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SCHOOLS RANKINGS: The unpredictable nature of schools matches has once again got us scratching our heads as to what reward would justify the past weekend's results.

SCHOOLS RANKINGS: Again there is movement in the Schools Top 20 this week where changes have occurred because of match results or, when teams did not play, an absence of match results.

TWELVE YEARS IN WAITING: All Black coach Steve Hansen compared Saturday's first Test with the British and Irish Lions to a World Cup Final.

NEWS: Toby Flood’s return to Newcastle Falcons was perfectly timed to be involved in the Philadelphia match against Saracens, and he believes it will provide an ideal bonding opportunity for the squad in the city nicknamed "The City of Brotherly Love".

NEWS: Halfway through his first week at the Sale Sharks, new signing Jono Ross has said he is looking forward to getting a taste of Premiership Rugby, and battling it out for a place in the back row.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Lions have brought out their big-name players for their Super Rugby clash against the Sunwolves on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: John Mitchell's arrival in Pretoria is still more than two weeks away, but his influence is already felt by the Bulls.

YOUTH WEEKS TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Free State Rugby Union have selected their teams for the 2017 Youth Weeks, and Grey College along with Louis Botha dominate the Under-18 Craven Week and Academy side.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The British and Irish Lions have Sonny Bill Williams in their sights in the second Test against the All Blacks in Wellington on Saturday as they battle to keep the series alive. 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: All Black coach Steve Hansen insisted Thursday his so-called war of words with British and Irish Lions counterpart Warren Gatland had been ramped up by the media.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Sharks prop Coenraad Oosthuizen believes the Bulls are still one of the better teams in Super Rugby, despite the Pretoria side's poor form in Super Rugby this season.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Southern Kings coach Deon Davids has named a strong side to take on the Jaguares in a Super Rugby encounter in Buenos Aires at the Estadio Jose Amalfitani on Saturday. 

REACTION: All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said Thursday the media needed to stop ridiculing British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland and disputed any suggestion of animosity between the pair.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Warren Gatland's dream of one day coaching the All Blacks - already a long shot - is almost certainly doomed unless his British and Irish Lions can muster a Test win this weekend.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Jaguares head coach Raúl Pérez has made six changes to his side for their clash against the Southern Kings in Buenos Aires.

INJURY UPDATE: All Blacks fullback Ben Smith has been ruled out for the remainder of the Test series against the British and Irish Lions series because of concussion, coach Steve Hansen confirmed.

INJURY UPDATE: Welsh wing George North and Ireland centre Robbie Henshaw have both been ruled out of the rest of the British and Irish Lions tour in New Zealand with injuries.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sam Warburton will captain the British and Irish Lions against New Zealand in the second Test in Wellington on Saturday.

CRAVEN WEEK BUILD-UP: Last weekend the Free State had its warm-up matches for Craven Week. This week its Northvaal's turn.

Tauriq Ebrahim and Jan de Koning look at the big news events of the week - which include Rassie Erasmus and Warren Whiteley - as well as the weekend's games.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ngani Laumape has been called up to the New Zealand team for the second Test against the British and Irish Lion.

It's the last weekend of schools playing rugby against each other for a while as winter holidays kick in.

INJURY UPDATE: They say it never rains, but it pours. That certainly rings true for Cheetahs coach Franco Smith.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Two of the Sharks' star players, Springboks Tendai Mtawarira and Jean-Luc du Preez will not play against the Bulls in Durban on Friday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: rugby365 law guru Paul Dobson looks into the debate about numbers at the end of half-time during the match between South Africa 'A' and the French Baabaas in Soweto.

TRANSFER NEWS: Top 14 outfit Lyon have signed Australian flank Liam Gill from Toulon on a one-year deal with an option to extend a further season, his new club said on Wednesday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springboks centre pair Jesse Kriel and Jan Serfontien will continue their partnership for the Bulls when their face the Sharks on Saturday in Round 15 of the Super Rugby. 

REACTION: Lions coach Johan Ackermann has not given up hope of seeing regular captain Warren Whiteley featuring in the Super Rugby play-offs.

NEWS: Hooker Schalk Brits believes there is much more to the Premiership Rugby contest between Saracens and Newcastle Falcons in Philadelphia than just the match itself.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wallabies assistant and Waratahs assistant coach Nathan Grey will move permanently into a national coaching role at the end of the 2017 Super Rugby season, after signing a new two-year contract with the Australian Rugby Union.

TRANSFER NEWS: New Zealand-born wing Chance Peni has extended his stat at the Western Force for two more seasons.

TRANSFER NEWS: The Blues have bolstered their inside back stocks with the signing of Otere Black and Bryn Gatland as Ihaia West moves to the Hurricanes.

SCHOOLS RANKINGS: There have been few matches these last two weeks but we have had enough to be able to draw up a new Schools Top 20.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland has given the strongest indication yet he will overhaul the forward pack.

PROVINCIAL DUTY: Boland Rugby Union have selected a relatively inexperienced squad to represent the Union at the respective South Africa Youth Weeks starting in July.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Stormers will have the luxury of having prop Steven Kitshoff available for their final three league phase games of Super Rugby, but probably not for the play-offs. 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Harlequins second row Mark Reddish has announced that he will retire from the game due to concussion.

INJURY UPDATE: Springboks and Sharks flyhalf Patrick Lambie is set to be ruled out of action for the rest of the season due to concussion symptoms.

INJURY UPDATE: Lions captain Warren Whiteley has been ruled out for the rest of the Super Rugby season.

CURRIE CUP SPOTLIGHT: The Free State Cheetahs have accumulated the services of Blitzboks trio Rosco Specman, Chris Dry and Cecil Afrika.

NEWS: Western Force prop Ben Daley has re-signed for a further two seasons with the Western Australian franchise, securing his future until the end of the 2019 season.

NEWS: Brumbies wing Lausii Taliauli has recommitted to the team for the 2018 Super Rugby season, signing a new two-year deal with the franchise.

REACTION: All Black Jerome Kaino on Tuesday rejected allegations he maliciously targeted British and Irish Lions scrumhalf Conor Murray and predicted a backlash from the tourists after their first Test loss.

MATCH REPORT: A late second-half fightback helped the Hurricanes snatch a 31-31 draw against the British and Irish Lions in Wellington on Tuesday.

INJURY UPDATE: Springbok Handré Pollard is one of several key players that will not accompany the Bulls on their trip to Durban on Friday.

SCHOOLS REPORT: It was a brilliant match at Paarl Boy's High's Brug Street ground on Saturday, a brilliant Saturday.

INJURY UPDATE: The Lions will have to wait another "day or two" before they know when captain Warren Whiteley will resume playing.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Southern Kings coach Deon Davids wasted no time in rushing back his star players for the trip to Argentina.

INJURY UPDATE: Stormers centre Daniel du Plessis has suffered another dislocated shoulder, this time playing for Western Province over the weekend. 

NEWS: Scotland-capped prop Allan Dell and lock Anton Bresler have extended their contracts with Edinburgh.

REACTION: Rebuilding the Springbok culture. That is at the heart of the motivation for South Africa's 3-0 series whitewash of France.

Springboks Ruan Dreyer, Francois Hougaard and Jaco Kriel spoke after South Africa's 3-0 whitewash of France. They also look forward to the Rugby Championship.

SCHOOLS NEWS: The Cape Schools Rugby Festival starts at Rondebosch Boys' High on Saturday, July 1.

REACTION: Dramatic reform in the French game, rather than firing the coach, is the solution to the onfield problems of Les Bleus.

NEWS: Sharks lock Ruan Botha has been suspended for three matches following a disciplinary hearing for a dangerous charge in the match between South Africa 'A' and the French Barbarians at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday.

SCHOOLS REEPORT: Westville ended the season on a high note after a remarkable 27-17 win over Kearney on Saturday.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Graeme College travelled to Graaf-Reinet and produced an impressive 43-19 win against Union High School on Saturday.

NEWS: The Western Force have added some fire power to their forward pack next season with the re-signing of hooker Anaru Rangi.

The June Test window is shut - well almost. There still are Test matches, notably in Wellington.

REACTION: All Blacks coach Steve Hansen lit the fuse on simmering tension with rival Warren Gatland Monday, labelling the British and Irish Lions mentor "a bit desperate" for accusing his side of dangerous play.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: A stranded British and Irish Lions supporter has told how a stranger's act of kindness resulted in him bunking down at the home of All Blacks sensation Rieko Ioane and his brother Akira.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: British and Irish Lions prop Joe Marler will be out to right the wrongs against defending Super Rugby Champions the Hurricanes on Tuesday.

SCHOOLS REPORT: At Bishops on Saturday, Rondebosch scored three tries in the last 10 minutes to beat Bishops an exciting 32-19.

CLASSIC CLASH REPORT: The South African College High School (SACS) hosted arch-rivals Wynberg Boys’ High School in their annual Classic Clash.

REACTION: Stand-in Springbok captain Eben Etzebeth gave an offbeat response what epitomises the newfound joy of South Africa's national team.

REACTION: France leave South Africa with three defeats, but learnt some 'valuable' lessons after being whitewashed by the Springboks. Jan de Koning reports from Ellis Park.

INJURY UPDATE: South Africans will be breathing a sigh of relief after SA'A' coach Johan Ackermann confirmed that flyhalf Handré Pollard’s late withdrawal from the team which defeated the French Barbarians 48-28 in Soweto was a precautionary matter.

NEWS: Japanese Super Rugby side Sunwolves have added another two players to their squad for their trip to South Africa.

REACTION: The British and Irish Lions were "second best by quite a distance" in losing the first Test against New Zealand, according to former coach Clive Woodward.

There are again few matches between schools.

There are again few matches between schools.

There are again few matches between schools.

INJURY UPDATE: Wallabies wing Sefa Naivalu is in doubt for his team's Bledisloe Cup opener against the All Blacks in Sydney on August 19.

NEWS: All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams has made another heart-warming gesture, this time presenting his All Blacks shorts and socks to a young Lions fan as he left the field after the first test in Auckland. 

REACTION: All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has fired up the verbal war with the British and Irish Lions again, suggesting they play New Zealand's style to be competitive in the second Test in Wellington next week.

REACTION: Italy coach Conor O'Shea says he's gutted to come so close to upsetting Australia but proud of the strides the Azzurri have made to become a competitive rugby force.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Disappointed British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland sees Tuesday's clash with the Hurricanes as a way for players to force their way into the Test line-up.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Hurricanes will have try-scoring potency when they play the British and Irish Lions on Tuesday with three members of the All Blacks squad released for the game.

MATCH REPORT: Mike Te'o and Nick Civetta each scored two tries for the United States as the Eagles played host Canada to a 28-28 draw Saturday in a 2019 Rugby World Cup qualifier.

MATCH REPORT: Ramiro Moyano was the villain and the hero as Argentina won for only the second time in 11 Tests by defeating Georgia 45-29 Saturday in San Salvador de Jujuy.

REACTION: The Springboks and Lions will be sweating over the groin injury that kept No.8 Warren Whiteley out of the third Test against France at the weekend.

OPINION: France's lack of creativity and inability to convert pressure into tries contributed to their 12-35 defeat against the Springboks at Ellis Park - their first-ever defeat at the venue.

OPINION: The Springboks walked away with a series whitewash over France following their 35-12 victory at Ellis Park - ending France's undefeated reign at the venue in the process.

NEWS: Robbie Deans will coach the Barbarians against his native New Zealand when the teams meet at Twickenham later this year.

REPORT: The Springboks ended France's dominance over them at Ellis Park when they secured a 35-12 victory that also ensured a 3-0 series whitewash on Saturday.

B&I TOUR REACTION: All Blacks coach Steven Hansen said the surprise tactical switch of playing the British and Irish Lions at their own game did the trick after the world champions swept to victory in the first Test on Saturday.

LIVE STREAMING: rugby365 continues our partnership with School Sport Live to bring you LIVE coverage of the match between Grey High and Daniël Pienaar.

LIONS TOUR REACTION: Coach Warren Gatland said his forwards had under-performed and indicated he was ready to wield the axe after the British and Irish Lions crashed 15-30 to the All Blacks on Saturday.

OPINION: They were hailed as the team to finally stop the All Blacks' march. However, the British and Irish Lions were rather underwhelming in their 15-30 loss in Auckland on Saturday.

REACTION: Australian coach Michael Cheika said his side were improving and would be ready to take on New Zealand in the Rugby Championship after fighting off Italy 40-27 on Saturday.

SCHOOLS RESULTS: Glenwood Highschool strengthen their position in the Schools Top 20 rankings after a 34-17 win over Maritzburg College on Saturday.

OPINION: New Zealand struck the first blow in the year's most anticipated contest - beating the British and Irish Lions 30-15 in Auckland on Saturday.

SCHOOLS RESULTS: Paarl Boys' High School extend their unbeaten run to 13 wins after a 38-33 win over Boland Landbou on Saturday in Paarl.

JUNE INTERNATIONAL REPORT: Ireland overpowered Japan 35-13 on Saturday to finish with a perfect record in their three-game summer tour.

LIONS TOUR MATCH REPORT: New Zealand's 30-15 win over British and Irish Lions at Eden Park on Saturday just emphasised why they are simply the best team in the world.

JUNE INTERNATIONAL REPORT: High-flying Fiji made sure they end their June International Series in style with a historic  27-22 victory over Scotland in Suva on Saturday.

JUNE INTERNATIONAL REPORT: Australia produced two late tries as they survived a fightback from Italy to win their one-off rugby international 40-27 in Brisbane on Saturday.

REACTION: Wales players had to overcome a debilitating virus sweeping their camp to beat Samoa, coach Robin McBryde revealed Saturday.

REACTION: South Africa 'A' captain Francois Venter believes that his side's 48-28 win over the French Barbarians is testament of the good change in South African Rugby.

MATCH REPORT: South Africa 'A' secured back-to-back victories against the French Barbarians with a 48-28 win in at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday.

HTS Daniël Pienaar go from the Uitenhage home to Grey High school in Port Elizabeth to play rugby.

PRE-MATCH BUILD-UP: The series may be won, but the Springboks are not about to go into 'cruise' mode. Jan de Koning reports.

JUNE INTERNATIONAL: Japan will be eager put their unbearable 22-50 defeat against Ireland behind them when the sides lock horns for their Second June Test on Saturday in Tokyo.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: Maritzburg College will go down to warmer Durban on the coast for 22 rugby matches as the sardines get closer to Durban

CLASSIC CLASH PREVIEW: It's not a long way up the Peninsula from Wynberg to SACS but it could ba a tough destination for the first XV this week.

JUNE INTERNATIONALS: Scotland would want to end their June Tour Test-series on a high when they lock horns with Fiji in Suva this Saturday.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: It will be tense at Paarl Boys' High on Saturday when Boland Landbou comes to play.

RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP VENUES: South African Rugby has confirmed that the Springboks will host the All Blacks at Newlands in Cape Town on October 7, 2017.

BRITISH AND IRISH LIONS TOUR: All Blacks captain Kieran Read left no room for argument on Friday about the first Test against the British and Irish Lions - New Zealand expect to win.

IN THE INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Wallabies coach Michael Cheika said he is expecting surprises from unpredictable Italy in Saturday's Test in Brisbane as the hosts grope for form after last week's surprise loss to Scotland.

INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: New Zealand-born Georgia coach Milton Haig fears a backlash from an Argentina team that has suffered five consecutive losses when they clash in a one-off Test on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Argentina coach Daniel Hourcade has chosen a new back row for a one-off Test against Georgia in the western city of San Salvador de Jujuy on Saturday.

WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION: Canada is hoping to continue its dominance over the United States in World Cup qualifying when they square off against the Eagles in the first leg of a two-game series in Hamilton, Ontario on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Loose forward Jack Dempsey is set to make his Wallabies debut, after he was named on the bench for Saturday's clash with Italy at Suncorp Stadium.

NEWS: Wallaby star Christian Lealiifano has made an emotional return 10 months after he was diagnosed with leukaemia.

JUNE SPOTLIGHT: Acclaimed rugby365 writer Paul Dobson gives us his take on the third and final test between the Springboks and Les Bleus.

REPORT: A two-try effort from Steffan Evans gave Wales a narrow 19-17 win over Samoa in Apia on Friday on a quagmire pitch.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: Twice a year, there is a trek along Tullyallen Road for matches in the Bishops-Rondebosch derby.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Orlando Stadium in Soweto, home of Orlando Pirates soccer club, is set to host a rugby spectacle as South Africa 'A' do battle against the French Barbarians on Friday.

JUNE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa have given their unconditional support to Australian referee Angus Gardner for their final June fling.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: After a successful Founder's day reunion, Kearsney College have to set sail to take on Westville Boys' High School on June 24.

INJURY UPDATE: Clermont's French international lock Arthur Iturria has been ruled out for four to six months to have a shoulder operation, the French Top 14 champions announced on Thursday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Italy head coach Conor O'Shea opted to change just three with the focus solely on continuity ahead of the Test against Australia in Brisbane on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Lions prop Ruan Dreyer will make his debut for the Springboks on Saturday in the final Test against France in Johannesburg.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: France have made three changes for the dead-rubber final Test against South African in Johannesburg Saturday, including recalling flyhalf Jules Plisson.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Fiji head coach John McKee has made five changes to the team, with Josua Tuisova, Mosese Ducivaki, Sikeli Nabou and John Stewart set to make their debut in front of their home crowd at the ANZ Stadium.

NEWS: Western Force have re-signed prop Shambeckler Vui for a further two seasons.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Hooker Ross Ford will become the most-capped Scotland player in history while centre Nick Grigg debuts in the national team's third and final June tour Test against Fiji this Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has made six changes to the side that will take on Japan at the Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo on Saturday.

IN THE INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Matt Sherratt has warned Wales they will face a brutally physical opening quarter when they meet Samoa in their second tour clash in Apia on Friday.

REACTION: British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland couldn't resist a dig at his All Blacks rival Steve Hansen on Thursday, saying he was happy to be "getting up his nose".

REACTION: The All Blacks believe they've cracked the code to beating the British and Irish Lions rushed defence, with coach Steve Hansen saying Thursday they have plans to outsmart their lightning line speed.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: A swarming red army of up to 30 000 British and Irish Lions fans are ready to party in New Zealand as the Test series against the world champion All Blacks looms.

Tauriq Ebrahim and Jan de Koning talk about the changes in the Springbok camp - both on and off the field - and why they are so successful at the moment.

NEWS: Todd Clever, the United States' most-capped senior test player and an 11-year professional, has announced he will retire from international rugby following the USA's World Cup 2019 Qualifier in San Diego July 1.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Stephen Moore returned to captain the Wallabies as coach Michael Cheika axed six players Thursday for this weekend's Test with Italy in Brisbane.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland's Peter O'Mahony, who led the Lions in their victory over the Maori All Blacks, has retained the captaincy for the first Test against New Zealand at Eden Park on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa 'A' coach Johan Ackermann believes that the Springboks have enough depth and talent in their ranks to select a team which will challenge for the 2019 World Cup in Japan. Josh Isaacson reports.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The All Blacks has handed Rieko Ioane his starting debut when he takes to the field on the left wing while Kieran Read returns to the back of the scrum to resume his captaincy role.

IN THE INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: The pain of being axed drove seasoned prop Coenraad Victor Oosthuizen to work harder than he has ever before.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The French Barbarians have made wholesale changes to their starting XV for their second International match against South Africa 'A' at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday. 

PROVINCIAL DUTY: Vusile Dlepu, the SACS captain, has been named the captain of the Western Province team for the 2017 Craven Week in Johannesburg.

TRANSFER NEWS: All Black centre Francis Saili has signed a contract with Premiership club the Harlequins from Munster.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard has been named on the bench of the South Africa 'A' side that will play against the French Barbarians at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Samoa head coach Namulauulu Alama Ieremia has made seven changes ahead of their Friday's Test against Wales at Apia Park.

TRANSFER NEWS: Bath have signed James Phillips, who is set to leave Bristol Rugby at the end of the 2017/18 season.

TOP14 SPOTLIGHT: Toulon have announced that it had increased its capital to  ensure it kept its place in the Top 14.

TRANSFER NEWS: Australian centre Mitchell Inman returned to the French Top 14 after signing for Oyonnax.

MORE THAN RUGBY: Inmates of a maximum security prison in Argentina are now seeking redemption through the rough and tumble of rugby.

LIONS TOUR SPOTLIGHT: British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland has vowed to "let the rugby do the talking" as his side prepares for a blockbuster first Test against the world champion All Blacks.

LIONS NZ TOUR: All Blacks captain Kieran Read has overcome a thumb injury and will face the British and Irish Lions in the first Test in Auckland.

TRANSFER NEWS: Western Force have re-signed scrumhalf Michael Ruru for two more seasons, after a strong start to his Super Rugby career playing nine games for the Western Australian club, including three run-on starts this season.

TRANSFER NEWS: Wasps have strengthened their forward pack with the signing of two props Paul Doran-Jones and David Langley, while loosehead Tom Bristow is confirmed to leave the Premiership side. 

IN THE INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: There is nothing sinister about the Springboks moving their captain and No.8 Warren Whiteley to blindside flank at scrum time.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ospreys lock Rory Thornton will make his international debut for Wales in Friday's Test against Samoa at Apia Park.

NEWS: Scarlets confirmed that centre Gareth Owen has been released from his current contract with the region to link up with Leicester Tigers.

IN THE INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Cynics believed the Springbok scrum would be no match for the French 'monsters'.

INJURY UPDATE: Springbok scrumhalf Ross Cronjé will miss the third and final Test against France on Saturday because of delayed concussion symptoms, the Springbok management confirmed on Tuesday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa 'A' coach Johan Ackermann has left a lasting legacy not only on his Lions team but also the SA 'A' team. Josh Isaacson reports.

NEWS: Sale Sharks have announced the latest in a wave of world class signings, as they confirm Australian International James O'Connor will join the club for the 2017/2018 season, on a three-year deal.

SUPER RUGBY NEWS: The Australian Rugby Union endorsed the decision to scrap one of the country's Super Rugby teams and stuck with its embattled chief executive Bill Pulver, who has been under pressure over the move.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: rugby365 columnist Ethienne Reynecke explains to us what the haka is really about in New Zealand.

NEWS: The Western Force confirmed the re-signing of lock Richard Arnold for the next two seasons.

SPRINGBOK SPOTLIGHT: Star loose forward Jaco Kriel is set to end an eight-month absence from the Springbok matchday squad this coming Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: Jack Nowell scored a sparkling try double as the British and Irish Lions ended their mid-week slump in style with a 34-6 win over the Chiefs Tuesday, just four days ahead of the first All Blacks Test.

NEWS: Australia coach Michael Cheika made a surprise call to an irate fan whose long rant about the misfiring team went viral on Facebook.

NEWS: Brumbies lock Blake Enever has re-signed with the franchise on a new three-year deal.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: rugby365 law guru Paul Dobson clears up what the referee means when he states "taken down by red."

It's the first Test between the B&I Lions and New Zealand this week with Jaco Peyper to referee it.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa 'A' captain Juan de Jongh has promised that his team and the French Barbarians will continue with their try-scoring antics when the two sides meet in the second match at the iconic Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday.

YOUTH WEEKS SPOTLIGHT: The Griffons from Northern Free State have selected the teams for the 2017 Youth Weeks.

INJURY UPDATE: Springboks' Jesse Kriel has recovered from concussion and is available for selection for Saturday's third Test against France in Johannesburg. Jan de Koning reports.

NEWS: South Africa have dropped to sixth in the latest world rankings, despite their victory over France in Durban last weekend.

In front of a large, festive crowd St Andrew's College finished the game off early against their cross-town rivals, running out eventual 72-5 victors.

NEWS: Former France international rugby player Eric Melville has died at the age of 55 after suffering a heart attack, his former team Toulon confirmed on Monday.

There are not many this weekend as most schools do not play rugby over long weekends.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: British and Irish Lions Test hopefuls will be giving everything they got against the Chiefs on Tuesday ahead of the first Test against New Zealand in Auckland on Saturday.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Kearsney hosted Maritzburg College on their Founders Weekend and concluded the day with a 32-7 victory regarded as one of their finest performances of the season.

There were few schools matches over the long weekend, but provinces used the opportunity to prepare for Craven Week.

TRANSFER NEWS: Wallaby debutant Richard Hardwick is eager to fill the boots of legendary Western Force flank Matt Hodgson after he re-signed for the 2018 Super Rugby season with the Force.

REACTION: Springbok head coach Allister heaped a lot of praise on centre Jan Serfontein and Siyamthanda Kolisi after the Boks secured a series victory against France in Durban on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Canterbury head coach Glenn Delaney has included four debutants in the starting XV that will defend the Ranfurly Shield against Wanganui on Wednesday.

NEWS: Japan back William Tupou has been handed a three-match ban for dangerous play in last weekend's home defeat by Ireland, Japanese officials said Monday.

REACTION: British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland has accused New Zealand players of illegal blocking and urged officials to clamp down on the tactic in this week's first Test against the All Blacks.

NEWS: Australian Rugby Union Chief Bill Pulver says he will resign immediately if an emergency general meeting this week calls for him to go, a report said Monday. 

INJURY UPDATE: British and Irish Lions backline star Owen Farrell has shaken off a thigh strain and will be available for the first Test against the All Blacks this weekend, coach Warren Gatland said.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Juarno Augustus of South Africa was named Player of the tournament at the end of World Rugbvy's Under-20 Championship.

WORLD U20 CHAMPIONSHIP REPORT: New Zealand's Under-20s reclaimed the World Under 20 Championship title with a powerful dissembling of England in a one-sided Final which resulted in a record 64-17 scoreline.

WORLD U20 CHAMPIONSHIP REPORT: Wales showed grit and determination to win a game that looked, for large parts, beyond them to claim seventh spot in the World U20 Championship with a 25-24 victory against Italy. 

INTERNATIONAL REPORT: Georgia ensured that the United States completed their international friendlies winless following their 21-17 victory at Kennesaw State University in Georgia.

WORLD U20 CHAMPIONSHIP: A second half blitz by the Junior Springboks ensured that they left the World U20 Championship with a bronze medal following their 37-15 victory over France in Tbilisi on Sunday.

WORLD U-20 CHAMPIONSHIPS REPORT: Scotland U20s emulated their senior counterparts by getting the better of Australia 24-17 to finish the World U-20 Championship in fifth place.

U20 WORLD CHAMPS REPORT: Conor Dean's 73rd-minute penalty edged the Ireland Under-20s to a 24-18 win over hosts Georgia in a pulsating 9th-10th place play-off at the U20 World Championship in Tbilisi.

REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones hailed his Test veterans and international rookies after a 2-0 Test series triumph in Argentina was achieved without many unavailable stars. 

NEWS: Springbok prop Frans Malherbe and loose forward Teboho Mohoje were issued citing commissioner warnings for foul play in the second test against France at Kings Park.

U-20 WORLD CHAMPS REPORT: Samoa has been relegated to the Trophy division after suffering a 40-53 defeat at the hands of Argentina.

There are not many results as there were not many matches because a long weekend in South Africa must, it seems, be religiously observed.

B&I TOUR NEWS: Ireland's Rory Best will become the fifth captain in six games for the British and Irish Lions on their New Zealand tour when he leads the side against the Chiefs in Hamilton on Tuesday.  

B&I TOUR NEWS: New Zealand cult hero Stephen Donald will lead the Chiefs against the British and Irish Lions in Hamilton on Tuesday. 

INJURY UPDATE: Wing Alex Cuthbert has been ruled out of the second Test of Wales' tour after suffering a shoulder ligament injury against Tonga at Eden Park.

INTERNATIONAL REPORT: Canada were beaten 9-25 by Romania in Edmonton on Saturday in their final game before their 2019 World Cup qualifying series.

INTERNATIONAL REACTION: Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has demanded greater urgency from his players and vowed team changes in the wake of their spluttering Test defeat to Scotland.

INTERNATIONAL REACTION: Captain John Barclay says Scotland are learning from their agonising defeats and are better equipped at closing out tight Tests after toppling the Wallabies in a famous victory in Australia.

B&I LIONS TOUR NEWS: A confident British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland celebrated the convincing win over the Maori All Blacks by claiming it was Steve Hansen who was "worried" a week before the first Test.

REACTION: South Africa coach Allister Coetzee praised the Springboks' 37-15 victory over France Saturday, but warned of challenges ahead after his side took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-Test series.

MATCH REPORT: England beat Argentina 35-25 in Santa Fe on Saturday to clinch the two-Test series 2-0.

OPINION: The Springboks again put in an all-round team performance with Siyamthanda Kolisi leading the physical onslaught in the second Test. 

OPINION: South African were just too good on the day and shut out the French flair with a physical performance to claim a series win. 

REACTION: Australia head coach Michael Chaika believes his side were just always on the backfoot during their 19-24 defeat to Scotland in Sydney on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: The Springboks have secured a series victory against France after a 37-15 win at Kings Park in Durban on Saturday.

LIONS TOUR REACTION: Coach Warren Gatland said Test spots to face the All Blacks were still up for grabs after the British and Irish Lions' 32-10 mauling of the Maori All Blacks on Saturday.

UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIP SPOTLIGHT: The two most successful teams in Under-20 Championships history,  New Zealand and England will contest the 2017 Championship final on Sunday, June 18.

NEWS: Wales flank Ross Moriarty was ruled out of the British and Irish Lions tour with a nerve injury on Saturday.

TEST MATCH REPORT: Ireland served Japan a brutal reality check as they crushed the Asian champions 50-22 on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: The British and Irish Lions issued a strong warning of their own, recording a comprehensive 32-10 win over New Zealand Maori in Rotorua on Saturday.

TEST MATCH REPORT: Fiji conjured a dramatic drop-goal after the full-time siren to defeat Italy 22-19 in a one-off Test in Suva on Saturday.

TEST MATCH REPORT: Scotland recorded their first ever win over Australia in Sydney when they beat then 24-19 on Saturday.

SIX NATIONS NEWS: France will host Italy in their Six Nations tie on February 23 next in Marseille, the first time a match in the tournament has been played outside the French capital.

REACTION: All Black coach Steve Hansen warned not to draw any conclusions about their comprehensive 78-0 thrashing of Samoa as his world champions set their sights on the British and Irish Lions.

NEWS: British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland has called up four players as the team prepare for the Test series against New Zealand.

NEWS: Highlanders assistant coach and former All Blacks centre Scott McLeod was named Saturday as the New Zealand national team's new defence coach.

NEWS: The New Zealand Rugby Union announced that players from New Zealand's Super Rugby franchises will be participating in an American National Football League funded study on the role of new active rehabilitation strategies in concussion management. 

UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIP NEWS: Junior Springbok No.8 Juarno Augustus has been named as one of five nominees for the U-20 Championship Player of the Tournament.

REACTION: South Africa 'A' coach Johan Ackermann was pleased with the performance of his team in their 36-28 victory over the French Barbarians at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday. 

FRENCH TOP 14 NEWS: Veteran Clermont centre Aurelien Rougerie will return next term for a 19th season with the Top 14 champions.

PRE-MATCH BUILD-UP: Springbok coach Allister Coetzee and captain Warren Whiteley expect a "huge onslaught" from France in the second Test on Saturday.

REPORT: It was by means a fluid performance but the South Africa 'A' team did enough to edge the French Barbarians 36-28 in a thrilling 10-try encounter in Durban.

NEWS: Argentinian lock Patricio Albacete signed for Racing 92 on Friday with the French Top 14 club also announcing the arrivals of Munster forward Donnacha Ryan and France wing Virimi Vakatawa.

REACTION: Wales further fuelled speculation Friday that the British and Irish Lions are about to call for reinforcements on the tour of New Zealand by saying they were waiting for the call to send players. 

UPDATE: The French Rugby Federation (FFR) has been reprimanded over the controversial substitution of prop Uini Atonio in the match with Wales on March 18, Six Nations Rugby said Friday.

Nick Berry of Australia has been appointed to World Rugby's Under-20 World Championship in Tbilisi.

REACTION: The All Blacks' 12-try demolition of Samoa was "just the start", coach Steve Hansen said Friday, warning the British and Irish Lions that his world champions can only get better. 

IN THE JUNE SPOTLIGHT: There are 827 days before the 2019 World Cup in Japan, but England coach Eddie Jones says time is running out for fringe players seeking seats on the Tokyo flight.

NEWS: Australian international wing Adam Ashley-Cooper has joined Kobelco Steelers following his release from French Top 14 side Bordeaux-Begles, the Japanese club said Friday.

NEWS: Ospreys Rugby announced that 21-year old outside half, Luke Price, has signed his first professional contract with his home region.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Ireland's jet-lagged players fear sapping heat could be a factor against Japan on Saturday after completing a light training session in scorching conditions.

MATCH REPORT: New Zealand started their 2017 campaign in perfect fashion - a 78-0 win over a hapless Samoa in Auckland on Friday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Eyes will be on Eto Nabuli when he dons the Australia jumper in his first international Test match againts Scotland on Saturday June 17.

IN THE JUNE SPOTLIGHT: At least the Springboks should go into this Test without fear of being disgraced. Paul Dobson looks at the second Test between South Africa and France.

MATCH REPORT: Wales left it late, but recorded a satisfactory 24-6 win over Tonga in a wet Auckland on Friday.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: This derby, Michaelhouse vs Hilton, is about more than just rugby.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: Kearsney will be enjoying their Founder's Day Reunion over this weekend and the main focus of interest will be the first XV match with Maritzburg College.

NEWS: Brumbies announce the re-signing of local product Jordan Jackson-Hope on a new two-year deal.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: It may just be the biggest day of the year in gentle, old Grahamstown.  

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Aaron Carpenter is set to become Canada's all-time caps leader as he will play in his 77th test match Saturday against Romania.

NEWS: Western Force legend and inaugural player Matt Hodgson announced his retirement from professional rugby after 12 spectacular seasons with the Western Australian side.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT UPDATE: Scott Sio is set to return from a knee injury after he was named amongst the reserves for Saturday's Test against Scotland in Sydney.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The spotlight will be firmly on Jonathan Sexton when the British and Irish Lions play the Maori All Blacks on Saturday, with the Lions unsure if top flyhalf Owen Farrell will be fit for the first Test.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Argentina coach Daniel Hourcade has made one change to the starting side for the second, series-deciding Test against England in northeastern city Santa Fe Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Malcolm Justin Marx readily admits he modelled his game on France-based World Cup-winning Springbok Bismarck du Plessis.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England coach Eddie Jones has made three changes to his team to face Argentina for the second and final Test in Santa Fe.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: To paraphrase a line from that well-known Robbie Williams song: Let us entertain you!

NEWS: Harlequins announced that Samoan international Elia Elia has committed his future to the club.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Lionel Mapoe will replace Jesse Kriel at outside centre in the only change to the Springbok line-up for the second Test against France in Durban on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland made six changes for this week's Japan Test, days after running riot against the United States in New Jersey.

JUNE INTERNATIONALS: Fiji coach John McKee has promised a "much improved" performance from his team when they host Italy in Suva on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wales centre Jamie Roberts is excited about the young talent on display for Wales when they face Tonga at Eden Park on Friday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: France made 10 changes to their starting XV for the second Test against South Africa, in Durban on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: All Blacks coach Steve Hansen took a swipe at the British and Irish Lions on Thursday, saying they had split into two squads and were about to call for reinforcements as the first Test looms.

INJURY UPDATE: Owen Farrell has suffered a grade one quadriceps strain in training and has been ruled out of the British & Irish Lions match against Maori All Blacks on Saturday.

NEWS: The Queensland Rugby Union has secured the services of three promising young backs, with Duncan Paia’aua, Izaia Perese and Hamish Stewart all committing to the Reds through 2019.

NEWS: Melbourne Rebels coach Tony McGahan will leave at the end of the Super Rugby season, the club said Thursday as he pays the price for the team's poor performances.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Scotland have been in scintillating form of late, beating Wales and Ireland during the Six Nations before defeating Italy 34-13 in Singapore last weekend.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wallabies captain Stephen Moore was overlooked for the second Test in a row Thursday, as Eto Nabuli was handed his debut against a Scottish team making eight changes after last week's thumping win against Italy.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Tour captain Sam Warburton has been relegated to the bench for the British and Irish Lions clash against the Maori All Blacks on Saturday, just a week before the first Test.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Maori All Blacks named nine New Zealand internationals Thursday in a strong side to take on the British and Irish Lions.

Springbok captain Warren Whiteley explains why the Springboks walked onto the field as opposed to running out ahead before the first Test against France at Loftus Versfeld.

Jan de Koning and Tauriq Ebrahim discuss some of the 'true champions' of the past fortnight and look ahead to the weekend's big matches!

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Sonny Bill Williams returns and Aaron Smith is restored as New Zealand's first-choice scrumhalf for Friday's clash with Samoa.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Veteran lock Arnaud Méla will play the last two matches of a long and distinguished career against South Africa A.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: The annual derby between St Andrew’s College, DSG, DSG Junior, St Andrew’s Prep and Kingswood College takes place from Wednesday, June 14 to Saturday, June 17.

MORE THAN RUGBY: The world calls him Toppy. The Springbok captain calls him Mr Hortop.

UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIP REACTION: Junior Springbok assistant coach Louis Koen reiterated that the team will not change their approach for the third-place play-off against France on Sunday

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok flyhalf Elton Jantjies may have been showered with praise for his performance, but he made it clear he is not a one-man band.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: With the June International Test series halting Super Rugby proceedings, the Golden Lions have opted to use the National Provincial Challenge to provide much-needed game time for their Super Rugby players.

U20 CHAMPIONSHIP REACTION: Junior Springboks coach Chean Roux shifts focus to France, as they prepare to finish in third-place at the Under-20 Championship.

TRANSFER NEWS: The Melbourne Rebels have secured Australian Under-20 scrumhalf Harrison Goddard for two years, signing until the end of 2019.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wales will field an exciting blend of experience and youth against Tonga at Eden Park this Friday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Samoa head coach Namulauulu Alama Ieremia has named a strong side for their first June Test against the All Blacks at Eden Park on Friday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South African Rugby Union have called a special General Meeting for next month to confirm which two South African Franchises will be axed from the 2018 Super Rugby competition.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The All Blacks are expecting a tough battle against Samoa on Friday, as they fine-tune their game ahead of the three-Test series against British and Irish Lions.

TRANSFER NEWS: Canberra-born flank Tom Cusack has re-signed with the Australian Super Rugby franchise the Brumbies as they continue their recruitment for the 2018 and 2019 season.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Frustrated British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland says his players must stop caving under pressure at key moments after "shooting themselves in the foot" in their latest defeat.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: South African 'A' coach, Johan Ackermann, on Wednesday, named seven Springboks in his 23-man squad to face the French Barbarians at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, June 16.

U20 CHAMPIONSHIP REPORT: New Zealand Under-20 set up a tantalising Final clash against England after they beat France 39-26 in the Championship semifinal on Tuesday.

U20 CHAMPIONSHIP WRAP: Georgia will meet Ireland after their secured a tremendous 26-25 win against Argentina in the ninth place semifinal on Tuesday.

U20 CHAMPIONSHIP REPORT: Defending Champions England were forced to work hard for a dramatic 24-22 win against the Junior Boks in the semifinals of the U20 Championship in Georgia.

Kearsney hosted the visitors from Bedfordview, Gauteng, in what can be described as perfect playing conditions, and won 64-22.

NEWS: Toulon will not seek to renew Leigh Halfpenny's contract because of his international commitments, according to the French club's President.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok assistant coach Franco Smith believes it will be a lot harder to break through France's defence when they meet in Durban for the second Test on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard will join the SA ‘A’ squad in Johannesburg on Sunday as a replacement for Francois Venter.

WIN WITH RUGBY365: You can win FREE tickets to watch South Africa take on France - courtesy of #BoksInASICS.

NEWS: Springbok scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar, a World Cup winner in 2007, has signed a three-year contract with Montpellier, the Top 14 club announced on Tuesday.

INJURY UPDATE: Stormers flyhalves Jean-Luc du Plessis and Robert du Preez will both play no further part in this year's Super Rugby competition.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok coach Allister Coetzee is determined to use specialists in their preferred positions as they look to wrap up the Test series against France.

MATCH REPORT: The Highlanders became the second New Zealand Super Rugby side to beat the British and Irish Lions with a thrilling 23-22 victory in Dunedin on Tuesday.

NEWS: Brumbies have bolstered their front row stocks for 2018 with the re-signings of props Nic Mayhew and Leslie Leulua'iali'i-Makin.

INJURY UPDATE: Scottish fullback Stuart Hogg was forced out of the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand Tuesday after tests showed he had suffered a bone fracture in his face.

NEWS: Former European Cup winning hooker Bernard Jackman is to be the coach of Welsh Pro12 outfit Newport Gwent Dragons.

NEWS: Clermont's France international scrum-half Morgan Parra has dropped legal action against fans who were filmed skinny dipping in his swimming pool after the club's Top 14 final victory.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Against Menlopark on Saturday, it took Klofies just over a minute to take the lead and for the rest of the match, they simply increased it.

Go behind-the-scenes with the three Barrett boys as they hit the gym and media session in the lead up to Samoa.

There are some excellent results for some schools, winning many matches across the board.

SCHOOLS REPORT: In a game that never reached the heights of last week St Andrew's College still managed to run out comfortable 37-11 winners against Pearson High School.

NEWS: Connacht and the IRFU announced the signing of prop Peter McCabe for the 2017/18 season.

WORLD RANKINGS UPDATE: The Springboks have started the long climb back towards the top of the table.

THE OFFICIAL IN THE MIDDLE: It's the middle week of the open window on Tests. There are lots of them.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Paul Roos beat the weather and Oakdale on Saturday, winning 27-10 in Stellenbosch.

INJURY UPDATE: Southern Kings prop Schalk van der Merwe is the latest casualty on the list of injured players for the PE side with a season-ending shoulder injury.

PROVINCIAL DUTIES: The Eastern Province Rugby Union have chosen the teams who are going to represent the province at the respective Youth Weeks, Craven Under-18, Academy week and Grant Khomo.

INJURY UPDATE: Springbok centre Jesse Kriel has been ruled out of the second Test against France.

UNDER-20 SPOTLIGHT: Who will blink first? The semifinals of the Junior World Championship are set to provide some enthralling and entertaining play.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: British and Irish Lions prop Kyle Sinckler wants to get in the faces of the Highlanders on Tuesday, but without the lack of discipline that has often landed him in trouble.

NEWS: Harlequins on Monday announced that James Horwill has been appointed as Harlequins captain from the 2017/18 season.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Graeme College secured a hard-fought 18-11 win against arch-rivals Queen's College on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The British and Irish Lions will be looking to score more tries when they face the Highlanders on Tuesday.

REACTION: South Africa are expecting a 'helluva backlash' from France when the teams meet in the second Test in Durban this coming Saturday.

REACTION: The Springboks have a reputation as 'bruisers', but it is their athleticism that mostly caught the French offside.

REACTION: Head coach Joe Schmidt refrained from heaping too much praise on Ireland following their comfortable 55-19 win over the United States on Saturday.

SCHOOL REPORT: As they did against Bishops a few weeks ago SACS scored at the death to draw with another of their traditional Southern Suburbs rivals, Rondebosch Boys’ High School.

REACTION: England coach Eddie Jones justified calling up New Zealand-born former Rugby League star Denny Solomona by saying he possessed the X-factor. 

NEWS: Junior Springbok captain Ernst van Rhyn hopes to see his team continue building on the character they showed in their opening three Under-20 Championship matches when they face England in the semifinal on Tuesday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Warringah Rats player, Lachlan Ward has passed away during a match at Pittwater Rugby Park on Saturday.

The match officials have been appointed to the second-last round of World Rugby's 2017 Under-20 World Championships, including the two semifinals.

REPORT: FullbackMerab Kvirkashvili scored all Goergia's points for their 13-0 win against Canada on Saturday in rainy conditions at Calgary Rugby Park.

With exams, holidays looming, an end of a season for some and Youth Weeks looming, there are few of matches.

REPORT: Keith Earls scored two tries and had three assists as Ireland opened their summer tour with a 55-19 victory over a the spirited United States in New Jersey.

INJURY UPDATE: All Blacks Jerome Kaino has returned from injury and will be available against Samoa, while captain Kieran Read and flyhalf Aaron Cruden have been ruled out of New Zealand's Test.

LIONS TOUR REACTION: Warren Gatland believes his British and Irish Lions' 12-3 victory over the Crusaders has struck a blow against critics who wrote off their tour of New Zealand.

REACTION: The Wallabies are expecting a set-piece challenge from Scotland in their next outing after disposing of Fiji in their Test season opener, coach Michael Cheika said.

TRANSFER NEWS: The Melbourne Rebels have signed Australian Sevens star Henry Hutchison for the 2018 and 2019 Super Rugby seasons.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT:  Wales flank Sam Warburton has returned from injury to lead a confident British and Irish Lions in their fourth tour match against the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Tuesday.

REACTION: Fiji showed glimpses of their potential in going down 14-37 to Australia in Melbourne on Saturday, as head coach John McKee said he was looking ahead to next month's World Cup qualifiers.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: All Blacks Liam Coltman, Lima Sopoaga and Waisake Naholo have all been made available for the Highlanders when they take on the British & Irish Lions in a historic match.

REACTION: Springbok coach Allister Coetzee is adamant his team has 'closed the door' on the disaster that was the 2016 season and are moving in the right direction.

OPINION: France did not have enough firepower to compete with a fired-up Springbok outfit on Saturday.

OPINION: An 80-minute performance by the Springboks proved to be too good for the visiting French side. 

REPORT: Scotland kicked off their mid-year tour in grand style on Saturday, thumping Italy 34-13 at Singapore's National Stadium in the team's first outing under new coach Gregor Townsend.

MATCH REPORT: Substitute wing Denny Solomona scored a 79th-minute try to give England a 38-34 triumph over Argentina on Saturday in a thrilling first Test of a two-international series. 

MATCH REPORT: The Springboks got their international season off to a perfect start with a 37-14 win over France in Pretoria on Saturday.

SCHOOLS REPORT: In the last two minutes of this ancient rivalry between Dale and Grey High, the lead changed twice, and the second time was a winner.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Paul Roos had to deal with more than a feisty Oakdale during their 27-10 victory in Stellenbosch as the rain turned the field into a mud bath.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Waterkloof were in a rampant mood and proved why they are ranked inside the top 10 of our famous Top 20 when they coasted to a 46-21 victory over Menlopark on Saturday.

NEWS: World Cup-winning former Springbok coach Jake White, as he did at Montpellier in France, is loading up on South African players at Verblitz in Japan.

MATCH REPORT: Japan ground out a 33-21 victory over Romania on Saturday in the first of three home Tests against opponents they are set to face at the next World Cup.

REPORT: The British and Irish Lions bounced back from their mid-week defeat to grind out a hard-fought 12-3 victory over the Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday.

NEWS: World Rugby expressed their happiness by the International Olympic Committee executive board's decision to retain rugby for the 2024 Olympic Games programme.

INJURY UPDATE: Star Chiefs flyhalf Aaron Cruden could be in doubt for the much-touted Test series between New Zealand and the British & Irish Lions.

MATCH REPORT: Australia hardly got out of second gear, but that was all they required as they beat a sloppy Fijian team 37-14 in Melbourne on Saturday.

PRE-MATCH BUILD-UP: Not only is South Africa a diverse country, but the Springboks reflect that diversity as a national team.

INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Ireland coach Joe Schmidt will run the rule over a fresh crop of players on Saturday as the Six Nations side prepare for a one-off Test against the United States in New Jersey.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok legend John Philip 'Bakkies' Botha spend some time with the Springboks and stated he is keen to see the new era of Springboks go up against France at at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Saturday.

NEWS: Stuart Townsend admits he is still coming to terms with being crowned a Premiership champion with club side Exeter Chiefs.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: It's Bishops turn. That turn could be seen in two ways as they await the annual coming of Paarl Boys' High.

Both of these East London schools take their rugby seriously and wander wide to keep playing.

CRAVEN WEEK ANNOUNCEMENT: The Golden Lions Rugby Union, who host the Under-18 Craven Week at St Stithians College from July 17-22 in Johannesburg, has named their squads for the Youth Weeks.

Paarl Gim go the short distance to the Farm to play Boland Landbou, an intense Paarl Derby.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Junior Springbok backline coach Mzwandile Stick said England would pose a different challenge to Argentina in the World Rugby Under-20 Championship semifinal in Tbilisi on Tuesday.

Grey High School travel some 250 km from Port Elizabeth  to King William's Town to play old friends Dale College.

NEWS: Edinburgh confirmed the signing of centre Robbie Fruean on a two-year deal.

INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: England skipper and hooker Dylan Hartley has hailed the young "terriers" in a severely depleted squad ahead of the first Test against Argentina in San Juan Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: All Blacks great John Kirwan has dismissed claims that British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland is one-dimensional, saying his former teammate brings an "X-factor" to the touring squad.

Menlopark will go all of three kilometres to play rivals Waterkloof in a match to be streamed live.

Now this is another interesting match when Riversdale comes down to Stellenbosch, stormy weather of another kind.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Coach Michael Cheika said veteran code-hopper Karmichael Hunt had earned his chance with Australia after overcoming the "hardship" of a cocaine scandal at the start of his rugby career.

LET THE TEST BEGIN: Paul Dobson, in his unique way, looks towards the first Test between the Springboks and France at Loftus Versfeld. 

NEWS: Lions players Lourens Erasmus and Ruan Combrinck will both join Japan-based clubs during the 2017 Currie Cup season.

NEWS: Experienced Springbok centre Juan de Jongh was on Friday named captain of the South African ‘A’ team by coach Johan Ackermann for the two-match series against a strong French Barbarians team.

SUPER RUGBY REPORT: The Chiefs recorded a hard-fought 17-14 win over the Hurricanes in Wellington on Friday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Flyhalf Owen Farrell knows he must recreate his sparkling form for England to get the faltering British and Irish Lions back to winning ways against the Crusaders in Christchurch.

TEAM ANNOUMNCEMENT: Argentina coach Daniel Hourcade made eight changes to his team to face England in San Juan on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Rhys Ruddock  will lead Ireland into battle, when they face the United States Eagles in Harrison, New Jersey, on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England coach Eddie Jones named four rookies to take on Argentina in the first Test in San Juan on Saturday.

REACTION: Allister Coetzee feels using the Lions to make up the 'spine' of the Springbok team, gives the side a "good synergy".

EXCLUSIVE: rugby365 law guru Paul Dobson analyses one of the major talking points from the match between the Blues at the British and Irish Lions.

NEWS: Reigning champions Saracens face the toughest defence of their European Champions Cup title after they were drawn on Thursday with beaten finalists Clermont.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Jules Plisson will be in charge of the French attack when they face the Springboks at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Saturday.

U20 CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND THREE WRAP: The Junior Springboks look in fine form for the play-off match against England, after they defeated Argentina 72-14 in Round three of the U20 Championship Cup in Georgia. 

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Springbok coach Allister Coetzee has included four uncapped players in his starting XV for their clash against France in Pretoria on Saturday.

NEWS: Springboks and Blue Bulls flyhalf Handré Pollard will return to the field when his side face the Falcons in the National Provincial Challenge on Friday.

REACTION: New Zealand coach Steve Hansen on Thursday said he was expecting the "kitchen sink" from the British and Irish Lions - but scoffed at suggestions the All Blacks weren't much better than a Super Rugby team.

IN THE SUPER RUGBY SPOTLIGHT: While all others prepare for the International Test Series, the Hurricanes meet the Chiefs at the Westpac Stadium in the only Super Rugby match in Round 16.

REACTION: The composer of the Blues' haka defended the war dance Thursday after critics complained it included a throat-slitting gesture that was offensive to victims of the London terror attacks.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Fiji head coach John McKee has named a powerful side for their clash against the Wallabies in Melbourne.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Gregor Townsend faces a tricky start to his reign as Scotland coach against Italy at Singapore's National Stadium on Saturday in the first Test between two top-tier nations in Southeast Asia.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Brumbies hooker Josh Mann-Rea has re-sign a new contract which will see his stay in the nation’s capital for a further two years after racking up his 50th appearance for the franchise in 2017.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Three times tourist Alun Wyn Jones will lead the British and Irish Lions into their third Tour match against the Crusaders at AMI Stadium on Saturday.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Crusaders have turned their clash with the British and Irish Lions on Saturday into a dress rehearsal for the All Blacks tight five ahead of the first Test. 

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Skipper Stephen Moore was dropped Thursday for the Wallabies clash against Fiji with veteran hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau preferred in a team featuring two players on their debut including code-hopper Karmichael Hunt.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: Māori All Blacks Head Coach Colin Cooper has named an experienced squad to play the British and Irish Lions in Rotorua next Saturday.

SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT: All Blacks coach Steven Hansen said star hooker Dane Coles could miss the British and Irish Lions series with concussion as he included a number of injured players in a 33-man squad on Thursday.

NEWS: South African lock Hendrik Roodt has joined Lyon from relegated Grenoble, the Top 14 club said.

NEWS: Canadian lock Jamie Cudmore summoned former club Clermont to summary court proceedings over being forced to play despite two head knocks.

B&I TOUR REACTION: Centre Robbie Henshaw is confident that the British & Irish Lions have plenty positives to take away from their 16-22 defeat against the Blues in Auckland.

UNDER-20 SPOTLIGHT: The race for the semifinal places is still wide open after Round two of the U20 Championship 2017 in Georgia.

JUNE SERIES SPOTLIGHT: Seasoned Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth will not tone down his physical approach to the game, despite the perception that he is a yellow card magnet.

SQUAD UPDATE: Southern Kings flank Chris Cloete, who was initially withdrawn from the South Africa 'A' squad due to a suspension, will now rejoin the squad to play the French Barbarians.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: New Scotland coach Gregor Townsend made nine changes to the team for their opening match of the June series.

CURRIE CUP NEWS: The defending Currie Cup champions, the Free State Cheetahs, will kick off the 2017 season on Friday, July 21, when they host the Sharks in Bloemfontein.

NEWS: The ongoing stand-off between the Australian Rugby Union and the two franchises earmarked to be axed from Super Rugby took a new twist.

LIONS TOUR REPORT: The British and Irish Lions suffered a humiliating 16-22 defeat at the hands of the Blues in their second tour match in New Zealand. 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Plaudits flowed in for a 'young' Julian Savea, who will play his 100th Super Rugby match - when the Hurricanes take on the Chiefs on Friday.

TEAM UPDATE: The Blues axed lock Patrick Tuipulotu from their match against the British and Irish Lions for disciplinary reasons., raising questions over his All Blacks Test spot.

CLASSIC CLASH REPORT: In their Classic Clash in Tzaneen, Ben Vorster gathered impetus and points to eventually win 41-24 against arch-rivals Pietersburg.

INJURY UPDATE: Springbok No.8 Duane Vermeulen has been ruled out of his team's three-Test series against France because of a shoulder injury. 

There are deciding matches in the last of the pool rounds of World Rugby's Under-20 Championship with semifinal places on the line.

JUNE TESTS BUILD-UP: The Springbok catchphrase this week has been 'team culture'. However, it is the 'tweaks' to their gameplan that will be most revealing. Jan de Koning reports.

NEWS: Australian international forward Leroy Houston has signed a two-year deal with his former Top 14 club Bordeaux-Begles from Queensland Reds, the French club confirmed on Tuesday.

NEWS: Bath Academy prop Beno Obano has been promoted to the senior squad ahead of the 2017/18 season, with Darren Atkins and Rory Jennings both agreeing one-year extensions with the club.

NEWS: Worcester Warriors Chairman Bill Bolsover announced a new management structure at the club, which will see Chief Executive Jim O'Toole step down from his role at the end of June.

INTERVIEW: Junior Springbok No.8 Juarno Augustus is living his dream at the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he is enjoying the honour of representing his country for the first time.

NEWS: Stade Francais' Craig Burden has been suspended for two weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing arising from his club's Champions Cup Play-off final against Northampton Saints at Franklin's Gardens.

REACTION: British and Irish Lions attack coach Rob Howley slapped down talk of 'Warrenball' tactics on Tuesday as he admitted the tourists were a "work in progress".

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The British and Irish Lions know that they will have to shift to a higher gear if they are to beat the Blues at Eden Park on Wednesday.

INJURY UPDATE: Lock Brodie Retallick joined the All Blacks' growing sick list Tuesday ahead of the British and Irish Lions Test series after showing signs of concussion.

NEWS: A series of challenges from New Zealand's Super Rugby teams will be unveiled when the sides face off against the British & Irish Lions in the New Zealand Lions Series. 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok coach Allister Coetzee may not be a master winemaker, but he says he knows a good blend when he sees one.

NEWS: The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) confirmed that Rob Simmons will not be re-signed with the Reds for the 2018 Super Rugby season.

NEWS: England lock Geoff Parling has signed to play for the Melbourne Rebels in 2018, the team said Tuesday, even though they are one of two Australian Super Rugby franchises facing the axe.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Being with The British and Irish Lions has made Christian Stander feel like a kid all over again.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Hoërskool Monument left Krugersdorp for the warmer climes of the Natal coast to play Glenwood High on their Dixon Field.

WIN WITH RUGBY365: You can win FREE tickets to watch South Africa take on France - courtesy of #BoksInASICS.

Perhaps the most interesting set of results are those of matches between Paarl Boys' High and Oakdale, in which Oakdale we especially competitive at 1st XV, Under-16A, Under-14A and under.

NEWS: Junior Springbok flank Zain Davids was handed a two-match suspension on Monday for striking a player in the team's World Rugby Under-20 Championship clash against Georgia on Sunday.  

JUNE TEST SERIES: Last year the lynch mob failed in their quest to rid the Springboks of Allister Coetzee. Jan de Koning reports why the Bok coach won't be so lucky this year.

June is busting out all over. It's time for Tests all right. In November, the Tests are in the North, in June in the South.In November, the Tests are in the North, in June in the South.

SUPER RUGBY SPOTLIGHT: Players from the Chiefs dominate our Super Rugby Team of the Week for Round 15.

NEWS: The Northern Hemisphere is waiting in anticipation for the draws of the Championship Cup and Challenge Cup.

REACTION: Junior Springboks assistant coach Louis Koen, who also fulfils the role as SA Rugby’s acting High Performance Manager, was pleased with the team's leadership during their win against Georgia.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Coming off their wonderful victory over Paarl Gim last week there was the possibility that SACS may be complacent going into their match against Durbanville High.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Scotland are "desperate" to build on the results achieved under Vern Cotter, new head coach Gregor Townsend said Monday, ahead of his first Test match against Italy.

INJURY UPDATE:: Paul Jedrasiak was on Monday called up for France's tour of South Africa in place of Clermont teammate Arthur Iturria, with flyhalf François Trinh-Duc also getting the nod.

INJURY UPDATE: The loss of veteran loose forward Duane Vermeulen has robbed South Africa of the chance to field their best team against France. Jan de Koning reports.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Hilton College hosted Kearnsey and secured a 17-8 victory in ideal Midlands conditions.

B&I LIONS SPOTLIGHT: Coach Warren Gatland has given the British and Irish Lions free rein to express themselves under new captain Ken Owens as he seeks a much-improved performance against the Blues on Wednesday.

SEVENS NEWS: England secured the Challenge Trophy and ninth place after beating Wales 21-17 in the final of the first tournament of the 2017 Rugby Europe Sevens Series which took place in Moscow over  the weekend.

SCHOOLS REPORT: A late try by scrumhalf Oscar Evans made sure St Andrew's College secured a dramatic 41-36 win over Grey High School at the Lower Field on Saturday.

SEVENS NEWS: Five future young stars have comit their futures to the Australia Sevens side with the focus on Tokyo Olympics.

SCHOOLS REPORT: Graeme College cruised to a comfortable 46-10 victory against Nico Malan on Saturday.

NEWS: Japan's Rugby World Cup star Ayumu Goromaru will return to Japanese Top League side Yamaha Jubilo after a frustrating spell at French Top 14 club Toulon, the fullback said Monday.

REACTION: Toulon's outgoing coach Richard Cockerill claimed he had no regrets that Leigh Halfpenny abandoned his team to join the British and Irish Lions despite losing the Top 14 Final to Clermont.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Ireland star Christiaan Stander will start in the No.8 jersey for the British and Irish Lions against the Blues at Eden Park on Wednesday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Coach Michael Cheika has vowed the Wallabies will lift the spirits of the Australian game amid a demoralising Super Rugby campaign in this week's start to the international Test season.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Blues placed a question mark over Sonny Bill Williams as they named their side to play the British and Irish Lions on Wednesday.

OPINION: Has Springbok Allister Coetzee evolved enough to ensure he won't repeat the errors of 2016? Jan de Koning reports.

TOP 14 FINAL REPORT: Clermont finally held firm when it mattered most, beating Toulon 22-16 in Paris on Sunday to win the French championship.

JUNIOR WORLD CUP ROUND TWO WRAP: The Junior Springboks leapt to the top of Pool C when they defeated tournament hosts Georgia 38-14 in a match that saw eight tries, three yellow cards and a red card.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The British and Irish Lions, still licking their wounds from a disappointing opening tour match, are waiting anxiously to see how steep the challenge will get in the build-up to the Tests.

SCHOOLS SPOTLIGHT: Westville may well be the surprise of the week after beating DHS whose star was in the ascendant.

REACTION: The British and Irish Lions copped strident flak for their unconvincing 13-7 win over a Provincial Barbarians side in their New Zealand tour opener in Whangarei at the weekend.

REACTION: The British and Irish Lions players expressed shock and sympathy Sunday for those killed and injured in the London terror attacks.

NEWS: The board of the Melbourne Rebels Rugby Union revealed that Baden Stephenson is the new Chief Executive Officer.

REACTION: The British and Irish may have been widely rubbished for a sub-par performance in their New Zealand tour opener, but they won respect for restoring old school values in a professional era.

INJURY UPDATE: Samu Kerevi and Nick Phipps are out of Australia's three June internationals.

TOP 14 NEWS: Mathieu Bastareaud says he's been kipping more than he's used to as his Toulon side prepare to face Clermont in Sunday's Top 14 final.

TOP 14 SPOTLIGHT: Clermont have learned from their heartbreaking European Cup defeat to Saracens and are ready to make amends in Sunday's Top 14 final against Toulon, France international Camille Lopez warned.

UNDER-20 SPOTLIGHT: It may only by the second Round of the Under-20 Championship 2017, but some teams already find themselves in the last chance saloon with victories a must on Sunday if they are to keep their hopes of reaching the semifinals alive.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Junior Springboks coach Chean Roux made nine changes to his team to face Georgia in their second U20 Championship pool match at the Avchala Stadium in Tbilisi on Sunday, as the side prepares for another physical encounter.

NEWS: The Springboks have turned to South African Test referee Jaco Peyper to assist with advice ahead of their Test series against France.

TOP 14 PREVIEW: Wallabies duo Matt Giteau and Drew Mitchell are amongst the "last of the Mohicans" looking to sign off their Toulon careers with one more trophy as the Top 14 comes to a climax in Paris on Sunday.

REACTION: The British and Irish Lions admitted to having "plenty to work on" after a scrappy New Zealand tour opener where they struggled to a 13-7 win over a New Zealand Provincial Barbarians side on Saturday.

SCHOOLS RESULTS:  Helpmekaar Kollege of Johannesburg were forced to dig deep to register a narrow 28-27 win against arch-rivals Hoërskool Garsfontein of Pretoria on Saturday.

SUPER RUGBY REPORT: The Hurricanes produced a strong performance late in the second-half to beat the Western Force 34-12 in Perth on Saturday.

NEWS: Clermont flyhalf Camille Lopez will not join up with the France squad for their upcoming tour of South Africa, instead being rested after a long season, his coach Guy Noves said on Saturday.

SUPER RUGBY REPORT: The Brumbies have qualified for this year's Super Rugby play-offs after a 32-3 bonus-point win over the Melbourne Rebels in Canberra on Saturday.

SCHOOL RESULTS: Paarl Gymnasium avoided a second successive defeat when their secured a comfortable 44-24 win against Bishops on Saturday.

LIONS TOUR REPORT: The British and Irish were made to work hard for their 13-7 win over the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians at Toll Stadium in Whangarei.

SUPER RUGBY REPORT: The Chiefs got back to winning ways with a 46-31 win over the Waratahs in Hamilton on Saturday.

SUPER RUGBY REPORT: A magical drop goal by Mitchell Hunt after the full-time hooter sounded gave the Crusaders a thrilling 25-22 win over the Highlanders in Christchurch.

NEWS: Former England captain Chris Robshaw should be fit for the first of the two Test series with Argentina.

NEWS: South Africa international scrumhalf Enrico Januarie has signed for French Top 14 new boys Agen for next season.

The match officials for Round 2 of World Rugby's Under-20 Championship, to be played in Georgia on Sunday, have been announced.

INJURY UPDATE: All Black hooker Dane Coles is in a race against time to be fit to start the British and Irish Lions Test series.

REACTION: Reds coach Nick Stiles was noticeably upset that his side let another victory slip away.

NEWS: Kenyan rugby sevens star Willy Ambaka has joined New Zealand's top provincial club Manawatu Turbos, becoming the first east African to play professional rugby in Oceania.

INJURY UPDATE: Muller Uys and Jondre Williams  will join the Junior Springboks as injury replacemnets for Nama Xaba and Rewan Kruger.  

Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool, founded in 1920, and Hoërskool Waterkloof, founded in 1979, have become ardent rivals, usually battling it out for the top Pretoria spot.

SCHOOLS SPOTLIGHT:  An schoolboy player was suspended for 12 weeks for a  shoulder-charge on the match official on May 20 in Middelburg.

SCHOOLS PREVIEW: Grey High of Port Elizabeth and St Andrew's College of Grahamstown meet in Grahamstown on Saturday.

PROVINCIAL DUTY: The Blue Bulls rugby union have chosen their provincial sides that are going to represent the province at the 2017 Youth Weeks.