bodies and UK Border Agency.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Fiji will look to put the ignominy of a winless start - including the shock loss to Uruguay - behind them.
TRANSFER NEWS: Experienced utility back James Marshall has extended his contract with Hurricanes.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Talismanic No.8 Sergio Parisse will become rugby union's second most capped player when he skippers Italy in their crunch Pool B match against South Africa on Friday.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Australia coach Michael Cheika has a number of big decisions to make after the Wallabies' loss to Wales on Sunday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: World Player of the Year Jonathan Sexton will captain Ireland for the first time after being recalled for their World Cup match against Russia on Thursday following a thigh injury.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: France will look to long-serving No.8 Louis Picamoles for inspiration as he captains his country for the first time against the United States in the tournament's 'group of death'.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Fiji coach John McKee has made 11 changes to his team for their Pool D match against Georgia on Thursday.
INJURY UPDATE: Stormers utility back Damian Willemse will fly out to Japan to join the Springbok Rugby World Cup squad following the injury withdrawal of Jesse Kriel.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has shuffled his pack for the must-win World Cup clash with Italy in Shizuoka on Friday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: All Black loose forward Ardie Savea will become the first player to wear goggles at the global showpiece.
OPINION: Namibia arrived with high hopes, but soon became spectators of their own demise.
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Ulster wasted no time in recalling their Springbok loose forward for their two-match Pro14 tour of South Africa.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: This match under the dome of Oita Stadium in Japan is as near to a foregone conclusion as you can get in Sport.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: High balls, cross-field kicks and the return of the mighty drop.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Uruguay hooker Facundo Gattas on Tuesday became the fifth player at the World Cup to be suspended for a dangerous tackle, following his red card in the 7-33 defeat to Georgia.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Vice-captain Samu Kerevi is demanding an end to Australia's shambolic starts if they're to reach their potential at the World Cup.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Scotland coach Gregor Townsend said his side were "still in the tournament" after an "exceptional" 34-0 win over Samoa revived their bid for a World Cup quarterfinal place.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: The Springboks are relishing the more balanced and composed refereeing of Englishman Wayne Barnes for their crunch encounter with Italy on Friday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Denis Simplikevich has been named in Russia's team to face Ireland for their third World Cup match in Kobe on Thursday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Match officials continue to face strident criticism at this year's World Cup.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Hard-hitting Wallabies centre Samu Kerevi has threatened to switch to Rugby League after being penalised for a stray elbow in Australia's 25-29 World Cup defeat by Wales.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Scotland and Samoa in Kobe City.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Kyle Sinckler insists England's forward "tank" will continue blasting a path through Japan, as a quarterfinal place beckons for Eddie Jones' side
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Georgia have made 11 changes for the game against Fiji in Hanazono on Thursday, with Merab Sharikadze returning as captain to the starting XV for the crucial Pool D encounter.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Japan has blossomed from charming hosts to pool pacesetters with their victory over Ireland.
WORLD CUP NEWS: Typhoon Mitag is bearing down on southwestern Japan.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: A mixture of fear and reverence will accompany Canada when they face the mighty All Blacks in one of the biggest mismatches of the World Cup's pool stage on Wednesday.
Before each Rugby World Cup match, the two teams line up and their anthem is sung. There are 20 teams and so 20 anthems.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Beauden, Jordie and Scott Barrett will become the first trio of brothers to appear for the All Blacks in a World Cup match after they were named to start for the three-times world champions against Canada.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: USA coach Gary Gold made five changes to the side that lost 7-45 to England, many of them enforced by injury or suspension, for their clash against France on Wednesday.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Scotland recorded a bonus-point 34-0 win over Samoa to keep alive their chances of qualifying from a tight Pool A.
OPINION: This wasn’t meant to happen.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Louis Picamoles will captain France for the first time on Wednesday, leading out a much-changed French XV to play the United States in the World Cup's "group of death".
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: There will be an air of excitement at Nelson Mandela Stadium this week, at as a couple of African-born players return to their homeland.
REACTION: Wales might be forced to play their 'third-choice flyhalf' following Dan Biggar's head knock during the side's 29-25 win over Australia.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: England centre Piers Francis escaped a ban on Sunday for a high tackle at the World Cup, avoiding the fate of four other players who were suspended for illegal hits.
TOP 14 WRAP: Stade Francais head coach Heyneke Meyer said he has owner Hans-Peter Wild's support despite the Parisian club sitting bottom of the French Top 14 table after losing 18-32 to Clermont on Sunday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: World Rugby organisers have apologised to Georgia after head coach Milton Haig slammed them for playing a Russian song after his side's 33-7 victory over Uruguay.
REACTION: Rassie Erasmus revealed that Japan were a "scary" proposition after the hosts' staggering upset of Ireland put them on a collision course with the Springboks in the World Cup quarter-finals.
SPOTLIGHT: The first week of action certainly delivered at the Rugby World Cup in Japan and there are a number of alterations needed to the initial power rankings from before the tournament opener.
NEWS: A tropical storm could affect the scheduling of this week's World Cup game between France and the USA, organisers warned on Sunday.
MATCH REPORT: Six Nations champions Wales took a massive step towards topping Pool D with a thrilling 29-25 victory over valiant Australia on Sunday.
The Boland Under-15 are the 2019 Iqhawe Week champions after a decisive 29-10 victory over Griquas in the final match at Paarl Gim on Thursday, 26 September 2019.
REACTION: Jamie Joseph has praised the courage of his Japan players following their momentous 19-12 victory over Ireland, revealing they had been preparing for the match for three years.
REACTION: Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika has been left “embarrassed” by the ongoing mess and confusion surrounding the tackle in rugby union following his side's 25-29 defeat to Wales.
INJURY UPDATE: Ireland have called Ulster's Jordi Murphy into their World Cup squad, after confirming Jack Conan will miss the rest of the tournament with a broken foot.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Georgia v Uruguay Kumagaya City.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Scotland head into their match against Samoa on Monday knowing Ireland's surprise defeat by Japan has blown open up the race for quarterfinal qualification from Pool A.
MATCH REPORT: World Cup host Japan produced yet another extraordinary upset when they secured a historic 19-12 win over Ireland.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Ireland star Johnny Sexton believes a stunning World Cup defeat by Japan could yet prove to be a "blessing in disguise" because it took place during the group stages.
WATCH as Japan stunned the globe with their historic 19-12 win over Ireland in Shizuoka on Saturday.
PRO14 WRAP: Southern Kings narrowly lost their opening Pro14 match by four points as Cardiff Blues clinched a late 27-31 win at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
OPINION: After a solid but unspectacular start to their World Cup campaign against Tonga, England moved through the gears and established their credentials with a 45-7 win over the USA in Kobe.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Australia will not be appealing against the three-match ban handed to wing Reece Hodge for a dangerous tackle in last weekend's World Cup match against Fiji.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: As the all-time greatest flyhalf Dan Carter ranked his top three first-fives in the world last week, many South Africans felt aggrieved that their own favourite 10 wasn’t mentioned by the former All Black.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Wales and Australia in Tokyo.
WORLD CUP MATCH REPORT: Georgia issued a dosage of reality to Uruguay when they beat them 33-7 in Kumagaya City on Sunday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: History-making Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones admitted that blood had been spilt as training boiled over ahead of his team's highly-anticipated Pool D blockbuster with Australia on Sunday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Argentina and Tonga in Osaka.
MATCH REPORT: Argentina bounce back from their opening defeat to France with a hard-fought 28-12 win over Tonga on Saturday.
WORLD CUP MATCH REPORT: South Africa put their campaign back on track with a 57-3 demolition of a starstruck Namibia on Saturday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Legend has it that when Kevin Barrett retired from the game he said he was off "to make some All Blacks".
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Quick turnarounds of as little as four days at the World Cup are stretching the squads of established nations and making life especially hard for lesser teams.
PRO14 REPORT: Craig Gilroy made a triumphant return from long-term injury, inspiring Ulster to a 38-14 bonus-point win over Ospreys in their Pro14 opener.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between South Africa and Namibia in Toyota City.
SPOTLIGHT: In the wake of Uruguay’s shock 30-27 win over Fiji, we look at some notable upsets through the years.
UPDATE: South African lock Hendré Stassen is no longer a Stade Français player after testing positive for a banned substance.
WORLD CUP INTERVIEW: Veteran Springbok hooker Schalk Brits was pondering life after rugby on Spanish party island Ibiza when he received a surprise call from coach Rassie Erasmus.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Japan and Ireland in Shizuoka.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has changed his entire back row for Monday's World Cup match against Samoa, as his injury-hit team seeks to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Ireland.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Samoa's Motu Matu'u was slapped with a three-game ban on Friday following a crackdown on high tackles at the Rugby World Cup.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Australia head coach Michael Cheika has hit out at World Rugby following Reece Hodge’s three-match ban for a dangerous tackle.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Ireland goes into this weekend's clash with hosts Japan without talismanic playmaker Johnny Sexton.
INJURY UPDATE: Young USA prop David Ainu'u will miss the rest of the World Cup after sustaining a severe ankle injury only minutes into the Eagles' match against England, the team said Saturday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Scotland veteran John Barclay insisted there was nothing to be gained by "sitting in our hotel rooms and crying for a week" as they looked to get their World Cup back on track against Samoa.
DISCIPLINARY NEWS: England's Piers Francis was cited for foul play on Friday after a tackle that left USA fullback Will Hooley concussed at the World Cup.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa are well on their way to improve in all areas ahead of the playoffs vowed defence coach Jacques Nienaber.
NEW BEGINNINGS: The tournament returns to action 125 days after Leinster defended their title at Celtic Park against Glasgow Warriors and set a new record of six crowns in front of the largest crowd to ever attend a Championship decider.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: There are four backline changes to a surprise Wallabies starting team to face Wales in their key World Cup pool match in Tokyo.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Alun Wyn Jones will become Wales' most capped player this weekend.
PRO14 REPORT: The Cheetahs put in a thrilling display of free-flowing rugby as they downed last year’s Pro14 finalists Glasgow Warriors 48-14 in Bloemfontein to open up the new campaign.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Argentina know their World Cup rests on a must-win game against Tonga in Osaka on Saturday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones hailed George Ford, after the flyhalf guided the side to a 45-7 rout of the United States in Kobe on Thursday.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: All Blacks hardman Joe Moody claimed that "99.9 percent" of head-high tackles were accidental, as the World Cup produced its first red card amid heavy scrutiny of head shots.
REACTION: USA coach Gary Gold described his team's 7-45 rout at the hands of England as a "calamity in Kobe" and vowed to bounce back after "letting themselves down pretty badly".
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: United States flank John Quill has been banned three weeks for shoulder charging England's Owen Farrell.
WORLD CUP DISCIPLINARY NEWS: Samoa's Rey Lee-Lo received a three-match ban for a high tackle, ruling him out of the rest of the pool stage.
The eyes of all Japan and the rest of the world are on the World Cup with another 11 matches in the coming week with lots of focus on Japan vs Ireland, Australia vs Wales and Scotland vs Samoa.
NEWS: Sacked Wallaby star Israel Folau's bid to revive his career playing rugby league for Tonga hit a setback when officials backing the plan were suspended over unrelated matters.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: There was a time when Namibia was called South West Africa and was administered as a part of South Africa.
WATCH as England's cheap-shot merchant Owen Farrell gets a taste of his own medicine.
WORLD CUP REPORT: England produced a slick performance to beat the United States 45-7 on Thursday, earning a vital bonus-point win ahead of sterner Pool C Tests against Argentina and France.
REACTION: Australia wing Reece Hodge revealed he hadn't been trained on World Rugby's new protocol for policing high tackles at the World Cup, an official report of his disciplinary hearing revealed on Thursday.
WORLD CUP MATCH REPORT: Italy sent out a clear statement of intent when they dismissed Canada 48-7 in Fukuoka City on Thursday.
NEWS: New Zealand have returned to the top of the World Rugby Rankings after beating South Africa 23-13.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Greig Laidlaw has revealed things are getting tetchy on the Scotland training ground in Japan.
LISTEN as @LoffieEloff joins @King365ed in the Cape Town studio to look beyond the emotion of the apocalyptic refereeing performance and find the real reason why the @AllBlacks beat the @Springboks.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Italy and Canada in Fukuoka City.
WORLD CUP REACTION: The need for a more mobile loose trio against the 'expansive' Namibian team is at the heart of the decision to name Schalk Brits at No.8.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland have decided not to risk mercurial flyhalf Johnny Sexton for this weekend's World Cup Pool A clash against hosts Japan after he picked up a niggle against Scotland.
OPINION: A ruthless first-half from Wales, who were up and running within minutes and had the bonus point before half-time. They lost intensity for the third quarter but rallied to score twice more before the end to secure a comfortable win.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between England and the United States in Kobe City.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Namibia coach Phil Davies has made sweeping changes to his team for the Pool B match against South Africa at City of Toyota Stadium on Saturday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between England and the United States in Kobe City.
OPINION: Bigger challenges may await England, although Eddie Jones and his side will be content with their 35-3 win over Tonga on Sunday in their World Cup opener.
OPINION: A day to forget for Scottish Rugby, who went behind early and stayed there.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Flyhalf Benjamin Urdapilleta was handed his first Test start in six years as Argentina made four changes on Thursday for their World Cup game against Tonga.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Former Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock fears the decision to ban Reece Hodge will spark a red-card frenzy that could cost a team the World Cup.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Uruguay's shock win over Fiji at the World Cup triggered unprecedented reactions back home in a country where football is king and the majority of its rugby players are non-professionals.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Wales are steeling themselves to counter the threat of Australia's stand-out loose-ball poachers Michael Hooper and David Pocock.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Finn Russell has warned Scotland they will need more than anger and frustration to revive their World Cup campaign after a woeful start.
WATCH Uruguay's passionate celebrations after their courageous win over Fiji on Wednesday.
OPINION: Ireland’s World Cup campaign is up and running and they looked good value for their 27-3 win against Scotland in Yokohama.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: A revamped England will tackle the United States, but coach Eddie Jones is not taking their Pool C opponents lightly.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has named his team to face Namibia at World Cup 2019.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Amanaki Mafi makes his first appearance for Japan at No.8 after missing the opener against Russia for his side's second game against Ireland on Saturday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Tonga head coach Toutai Kefu has reshuffled his backline his side's Pool C match against Argentina at Hanazono Rugby Stadium on Saturday.
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Australia were dealt a blow ahead of their World Cup Pool D showdown against Wales.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Underdogs Uruguay pulled off the greatest win in their history to beat Fiji 30-27.
NEWS: Rugby Australia says controversial former star Israel Folau conceded in May that his controversial Instagram posts breached its code of conduct.
NEWS: Centre Rey Lee-Lo and Hooker Motu Matu'u were cited on Wednesday for acts of foul play in Samoa's bruising 34-9 World Cup opening win over Russia.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Italy will be targeting a better performance when they face Canada in their second Pool B match in Fukuoka on Thursday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Wales may boast the best defence at the global showpiece, but the Wallabies are confident they have the attacking blueprint to prevail in a crunch pool match.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Fiji and Uruguay in Kamaishi.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: French Romain Poite made a mockery of a statement that the 'highest standards of officiating' will be maintained.
WORLD CUP REACTION: All Black coach Steve Hansen strongly rejected the 'trial by social media' of his team.
PRO14 SPOTLIGHT: The Cheetahs have hardly had time to celebrate their Currie Cup victory and already they are preparing for the next campaign.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Fiji coach John McKee lashed out Tuesday at Australian counterpart Michael Cheika, suggesting the Wallaby has a different idea of the "spirit of the game" amid a row over a high tackle.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: With a few English-based players in his match-day 23, US coach Gary Gold will be hoping for the inside knowledge on their Pool C opponents.
NEWS: World Rugby criticised refereeing standards at the World Cup on Tuesday after a number of controversies in the tournament's opening days.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: A few weeks ago, after Scott Barrett was sent off in a match between New Zealand and Australia, we looked at Test-playing nations with the most red cards.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Samoa sent a strong message to their Pool A rivals when they beat Russia 34-9 in Kumagaya City on Tuesday.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Samoa and Russia in Kumagaya City.
INJURY UPDATE: Wales coach Warren Gatland gives an update on some of his injured players.
INJURY UPDATE: Things are going from bad to worse for Scotland at this year's World Cup.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa assistant coach Matthew Proudfoot stopped short of calling for a formal inquiry, but admitted they will raise some issues.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: George Ford will captain England for Thursday's game against the USA following their 35-3 win over Tonga on Sunday.
Paarl Gim is playing host to the 20129 Iqhawe Week for 14 provincial Under-15 teams, one from each province.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Fiji players will pause in silence before their Rugby World Cup game against Uruguay to commemorate those who died in the 2011 tsunami that devastated the region.
INJURY UPDATE: Tonga suffered a major World Cup setback Tuesday as record points-scorer Kurt Morath was ruled out of the tournament and may need surgery after taking a boot to the throat.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Italy announced 10 changes on Monday for their World Cup match against Canada and rested talismanic captain Sergio Parisse, with an eye on sterner tests against New Zealand and South Africa.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springboks hooker Malcolm Marx pinpointed his side's inability to adapt their game plan as one of the pitfalls for the defeat to the All Blacks.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Canada head coach Kingsley Jones has selected his 23-man matchday squad that will take the pitch against Italy in Fukuoka opener on Thursday.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: The All Blacks selectors have settled on their much-debated top midfield combination, but they're keeping their preference under wraps.
UPDATE: Sacked Wallaby star Israel Folau plans a shock return to rugby league, making himself available alongside his brother for Tonga in upcoming Tests against Australia and Britain, the Pacific nation said Monday.
NEWS: Michael Cheika is confident officials won't want to make an example of Reece Hodge as the Wallabies wing prepares for a judicial hearing that will have implications for the rest of the World Cup.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Argentina head coach Mario Ledesma apologised on Monday for his heat-of-the-moment criticism of the referee after his side lost to France21-23 in agonising last-minute fashion at the weekend.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Wales produced a fluent first-half performance to see off Georgia 43-14 at the World Cup.
WATCH: The performance of French referee Jerome Garces - in New Zealand's 23-13. World Cup win in Yokohama - continues to make waves.
NEWS: Footage has revealed that captain All Blacks captain Kieran Read got away with a cheap shot during his team's World Cup Pool opener against the Springboks on Saturday.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Israel Folau appears set for a stunning return to rugby league after reportedly being registered to play for Tonga in their two Test matches later this year.
NEWS: A French court on Monday found England international Steffon Armitage guilty of sexual assault and handed him a suspended prison sentence for groping a woman outside a bar.
SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Trevor Nyakane's replacement is one his way to Japan.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: When Russia and Samoa take to the field on Tuesday it will be the first time these two teams meet.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Fiji unveiled mass changes for their Rugby World Cup Pool D game against Uruguay on Monday, with only three players surviving from their opening clash with Australia.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Australia coach Michael Cheika accused Fiji of going behind his back on Monday after they referred Wallaby wing Reece Hodge for disciplinary action over a heavy tackle which left Peceli Yato concussed.
OPINION: Reigning world champions New Zealand got their 2019 World Cup campaign underway on Saturday and we have the player ratings from their 23-13 win over arch-rivals South Africa.
OPINION: The Springboks' World Cup opener was certainly not the result Rassie Erasmus and Co wanted.
SQUAD UPDATE: Scotland have been dealt a major blow after a key player was ruled out of the rest of their World Cup campaign with a knee injury.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Uruguay coach Esteban Meneses has named his team for the Pool D match against Fiji at Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium on Wednesday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Joe Schmidt believes Ireland will have to punch above their weight to knock out South Africa in what is now a likely quarterfinal match-up.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Wales and Georgia in Aichi.
INJURY UPDATE: South Africa may be forced to fly some front row reinforcements to Japan.
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: England are set to call upon defence coach John Mitchell's inside knowledge when they face the United States in their second World Cup match in Kobe on Thursday.
WORLD CUP REPORT: England got their 2019 campaign off to predictable start - a 35-3 win over a hopelessly outclassed Tonga in Sapporo on Sunday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Russian coach Lyn Jones made no changes to his squad or starting XV for their second Pool A match against Samoa on Tuesday.
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Samoa coach Steve Jackson has selected eight World Cup debutants for his side's first game of the tournament against Russia on Tuesday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones insisted the global showpiece was "not a 100-metre sprint".
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Australian wing Reece Hodge was cited on Sunday after a controversial tackle that left Fiji's Peceli Yato concussed in their opening game at the World Cup.
WORLD CUP REPORT: Ireland sent a strong warning to other teams when they demolished Scotland 27-3 in a one-sided affair in Yokohama on Sunday.
REACTION: New Zealand coach Steven Hansen's post-match comments have resulted in an immediate chance to the Head Injury Assessment protocols.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Michael Cheika's claim that David Pocock was singled out for scrutiny by match officials in Australia's opener has surprised the flank.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Ireland and Scotland in Yokohama.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Aaron Smith opened up about New Zealand's approach to their opener against South Africa at the weekend.
MATCH REPORT: Italian captain Sergio Parisse became only the third man to play in five Rugby World Cups as the Six Nations team recovered from a slow start to beat minnows Namibia 47-22 on Sunday.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Six Nations champions Wales will seek to put betting allegations around assistant coach Rob Howley behind them and focus on staking out their credentials when they take on Georgia on Monday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: South African coach Rassie Erasmus vowed to scrap all the way to the Final, after their disappointing 13-23 loss to New Zealand in their tough Pool B opener.
WORLD CUP NEWS: Retiring France centre Wesley Fofana was ruled out of the rest of the global showpiece.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between Italy and Namibia in Higashiosaka.
WATCHES all the highlights from the opening weekend of the World Cup!
WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT: Five things we learned from New Zealand's 23-13 victory over South Africa in their Pool B match at the International Stadium in Yokohama on Saturday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Match official continued to steal the limelight for all the wrong reasons.
READERS' FORUM: Welcome to the World Cup pool match between England and Tonga in Sapporo.
MATCH REPORT: Defending champions New Zealand burnished their credentials as favourites for the World Cup with a hard-fought 23-13 win against top contenders South Africa in a blockbuster match in Yokohama on Saturday.
WORLD CUP REACTION: While happy the All Blacks opened their campaign with a 23-13 victory over arch-rivals South Africa, coach Steve Hansen faulted the effort and warned they had to improve to win the Cup.
WORLD CUP REACTION: Wallaby coach Michael Cheika has spat the dummy over match officials yet again.
WORLD CUP POOL MATCH: Ireland may go into the tournament ranked No.1 in the world, but Scotland is not short of confidence and scent a possible upset in their opening Pool A match on Sunday.