Opinion News

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

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

OPINION: It was by no means perfect.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SPOTLIGHT: New Zealand's dramatic slide in standard is reflected in their drop on the World Rugby rankings.

SUPER RUGBY UNLOCKED SPOTLIGHT: Reader Sean Bagley entertains us with his weekly view of who the best performing players were.

SPOTLIGHT: Ian Cameron looks into how South Africa's inactivity will affect the Springboks'No.1 world ranking.

OPINION: One can only presume that the Italians watched the Pumas upset win over New Zealand earlier in the day, such was the ferocity of their performance in Florance.

OPINION: England got their Nations Cup up and running on Saturday afternoon with a comprehensive 40-0 win over Georgia, putting themselves in a strong position to make a run at the title over the coming weeks.

SUPER RUGBY UNLOCKED WEEK FIVE: @rugby365com reader Sean Bagley is back with his weekly contribution to your entertainment.

WORLD RANKINGS UPDATE: There is some benefit for South Africa sitting on the sidelines.

OPINION: Nations Cup is finally here and with it, the beginning of the new international season and a fresh crop of youngsters to watch as they forge careers for themselves in the Test arena.

OPINION: One week is a long time in test rugby.

OPINION: After a draw and two solid wins, everyone expected the All Blacks to record another crushing victory over the Wallabies in Brisbane on Saturday.

OPINION: Finding the right captain for your team is a unique challenge that faces every coach. Jake White gives us an insight into his thoughts.

WORLD RANKINGS NEWS: There were some significant changes to the world rankings, following the weekend's internationals.

OPINION: Mike Rehu rates the New Zealand players after their record 43-5 win over Australia in Bledisloe Cup Three this weekend.

OPINION: Liam Heagney rates the England players after their successfull trip to Rome!

OPINION: Liam Heagney rates the Ireland players after they failed miserably in Paris against a classy French team.

OPINION: Finn Morton rates the Australian players after their record 5-43 loss to New Zealand in the third Bledisloe Cup Test at the weekend.

WATCH as we bring you highlights from the array of international and domestic action at the weekend.

OPINION: @rugby365 columnist and two-time World Rugby Junior Championship winner Eugene Eloff takes a look at the dramatic decline in refereeing standards in South Africa.

WATCH as World Cup-winning Springbok Handre Pollard opens up about his life, injury and reports of his 'big' income.

OPINION: It has been three weeks since the Super Rugby Unlocked kicked off and there is some amazing talent on show.

OPINION: RugbyPass scribe Hamish Bidwell takes a look at how easy - or difficult - it is to beat the All Blacks.

STAT ATTACK: We are only two games into Super Rugby Unlocked, but the Cheetahs and their players are already making some big statements with their performances on the field.

WATCH: In the latest episode of Couch Commentary, Springbok legend Bryan Habana makes a remarkable admission of a record he holds that he doesn't really like.

OPINION: Dave Rennie’s Wallabies were handsomely defeated 7-27 at Eden Park, Auckland by a disciplined All Black outfit who revelled in the mistake-riddled Wallaby performance.

OPINION: The All Blacks were looking for a better performance against the Wallabies after the 16-all draw last weekend in Wellington.

SPOTLIGHT: Yet another South African scrumhalf is making waves with his performances on the field.

OPINION: Rugbypass columnist Campbell Burnes looks at why All Blacks refused to utilise the drop gaol during the draw against the Wallabies.

JAKE'S JUDGMENT: In his first column for TheXV World Cup-winning coach Jake White believes a broken game can be fixed with a return to old-school values.

OPINION: It is not new to South African rugby, but some players just seem to polarise opinion. Damian Willemse is certainly a polarising figure.

WATCH: There's nothing quite like a perfectly timed tackle to get pumped up for the weekend's plethora of matches.

OPINION: The Wallabies have announced themselves as a side of the future after working themselves to exhaustion in their 16-all draw with the All Blacks in Wellington. Nick Turnbull rates the Australian players.

OPINION: International rugby made a welcome return as the All Blacks took on Australia in Wellington. Mike Rehu rates the New Zealand players!

WATCH: This video showing a player being sent off in an Under-8 rugby league match is going viral.

COMPETITION TIME: Win one of two copies of Lloyd Burnard's latest book, Miracle Men on How Rassie's Springboks Won The World Cup.

WATCH: You have got to feel bad for these defenders who were completely sold by their opponents' dummies.

WATCH: Former England teammates James Haskell and Joe Marler are currently going head to head in a war of words to see who will come out on top.

A 9 minute video of aerial mayhem showing some of the most brutal and dangerous collisions in the air

OPINION: Tom Vinicombe takes a look at the consequences of South Africa's move north - to a European-based competition and away from SANZAAR.

WATCH as we bring you a humorous take on the players in the recent Pro14 Final between Leinster and Ulster.

SPOTLIGHT: "Fellow South Africans, the cabinet decided that the country should move to alert Level 1."

OPINION: @rugby365 columnist and two-time World Rugby Junior Championship winner Eugene Eloff takes a look at how officials in the Eastern, Southern and Western Cape let the game down.

WATCH: In anticipation of rugby returning to South Africa, we bring you a compilation of some of the most unstoppable mauls that ended in points on the board.

VIDEO: Before Eben Etzebeth there was Bakkies Botha.

OPINION: Jan de Koning takes a look at the next big decision that will pave the way for the future success or failure of Western Province rugby.

WATCH as retired England internationals James Haskell and Dylan Hartley explain the brutal tally the game has taken on their bodies.

OPINION: Dave Rennie has named his first Wallabies squad as head coach, selecting just 16 of the 31 players from last year’s Rugby World Cup in favour of the next wave of talent.

OPINION: Jan de Koning takes a look at the systemic problems facing the Southern Kings and asks if they can rise like the proverbial phoenix from the ashes from what appears to be their Armageddon.

OPINION: The infamous contretemps in rugby circles in the Western Cape is redoubtable for its fractionalizing effect.

SPOTLIGHT: RugbyPass reporter Michael Pulman takes a look at the challenges facing New Zealand's National Provincial Championship.

WATCH: Thomas Ramos is all the rage in France after his magical pass started an exceptional Toulouse counter-attack but is this pass better than All Blacks legend Carlos Spencer?

OPINION: Former England flyhalf and Rugbypass columnist Andy Goode weighs in on Owen Farrell's latest reckless tackle incident.

OPINION: You would struggle to find too many individual campaigns that top that of the one turned in by Pieter-Steph du Toit last year, as the gifted blindside flank set new standards at his position.

OPINION: @rugby365 columnist and two-time World Rugby Junior Championship winner Eugene Eloff looks at the latest Sturm und Drang of the game we so dearly love.

VIDEO: BlitzBok stalwart Werner Kok and his Sharks teammates put on their dancing shoes to join in the craze of the Jerusalema Challenge.

Commentators make the viewing experience that much better and when they're "in the zone" they can make any game better.

STAT ATTACK: It is only a matter of time before Crusaders' young star Will Jordan puts on an All Black jersey.

South Africa's Cabous Eloff got hearts racing in Australia compliments of a wardrobe malfunction while Samoa's Melani Nanai's return to the playing field lasted less than 20 minutes.

STAT ATTACK: Robert du Preez received plenty of criticism when he was playing in South Africa.

The Royal Marines Fitness Test is a gruelling challenge that will push anyone to their breaking points and Namibian International Lesley Klim has posted a video of him taking on the challenge and passing it with flying colours.

OPINION: Tom Vinicombe looks at why a trans-Tasman competition could be another failed venture.

OPINION: Finn Morton looks at the top five performers from Round five of the Super Rugby Australia.

Our go-to source for unique video content has come up with an amazing list of the Greatest All-Time XV to have ever graced the international stage.

OPINION: Hamish Bidwell looks at why there is still suspicion over Ian Foster's appointment as All Blacks head coach.

SPOTLIGHT: Alex McLeod looks at the top five performers from Round Seven of Super Rugby Aotearoa.

SPOTLIGHT: With the international calendar still very much in limbo, SA Rugby has entertained the idea of a State of Origin three-match series.

Wiehan van der Riet, who goes by the name of 'rocketfoot' posted a video onto his social media pages where he slots a placekick from around 80 metres.

BATTLE OF THE AGES: There have been a couple of ideas going around on how SA Rugby can formulate rugby matches involving the country's best talent later this year.

SPOTLIGHT: Former Springboks captain Mahlatse 'Chiliboy' Ralepelle's latest eight-year doping ban has again shined a light on the ugly reality of the sporting code.

THE LAW OF CHOICES AND DECISIONS: @rugby365 columnist and two-time World Rugby Junior Championship winner Eugene Eloff gives some sage advice to young players and coaches.

Crusaders flyhalf Richie Mo’unga produced a moment of magic which helped turn the tide during his team's blockbuster clash against the Blues.

There is a version of rugby played in Italy where brawls and off-the-ball scuffles are part and parcel of the game.

Damian McKenzie had it all as a schoolboy rugby player, all of which made him a five-star flyhalf prospect for Christ’s College in Christchurch.

OPINION: A look at five of the most intriguing signings made by Premiership clubs in 2020.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's quizmaster Paul Dobson has returned, by popular demand, with another selection of arresting posers to test your rugby knowledge.

SPOTLIGHT: New results from an anonymous poll conducted among current New Zealand Super Rugby stars has revealed who is the worst Super Rugby referee. 

OPINION: Many fans believe Chiefs' winless streak is all thanks to Warren Gatland. However, Campbell Burnes looks at the other contributing factors.

STAT ATTACK: A strong defensive game is a key addition to any team's arsenal when a mounting serious title challenge.

WATCH as @rugby365com contributor Angus Opperman sits down for a chat with renowned flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis.

There have been many renditions of the South African National anthem that made supporters gleam with national pride but there have also been some renditions that were simply downright embarrassing.

OPINION: Erudite Springbok turned pundit Dawie Snyman is back with another of his elucidating and disporting columns.

SUPER RUGBY AOTEAROA: The high penalty count in the opening weekend of Super Rugby Aotearoa was expected.

There is no better sound that hits you in the feelings than a capacity crowd belting out their country's national anthem and because we're missing it, we thought we'd share some insane national anthems from years gone by.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s quizmaster Paul Dobson has returned with another tricky test of your rugby knowledge.

FRIDAY FEATURE: The Blues' Super Rugby Aotearoa campaign certainly got off a good start with an impressive 30-20 win over Hurricanes.

LAUGH A LITTLE: There are numerous classic one-liners that will have your belly aching and we have done our best to provide that for you.

It's not often that the camera is focused on the coach's box during a game but when it is, they never fail to give us great moments. Like these coaches absolutely losing their minds at their players.

OPINION: Ryan Grant, a @rugby365com contributor and one-time Blues academy recruit, takes a look at two of the most astute acquisitions and how they will impact on Super Rugby Aotearoa.

FLASHBACK: We go back to 2013 to revisit a famous tackle on an All Black legend.

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has claimed the title of rugby365 Knockout Fan’s Vote World’s Best Captain, beating Wales' Alun Wyn Jones in the final.

STAT ATTACK: The Springboks are blessed with some great scrumhalves in their prime at the moment.

It seems that the much-anticipated documentary "Chasing the Sun" - which outlines the Springboks' 2019 World Cup victory in Japan is nearing completion as Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus released some more never-before-seen footage over the past few days.

SPOTLIGHT: Referee Nigel Owens has singled out one particular Law variation that he believes could open up the game.

Just when you thought you've seen it all in the game - be it on the field or during interviews - up pops these moments that will have you scratching your head.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s quizmaster Paul Dobson has decided the last few were a bit 'too easy' and raised the bar with this one.

WATCH England coach Eddie Jones at his chirpiest best, including the ultimate put-down of New Zealand rugby.

Back in 1995 at South Africa's first participation and hosting of the World Cup, June 11 marked quarterfinals day as New Zealand took on Scotland and Australia were up against England in what proved to be two high-quality matches.

Ashley Johnson made this great hit on Bryan Habana back in 2016 that absolutely floored the Springbok legend.

Quade Cooper has once again displayed why he is the most innovative and skilful player on the planet and quite possibly to have ever stepped onto the field by posting a video that has gathered more than 20000 views on Instagram.

OPINION: @rugby365com contributor Angus Opperman produces another of his dulcet selections - this time spanning from 2010 to 2020.

On this day 15 years ago, France secured their spot in the 1995 World Cup with a 36-12 victory over Ireland, but coach Pierre Berbizier wasn't entirely satisfied with their performance, claiming "we are capable of playing champagne rugby, but we are still trying to get the cork out."

SPOTLIGHT: Josh Raisey selects a team consisting of rugby stars who have had the most injury-plagued careers.

STAT ATTACK: The number of players leaving South Africa for greener pastures has been increasing over the years.

He tips the scale at 117kgs and stands 1.93 metres tall, so why would Lopeti Timani resort to "violence with a weapon"?

Natal defeated Northern Transvaal in the 1990 Currie Cup final but it was the prediction of Naas Botha following that defeat that paved the way for him to make many more bold predictions for years to come.

SPOTLIGHT: Here is a team of foreign players who laced up for South African franchises.

SPOTLIGHT: Alex McLeod takes a look at 10 All Blacks who came back to their homeland following stints abroad.

There has been numerous tackles and fends, be it legal or illegal, that has led to players immediately dropping like a sack of potatoes. Some manage to walk away from it, albeit gingerly, while others need assistance getting off the field.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: @rugby365 reader and self-proclaimed "rugby fanatic extraordinaire", Neil Mac Ewan, provides a solution for South Africa's rugby drought.

OPINION: @rugby365com contributor Ryan Grant thinks he has found the perfect formula to select the ultimate Springbok XV.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's quizmaster Paul Dobson is back with another examination of your knowledge. This time it is the 1995 World Cup Final.

Maro Itoje has proven to be a thorn in the side of many of his opponents, however, this video proves that he is more of an annoying mosquito.

He's already lifted the Webb Ellis trophy and has claimed numerous other awards since leading the Springboks to their third World Cup.

The Corona Virus may have ended Japan's Top League prematurely but fans the world over has plenty to smile about as one of the greatest flyhalves to have ever played the game makes his Super Rugby comeback.

LAUGH SOME MORE: With the weekend on our doorstep, we thought we'd give you something to laugh about with some more Friday funnies, although some of these jokes are as bad as the ones told by professional players in the videos at the end of this story.

FLASHBACK: We go back to 2012 when a giant of the game announced himself to the rugby world.

Look away Springbok fans as those old scabs of the 2015 World Cup match against Japan is torn open thanks to Dan Stuart who watches the highlights for the first time and reacts to that dramatic match.

We've reached the final head-to-head in the opening sections of our Knockout Fan’s Vote World’s Best Captain competition as we wrap up this round with our final northern hemisphere captains.

As New Zealand prepares to get their franchise rugby up and running with Super Rugby Aotearoa starting on June 13, their provincial teams will also be looking forward to taking to the field again, with a few All Blacks adding some extra firepower to the Mitre 10 Cup.

OPINION: Erudite Springbok turned pundit Dawie Snyman is back with another of his elucidative and disporting columns.

The time has come to head to the northern hemisphere for Round Three of our Knockout Fan’s Vote World’s Best Captain competition after we wrapped up the southern hemisphere's semifinalists.

England international Owen Farrell takes us on a trip down memory lane as he looks back to 2012 when he received the news that he will be making his international debut.

There were mixed views on the inclusion of a Japan-based team to join Super Rugby back in 2016 but since their participation and remarkable improvement since joining the competition, the Sunwolves have gained many fans the world over.

We're kicking off our Knockout Fan's Vote World's Best Captain with a pair of southern hemisphere loose forwards who have changed the way their teams are viewed.

We remain in the southern hemisphere for Round Two of our Knockout Fan’s Vote World’s Best Captain competition as we see whether you prefer a Wallaby or an All Black.

FLASHBACK: Frik du Preez is regarded by many South Africans as the greatest player ever.

Being on the receiving end of a superbly executed set-piece may knock the stuffing out of you but for the neutral, seeing a defence have no answer to an attacking move is something that will remain a memory for years to come.

OPINION: Throughout 2016 and 2017, the All Blacks set out on a demolition path, piling up record winning margins over Australia under Michael Cheika and South Africa under Allister Coetzee in The Rugby Championship.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s quizmaster Paul Dobson has responded to a request from a reader and provided us with 10 law questions!

FLASHBACK: Refereeing mistakes are a common occurrence in rugby.

YESTERDAY'S HEROES: Down the years there have been many occasions when one player had an enormous influence on the outcome of a major Final. Jan de Koning looks at who he regards as the player that had the single biggest influence on a game?

OPINION: @rugby365 columnist and two-time World Rugby Junior Championship winner Eugene Eloff takes a look at the impact of the proposed law trials.

With the rugby world frustrated by the continued suspension of the sport globally, the transfer window has been working overtime as players look to secure their futures.

LAUGH A LITTLE: We could all use a little laugh every now and then, so we bring some funny - and some not so funny - jokes about our favourite sports.

The match went down in the books of history as the biggest-ever win for the famous Barbarians, as they went to Twickenham to deliver a hurting on England in May 2018.

What happens when you cross a bodybuilder with rugby? An absolutely hilarious outcome that will prove once and for all that brawn alone holds no water in this beautiful game.

As the world gets ready to welcome some live Super Rugby action, we take a look at what can be expected from the Hurricanes when Super Rugby Aotearoa gets underway in June.

"It's ridiculous, we might as well play touch rugby if that’s what they’re suggesting" - those are words of Blues head coach Leon McDonald, that are being echoed around the world.

Here at rugby365, we have brought you many lookalikes over the years and we've brought it back after coming across a Salford Red Devils wing who has some resemblance to the 2018 African Footballer of the Year.

Some of the best players in the world are not immune to having themselves look a bit silly compliments of some of the best side steps the game has ever seen.

ANALYSIS: Rugbypass writer Conor Wilson discusses why Clive Woodward's attacking plans from 2003 are vitally important to this new era of defensive dominance.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s quizmaster Paul Dobson has returned with another great challenge - 10 testing questions!

WATCH as we bring you the debuts of two of the game's most recognisable prop forwards - Tendai Mtawarira and Joe Marler.

WATCH as veteran England prop Joe Marler answers a series of quickfire questions - that shows the most amusing side of the burly front row forward.

WATCH as retired England and British & Irish Lions flyer Ugochukwu Monye chats to World Cup-winning Springbok Siyamthanda Kolisi.

OPINION: @rugby365com contributor Codi Rinkwest has compiled the ultimate World XV - players who became coaches!

There's no doubt that Duane Vermeulen is one of the best players to have ever donned the No.8 Springbok jersey, but it would seem as though he isn't the greatest.

WATCH as The Rugby Pod duo of Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton looks at Johan Ackermann’s surprise exit from Gloucester.

As the news broke of World Cup winner Warrick Gelant moving back to the Cape after leaving the Bulls, we thought we'd remind you about that time he literally kicked some sense into a teammate.

The late Joost van der Westhuizen will always be a favourite in the hearts of many around the world but perhaps Francois de Klerk could be right up there to topple the 89-Test capped.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's quizmaster Paul Dobson has returned with another multiple choice quiz - this time on World Cups. Surely you can now get 10 out of 10.

OPINION: The Pieter-Steph du Toit contract saga has evoked enormous reaction on both sides of the dialogue.

As the legend goes, Naas Botha was not one who loved to tackle but we have found rare footage where not only does he do just that, he also saves a try in the process.

World Cup-winning flyhalf Handre Pollard is comfortably South Africa's highest-paid player in the world and there is little to no doubt about his ability when seeing what he is capable of.

OPINION: Alex Shaw takes a look at who will benefit from the recent Super Rugby transfers in Australia and South Africa.

SPOTLIGHT: RugbyPass writer Ian Cameron takes a crack at finding the fastest players and their best times.

ANALYSIS: Conor Wilson takes a look at the borrowed tactics that Eddie Jones' England side will employ to help them fight their way back to the top of the world rankings.

It's time to move to the midfield as Part Two of the ultimate Springbok series has a look at the men at the centre of it all - the inside and outside centre.

Rugby Union has had its fair share of flyers down the years and as the cliché goes, there’s no substitute for speed.

Part One of this week's series of videos sees us look at five of the best fullbacks to don the number 15 Springbok jersey.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s quizmaster Paul Dobson has produced what must surely be his easiest quiz yet. But can you finally get 10 out of 10?

WATCH as Ciarán Kennedy takes a look at those occasions when normally well-behaved players completely lose control of their sense.

STAT ATTACK: When it comes to top performers in the pack, look no further than the South Africans.

STAT ATTACK: The Sharks have been a joy to watch in open play this season and young star Aphelele Fassi has played a big role in that resurgence.

FEATURE: You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Every so often players push their luck with the referee a little bit too far, which prompts the referee to make his voice heard.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: When one is involved in sport, nicknames become the norm.

SPOTLIGHT: Acclaimed @rugby365com writer Paul Dobson – in the fifth and final episode of his series of great matches at Newlands – takes a look at the opening match of the 1995 World Cup – between South Africa and Australia.

There may just be something better than getting your name on the try-scorers list - getting to celebrate the try you've scored.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s quizmaster Paul Dobson has caved in and made it easier for the readers - by finally giving them a multiple-choice quiz!

STATS AND FACTS: Jan de Koning takes a look at the facts and fiction surrounding the bad boys of the game!

Hard, physical contact is all in a day's work for the enforcers of the game and there is nothing better than seeing them smash into each other.

LAW DISCUSSION: @rugby365com law guru Paul Dobson is going to take a look at which laws he feels should be changed and which should remain unchanged.

There are times in a game when all you can do is wonder if you genuinely just saw what you think you did.

The world of rugby is blessed with an abundance of speedsters and sometimes we are blessed to witness some of the fastest players going at it in a foot race.

OPINION: Re-elected World Rugby chairman Sir Bill Beaumont and his newly elected board have their work cut out for them.  Rugbypass' writer Nick Turnbull reports. 

There may not be any Premiership matches taking place but the competition has given us numerous light-hearted moments that will give your abdominals quite a workout.

OPINION: The All Blacks will be plotting the path to France over the next four years, with a primary goal of arresting back power from the Springboks.

WATCH as Bill Beaumont makes a bold pledge to change the game in his second term.

OPINION: With Sam Cane given the captaincy role, Alex McLeod looks at the potential make-up of the All Blacks' back row.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's quizmaster Paul Dobson is back with some great questions about World Cups and other fascinating facts!

Individual brilliance can be a rare moment that would make you look twice and ask yourself "How did he do that?".

SPOTLIGHT: The grande dame that is the Newlands stadium may already have hosted her last-ever rugby match. Acclaimed @rugby365com writer Paul Dobson – in the fourth of his series – looks at the Currie Cup Final of 1986 - when Goggie van Heerden stole the limelight.

STAT ATTACK: There is one Springbok player who probably should have more Test caps to his name.

Sit back and enjoy this compilation of the most opportunist tries to ever be scored.

Every now and then, the referee finds himself - quite literally - in the thick of it all. Whether it's being shoved by a defending player, being pulled into a ruck or being inadvertently tackled.

SPOTLIGHT: The grande dame that is the Newlands stadium may already have hosted her last-ever rugby match. Acclaimed @rugby365com writer Paul Dobson – in the third of his series – takes a look at five of the greatest occasions at the venue.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Here are five of the greatest captains who helped forge the legacy of the All Blacks.

There have been times when we witnessed unusual moments that we sat with our mouths wide open, wondering has just happened.

LISTEN as retired referee Craig Joubert reminisces about his exchange with Wallaby legend George Gregan, in his first match.

Some of these haymakers - featuring Eben Etsebeth, Bakkies Botha, Manu Tuilagi and Faf de Klerk - will make the likes of Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson proud. 

SPOTLIGHT: There have been countless players who have left fans scratching their heads as to why they have not played for their country more. Josh Raisey selected a team of players he felt deserved more Test caps:

SPOTLIGHT: The grande dame That is the Newlands stadium may already have hosted its last-ever rugby match. Acclaimed @rugby365com writer Paul Dobson - in the first of a series - takes a look at five of the greatest occasions at the venue.

FOCUS ON THE LAWS: Erudite Springbok turned pundit Dawie Snyman is shining the spotlight on referees once again - this time about the capricious manner in which they apply breakdown laws.

OPINION: Former two-time Junior World Cup-winning coach and Director of Elite Sport Mentorship Eugene Eloff is back with another cracking column for @rugby365com's readers.

We're continuing to bring you some of the best tries ever scored, so sit back and enjoy. To make this list, the decibel metre needs to be off the chart.

BRAINTEASER: John Gardener, a Rhodes scholar and rugby fanatic, has produced a crossword-style examination of your rugby knowledge.

SPOTLIGHT: Alex Shaw takes out his crystal ball and attempts to predict what the future holds for South African rugby.

Sit back and watch a collection of some of the greatest tries ever scored - including some amazing end-to-end tries.

WATCH  the highlights reel of Springboks duo Cheslin Kolbe and Faf de Klerk shows size does not matter.

OPINION: Fresh from looking over the wing position and what makes for the prototype player, Alex Shaw's series attempting to build the perfect rugby player wraps up with an examination of the fullback position.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson has come up with some real pearlers in the latest quiz. Can you get the 'royal flush'?

STAT ATTACK: There are a lot of talented and exciting players that never got the opportunity to play for their national team.

A hilarious look at some of the funniest moments of the 2020 Six Nations campaign.

OPINION: There is this trend to muster out the more senior members of the rugby community because they are regarded as 'superfluous'.

Have a look at a compilation of the biggest and heaviest players from around the world.

THE high demand for some 'real' rugby during these testing times moved the @rugby365com team to produce an equally amusing alternative - a virtual Tri-Nations tournament!

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson has outdone himself - gifting you a few answers. Can you finally wear the badge of honour?

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The bench press continues to occupy a uniquely macho seat in the pantheon of weight training disciplines, and professional rugby players are by no means immune.

A compilation of the most aggressive and feared players to have ever played the game. Who else do you think should make this list?

OPINION: We now come to the penultimate article in Alex Shaw's series attempting to build the perfect rugby player, with an examination of the wing position.

LISTEN as Welsh legend Maxwell Boyce reads this heavenly poem that captures the tone, the space and time in a way only he can.

SPOTLIGHT: Some are just born to lead.

You can never predict what some players will do with ball-in-hand. Here is a collection of some of the most outrageous skills.

WATCH as three-times Super Rugby-winning coach Scott Robertson explains why he would like to coach World Cup-winning Springbok captain Siyamthanda Kolisi.

OPINION: @rugby365com editor Jan de Koning takes a look at what must be one of the most mind-boggling clauses ever imposed on Springbok players.

They've always said that rugby is played by gentlemen and this montage proves why.

Watch some of the most incredible and jaw-dropping long-range kicks of all time. Make sure you watch until the end to see some schoolboys kicking it long.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson keeps easing up on the adversity of the challenge, but can you actually pass the 50 percent mark?

There are 3 Springboks in this Top 10 players of 2020 compilation. Are they in the correct spots though? Watch to see who else made the list.

OPINION: Retired Springbok Dawie Snyman has penned a perspicacious and enlightening column for @rugby365com, making bodacious suggestions - including 'yellow cards' for match officials.

OPINION: Following on from the examination of the inside centre position in Alex Shaw's series looking at building the perfect rugby player, we now move on to their midfield partners, the outside centre position.

STAT ATTACK: Former Stormers centre Huw Jones produced Super Rugby's best individual performance of the decade.

OPINION: @rugby365com contributor Angus Opperman believes he has a solution to SANZAAR's Super Rugby conundrum.

OPINION: The latest in Alex Shaw‘s series looking at the make-up of the perfect rugby player shines a spotlight on the inside centre position.

Just look at the impact on these players' bodies when they are tackled. It's so much fun to see players getting handed off or tackled hard, especially if it's payback.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson has promised to make it easier. This will test your general knowledge.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson has decided to test the readers' Test match knowledge.

OPINION: It’s been 17 years since Australia last hosted rugby’s blue-ribbon event in the form of the World Cup. 

OPINION: The Cheetahs, much like the Southern Kings, can't be blamed for feeling like a proverbial stepchild in South African rugby.

Watch as we bring you some of the biggest tackles and hand-offs from around the world.

SPOTLIGHT: Leezil Hendricks takes a look at South Africa's new wunderkind.

OPINION: The latest in Alex Shaw's series looking at the make-up of the perfect rugby player shines a spotlight on the flyhalf position.

Nigel Owens is one of the most respected referees in the world. Here's a compilation of some of the reasons why many look forward to seeing and hearing what he comes up with.

FLASHBACK: In a world without rugby, one has plenty of time for reflection and now we go back to 2009 when a South African stalwart was robbed of the highest accolade.

OPINION: If the COVID-19 outbreak hadn't brought Super Rugby - and every other sporting competition worldwide - to a standstill, the Sunwolves would have got the farewell they deserved.

SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT: Numerous Springbok stars have joined a campaign in South Africa to show support for frontline workers fighting COVID-19.

Watch as we count down the Top 10 fastest players of all time. It is undeniable that speed is one of the most important aspects of the game and these players have more gas than the average wing!

SPOTLIGHT: Celebrated @rugby365com writer Paul Dobson takes a look at the remarkable history of lines on the rugby field!

OPINION: After concluding the forwards, Alex Shaw’s series looking at building the perfect rugby player moves to the backline - starting with an examination of what goes into making the prototype scrumhalf.

OPINION: The Southern Kings are arguably the most changed team in Super Rugby history - during both their formal stints.

SPOTLIGHT: While SA Rugby is relentlessly formulating plans to get a domestic season underway, they have to be vigilant not to neglect the women’s game.

It's almost inevitable that tempers will flare and punches will be thrown on the field. Here we look at some fights and furious moments from 2019/2020.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson has decided to 'ease up', after complains that the quizzes were 'too difficult' for the readers.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Bans are something that receives a lot of attention these days in rugby, particularly due to how arbitrary and inconsistent they can be.

OPINION: We come to the final position in the pack in Alex Shaw's series looking at building the perfect rugby player.

When thinking about an enforcer on the rugby field, John "Bakkies" Botha is the industry standard. Let's relive some of his wildest moments.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: SANZAAR has selected a South African Super Rugby team of the decade based on statistics.

There's nothing quite like picking off a pass and racing away to score for your team. Here are some of the great intercept tries by some of the best players to have played the game.

BOK RANKINGS: The Springboks picked up another World Cup title not too long ago and there has been a lot of debate about where Rassie Erasmus' team is ranked amongst the best in the modern era.

SPOTLIGHT: A try-scoring machine

Watch as we get some entertainment from the men tasked to make key decisions during a match. There's some funny chats and some solid hits on the referees. 

OPINION: The players the Springboks simply cannot be without for the British & Irish Lions tour.

ANALYSIS: Conor Wilson takes a closer look at the Springboks' edge defence and the play that cost England in the Final.

OPINION: The Sharks, the pace-setting team in the now-suspended SANZAAR showpiece, must rate as the most successful team never to have won Super Rugby.

RUGBY FROM THE BUNKERS: Former two-time Junior World Cup-winning coach and Director of Elite Sport Mentorship Eugene Eloff is back with another jim-dandy column for @rugby365com‘s readers.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson has dug into the representative archives to make it 'easier' for the readers.

Springboks James "Bullet" Dalton and Keith Andrews sit down over a cold one to chat about The Battle of Tucuman. As you will see, there was no such thing as handbags back then.

WATCH as Springbok Gcobani Bobo and a few friends delve into the best Super Rugby format.

SPOTLIGHT: It was obvious that there would have been - as there is every four years - a massive clean-out (or exodus) of top players after a World Cup year.

OPINION: The latest in Alex Shaw’s series looking at the make-up of the perfect rugby player shines a spotlight on the blindside flank position.

Watch Pierre Spies do what he does best - be destructive. Here are some of his most dangerous carries.

OPINION: Head coach Eddie Jones has suggested as little as 40 percent of the current crop of England players will be on hand for the World Cup in France in 2023.

SPOTLIGHT: When the Lions returned to Super Rugby in 2014, they introduced a new group of 'no-name brand' players to the game in South Africa.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson has dug into the World archives to make it 'easier' for the readers.

WATCH as we go back down memory lane to revisit one of the darkest days of SA Rugby.

WATCH as one man selects his ultimate "isolation XV" in a very unique way.

OPINION: The latest in Alex Shaw's series looking at the make-up of the perfect rugby player shines a spotlight on the openside flank position.

SPOTLIGHT: No rugby and boredom is a dangerous combo. @rugby365com freelancer Angus Opperman ended up making a forgotten Stormers XV.

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson has dug into the archives for some really testing questions.

SPOTLIGHT: With props and hookers now in the books, Alex Shaw's series now moves on to the locks, arguably the position that has seen the largest evolution of all in the modern era.

SPOTLIGHT: World Rugby's hot-button rankings remain a powder keg in the game.

STAT ATTACK: Across the last decade of Super Rugby action there have been but a handful of players who have carried their team’s workload in both attack and defence.

Cometh the moment, cometh the man. Here are 15 of the most memorable kicks to have been witnessed on the playing field.

'When two lions meet one must die,'

BRAINTEASER: @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson has decided to make this a bit easier, so can you at least get 50 percent?

SPOTLIGHT: In the second of this new series Alex Shaw examines the prototypes of every position in the modern game and what makes for the perfect player.

Sit back and watch some of the funniest rugby bloopers to have ever happened on a rugby field.

WATCH as Quade Santini Cooper puts on display the outrageous skills that made him a legend in Australian rugby.

SPOTLIGHT: In the first of a new series Alex Shaw examines the prototypes of every position in the modern game and makes for the perfect player.

Sometimes, all it takes is one player to have a rush of blood and it costs his team dearly. Enjoy watching some of the best brain farts over the years.

JUST FOR LAUGHS: The game of rugby is filled with many diverse characters and it would seem that these characters can be - to some extent - placed inside a box per position.

BRAINTEASER: Take on @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson in this mental challenge!

What's better than watching some great Springbok tries against the old foe?

Never forget the moment the Springboks' Impi was remembered for the wrong reasons.

WATCH as two-time former World Rugby Junior Championship winner Eugene Eloff shares his lockdown message with the rugby community and the rest of the world.

OPINION: The Springboks heading North will be great for South Africa.

WATCH a couple of the biggest upsets the Bulls managed over the Sharks in Durban.

WATCH as we go down memory lane to 2001 to revisit a famous and quite funny tackle.

OPINION: The 2019 Rugby World Cup Final feels a lifetime ago right now.

OPINION: Jan de Koning believes he has a solution for the current cash-crunch facing South Africa's franchises.

BRAINTEASER: Take on @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson in this mental challenge!

OPINION: Leezil Hendricks takes a look at the selection 'headache' facing new Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber.

OPINION: It's probably safe to say that the Pro14 will never be as popular as Super Rugby for South African fans.

WATCH as we bring you a collection of the most dramatic last-minute winning moments.

WATCH as the Southern Kings embarrassed the Waratahs in Sydney in 2017.

A SHORT STORY: John Gardener entertains the readers with a tale of fiction (or is there some truth in it) about referee's additional time.

RUGBY FROM THE BUNKERS: Former two-time Junior World Cup-winning coach Eugene Eloff has dusted off his laptop and produced a lollapalooza for @rugby365com's readers.

WATCH as the Cheetahs and the Hurricanes produced a spectacle of running rugby in Bloemfontein in 2011.

BRAINTEASER: Take on @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson in this challenging quiz!

WATCH as the Stormers host the Highlanders in the 1999 Super Rugby semifinal at Newlands.

OPINION: Leezil Hendricks takes a look at the impact of COVID-19 on the Six Nations tournament.

WATCH as we bring you a collection of the worst mistakes by players and match officials in the game.

BRAINTEASER: Take on @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson in this challenging quiz!

WATCH as we bring the first win by the most successful team in Super Rugby history - the Crusaders.

VIDEO: Rugby loves its villains and Owen Farrell is no exception.

BRAINTEASER: Take on @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson in this challenging quiz!

WATCH as we bring the first Final of Super Rugby's professional era - the Auckland Blues hosting the Natal Sharks at Eden Park.

BRAINTEASER: Take on @rugby365com‘s oracle Paul Dobson in this challenging quiz!

WATCH as we bring you the first-ever Super Rugby Final.

TOP BILLING: Take on @rugby365com's oracle Paul Dobson in this new quiz!

VIDEO: In 2007 we probably saw the most dramatic ending to a Super Rugby Final.

READERS' FORUM: The @rugby365com team came up with a novel idea of a 'fantasy' tournament to entertain the readers - a Tri-Nations series.

OPINION: Acclaimed @rugby365com writer Paul Dobson takes a look at an ugly, soccer type, attitude that is creeping into Rugby Union.

#WATCH as several Springboks stars shared what they have been up to during self-isolation.

VIDEO: It's 2004, the Blues were the defending Super 12 champions and the Stormers travelled to Eden Park to destroy them.

WATCH as Ben John, coach at Manor London, show youngsters ways to improve their skills and stay on top of their fitness.

VIDEO: In the first installment of our Match of the Day series we go back to 2007 when the Bulls destroyed the Reds at Loftus Versfeld.

OPINION: Love him or hate him, Jake White is good at what he does.

FEATURE: Acclaimed @rugby365com writer Paul Dobson takes us back in time to where 'refereeing' was first introduced to the game.

IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR: While #COVID-19 has put the sport in an unexpected hiatus, we decided the lull is a good time to revisit our pre-season predictions.

OPINION: Not long ago Curwin Bosch was the "forgotten flyhalf of South African Rugby". Warren Fortune shines the spotlight on the No.10 race.

VIDEO: With all the doom and gloom we've experienced the last few weeks, watch as we try to bring you something to smile or maybe laugh about.

OPINION: Tom Vinicombe takes a look at which players could make the cut when new All Black coach Ian Foster names his first squad of the year.

OPINION: Momentum is everything in Super Rugby and the Sharks just lost it.

OPINION: Another round of Super Rugby has come and gone and it's time for @rugby365com's famous Team of the Week.

WATCH as we bring a team of truly cringe-worthy thugs - all the baddies in the same team.

OPINION: Covid-19 could be the re-making of rugby in New Zealand. Hamish Bidwell looks at the real issues facing the game!

OPINION: New Zealand Rugby’s announcement of the All Black XV on Monday brought with it plenty of intrigue nationwide. Alex McLeod plays selector and reveals what the team could look like!

OPINION: Former England flyhalf Andy Goode and current England coach Eddie Jones are never short of an opinion.

WATCH as we compare South African superstar Cheslin Kolbe and Australian counterpart Kalyn Ponga - both incredibly athletic players!

WATCH as we bring you 15 of the most unusual and bizarre moments in the game.

WATCH as Leon MacDonald joins The Breakdown panel to give an inside look at the Blues camp in 2020.

OPINION: Having a player's eligibility captured will be a big talking point going forward after the unveiling of the new All Blacks XV.

OPINION: Despite the game between Ireland and Italy being called off, the fourth round of the Six Nations still offered up a veritable feast of international rugby in its two surviving fixtures.

OPINION: Scotland may have been assisted by a moment of madness from the French, but they will celebrate a rare win over Les Bleus.

OPINION: France’s Six Nations Grand Slam bid ground to a halt on Sunday, as they fell to a 28-17 loss to a fired-up Scottish side at Murrayfield.

OPINION: The conclusion of the 2020 Six Nations tournament might currently be uncertain but the importance of an England versus Wales fixture is never in doubt

OPINION: England wrapped up their Six Nations spring campaign with a 33-30 win over Wales at Twickenham.

WATCH as Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton unpack all things Joe Marler, after some questionable behaviour in England's powerful display against Wales.

OPINION: Five rounds into the Super Rugby season and new Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber has a few intriguing puzzles to solve.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Being a professional athlete is a challenging journey and can be lonely.

WATCH as we bring you all them highlights from the main matches of the past weekend!

WATCH as a group of 'overzealous' Bulls fans get into a sideline ruck(us) - with some humorous commentary.

OPINION: It was a blues Monday in Cape Town. Not only did they lose one of their key forward to injury, but their unbeaten record lay shattered on the Newlands turf.

WATCH as The Breakdown team delves deep into the recent McKinsey Review and analyse Super Rugby.

WATCH as we bring you all the Super Rugby Round Five highlights!

OPINION: After four rounds there is only one unbeaten team left in the tournament.

OPINION: The Six Nations returned from its bye week on Saturday with Round Three of the 2020 campaign, as teams at opposing ends of the table contested games of varying quality.

WATCH how an early celebration leads to the most ridiculous finish to a match ever!

WATCH as the New Zealand panel analyse round four of Super Rugby and the Stormers' prospects.

OPINION: England head coach Eddie Jones was rewarded with a fairly emphatic display from his side in their 24-12 win over Ireland at Twickenham on Sunday.

OPINION: Les Bleus first away game was always going to be a major litmus test for Fabien Gathie’s young side. Ian Cameron rates the French players!

OPINION: As pointed out this week by Russ Petty on Twitter, the team that leads at half-time nearly always wins this fixture, and this game was all but over by the 40-minute mark.

OPINION: It was the third thrilling game for the neutral and a nailbiter for fans in a row between these two teams and, finally, France came out on top. Rhiannon Garth Jones rates the Welsh players!

WATCH as we bring you highlights from all the main fixtures this past weekend.

OPINION: Gregor Townsend’s men came into the Wooden Spoon decider knowing a win was a must. Ian Cameron rates the Scotland players!

WATCH a very different take on the past weekend's Super Rugby action.

WATCH  a clip from some insane trucks in games from the 1980s.

OPINION: The Stormers and the Chiefs are still unbeaten after three rounds of Super Rugby.

WATCH AS Former Ireland international Darren Cave joins Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton in the studio.

WATCH as Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton analyse the Six Nations crunch encounter between Ireland and England.

OPINION: It was always going to take something rather significant to get Saracens out of the headlines this season, although few likely expected the prospect of South Africa joining the Six Nations to be the story that would finally do it.

WATCH as All Black coach Ian Foster fronts up to answer fans' questions in a new segment on The Breakdown!

OPINION: It was a weekend of surprises - the Chiefs, Sharks and Hurricanes all coming away with important wins.

OPINION: The second weekend of the 2020 Six Nations offered a mixed bag of performances.

OPINION: France were on a hiding to nothing in this match against a heavily unfancied if developing Italian outfit in Paris.

OPINION: England head coach Eddie Jones rang the changes following his side’s demoralising loss to France in their tournament opener and it paid off as they emerged 13-6 winners at Murrayfield against Scotland.

OPINION: Dreadful conditions killed this game as a spectacle and it was a hard day to be judged, but yet that is what we must do.

OPINION: Wayne Pivac described this game as the toughest of his coaching career and it was certainly much more challenging than last week’s assignment against Italy.

OPINION: Following Ireland's 24-14 win over Wales, we can more properly judge the baby steps of this new Andy Farrell era in charge of Ireland.

WATCH as we bring the highlights from the past weekend's main matches - Six Nations and Super Rugby!

OPINION: Tom Vinicombe rates the teams after the opening weekend of Super Rugby.

OPINION: The Stormers lead the way with three players in our Team of the Week for Round One of Super Rugby 2020.

OPINION: The Six Nations is back and the opening round of competition saw an abundance of impressive individual performances from the 138 players involved.

OPINION: Former England flyhalf and media pundit Andy Goode has decided to give Eddie Jones some selection advice.

WATCH as Andy Goode eats humble pie after talking up England's chances of a Grand Slam.

OPINION: Galthie’s team of athletic, young Frenchman might have been light in experience but they made up for it with attacking accuracy, dynamism and aggression.

OPINION: Paris played host to the latest edition of ‘Le Crunch’ on Sunday afternoon, with a rejuvenated French side running out 24-17 victors in what is one of the most emotionally-charged rivalries in international rugby.

OPINION: Liam Heagney rates the Ireland players after their 19-12 win over Scotland in the opening round of the Six Nations.

OPINION: Ian Cameron rates the Scotland players after the error-filled 12-19 loss to Ireland in their Six Nations opener.

OPINION: Rhiannon Garth Jones rates the Welsh players after their 42-0 Six Nations shut-out of Italy.

WATCH AS We gather up a host of familiar faces to discuss the Home Nations' chances in the upcoming Six Nations.

WATCH as Andy Goode and Brendan Venter get into a heated debate over Saracens salary scandal.

OPINION: When Richie Mo’unga helped guide the Crusaders to their third Super Rugby title on the trot in 2019, Mo’unga Mania hit its peak.

WATCH as the Rugby Pod gets stuck into the 2020-21 rumour mill.

WATCH as we went behind the scenes with one of the most iconic clubs in the world, as they prepared for a clash with Wales in Cardiff.

SUPER RUGBY SPOTLIGHT: The Brumbies are poised to again dominate the Australian conference of Super Rugby and have the potential go at least one step further and make the tournament’s final in 2020.

OPINION: Andy Goode gives his view on the latest developments surrounding the Saracens salary-cap saga.

WATCH as Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton discuss what the future holds for Saracens after Nigel Wrays decision to leave the club.

OPINION: The Hurricanes finished their 2019 season with another semi-final defeat to the Crusaders, their second straight season-ender in Christchurch.

I have a nightmare that I wish to swap for a dream, a death wish that I want to swap for a wishlist, so that I can exchange my fears for rugby's future with more of the joy and excitement that has filled my life since reaching the age of reason.

OPINION: Beauden Barrett’s signing with the Blues for 2020 and beyond has been hailed as a huge coup for a franchise that has underperformed for the better part of the last two decades.

LISTEN as Ellis Genge speaks to the Rugby Pod in a brilliantly candid call.

OPINION: Andy Goode takes a look at the REAL legacy of now-retired Saracens boss Nigel Wray!

OPINION: It is the time of the year when people look back to the past and pick teams.

OPINION: Alex Shaw’s names his top 30 players of the year. Guess who is at No.1?

SPOTLIGHT: Andy Goode takes a look at the changes to the game over the last 10 years!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Faf de Klerk guided South Africa to World Cup glory in Japan, with the hosts setting the tournament alight with an unexpected run to the quarterfinals.

WATCH as we bring you some of the fanciest feet that the World Cup had to offer, as we were treated to some spectacular action out wide.

OPINION: This past weekend brought the final round of Champions Cup action for 2019 and a particularly competitive form XV.

OPINION: There are a number of attributes required to become a professional flyhalf.

OPINION: It’s the news every Chiefs fan has been hoping for: Damian McKenzie will be fit for the opening match of the Super Rugby season.

OPINION: This weekend played host to Round Three of the Champions Cup, the beginning of the vitally important December back-to-back games

OPINION: The 2020 Super Rugby season is not shaping up as an easy one for Hurricanes supporters.

WATCH as former England captain Dylan Hartley reveals the roles and responsibilities that he undertook under the watchful eye of Eddie Jones.

OPINION: It was a weekend of consolidation in the Champions Cup, as a number of teams backed up impressive wins in Round One, with similar results a week later.

OPINION: In South Africa, if you want advice, you light a braai fire! If you want criticism, you select a team, especially a Springbok team.

OPINION: At just 20-years-old he turned the rugby world upside down in 2017 as an electric wing has always held the ambition to become a centre, where he played as a schoolboy at Auckland Grammar and in 2014 with New Zealand Schools.

OPINION: The Pro14 has become the latest domestic club competition acquired in part by private equity firm CVC, agreeing in principle to sell a 27 percent stake in a similar deal to the one struck with Premiership Rugby.

OPINION: The European Champions Cup returned this weekend to wake the Northern Hemisphere from its post-World Cup blues, and we have compiled our XV of the week from an entertaining opening round.

SPOTLIGHT: The Rugby Pod give their reaction to the news that Saracens will not appeal the 35 point deduction that they were given in light of breaching salary cap regulations.

WATCH as we bring you some of the most momentous plays by South African forwards at the World Cup.

OPINION: Don’t count Saracens out but this could be Clermont or Leinster’s year for Champions Cup glory. Rugbypass pundit Andy Goode reports. 

OPINION: South Africa is a groundbreaking team for many reasons. Ben Smith puts their World Cup win under the spotl;ight.

OPINION: The All Blacks are no longer World Cup holders after eight long years of dominance, both at the tournament and in between it with a 10-year run as the world’s number one side.

OPINION: The Springboks are about to embark on a five-day trophy tour - a celebration of their momentous win in Japan.

OPINION: Andy Goode takes a look at the fall-out from the Saracens salary-cap saga and suggests it is the biggest controvery to hit the Premiership.

OPINION: The 2019 World Cup is over and now it is time to see who got selected in rugby365's Team of the Tournament.

LISTEN as @King365ed and @LoffieEloff pay tribute to @rugbyworldcup-winning @Springboks captain #SiyaKolisi and coach Rassie Erasmus.

WATCH as James Haskell, John Smit and Mike Tindall chat about facing the Haka.

OPINION: South Africa overpowered England 32-12 with a brutally effective forward display to win their third World Cup in Yokohama on Saturday.

OPINION: Despite owning the tag of favourites coming into the game, there was nothing England could do to stop the power and precision of South Africa in Yokohama.

OPINION:  Wales lacked the fizz to match New Zealand in the match that no-one wanted.

OPINION: It was the match that nobody wanted to play and nobody was too interested in the result.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: It was a mixed bag last weekend for the rugby world, as the unbridled intensity of England’s win over the All Blacks in the World Cup semi-final fizzled into the tedium of a kicking battle 24 hours later in South Africa’s win over Wales.

LISTEN as @King365ed and @LoffieEloff welcome former @Springboks flyhalf @APetoors10 - the trio unpacking the @rugbyworldcup Final.

OPINION: It was as unrelentingly physical and kick-dominated as we knew it would be.

OPINION: It was the match many were billing as the ‘true final’ and it certainly didn’t disappoint.

OPINION: England booked the fourth World Cup final in their history on Saturday in Yokohama, as they beat reigning champions New Zealand, 19-7, in the semi-final.

Listen as @King365ed and @LoffieEloff unpack all the drama around the @rugbyworldcup semifinals.

OPINION: The Springboks' pack performed like a well-oiled machine against Japan and it laid the foundation for their 26-3 quarterfinal win.

OPINION: Throughout this tournament, Wales have backed their defence against broken field brilliance but this felt like a defensive effort too far.

OPINION: A game defined by Sebastien Vahaamahina’s inexplicable elbow to Wales’ Aaron Wainwright.

OPINION: So, Ireland’s glass ceiling remains unbroken.

OPINION: England extended their winning streak over Australia to seven games on Saturday, as the age-old rivals met in Oita and England booked their place in the Rugby World Cup semifinals.

OPINION: New Zealand has disposed of Ireland 46-14 to get their World Cup play-off campaign off to a successful start.

OPINION: The scoreboard doesn’t do justice to this Australia performance, with two England tries against the run of play doing a disservice to the Wallabies on-field performance.

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. 

LISTEN as @King365ed is joined in studio by @LoffieEloff - with the @rugby365com team unpacking the @rugbyworldcup quarterfinals.

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.

OPINION: Australia will celebrate the win, but also acknowledge it was a less than satisfactory performance.

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.

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.

OPINION: South Africa made a big statement during their 66-7 win over Canada.

LISTEN as @King365ed and @LoffieEloff look at which players might improve the @Springboks in the @rugbyworldcup quarterfinals.

OPINION: It was back up to Tokyo for the All Blacks, for their second-ever match against Namibia.

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.

OPINION: Australia got back to winning ways when they beat Uruguay 45-10 in their World Cup match on Saturday.

OPINION: Ireland just about bagged a bonus-point win against Russia, but it was the performance the under-pressure side needed.

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.

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.

OPINION: Tom Vinicombe rates the All Black players after their 63-0 demolition of Canada.

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.

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.

OPINION: South African had no trouble to dispose of their Africa neighbours Namibia 57-3 in their World Cup Pool B match on Saturday.

OPINION: Namibia arrived with high hopes, but soon became spectators of their own demise.

OPINION: This wasn’t meant to happen.