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EXCLUSIVE: Matt Hawkins, rugby365's specialist Sevens columnist, turn the spotlight to a new look and revamped IRB World Series.

Of all of Scotland's defeats in recent years, Tonga remains the low point.

The sideshows have unfortunately overshadowed the build-up to what should be an intriguing match between England and Samoa.

Paul Dobson looks at the match when the Springboks travel from circumspect, understated England to spontaneous, exuberant Italy.

Wales are hopefully heading for a crescendo when they host "red-letter" World Cup champions New Zealand on Saturday.

EXCLUSIVE: Rob Brink continues the expedition to World Cup 2015, giving us his views on what the Springbok loose trio might look like.

PREVIEW: Whilst the Southern Hemisphere sides continue their tours of Europe, the Pro12 competition returns to action.

Fiji and the United States will look to get a major psychological blow in ahead of the World Cup, when they go head-to-head on Friday.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said that he has every confidence in Beauden Barrett's ability to dictate matters at the Millenium Stadium.

Michael Cheika says he does not know if he is the best person to put Kurtley Beale on the right path but he is certainly not his social worker.

There will be two different reason for these two power-houses to attempt to defeat each other on Saturday - retribution and progress

Samoa's Census Johnston is set to win his 50th international cap this weekend after being named in the side to play England at Twickenham on Saturday.

Having dismissed rumours that they are trying to sign Duane Vermeulen, Bath have criticised agents for repeatedly linking their players to the club.

Australia bad boy, Kurtley Beale has been included in the Wallabies' 23-man match day squad for their match against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre might finally have found his pair of halfbacks in Sebastien Tillous-Borde and Camille Lopez.

Wasps' Springbok flank Ashley Johnson believes his side can take the next step and win a game on the road against Exeter Chiefs this weekend.

Six Nations champions, Ireland have made two changes to their starting line-up for their match against Australia at Lansdowne Road on Saturday.

Italy coach Jacques Brunel has selected Fijian-born flank Samuela Vunisa in the only change to the team to face the Springboks on Saturday.

Argentinean head coach Daniel Hourcade has made four changes to his starting XV for their final November Test against France in Paris on Saturday.

Head coach Vern Cotter has made four injury-enforced changes to Scotland starting XV that will play Tonga in Saturday's historic Test match in Kilmarnock.

SANZAR's Executive Committee has formally approved the inclusion of Japanese and Argentinean Unions into Super Rugby from 2016.

Rudy Paige and Marnitz Boshoff have been called up to the Springbok squad for the last week of their year-end tour in Cardiff next week.

Rising star Teddy Thomas has been dropped for Saturday's Test against Argentina in Paris for missing a training session.

The Springboks played Italy in a Test for the first time in 1995, but rugby contact between the two countries goes back much further than that.

The Springboks played Italy in a Test for the first time in 1995 when they were reigning as World Champions. They won the match 40-21, and since then have played Italy 10 times.

England coach Stuart Lancaster said there was no question of Owen Farrell continuing to gain selection because his father is assistant coach.

USA captain Todd Clever will make a welcome return to the starting XV when the Eagles conclude their November tour against Fiji in Vannes, France on Saturday.

EXCLUSIVE: ROB BRINK CONTINUES THE EXPEDITION TO WORLD CUP 2015, LOOKING AT WHAT AWAITS THE BOKS AT TWICKENHAM AND GLANCES BACK AT DUBLIN.

Senior All Blacks publicly backed Samoa's players over a dispute with the SRU and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Namibia has made four changes and a positional switch ahead of their clash with Portugal from the starting XV that lost 13-17 to Canada two weeks ago.

NEWS: Wing Henry Speight will finally make his Test debut for Australia, against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

Richie McCaw will become the first player to captain the All Blacks in 100 Tests when he leads New Zealand against Wales on Saturday.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Martín Leandro Castrogiovanni is the ultimate test for any prop hoping to make his mark on the international stage.

FEATURE: Springbok tries by Francois Hougaard and Cornal Hendricks were among the contenders for the Try of the Year 2014.

NEWS: George Ford will make his first Test start for England in Saturday's international against Samoa at Twickenham.

Tommaso Allan and Robert Barbieri have been released by Italy ahead of this weekend's Test against South Africa.

Montpellier forwards coach Mario Ledesma has resigned following the Top 14 club's poor start to the season, club president Mohed Altrad announced.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre finally seems to have settled on a halfback combination, but he continues to tinker elsewhere in his team.

Jamie Heaslip says he is ready to face his old coach Michael Cheika when the Leinster man, and the Irish, face off against Australia.

A Namibian team will compete in next year's Vodacom Cup competition, it was announced on Wednesday.

Gawie Visagie, one of the most popular Springboks ever, died in Durban after a long battle against cancer. He was 59.

The Springbok starting team to face Italy in Padova on Saturday shows four changes from the side which beat England at Twickenham.

Bath head coach Mike Ford has said the club are not in the market for Springbok loose forward Duane Vermeulen.  

Waratahs captain Dave Dennis revealed that he went to America to speed up the rehabilitation program, following a knee injury.

John McKee has made seven changes to the Fiji run on team that will play against USA this weekend.

Englishman Liam Dunseath has a deeper look at some of the problems in the England team.

INTERVIEW: Francois Louw says he had been carrying "for years" an underlying neck problem that forced him to have surgery in September.

Wales are one of the few international teams to successfully pull off a 15 man line-out drive

Juan Imhoff says he is looking forward to lining up opposite club teammate Teddy Thomas when his country tackles France in Paris.

Dan Lydiate was one of 12 players offered a new national dual contract by the WRU which will ensure that he plays his club rugby in the country.

They may have be known for their verbal jousts, but Clive Woodward said he had enjoyed a friendly relationship with Wallaby rival Eddie Jones.

Native New Zealander turned Wales coach Warren Gatland said no-one would be prouder if his side ended their 61-year losing streak against the All Blacks.

Edinburgh confirmed on Tuesday that due to personal reasons Omar Mouneimne has had to leave the Pro12 outfit to return to South Africa.

England coach Stuart Lancaster made three changes to his matchday squad to face Samoa on Saturday, as he looks to end a five-match losing streak.

Campese Ma'afu was suspended for a week for being sent off for two yellow-card offenses in the 17-13 loss to Wales.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok breakdown consultant Richie Gray believes games are mostly won and lost in the 'top two inches'.

Promising junior players Marvin Orie and Joshua Stander have both extended their Bulls' contacts until October 2016.

rugby365 and Rate the Ref columnist Jonathan Kaplan takes a look at issues referees may face leading up to the World Cup in respect of the maul

Wales have named an experienced side to face New Zealand on Saturday with Jonathan Davies the only personnel change to the team that lost against Australia.

Sonny Bill Williams has a reputation as a serial code-hopper, who also dabbles in boxing. However, it appears his first love remains the All Blacks.

Cardiff Blues have signed of Argentina international Joaquin Tuculet.

INTERVIEW: Wales's George North is in no doubt of the challenge posed by New Zealand's "exceptional" Julian Savea this weekend.

The Italian team was given a clean bill of health ahead of their encounter with South Africa at Stadio Euganeo in Padua on Saturday.

The South African Rugby Referees' Association (SARRA), which manages the appointment of referees in the schools game in association with SARU, has changed its policy slightly on appointments to high-profile schools matches.

England coach Stuart Lancaster is set to make changes for this Saturday's match against Samoa and it seems his midfield will require more shuffling.

Stars from the women's game rubbed shoulders with greats JPR Williams and Michael Lynagh as the first female inductees into the IRB's Hall of Fame were announced.  

The IRB has come forward and admitted that although the Twickenham crisis has been averted, there is no long term solution in play for Samoa's issues with its administration.

Australian badboy Kurtley Beale is a welcome late addition, and not a distraction, to the Wallabies squad claims Quade Cooper.

All Black great Sean Fitzpatrick said England would continue to struggle against Southern Hemisphere teams until their players are centrally contracted.

Argentina lost their way following last month's historic 21-17 victory over Australia in the Rugby Championship, wing Juan Imhoff admitted.

Ireland's Chris Henry missed the recent win over South Africa with a brain injury, rather than a migraine.

Luther Burrell is in contention to face Samoa at Twickenham on Saturday, after being named in the group preparing for the Test.

It is Jaco Peyper's turn to be at Twickenham this week, while Glen Jackson has the big one in Dublin.

Johan Goosen is ready to emerge from obscurity and stake a claim to be once again a regular member of the Springbok squad.

It was an interesting weekend on the international stage and rugby365's famous weekly selection reflects the dramatic turnaround from last week.

Sharks CEO John Smit has confirmed the arrival of Samoan and former EP Kings wing Pat Perez to the Sharks.

Defeats for England and Australia have seen Ireland equal their highest ever position of third in the latest IRB World Rankings.

Samoa team manager Sami Leoti has ruled out any possibility of strike action for Saturday's Test against England at Twickenham.

The Sharks have gained the services of departing Kings defence coach Michael Horak who terminated his contract in Port Elizabeth.

There were similar incidents in two of the weekend's Test matches with different outcomes. They were, note, similar but not the same.

The Springboks have two main injury concerns following their bruising 31-28 victory over England at Twickenham on Saturday.

TOERPLAN: Jan de Koning kyk in sy glas-bal en vra of Heyneke Meyer dalk nie die week 'n paar hase uit die hoed gaan pluk nie.

TOUR SPOTLIGHT: Jan de Koning looks into his crystal ball and asks if Heyneke Meyer will perhaps pull a few proverbial rabbits from the hat this week.

Willem Alberts shows us what he gets up to in the gym when no one is watching.

New Zealand will be without forward Victor Vito for the final match of their Northern Hemisphere tour after he returned home through injury.

Dylan Hartley has denied stamping on Duane Vermeulen in England's narrow loss against the Springboks which earned him a yellow card.

Samoa's game with England may be in jeopardy again as the SRU continues to snub its players over grievances with their governance.

Prop forwards Quintin Esterhuyzen and Shaun de Preez have been called up as replacements to join the Namibian team in Portugal.

Eastern Province Rugby has confirmed the signing of Blue Bulls flyhalf Tony Jantjies, ahead of the 2015 season.

Six Nations champions Ireland's hopes of completing a clean sweep of the November tests faces a very tough challenge in the shape of Australia.

Georgia's New Zealand coach Milton Haig rued what he called amateur night', after his team suffered a humiliating 7-49 loss to Ireland at the weekend.

Christian Wade and Ashley Johnson bagged themselves a hat-trick apiece as Wasps saw off London Welsh 71-7.

An impressive second-half showing from Ireland saw them beat Georgia 49-7 at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday.

Golden Lions prop Ruan Dreyer has been called up to the Springbok squad as injury cover for Jannie du Plessis. 

The Samoan players met with the International Rugby Players Association on Saturday in order to move forwards past the strife between them and the SRU.

Mark Bennett has been ruled out of Scotland's final year-end international against Tonga next weekend.

Wales' narrow 17-13 victory over Fiji on Saturday was "disappointing and frustrating", according to coach Warren Gatland.

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre insisted the best side won after their 29-26 victory over Australia on Saturday.  

Scotland head coach Vern Cotter insists his men will learn valuable lessons from their brave defeat to New Zealand.

All Blacks flyhalf Dan Carter was unimpressed by his scratchy return in the No.10 shirt against Scotland.

Clive Woodward criticised the absence of "real footballers" in the Red Rose back division after their 31-28 loss to South Africa.  

Australia coach Michael Cheika said his players need to train harder and more consistently if they are to avoid another poor display.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen had no regrets about risking defeat against Scotland by fielding an experimental young side at Murrayfield.

Stuart Lancaster insisted there would be no panic after Saturday's 31-28 loss to South Africa at Twickenham made it five straight defeats.

South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer said his side had played "World Cup-winning rugby" after seeing off 2015 tournament hosts England 31-28.

The Wallabies showed good fighting spirit to end within striking distance of France, but they were flattered by the scoreline.

Despite only winning by three points, France were much the better side against the Wallabies in Paris.

Bath continued their good start to the Premiership season as they swept aside second-bottom Newcastle Falcons.

France proved too strong for the Wallabies as they secured a tense 29-26 victory in Paris on Saturday.

OPINION: New Zealand won, not convincingly, but it is still a win. Maybe the final scoreline, 24-16, at Murrayfield flattered them.

OPINION: Scotland once again came close, but ultimately still came up short. They lost 16-24 to New Zealand at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Tonga was victorious 40-12 as power came to the fore in the second half against USA, with three tries in the third quarter the difference.

REPORT: New Zealand scored a late try to secure a 24-16 win over a brave Scotland team in their one-off international in Edinburgh on Saturday.

Japan fullback Ayumu Goromaru scored six penalties to give his team a far from convincing 18-13 victory over Romania.

England have fallen just short to another Southern Hemisphere giant as they succumbed 28-31 to the Springboks.

The Springboks were able to bounce back against the English after a poor showing against Ireland to grind out a 31-28 victory.

MATCH REPORT: Wales hung on in desperate fashion to beat Fiji 17-13 in a snorefest at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday.

The Springboks were forced to work hard for a tough 31-28 victory over England in a physical battle at Twickenham on Saturday.

NEWS: The Eastern Province Kings have terminated Samoan wing Paul Perez's contract with immediate effect.

Italy captain Sergio Parisse said that his side hope to take advantage of their extra day of rest ahead of the clash with the Springboks.

Richie McCaw maintained the All Blacks were taking Scotland seriously despite their unusual team selection for their clash at Murrayfield.

Recalled Kurtley Beale admitted he feared his Wallaby career might have been over following the latest saga in his off-field troubles.

A Thomas Waldrom double capped a stunning Exeter Chiefs performance as they dispatched Premiership champions Northampton Saints at Franklin's Gardens.

Samoa put its off-field concerns to one side to bounce back from defeat against Italy and beat Canada 23-13 on Friday.

Argentina battled back in the second half to claim a tight 20-18 victory over Italy in Genova on Friday.

The Springboks are wary of a much improved England and know their unbeaten run against the Red Rose counts for nothing.

Ireland have made 13 changes to the team that defeated the Springboks in Dublin last weekend for when they face Georgia on Sunday.

Controversial back Kurtley Beale will join the Wallabies on their European tour to reboot his international career, a report said Friday.

Three former All Blacks and current NPC coaches will lead the 2015 New Zealand Under-20 IRB Junior World Championship campaign.

All Black flyhalf Dan Carter said he had conquered his own doubts to regain his place in the New Zealand starting line-up.

Samoa Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi blasted players who threatened to boycott next week's Test against England as "little brats".

South African rugby owes England a huge debt of gratitude.

Golden Lions  hooker Robbie Coetzee will undergo surgery in Durban on Friday, in order to reduce the pain in his neck.

We have another exciting weekend of International matches ahead of us.

It is clear that 2015 is closer than we feel it should be, for already we have fixtures for Kearney at Easter, Paul Roos' 150th celebration in March and Graeme's Rugby Day, and now we can add the prestigious Wildeklawer Super Schools Tournament to the list.

The USA Eagles will be captained by Scott LaValla on Saturday in the penultimate test for the USA against Tonga at Kingsholm Stadium.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: John Smit and Martin Corry debate the chances of England and South Africa ahead of Saturday's Twickenham clash.

Japan head into their clash with Romania with a 10-Test unbeaten streak which has seen them rise to ninth in the world rankings.

A new look Welsh side will look to recover after succumbing to the Wallabies last weekend when they face Fiji at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

A settled and confident Scotland side will be aiming for their first-ever win against the All Blacks when they meet at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Paul Dobson, in his extraordinary and accomplished way, looks at the big Twickenham Test - between England and South Africa.

EXCLUSIVE: Rob Brink continues the expedition to World Cup 2015, looking at what awaits the Boks at Twickenham and glances back at Dublin.

EXCLUSIVE: Matt Hawkins, rugby365's specialist Sevens columnist, turn the spotlight back on the teams and their identities.

Australia coach Michael Cheika is not worried about conceding tries against France at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday.

While Samoa will be looking to put their recent internal spats behind them, Canada will look to build on last week's impressive win over Namibia.

Heavy rains in recent days in the flood-hit city of Genoa have forced the rescheduling of the Test between Italy and Argentina.

Dean Mumm doesn't expect international call-ups to hit Northampton Saints too hard as Exeter Chiefs prepare to visit Franklin's Gardens on Friday.

Injured Springbok loose forward Francois Louw says he will have 'divided loyalties' when South Africa play England at Twickenham.

The Honey Badger is put to the test when he has to complete some famous lines.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Australia are evolving under new coach Michael Cheika, but it is 'baby steps' for Michael Hooper and his teammates.

Head coach Vern Cotter has shown faith in his winning Scotland formula for this Saturday’s visit of world champions New Zealand to Murrayfield Stadium.

The RFU has launched an investigation into alleged homophobic abuse of Nigel Owens by a group of supporters during Englnad match at Twickenham last Saturday.

All Black captain Richie McCaw will start at blindside flank against Scotland on Saturday, a temporary move according to coach Steve Hansen - or is it?

Bulls coach Frans Ludeke announced his provisional training squad for the 2015 Super Rugby competition which includes 18 Springboks.

Anthony Watson will start his first international for England in Saturday’s clash against South Africa at Twickenham.

France have stuck true to their winning formula by naming the same starting team that defeated Fiji 40-15 last weekend for their clash with Australia.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: England captain Chris Robshaw is adamant that they can end an 11-match winless streak against South Africa.

EXCLUSIVE: ROB BRINK CONTINUES THE EXPEDITION TO WORLD CUP 2015, LOOKING AT WHAT AWAITS THE BOKS AT TWICKENHAM AND GLANCES BACK AT DUBLIN.

Loose forward Tinus du Plessis will miss Namibia’s match against the French Barbarians after failing to recover from a calf strain.

EXCLUSIVE: MATT HAWKINS, RUGBY365'S SPECIALIST SEVENS COLUMNIST, TURN THE SPOTLIGHT BACK ON THE TEAMS AND THEIR IDENTITIES.

INTERVIEW: South Africa wing Bryan Habana said England deserve more respect than they have been getting and are a real World Cup threat.

Intervention by the IRB and a players association has averted the threat of Samoan players taking strike action and refusing to play England next week.

Wallabies prop Sekope Kepu will play his milestone 50th Test for Australia when they take on France at Stade de France on Saturday.

NEWS: James Parsons will cap off a whirlwind call-up to the All Blacks, after he was named in the starting XV to play Scotland.

INTERVIEW: In three weeks' time some players will have played themselves into, and others out of, the Springbok World Cup selection frame.

The IRB has announced the shortlist for the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year Award, with the winner set to be revealed at their nation’s final match of 2014.

Australia's last visit to Paris left the team with a decidedly unpleasant feeling, an emotion they hope to avoid at Stade de France on Saturday.

World Cup winners JP Pietersen and Schalk Burger will start Saturday's second Test in the year-end tour against England at Twickenham.

Crusaders wing Nemani Nadolo will take his place at inside centre for Fiji when they face off against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.

Graeme College of Grahamstown has produced its interesting list of fixtures for its Rugby Day on 28 March 2015.

John McFarland has picked up a number of weaknesses that the Irish exploited and he will be looking to patch them up for England.

Dominate the collisions and get some big hits in at the tackle. That is Scotland's recipe for success against New Zealand at Murrayfield.

Daniel Carter is expected to return to the match day squad for their clash with Scotland as he continues to work his way back from a broken leg.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wales coach Warren Gatland has hit out at the supporters who booed flyhalf Rhys Priestland.

NEWS: Semesa Rokoduguni is out of the England team for their clash with South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday.

Argentina will be without their captain Agustín Creevy for the clash with Italy after the hooker sustained a thigh injury.

JJ Engelbrecht  and the crop of new additions who joined the Springbok Sevens training squad in Stellenbosch have slotted in well.

The All Black forwards will be looking for an improvement when they face Scotland after a lacklustre performance against England.

One is the Keeper of the Keys ​at Hogwarts. The other is the Keeper of the Pies at Wales

Two All Black legends and some USA Eagles show the general public what rugby is all about!

Duane Vermeulen has called for the younger members of the team to quickly absorb the Twickenham atmosphere as they prepare to take on England.

Wales have made eight personnel changes to their side to face Fiji on Saturday, with Gethin Jenkins returning to the starting line-up to lead the side.

The Sharks have signed talented loose-forward Renaldo Bothma from the Pumas on a two-year Super Rugby contract.

Luke Braid is looking forward to having a big Super Rugby season with the Auckland Blues before he heads to France.

Mike Phillips is determined to make the Wales No.9 shirt his own again after being dropped to the bench against Australia.

The Blue Bulls Company has granted loose forward Jono Ross an early release from his contract, to allow the player the opportunity to join  Stade Francais.

INTERVIEW: England prop Joe Marler has urged the 2015 World Cup hosts to channel the frustration when they face South Africa.

The Brumbies have signed Sydney University Premiership winner James Dargaville for the 2015 Super Rugby season.

There are more Tests in this, the third, week of November's 'window' - the main ones at Twickenham and Stade de France.

England coach Stuart Lancaster said he was "optimistic" that Courtney Lawes and Dylan Hartley will face South Africa.

OPINION: It was a weekend of interesting results and that is reflected in @rugby365com's famous  weekly selection!

Hooker Bongi Mbonambi and props Vincent Koch and Wilco Louw gave a good account of themselves and have slotted in perfectly to Western Province's playing pattern.

INTERVIEW: South Africa, after a solid session of introspection, realised they need to do what works for them and not worry too much about the opposition.

New Zealand Luke Braid is set to join fellow countryman Jayden Spence, after the flank penned a two-year deal with French Top 14 side Bordeaux .

Australia have returned to third in the latest IRB World Rankings after recording a 10th successive victory over Wales.

Scotland coach, New Zealander Vern Cotter, has urged his players to embrace playing against the best team in the world.

The Pool draw for the 2015 edition of SARU’s flagship national tournament,  the Community Cup, was confirmed on Monday.

Western Province centre Pat Howard is set to join Munster Rugby on a three-month contract.

Wallaby coach Michael Cheika knows that June's three-nil whitewash of France will have little bearing on their-end encounter in Paris on Saturday.

Namibia have named an exciting squad for their second match of the November tour to take on the French Barbarians in Toulon on Friday.

EXCLUSIVE: rugby365 and Rate the Ref columnist Jonathan Kaplan looks at two yellow card decisions this weekend which lacked common sense.

The Queensland Reds have signed 17-year-old centre Campbell Magnay, the youngest player in the inaugural season of the NRC.

It has been successfully trialled in South Africa and now All Black coach Steve Hansen wants the Varsity Cup initiative to be used worldwide.

France have "revenge" on their minds ahead of Saturday's international Test against Australia.

All Blacks centre Conrad Smith will skip Saturday's Test against Scotland so he can return home to deal with a family matter.

REACTION: England captain Chris Robshaw said his team will look to take their frustrations out on South Africa.

Australia's scrum reputation took another beating at the weekend, but new coach Michael Cheika believes there is a simple remedy.

Versatile New Zealander back Jayden Spence is to join Bordeaux-Begles as cover, the French Top 14 outfit said Sunday.

Gloucester flyhalf James Hook has been called up to the Welsh squad for their next two matches of November Tests.

Castres climbed off the bottom of the French Top 14 with a 22-14 win over champions Toulon.

Flank Yannick Nyanga will replace his Toulouse clubmate Yacouba Camara in France's squad.

English Premiership outfit Saracens outclassed the Currie Cup champions, Western Province on Sunday.

Ireland have paid a dear price for their impressive demolition of South Africa in Dublin at the weekend.

MEDIA: Ireland coach Joe Schmidt woke up to headlines singing his praises after he masterminded a 29-15 win over SA.

Although his side suffered their fifth consecutive defeat to the All Blacks, Stuart Lancaster feels his side is not far off the world's best team.

The USA Eagles bounced back from their heavy defeat to the All Blacks with a 27-17 victory over Romania in Bucharest on Saturday.  

Wales captain Sam Warburton insists that it is just a question of when, and not if, they beat a leading southern hemisphere side.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen dismissed as "baloney" suggestions his side had gained any advantage by beating England at Twickenham.

Ireland's victory over South Africa atoned for the disappointment of losing to the All Blacks in the final minute last year, said coach Joe Schmidt.

Springbok captain Jean de Villiers said that his side have to cut out the basic errors that plagued them against Ireland if they are to bounce back.

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer said that defeat to Ireland taught them some valuable lessons about what it takes to win in Europe.

REACTION: Australia coach Michael Cheika insisted defeat by Wales never crossed his mind, despite his side trailing in the final eight minutes.

REACTION: New Zealand coach Steve Hansen blasted the use of television replays after his world champions beat England 24-21.

Teddy Thomas scored a hat-trick on his France debut as South African-born Scott Spedding also shone on his first appearance for Les Bleus.

Tauriq Ebrahim rates the Springbok players after their 15-29 loss to Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

OPINION: Tauriq Ebrahim rates the Ireland players after their 29-15 win over South Africa in Dublin on Saturday.

REPORT: Scotland produced their best performance of the year to demolish a lacklustre Argentina, winning 41-31 on Saturday.

The Springboks suffered their first loss in Europe under Heyneke Meyer as Ireland beat them 29-15 in Dublin on Saturday.

OPINION: Jan de Koning rates the New Zealand players after their 24-21 win over England at Tiwckenham on Saturday.

New Zealand-born flyhalf Kelly Haimona kicked 14 points to inspire Italy to a hard-fought 24-13 victory over Samoa on Saturday.

Wales fought hard at the Millenium Stadium, but went down once again as their losing streak against the Wallabies extended to 10 matches.

OPINION: Jan de Koning rates the England players after their 21-24 loss to New Zealand at Twickenham on Saturday

The Wallabies showed good composure under pressure to seal a tough 33-28 victory over Wales at the Millenium Stadium.

REPORT: New Zealand produced their traditional second-half rally to beat a willing England 24-21 at a wet Twickenham on Saturday.

The Wallabies were forced to work hard for their tough 33-28 victory over Wales at the Millenium Stadium on Saturday.

Japan came within two minutes of stunning the Maori All Blacks, as the 'Brave Blossoms' were caught by a sucker punch.

American back row forward Samu Manoa will join Top 14 side Toulon next season, club president Mourad Boudjellal confirmed on Saturday.

New Zealand's Maori team left it late, but sneaked in at the death to record a 20-18 win over Japan in Tokyo on Saturday.

Brive claimed their first French Top 14 away victory since February 2012 when they defeated Montpellier 25-10 on Friday.

COMMENT: South Africa captain Jean de Villiers says he is under no illusions about the task facing them against Ireland.

Namibian fullback Chrysander Botha has been reunited with his teammates in Abergele,Wales, late on Friday.

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw said they are motivated by the memory of what happened to them at Twickenham two years ago.

Quade Cooper was the unlucky one to loose out when Australian coach Michael Cheika's axe came down on the bench.

Canada hung on in the face of a late second-half charge by Namibia to record a 17-13 win in their Test on Friday.

Six Nations champions Ireland must be mentally up for the challenge they face against an in-form South African side on Saturday.

Western Province hooker Siyabonga Ntubeni has been called up to the South African touring squad in place of the injured Robbie Coetzee.

Parliament has discussed draft amendments for improved testing and sanctioning of school pupils in an attempt to eliminate the used of performance-enhancing drugs.

Australia will seek to stretch their winning streak over Wales to 10 matches when the two teams clash in a World Cup pool rehearsal.

New Zealand flyhalf Aaron Cruden is determined to make the most of his opportunity against England after being dropped.

Jared Payne showed his laid-back side when the utility back reflected on people who question his commitment to the Irish national side.

Young New Zealand backs Albert Nikoro and Tino Nemani have signed for Australian Super Rugby franchise the Western Force.

The freedom to entertain. That is what awaits Currie Cup champions Western Province when they take on Premiership runners-up Saracens.

We have a bumper weekend of International matches as the Southern Hemisphere looks to dominate their Northern counterparts.

Louis Stanfill will earn his 50th cap for the Unites States when they face Romania in Bucharest on Saturday.

Philippe Saint-Andre will find himself under increasing pressure if his foreign imports do not shine against Fiji in a Test match in Marseille on Saturday.

Coach Jacques Brunel is hoping a reinforced Italy get reacquainted with their promising 2013 form when they host  an "organised" Samoa in Ascoli on Saturday.

@rugby365com previews the Test between Wales and Australia in Cardiff on Saturday, a game of contrasts.

Paul Dobson, in his unique way, looks at the Test between Ireland and South Africa - the start of the year-end season for both.

Argentina coach Daniel Hourcade is wary of the influence of his opposite number when they take on Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday.

EXCLUSIVE: Rob Brink, a member of the victorious 1995 Bok World Cup squad, brings us his first contribution since joining the rugby365 team.

EXCLUSIVE: Matt Hawkins, the former US Eagles player and coach, takes us inside the world of Sevens - looking at the next leg of the IRB World Series.

With less than one year to go until the World Cup Canada and Namibia go head-to-head in what is the start of a vital trial run for both.

The All Blacks will be looking for their fourth victory over England this year when the two sides meet at Twickenham on Saturday.

Argentinean coach Daniel Hourcade named a team of contrasts to face Scotland in the opening match of their year-end tour.

Wales great Shane Williams has announced he will retire from all forms of rugby at the end of this season.

The Gray brothers, Richie and Jonny, were named in Scotland's second row for Saturday's Test against Argentina in Edinburgh.

Fijian coach John McKee named a powerful side to take on France in their first Test match for the November tour, in Marseille on Saturday.

New Zealand-born Jared Payne will make his Test debut for Ireland against the Springboks in Dublin as part of a new centre pairing.

Racing Metro backline coach Laurent Labit has been handed a 15-week ban for his disparaging comments against the referee in his side's loss against Stade Francais.

INTERVIEW: Ireland assistant coach Les Kiss insists 20-year-old flyhalf Handré Pollard holds the key to sparking South Africa's attack.

Kieran Crowley has made a number of changes to his Canadian team to face fellow World Cup qualifier Namibia.

The naysayers will come out in a chorus to air their disapproval, but Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer is standing by prop Coenie Oosthuizen.

British Army lance corporal and Bath wing Semesa Rokoduguni will make his England debut against New Zealand at Twickenham on Saturday. 

New recruit Adam Thomson met some of his future Reds teammates at Twickenham.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Wales lock Jake Ball will hope to prove to Wallabies that his decision to turn his back on Australia was the right one.

EXCLUSIVE: ROB BRINK CONTINUES THE EXPEDITION TO WORLD CUP 2015, GIVING US HIS VIEWS ON WHAT THE SPRINGBOK LOOSE TRIO MIGHT LOOK LIKE.

REACTION: Dan Carter is often one of the first names written down in any New Zealand team. Not so for All Blacks coach Steve Hansen.

EXCLUSIVE: MATT HAWKINS, THE FORMER US EAGLES PLAYER AND COACH, TAKES US INSIDE THE WORLD OF SEVENS - LOOKING AT THE NEXT LEG OF THE IRB WORLD SERIES.

VIDEO: The game between the Leicester Tigers and the Barbarians at Welford Road on Tuesday provided much to cheer about.

NEWS: Sonny Bill Williams and Aaron Cruden have been reunited, this time in the New Zealand team to play Sonny Bill Williams England.

NEWS: Sean McMahon capped a remarkable year with selection in the Australian team to take on Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.

New Zealand flyhalf Dan Carter expects outstanding wing Julian Savea to maintain his "red hot" form when they face England at Twickenham.

Two former Welsh internationals have been drafted into the Namibian backroom staff as support on their Northern Hemisphere tour.

The SA Rugby Referees' Association has made known the panels for 2015. There are changes.

Leicester Tigers are planning a ground-breaking trip to the United States next year, including a fixture against the best home-based players.

The Eastern Province Kings have announced their pre-season training squad following their return to training after a lackluster 2014 Currie Cup campaign.

England believe they have the muscle-power to unsettle the New Zealand pack and lay the platform for a rare win over the All Blacks.

Saracens have named a powerful 23-man squad for the north-south clash against Western Province at Allianz Park on Sunday.

South African-born fullback Scott Spedding will make his international debut when he runs out for France against Fiji in Marseille on Saturday.

BREAKING NEWS: Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer named the same starting line-up that beat New Zealand to face Ireland.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: South Africa has added an expansive dimension to their game that makes them far more dangerous.

South African-born Scott Spedding gets very emotional after his French call-up.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Israel Folau is adamant he still knows his way to the tryline, despite his recent 'dry' run.

INTERVIEW: Wales do not have a mental block against Australia, despite being on a nine-match losing streak against the Wallabies.

Jacques Botes marked his final game with a try and conversion as the Barbarians dazzled to beat Leicester Tigers 59-26 in a 13-try feast.

New Zealand's build-up to their Test encounter with England on Saturday has not gone as smoothly as they would have hoped.

Uncapped Semesa Rokoduguni is among 23 players retained by England coach Stuart Lancaster for Saturday's Test against New Zealand.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Hostility in France towards the number of foreign-born players lining up to play for Les Bleus is "deeply troubling".

Ruan Pienaar has been ruled out of the year-end tour because of a knee ligament injury and he will be replaced by Jano Vermaak.

Victor Matfield has stated his admiration for Irish captain and lock Paul O'Connell who he believes has an insight into how he runs the line-out.

England's second row resources for Saturday's match against New Zealand could be further depleted by the possible unavailability of Dave Attwood.

Western Province hooker Siyabonga Ntubeni is looking forward to testing himself in new conditions when the Currie Cup champions face up to Saracens.

The BlitzBokke have received a boost with Springbok centre JJ Engelbrecht and Baby Bok fullback Cheslin Kolbe joining the training group.

The opening round of the 2015 Varsity Cup season will feature replays of both the 2014 semifinals. 

Experienced Scotland scrumhalf Greig Laidlaw will lead his country into this Saturday's Test match against Argentina at Murrayfield.

Welsh wing George North has been named alongside Jamie Roberts in the midfield for Wales' clash against Australia.

Saracens have signed former Blue Bulls hooker Brett Sharman from Bath until the end of the season.

The final of the Top 14 elite league in France will be held in Barcelona's Nou Camp, the home of Barcelona FC, at the end of the 2015-2016 season.

Tests! Tests galore. The invasion of the North is in full swing this weekend with all of the top ten nations on the IRB's ranking list in action, in fact 19 of the top 20.

COMING SOON: rugby365 will soon add another name to our already impressive list of award-winning contributors.

Johan Goosen, who has been called into the Springbok squad as cover for Willie le Roux at fullback, is hoping he can emulate the wily Le Roux.

Jacques Burger will captain a new look Namibian starting line-up will face Canada on Friday in Colwyn Bay, Wales

Sharks veteran loose forward Jacques Botes will play his last game, after 13 years as a professional, when he dons the No.8 Barbarians jersey.

Irish scrumhalf Conor Murray has said that the Springboks present a great danger when Francois Hougaard and Handre Pollard are at the helm.

The shocking underfoot conditions that made matches at the Millennium Stadium an unpleasant experience may be something of the past.

NEWS: Wales flank Dan Lydiate is set to face Australia in Saturday's Test, despite his lack of game-time this season.

INJURY UPDATE: Colin Slade, the ultimate yo-yo of the game in New Zealand, is back with the All Blacks.

England have the resources to ride out a raft of injuries to key players ahead of Tests against the might of the Southern Hemisphere.

South Africa will have no concerns if wet-weather specialist Ruan Pienaar is ruled out of their one-off Test against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

Bulls hooker Mbongeni Mbonambi and Pumas prop Vincent Koch are among the newcomers in the Western Province squad for a short tour to England.

Johnny Sexton looks set to make a full recovery in time to face the Springboks, after suffering a thigh injury in Racing Metro’s match against Oyonnax.

The one leaves crowds in stitches. The other's boxing stint left opponent's with stitches.

Ryan Grant has been invited to train with Scotland for year-end Tests, as an injury replacement for Edinburgh's Allan Dell.

Experienced scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar will know on Tuesday if he will continue to be part of South Africa's year-end tour.

Singapore clinched a four-year deal to host a leg of the IRB Sevens World Series at its state-of-the-art new National Stadium.

In a rare moment for US television, a rugby test match was played on primetime television and the viewer reaction was priceless.

London Welsh have secured the services of Rowland Phillips as the defence coach in an attempt to stop the flow of tries against them.

FEATURE: Fiji coach John McKee believes the Pacific islanders could spring a surprise at next year's World Cup.

The Maori All Blacks deliver a powerful compilation of hakas before their match against Japan

Clermont wing Napolioni Nalaga will miss Fiji's November Tests against France, Wales and the United States due to family reasons, Fiji coach John McKee told AFP.

Paul Dobson pays his and rugby365's respects to the late Tinus Linee, who passed away on Monday after a brave battle with MND.

The All Blacks were mistakenly described by one of Chicago's largest newspapers, The Sun-Times, as a "legendary Aussie team"

The 2014 instalment of the Currie Cup brought us an exciting and unique showcase of provincial rugby which deserves some recognition.

FEATURE: We look ahead to the Southern Hemisphere's annual invasion of the Northern Hemisphere - for the end-of-year Tests.

Toulon manager Bernard Laporte threatened to forfeit next weekend's Top 14 clash against Castres over concerns for his players' safety.

New Zealand paid a dear price for their 68-point rout of the United States, with two All Blacks ruled out of the remainder of the year-end tour.

England suffered a major setback ahead of their November Test campaign, with lock Joe Launchbury ruled out of all four internationals.

OPINION: A year out from the World Cup there are still a few key positions giving Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer headaches.

An emotional Scott Spedding thanked his parents for making sacrifices that has seen him earn his first call-up by his adopted country France.

Two tries from England international Delon Armitage helped French and European champions Toulon go top of the Top 14 table on Sunday.

Playing with the ball in hand brings joy to new Springbok call-up Nizaam Carr, but it is his toughness that has made him an outstanding feature.

NEWS: The Springboks arrived in Dublin on Sunday, at the start of the year-end tour, without star lock Eben Etzebeth.

Exeter Chiefs coach Rob Baxter says he is excited at what newcomer Byron McGuigan can bring to the party.

Bayonne's South African-born fullback Scott Spedding has been added to the injury-hit French squad for their November tests.

Barbarians coach John Kirwan reckons Australia should do everything they can to get wing Nick Cummins back from Japan.

Nick Cummins wants to spend some more time with the Barbarians, after starring in their thrilling 36-40 loss to Australia.

Louis Picamoles scored a try on his return to Top 14 action as Toulouse's revival continued with their fifth successive win in all competitions.

REACTION: The gulf between United States and New Zealand may be as wide as the Grand Canyon, but the potential is there for it to close rapidly.

POST-MATCH REACTION: Michael Cheika said the "real, physical business" was about to begin for his Australian team.

Namibian's national rugby team, coach and players cleaned up at the Namibian Sports Commission awards held in Windhoek at the weekend.

Paddy Butler's 77th-minute try broke Cardiff Blues' hearts as Munster came from behind late to record a 28-24 win at Cardiff Arms Park.

The All Blacks were ruthless in Chicago as they ran in 12 tries in a resounding 74-6 victory over the United States Eagles.

The Wallabies were forced to work hard for their 40-36 victory over the Barbarians in an entertaining clash at Twickenham on Saturday.

Highly-rated fullback Brice Dulin will play no part in France's November Tests after suffering a stress fracture of the leg.

Brisbane City have recorded a 37-26 victory over the Perth Spirit to be crowned the inaugural National Rugby Championship winners.

The Maori All Blacks put on a counter-attacking masterclass to hammer a brave but error-prone Japan side 61-21 at Noevir Stadium in Kobe on Saturday.

Although not selected in New Zealand coach Steve Hansen's original tour squad, Colin Slade remains on standby after the Barbarians match.

Conditions in the Northern Hemisphere may differ significantly from those at home but John McFarland believes they favoured the South African players.

Heyneke Meyer surprised Jaco Kriel with a call to inform him of his inclusion in the South African squad for the outgoing tour.

Ospreys pulled away in the second half to beat Connacht 26-11 and equal their best-ever start to a league season.

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has come under fire for not having a specialist No.13 in his squad ahead of their Northern Hemisphere tour.

Toulon second row forward, Romain Taofifenua, has been suspended for three weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in Dublin on Thursday.

Gideon la Grange has brought the curtain down on his career after a short return stint in the Currie Cup for the Griquas.

We have two cracking games this weekend as the international teams take centre stage.

Both Stade Francais and Bordeaux-Begles could go top of the Top 14 in what promises to be an exciting affair in Paris on Saturday.  

John Smit has defined the role that Brendan Venter will play at the Sharks with the former Saracens man coming in once a week as a technical advisor.

Former Southland and All Black prop, Clarke Dermody has been unveiled as the Highlanders' scrum and assistant forwards' coach

The Queensland Reds will intensify their preparations for the 2015 Super Rugby season when they host the Melbourne Rebels in Cairns

The All Blacks' first visit to the United States in 34 years is set to shatter the rugby attendance record in America.

Kurtley Beale has been fined Aus$3000 over a mid-flight row linked to the resignations of coach Ewen McKenzie and a staff member.  

The Michael Cheika era begins for the Wallabies with a match against the Barbarians at Twickenham on Saturday as part of their year-end tour.

In a joint venture between the Australian Rugby Union and Queensland Rugby, Rohan Hoffman has been appointed the match officials development manager for Queensland.

INTERVIEW: rugby365 brings you the view of Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer on the co-operation with the national Sevens team.

Prop Ronan Loughney insists Connacht's new-found ruthless streak will allow them to overcome history and upset PRO12 leaders Ospreys on Friday.

Marius Jonker, one of the top referees in the world in his time, has decided refereed his last in the big arena of South African rugby.

Bath unveiled Sam Burgess as high-profile cross-code switch but have not made any promises about him walking into a starting berth.

EXCLUSIVE: Matt Hawkins, the former US Eagles player and coach, takes us inside the world of Sevens - exploring the statistics on the game a little more.

Making his 60th appearance in an Eagles shirt, Todd Clever will captain the side from No.6 alongside Scott Lavalla and Danny Barrett.

EXCLUSIVE: Join rugby365 as we take an in-depth look into a Sevens superstar that is on the road to realising his 15-man dream.

Wales flank Dan Lydiate will bring down the curtain on his largely unsuccessful spell at Racing Metro and return home before the end of the year.

All Black coach Steve Hansen is not devaluing the jersey, he is merely doing what is in the best interest of New Zealand's national pride.

Western Province will be losing an entire, highly rated, front row but they already have an exciting replacement trio lined up.

There will be no 'paternity leave' for two All Black players who are about to become fathers.

The Barbarians last outing against the Wallabies was also Victor Matfield's 'last game.'

Perth Spirit will travel to Ballymore Stadium to contest the inaugural National Rugby Championship against Brisbane City

Media and fans who suggests the rookies in the Springbok team will only hold tackle bags, could not be further from the truth if they tried.

The Maori All Blacks team to take on Japan in Kobe in the first match of its 2014 tour has been named and features 10 new caps.

EXCLUSIVE: MATT HAWKINS, THE FORMER US EAGLES PLAYER AND COACH, TAKES US INSIDE THE WORLD OF SEVENS - EXPLORING THE STATISTICS ON THE GAME A LITTLE MORE.

Namibia’s national team, the Welwitchias, overcame Germany 58-20 in Windhoek on Wednesday as part of their preparation for the World Cup. 

NEWS: All Black coach Steve Hansen wasted no time in drafting code-hopper Sonny Bill Williams back into the national team.

NEWS: Matt Hodgson will captain  Australia in Saturday's opening match of the 2014 year-end tour, against the Barbarians at Twickenham.

Western Province captain Juan de Jongh will don the No.13 jersey for the Barbarians when they clash against Australia at Twickenham.

YEAR-END TOUR: Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer dismissed the notion that his 36-man tour squad is oversized and unpractical.

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt is well aware of the challenge he faces against the 2007 World Champions.

Toulon lock Romain Taofifenua has been cited 'kicking' an opponent. You decide!

New Wallaby defence coach Nathan Grey believes Australia can turn around their disastrous 2014 campaign if they get it right in the top six inches.

All Black captain Richie McCaw was put on ice, literally, as his team continue to take in the sights and sounds of Chicago.

Sharks flyhalf Tim Swiel has been announced Harlequins' the latest signing and will join the club as injury cover for Ben Botica.

Former Western Province scrumhalf Neil de Kock is relishing the prospect of facing his former side at Allianz Park next month.

England coach Stuart Lancaster said there would be no major changes to his side's strategy and tactics during next month's internationals.

The Hurricanes will have important old heads, mixed with a couple of significant returning players and the elevation of some exciting youth in 2015.

Powerful midfielder Robbie Fruean returns to the Crusaders from a five year absence after spending a year with the Chiefs.

Stade Français have signed Argentine prop Santiago Garcia Botta as medical cover for injured Heinke Van Der Merwe.

Jerome Kaino has been named the Blues' captain for the 2015 Super Rugby season.

Hosea Gear makes a welcomed return to New Zealand rugby by joining the Chiefs along side Sonny Bill Williams.  

The Highlanders have added 10 new players to thier Super Rugby squad including Marty Banks and South African Prop Ross Geldenhuys.

Luther Burrell is set to miss England's opening November international against world champions New Zealand because of a hand injury.

Leicester Tigers have confirmed that backline coach Paul Burke has left the club.

Craig Joubert is very much a wandering referee and this week he will be in Chicago when the USA play the All Blacks at the Soldiers Field, the home ground of gridiron club Chicago Bears.

Toulon second row forward Romain Taofifenua has been cited, following the European Champions Cup Round Two match against Ulster last Saturday, October 25.

Newport Gwent Dragons have signed Carmarthen Quins centre Rhys Williams on loan because of their midfield injury crisis.

INTERVIEW: Johan Ackermann may be in the infancy of his coaching career, but the grizzled former lock forward is already making great strides.

The one steals Christmas from little kids. The other wants to spoil Christmas for European players.

Former Springbok coach Peter de Villiers chatted to an online radio station about his thoughts on the 36-man Springbok squad.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: From 'villain' to hero in just one kick ... which he didn't even take. That, in brief, sums up Demetri Catrakilis' year.

The European Champions Cup inaugural season kicked off with some fantastic tries.

Paul James has signed a two-year deal with the Ospreys and will return to the Liberty Stadium in 2015 after three seasons in the Premiership with Bath.

All Blacks centre Conrad Smith expressed his excitement ahead of their historic match against the United States.

First they weren't, then they were and now they aren't going to Paul Roos's Rugby Day in March to celebrate the great Stellenbosch school's 150th Birthday.

Western Province hooker Tiaan Liebenberg has been forced to retire after being plagued by back injuries for some time now.

EXCLUSIVE: Nizaam Carr spoke to Tauriq Ebrahim about his inclusion in the Springbok squad for the year-end tour.

Inaugural Western Force squad member Pek Cowan has re-signed with the franchise for a further two seasons.

Wallaby scrumhalf Nick Phipps has insisted the Australian squad are not a bunch of sexists, following the Kurtley Beale saga.

Australian assistant coach Nathan Grey said there was still a chance that controversial back Kurtley Beale could yet feature on the year-end tour.

South African-born back row forward Antonie Claassen has been called up to France's three-day training camp.

The 2014 Currie Cup-winning Western Province squad will embark on a victory parade through Cape Town on Tuesday, October 28.

Seabelo Senatla, recently selected for the Springboks year-end tour, hopes he can learn enough from his idol, Bryan Habana, to emulate him.

The All Blacks, who arrived at the O'Hare Airport on Monday, will be the star attraction in Chicago this week - ahead of their Test against the United States.

The Currie Cup has drawn to a close with Western Province victorious, but who were the most impressive players in their position?

Head coach Vern Cotter added two players to Scotland’s November Tests' training squad in Newcastle.

BREAKING NEWS: Five newcomers and two returnees have been added to the bulk of the Springboks' Rugby Championship squad.

Harlequins came good when it really mattered to go top of Pool 2 after winning on the road at Adams Park.

The Kurtley Beale texting saga took another intriguing turn with the revelation that he lied about having previously sent the offensive message.

England coach Stuart Lancaster has added nine players to his squad for the November Tests, who will provide cover in case of injuries.

The recent Currie Cup Final between Province and the Lions was a showpiece of highly skilled rugby but for a certain flyhalf who was off colour.

Stephen Moore will remain with the Brumbies beyond the 2015 World Cup, after announcing a one-year contract extension on Monday.

The woman at the centre of the Kurtley Beale texting affair said she had been driven to near suicide by the scandal.

YEAR-END TOUR: Jan de Koning looks at some alternative selections for the Springboks ahead of their four-Test trip.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Jan de Koning goes inside the camp of the newly crowned Currie Cup champions, Western Province, for some insight.

REACTION: Jan de Koning reports from Newlands after Western Province edged the Golden Lions 19-16 in a gripping Currie Cup Final.

Seven penalties from Ian Madigan gave three-time European champions Leinster a 21-16 victory away at French side Castres on Sunday.

Brisbane City and Perth Spirit have booked their places in Australia's inaugural National Rugby Championship Final.

Wallaby James Horwill is reportedly on the verge of signing a big-money deal with English Premiership club Harlequins.

Glasgow Warriors head coach Gregor Townsend reckons their rearguard efforts can guide them into the European Champions Cup quarterfinals.

George North wrote himself into Northampton Saints' European record book by scoring a club-equalling four tries against Ospreys.

Scarlets star Aled Davies claimed victory over Leicester Tigers was all down to the way the side had played in Toulon a week earlier.

Richard Cockerill believes Leicester Tigers' 3-15 defeat against the Scarlets could be 'terminal' for his side's chances of reaching the play-offs.

All Black legend Dan carter feels he is ready to get back onto the Test stage, despite his limited game time this year.

Charlie Faumuina has missed the All Blacks' first day of training, ahead of their departure for the end-of-year tour.

Wasps confirmed that England international James Haskell is back home, having being discharged from hospital at the weekend.

The New Zealand Maori team was the big loser in the NPC Final at the weekend.

Wallaby star Kurtley Beale says he feels vindicated by the disciplinary process which saw him fined AU$45,000 (US$40,000).

WRAP: Toulon took a big step towards the European Champions Cup knockout stages with a solid 23-13 victory over Ulster.

Luther Burrell became the latest England centre to suffer a setback ahead of next month's international programme

Western Province have held on against a spirited Golden Lions outfit to lift the trophy 19-16 at Newlands on Saturday.

The Golden Lions came agonizingly close to winning their first Currie Cup since 2011 but they missed a final penalty to succumb to Western Province 19-16.

Western Province were crowned Currie Cup champions following a nailbiting 19-16 win against the Golden Lions at Newlands.

Welsh referee Nigel Owens delivers a brilliant quip during the Harlequins v Castres match.

REPORT: Taranaki are the new champions of New Zealand, beating Tasman 36-32 in a thrilling NPC Final in New Plymouth on Saturday.

Connor Murray admitted it was a battle not to get bored with all the kicking in his side's 14-3 European Rugby Champions Cup win over Saracens.

Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall felt Rhys Gill's yellow card had been crucial in his side's 14-3 defeat to Munster at Thomond Park.

Munster made the most of a yellow card given to Saracens prop Rhys Gill as they defeated last season's losing finalists 14-3.

BREAKING NEWS: New Wallaby coach Michael Cheika has laid down the law, blocking Kurtley Beale's return to the Wallabies.

Saracens were beaten 14-3 by Munster on a wet and blustery Friday in Limerick where a late yellow card played a big part in the outcome.

INTERVIEW: New Director of Rugby Gary Gold said that leading the Sharks was beyond his wildest dreams.

Brisbane City have booked a spot in the inaugural National Rugby Championship final following a 32-26 win over the NSW Country Eagles.

The Wallabies left Friday for a five-match European tour, relishing the chance to escape the dramas and turmoil that have swamped them in Australia.

UPDATED: Disgraced utility back Kurtley Beale has been fined, but will rejoin the Wallaby team at the weekend.

Jan de Koning looks at one of the key aspects of the Currie Cup Final between Western Province and the Lions - refereeing at scrum-time.

The Manawatu Turbos claimed the Championship Cup after defeating Hawke’s Bay 32-24 to gain promotion to the 2015 Premiership division.

Get ready for the biggest match in provincial rugby: The Currie Cup Final!

OPINION: Acclaimed writer Paul Dobson sits down to pick his best Currie Cupo team of all time. It is a fun thing to do.

Lizo Gqoboka's rise to stardom has been meteoric, only picking up the game five years ago after turning his back on it to be part of the choir.

Singapore presented an attractive bid in the hope of becoming Super Rugby's 18th team but fell short at the final hurdle after SANZAR decided to award it to Japan.

Bath owner Bruce Craig is plotting their return to the glory years that saw them crowned champions of Europe in 1998.

Japan is the preferred option over Singapore to expand the Super Rugby competition in 2016, NZRU CEO Steve Tew said

NEWS: The Sharks have made two key appointments - Gary Gold as Director of Rugby and Brendan Venter as Technical Director.

There is an unusual air of anticipation ahead of the 2014 Currie Cup Final, between Western Province and the Golden Lions.

Abie Malan, rugby man and farmer, died from complications following knee replacement surgery. His death has come as a shock.

Toulouse captain Thierry Dusautoir is hoping his eight-year spell at the club climaxes with another European Cup trophy.