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Organisers are bracing themselves for having to disappoint thousands of fans despite nearly a million tickets being purchased for next year's World Cup.

Three new caps have been included in the Namibian national side to face Germany in Windhoek on October 29.

Japan has all but secured their place in Super Rugby from 2016. According to reports Singapore has effectively thrown in the towel.

ASM Clermont Auvergne player Julien Bardy has been suspended for five weeks, following a disciplinary hearing in Dublin on Thursday.

Wallabies and fullback Israel Folau has been handed the ultimate honour in Australia, after being named the John Eales Medallist for 2014.

The last time the Lions won the Currie Cup was 2011. Five of those players will feature at Newlands on Saturday, but the majority in the WP jersey.

Western Province coach Allister Coetzee has kept the changes to a minimum for the Currie Cup Final clash against the Golden Lions at Newlands.

Golden Lions coach Johan Ackermann has placed his faith in the same starting XV who demolished the Sharks 50-20 to reach the 2014 Currie Cup Final.

Victor Matfield believes that the home nations have a shot at winning the World Cup as the Springboks gear up to face the likes of England and Ireland. 

Consistency rather than "flash stuff" has been the guiding principle behind England coach Stuart Lancaster's selections at flyhalf.

EXCLUSIVE: MATT HAWKINS, THE FORMER US EAGLES PLAYER AND COACH, TAKES US INSIDE THE WORLD OF SEVENS - LOOKING AT HOW STATS GIVE A TEAM ITS IDENTITY!

Wallaby coach Michael Cheika has made no secret of the fact that he wants to retain the services of polemical star Kurtley Beale.

Thirty-five players have been chosen for the US national team's tour next month - which features a Test against New Zealand.

EXCLUSIVE: Former Springbok assistant coach Gary Gold is set to return to South Africa, to take up a top job at the Sharks.

Italy captain Sergio Parisse believes winning the first of a three-match Test series, against Samoa next month, is "crucial".

Kenyan coach Paul Treu has broken his silence over the doping allegations raised against him, his coaching staff and the Kenyan Sevens team.

The pressure was on young men to go off and fight in the horrible World War 1 which began a hundred years ago this year. We look at the effect on one South African school.

Avoid falling into the trap of playing finals football. This is the message ahead of the Currie Cup Final between WP and the Lions on Saturday.

The world's oldest schools match recently celebrated it's 150th anniversary.

Saracens wing Chris Ashton has been dropped from Stuart Lancaster's England squad for the November internationals.

REACTION: Never short of passion, new Wallaby coach Michael Cheika said there won't be wholesale changes to the way Australia play.

Golden Lions captain Warren Whiteley believes his side needs to be clinical if they are to walk away from Newlands as the 2014 Currie Cup champions.

Wasps captain James Haskell was set to remain under observation in hospital after suffering what was thought to be a viral infection.

Argentina head coach Daniel Hourcade has added five new players to the squad that will be touring the Northern Hemisphere in November.

Captaining France to their first-ever World Cup trophy in England next year would set the seal on flank Thierry Dusautoir's stellar career he said.

All referees who have refereed a Currie Cup Final will say that it was a, if not the, highlight of their refereeing career.

Former Wales flyhalf Gareth Davies has been elected as the new Chairman of the Welsh Rugby Union.

The Highlanders have added Tasman flyhalf Marty Banks, experienced lock Alex Ainley and Taranaki flyer Waisake Naholo to their 2015 Super Rugby squad.

OPINION: Acclaimed writer and historian Paul Dobson takes a look at the sad decline of the quality of spectators at the iconic Newlands stadium.

Springbok captain Jean De Villiers knowsthe ultimate goal is ensuring all the systems and details are in place for the World Cup.

Kurtley Beale will have to wait a few more days before he will know if his Australian international career has formally come to an end.

The Australian Rugby Union on Wednesday confirmed that Michael Cheika is the new Wallaby coach, ahead of a tough European tour.

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt included five uncapped players in a 37-man squad for next month's international programme.

Sharks coach Brad Macleod-Henderson said despite not winning a trophy this season, the overall outlook was still positive for the Durban franchise.

Craig Joubert is one of 26 referees to referee a Currie Cup Final since the first one in 1939.

It's a Final week - finals in South Africa and New Zealand. There is a semifinal in Australia's new competition. It is all exciting stuff with pressures on match officials, especially Craig Joubert and Glen Jackson.

INTERVIEW: The Lions may have outscored WP in the try-count, but it is the latter who rely more on their X-factor players.

The Golden Lions are famed for their set-piece power, but it is the pace of their forwards that could trouble Western Province more.

KRU Chairman Mwangi Muthee has stated that the local Anti-Doping Taskforce committee cobbled together fallacious information.

England will be without prolific centre Manu Tuilagi for at least the opening November Test  after suffering a recurrence of a groin injury.

Singapore's National Stadium suffered fresh embarrassment when the Maori All Blacks scrapped their match over the poor state of its pitch.

The EPCR has received a citing complaint against Clermont Auvergne replacement loose forward, Julien Bardy.

The Barbarians completed their squad with the addition of 11 more players including the South African duo of Juan de Jongh and Sarel Pretorius.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has named an experienced 34-man squad for the forthcoming November Tests which features just one uncapped player.

SARU's Academy Programme continued to flourish in its second year of operation as part of the Strategic Transformation Plan.

The Springboks will look to maintain their high standards and success rate in the November Tests when they travel to the Northern Hemisphere.

The Springboks will be without the services of Bulls duo Callie Visage and Marcel van der Merwe going into the November Test series

The race for office bragging rights has intensified as MdV takes the lead.

Claims by a former employee that the Sharks have bigger tax headaches than those which led to her dismissal have no basis, according to Stephen Saad.

The Maori All Blacks squad to take on Japan next month was named in Wellington and features 11 new caps.

Australian media are reporting that Waratahs coach Michael Cheika has accepted an ARU's offer to coach the Wallabies.

Golden Lions coach Johan Ackermann is set to name a virtually unchanged team for the Currie Cup Final encounter with Western Province.

Western Province are still sweating over the fitness of stars Nizaam Carr and Jaco Taute, ahead of their Currie Cup Final.

New Zealand international centre Anthony Tuitavake will be out of action for up to five weeks.

BREAKING NEWS: Former South African Sevens coach Paul Treu has been caught up in a doping scandal in Kenya.

The Springboks' preparations for the November Tests got underway in the blistering Stellenbosch heat on Monday.

Craig Joubert, arguably the best referee in the world, will take charge of the Currie Cup Final between Western Province and the Golden Lions.

The Lions and WP have been the best teams throughout the Currie Cup and deservedly go through to the Final thanks to their shining stars.

Head coach Vern Cotter today named Edinburgh lock Grant Gilchrist as captain of a 33-man Scotland squad selected for the November Tests.  

YSTERS VAN DIE VERLEDE: Dit was die jaar van die rebelle - op en van die veld af. Maar dit was ook 'n jaar van opwindende, liplek-lekker rugby.

Schalk Brits sustained a knee ligament injury playing for Saracens in their European Champions Cup game at home to Clermont Auvergne.

BLAST FROM THE PAST: It was the year of the rebels - both on and off the field. But it was also a year of exciting, intriguingly good rugby.

The 2015 Craven Week will be hosted at the Markötter Fields at Paul Roos Gymnasium as part of the school’s 150-year anniversary celebrations.

David Strettle has queried whether England are going about selecting their wings in the right way ahead of squad announcment.

Karmichael Hunt is looking forward to pairing his exciting brand of ball running with school-mate Quade Cooper's mercurial playing style.  

It has been reported that Michael Cheika is in talks with the ARU with regards to accepting the recently vacated Wallabies' head coaching post.

The United States will be able to select leading players based in Britain, France and Japan in their team to play New Zealand.

NEWS: New Zealand welcomed back superstars Dan Carter and Sonny Bill Williams for next month's Northern Hemisphere tour.

Reigning two-time champions Toulon began the defence of their European Cup crown with a rugged 28-18 victory over a spirited Scarlets on Sunday.

Montpellier announced the signing of Australian Ben Lucas Sunday as medical cover for injured France international flyhalf Francois Trinh-Duc.  

Senior figures within Welsh rugby paid tribute to Stuart Gallacher after it was announced Sunday that the former Scarlets chief executive had died aged 68.

The Springbok selectors have invited eight more players to join the squad at their training camp in Stellenbosch.

Bath boss Mike Ford admits Saturday's opening European Cup battering by Glasgow Warriors was tough to take.

Although happy with his team's win against the Bulls, WP coach Allister Coetzee knows the Lions will pose a completely different challenge.

Golden Lions captain Warren Whiteley says coach Johan Ackermann has encouraged the team to 'express themselves' and play their natural game.

Blue Bulls coach Frans Ludeke stood by his decision to play Handre Pollard at inside centre in the Currie Cup semifinal at Newlands.

Australian Rugby Union chief Bill Pulver says he has no idea who is available to coach the Wallabies following Ewen McKenzie's surprise resignation.

Wallabies skipper Michael Hooper denied reports that coach Ewen McKenzie was forced out because of a lack of support from the players.

MATCH REPORT: Western Province recorded their third win of the season over the Blue Bulls as they advanced to the Currie Cup Final.

Ian Keatley's last-gasp drop-goal saw Munster snatch a 27-26 win at Sale Sharks on Saturday in the European Champions Cup.

MATCH REPORT: The Golden Lions produced another exhilarating performance to race past the Sharks and into the Currie Cup Final.

Ewen McKenzie said there was a 'bunch of reasons' but refused to go into details after he sensationally quit following a narrow loss to the All Blacks.

BREAKING NEWS: The Australian Rugby Union revealed that Ewen McKenzie has resigned as Wallaby coach.

The Wallabies suffered a heartbreaking blow as they succumbed to the All Blacks 29-28 after the final hooter in Brisbane on Saturday.

The All Blacks showed why they are the No.1 team in the world by pipping the Wallabies 29-28 in Brisbane on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: New Zealand left it late, but managed to beat Australia 29-28 in a thrilling Bledisloe Cup Test in Brisbane on Saturday.

Taranaki will host Tasman in the NPC Premiership Final in New Plymouth next Saturday.

All Black Nick Evans and new dad Danny Care starred as Harlequins got the revamped European Champions Cup season underway.

All Black Nick Evans kicked 20 points as he lead Harlequins to a historic 25-9 win over Castres Olympique in the new European Champions Cup.

South African lock Francois van der Merwe has signed a three-year contract extension with Racing-Metro.

The Griffons held their nerve in a tense First Division Final against the Falcons at the North West Stadium in Welkom on Friday, to record a 23-21 victory.

EXCLUSIVE: Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard has all the physical and mental attributes to make a seamless and successful shift to inside centre.

All Black flyhalf Beauden Barrett looks to be fine to take his place in the team to play the Wallabies on Saturday, after taking a knock to the leg in training.

 Ryno Barnes was cleared of wrongdoing after receiving a red card against the Blue Bulls for allegedly verbally abusing the referee.  

Graham Henry has called the current Wallaby team poorer than the one he last faced, and defeated, in the 2011 World Cup.

Hawke's Bay had to survive a determined Northland fightback before claiming their place in the Championship final with a 26-21 win.

On this weekend there are three finals and six semifinals. In each of those nine matches there must be a winner. But what happens in the case of a draw?

The Sydney prop who scored Rugby Union's first ever 'own try' says he's still a bit stunned by the refereeing howler that's gone viral around the world.

Is the most bizarre TMO call and first Rugby Union own-try ever?

Toulon chief Morad Boudjellal is looking set to act on his threats to change the IRB rules in a court battle over payments to players on test duty.

There's an action-packed weekend to look forward to with the third Bledisloe Cup match and Currie Cup semifinal action.

The Golden Lions will be looking to topple the defending champions at home as a first step to Currie Cup glory that they last tasted in 2011, over the Sharks.

Toulon head coach Bernard Laporte has ruled out a move by England flank Steffon Armitage to English Premiership side Bath.

An exciting new chapter in the rich history of European Professional Club Rugby will be written in the inaugural European Champions Cup.

TRANS-TASMAN DERBY: Off-field distractions are overshadowing the build-up to Saturday's Bledisloe Cup clash in Brisbane

The All Blacks were given a big scare ahead of their Test against the Wallabies on Saturday.

Western Province and the Blue Bulls took very different routes to the Currie Cup semifinal at Newlands on Saturday.

Blue Bulls captain Deon Stegmann says they are ready for a brutal forward battle against in the Currie Cup semifinal clash against Western Province.

On this weekend there are three finals and six semifinals. In each of those nine matches there must be a winner. But what happens in the case of a draw?

Western Province know that they are not likely to beat the Blue Bulls at Newlands on Saturday if they allow the visitors to dominate up front.

EXCLUSIVE: The season is officially under way and Matt Hawkins, the former US Eagles player, captain and coach, takes us inside the world of Sevens!

Racing-Metro have opened the door for a potential departure of Wales flank Dan Lydiate, although the club has as yet received no proposals from other clubs.

France international flyhalf Remi Tales has been stripped of the captaincy at 2013 Top 14 champions Castres, who have endured a disastrous start to the current campaign.

Jonny Wilkinson has revealed that he retired at the end of last season because he'd simply had enough of the training needed to be a top level star in the game.

We bring you highlights of the opening round of the Americas Championship.

South Africa were dealt a considerable blow when utility player Stephan Dippenaar was ruled out of action for up to 12 weeks.

Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard will play at inside centre when the Blue Bulls take on Western Province in the Currie Cup semifinals in Cape Town on Saturday.

The Sharks may have a psychological boost over the Lions having beaten them this season already, but for Marnitz Boshoff the past does not play a part.

The All Blacks are fearing a backlash from the beleaguered Wallabies in this weekend's final Bledisloe Cup Test.

Western Province coach Allister Coetzee has recalled all his big guns for Saturday's Currie Cup semifinal against the Blue Bulls at Newlands.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Aaron Cruden may be paying a very dear prize for his booze binge in the latter stages of the Rugby Championship.

The Sharks received a timely boost ahead of their Currie Cup semifinal encounter with the Golden Lions in Johannesburg on Saturday.

Golden Lions coach Johan Ackermann has opted largely for consistency in his starting team but has bolstered his loose forwards on the bench

BLAST FROM THE PAST: Tension does not abate this weekend as an exciting Currie Cup season goes into the semifinals and the unpredictable.

Naka Drotske has named his extended 55-man squad for the Cheetahs' 2015 Super Rugby season with his marque signing being french based Joe Pietersen.

EXCLUSIVE: THE SEASON IS OFFICIALLY UNDER WAY AND MATT HAWKINS, THE FORMER US EAGLES PLAYER, CAPTAIN AND COACH, TAKES US INSIDE THE WORLD OF SEVENS!

Dan Carter's attempt to return to the playing field has suffered yet another setback.

It is official. World Cup-winning coach Jake White will act as technical adviser to Tonga during their year-end tour.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The fall-out from the Kurtley Beale texting saga is continuing to snowball at an alarming rate.

The Hurricanes roster is starting to fill up as the Super Rugby pre'-season draws near.

The Chiefs added two more players to their squad for 2015, with the signing of Tasman wing Bryce Heem and Auckland loose forward Sean Polwart.

New Zealand made five changes to the starting line-up for the Test against Australia, but could find no room for disgraced flyhalf Aaron Cruden.

Ulster lock Alan O'Connor has been slapped with a three-week foul-play ban, following the Pro12 encounter with Glasgow last Saturday.

NEWS: Four players have been added to the Springbok squad for their training camp in Stellenbosch next week.

Griquas hooker Ryno Barnes will appear before a SARU disciplinary committee on Thursday.

INTERVIEW: Golden Lions coach Johan Ackermann last week took a calculated risk, an 'experiment' that will reap rich rewards for some time to come.

Europe's new competitions start with weekend with Nigel Owens to get the European Cup started on Friday while the Challenge Cup starts on Thursday with Ian Davies to referee.

We bring you video highlights of the knock-out stages of the Gold Coast tournament.

Western Province assistant coach Robbie Fleck has lauded the efforts of his young backline following their vast improvement.

Montpellier forwards coach Mario Ledesma believes he has a pack of forwards capable of taking on any team in Europe - starting with Toulouse.

Wales coach Warren Gatland fired an early shot at the All Blacks' World Cup defence, suggesting the New Zealanders may be hampered by their weak pool.

The Griffons and Falcons will meet in the Final for the first time in the history of the First Division competition in Welkom on Friday.

Springbok No.8 Duane Vermeulen and the Commonwealth Games gold medal winning SA Sevens team have been nominated for major awards.

Former World Cup-winning coach Eddie Jones has thrown his weight behind Jake White to replace Ewen McKenzie.

The Hurricanes are taking Super Rugby back to the country with a pre-season game in Eketahuna.

The Golden Lions Rugby Union has slapped a hefty ban on a player for 'blatant disrespect' of a match official.

Chiefs prop Ben Tameifuna's dream of representing New Zealand is all but over after he made his intention clear to play for Tonga.

Some of the Welsh stars who flocked to France for far bigger pay packets are keen to return home, claimed Wales coach Warren Gatland.

Saracens loose forward Jacques Burger will captain Namibia against Canada on November 7 - the first of three matches on their year-end tour.

Bath head coach Mike Ford says Steffon Armitage is not likely to join the club with negotiations between the two parties stalling.

Sharks utility back Sibusiso Sithole believes the Golden Lions are favourites to win their semifinal encounter.

Golden Lions flyhalf Elton Jantjies is enjoying life at Japanese club Shining Arcs, as he has been given a pivotal role in the team.

Sharks assistant coach Sean Everitt believes their improvement this season has been down to their ability to learn quickly from their mistakes.    

Western Province are full of confidence ahead of their semifinal but assistant coach Robbie Fleck has insisted they are far from being complacent.

Springbok flyhalf Marnitz Boshoff is set to join the Barbarians when they take on the Wallabies at Twickenham on November 1.

Amid the scandal rocking the Wallaby team Quade Cooper has said that Australia can beat the All Blacks if they fix their attitudes.

Clermont Auvergne have a grudge re-match with Saracens at the Allianz Park to look forward to in the opening round of the European Cup, although skipper Damien Chouly isn't looking to labour the point.

Steffon Armitage has been linked with a shock move back to England in order to play in next year's World Cup after looking like he may play for France.

Western Province coach Allister Coetzee has all but confirmed his team to take on the Bulls even with a multitude of options available to him.

Racing Metro skipper Dimitri Szarsewski may be out of action for a month, but he is still getting excited about his side's European Cup home clash with English champions Northampton Saints.

The Australian Rugby Union is rejecting reports it is preparing to replace Ewen McKenzie as Wallabies coach.

Wallabies flyhalf Quade Cooper will return from a lengthy injury lay-off from the bench when Australia tackle New Zealand in Brisbane on Saturday.

The Golden Lions, already boasting one of the most impressive lose forward combinations, may receive a further boost this week.

Leinster prop Marty Moore will miss Ireland's forthcoming Tests after being ruled out of action for 12 weeks.

Edinburgh No.8 Cornell Du Preez underwent succesful surgery at the Royal Infirmary at the weekend.

South African referee Rasta Rasivhenge has left South African shores and will be based in Brisbane, with the approval of SA Referees.

A SARU judicial officer has rejected a complaint that the Falcons fielded an ineligible player in their First Division semifinal against the Leopards

Morgan Parra will be out of action for up to six weeks after the Clermont star suffered a fractured bone in his shoulder against La Rochelle,

Toulouse coach Guy Novesse has commenced preparations for his side's opening European Cup game against Montpellier on Sunday.

History will be made when the condensed Rugby Championship kicks off next year as the Pumas take on New Zealand in the first game.

Europe has been placed on high alert after Toulon made it clear their eyes are firmly set on claiming the treble.

Australia should not expect New Zealand to 'go easy' on them in their times of turmoil. In fact the All Blacks are ready to 'belt' the Wallabies.

The Golden Lions get rewarded for finishishing the round robin stages of the Currie Cup competition with an emphatic destruction of the Cheetahs.

Western Province will welcome the return of flyers Cheslin Kolbe, Seabelo Senatla and Justin Geduld to their squad.

We bring you VIDEO highlights of the knock-out stages of the Gold Coast tournament, the opening leg of the 2014/15 IRB Sevens World Series!

ARU boss Bill Pulver gave his support to besieged Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie before this weekend's Bledisloe Cup Test against the All Blacks.

There has been some steady improvement made by the Rugby365 team.

While Burger Odendaal is definitely out for the Currie Cup play-offs, Piet van Zyl will be given until Thursday to recover from an ankle sprain.

Senior Wallabies continued to back Kurtley Beale on Monday despite more revelations about offensive text messages.

The Kurtley Beale saga took an intriguing new twist on Monday, with details of the infamous text messages leaked to the media.

Tonga have added former Springboks coach Jake White to their backroom staff for the year-end tour to Asia and Europe. 

Whilst SARU have made some good calls recently, there is no doubt that there is still room for improvement in terms of player management.

Wasps' early second-half onslaught proved vital as they survived Bath Rugby's fightback to securea 29-22 victory

Ospreys produced a blistering first-half to beat Cardiff Blues and ensure their return to the top of the PRO12 table.

Allister Coetzee is happy with Saturday's performance despite a 28-20 loss against the Sharks with a second-string team.

Top 14: France flyhalf François Trinh-Duc underwent a successful operation on his broken leg

The defending NPC Cup champions halted a three-match losing streak to defeat Taranaki 26-23 after it looked all locked up

Adam Ashley-Cooper will leave the Australian Rugby Union after next year's World Cup to play club rugby in Europe

Carlos Spencer said he was proud of his team after they registered their first win in the Currie Cup this season by beating the Pumas 26-25.

Reaction: The Sharks put in a determined second-half performance to stretch their winning streak to four matches after defeating WP 28-20

DAY TWO WRAP: Fiji defeated Samoa 31-24 in final of the Gold Coast Sevens to win round one of the World Series.

The Bulls suffered a serious injury blow in their 46-12 victory over the Griquas with Burger Odendaal leaving the field clutching his arm.

Gordon Tietjens says Sonny Bill Williams wants to play at the 2016 Olympics but first the All Blacks have to qualify for the Rio tournament.

Michael Hooper has said Kurtley Beale should not be sacked and has called for a squad honesty session to dispel talk of team disunity.

Stade Francais won bragging rights in the Parisian derby battle with Racing-Metro, running out 23-19 victors in a tight, niggly Top 14 match on Saturday.

Two tries from Australian wing Blair Connor helped Bordeaux-Begles to a stunning 59-7 thrashing of Castres on Saturday.

Second-half tries from Irish internationals Craig Gilroy and Tommy Bowe inflicted a first defeat of the season on Glasgow Warriors.

Uruguay became the 20th and last team to qualify for the 2015  World Cup in England when they beat Russia 36-27.

Mark McCall tipped man-of-the-match Brad Barritt for an England re-call in November, after Saracens held firm to beat Gloucester at Allianz Park.

MATCH REPORT: The Blues Bulls warmed up for the Currie Cup play-offs with an impressive second-half rout of Griquas on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: The Sharks were made to work hard, but will go into the Currie Cup semifinals on the back of a four-match winning streak.

MATCH REPORT: The Lions secured themselves home ground advantage in the Currie Cup semifinals with an 47-7 win over the Cheetahs.

Southland came ever so close to snatching the Ranfurly Shield off Hawke's Bay in the final challenge of 2014.

Gaetan Germain's missed conversion with a minute left cost Brive their first French Top 14 away win since February 2012 as Grenoble limped over the line 26-25.

Leicester Tigers coach Richard Cockerill slammed "rubbish" criticism of the club after they ended a run of three straight Premiership defeats.

DAY ONE WRAP: New Zealand, Argentina, Fiji and South Africa all impressed on the opening day of the Gold Coast Sevens.

John Kirwan will be picking the "cream of the Southern Hemisphere talent" when he coaches the Barbarians against Australia.  

BREAKING NEWS: Wallabies Business Manager Di Patston has left the Australian Rugby Union, after resigning late on Friday.

Benetton Treviso bagged their first point of the PRO12 season but they couldn't make it four as Craig Ronaldson's boot edged Connacht to a 9-6 victory.

Blaine Scully got Leicester Tigers off to a flying start as they kicked a three-match losing run in the Premiership with a 22-16 victory over Harlequins.

The Kings managed to hold on for their first win in the last round of the Currie Cup as they beat the Pumas 26-25

High-flying Manawatu punished an untidy Otago side to claim a hard-fought 38-25 victory on Friday.

Uruguay host Russia in the final qualifier for the 2015 World Cup on Saturday, with the winners to be parachuted into the toughest pool.

The Golden Lions will go into 'play-off mode' when they host the Free State Cheetahs in their final Currie Cup league match in Johannesburg on Saturday.

De Kock Steenkamp has been ruled out of action until 2015 after seeing a specialist for his Achilles tendon injury which, fortunately, won't require surgery.

Top 14: Capital pride will be at stake when Stade Francais take on cross-Paris rivals Racing-Metro, while table-toppers Toulon host struggling Toulouse.

The All Blacks drafted promising scrumhalf Augustine Pulu into the squad for next week's Bledisloe Cup Test against Australia.

BREAKING NEWS: Australia coach Ewen McKenzie denied having an affair with business manager Di Patston as a feud took an unexpected twist.

Mercurial flyhalf Quade Cooper earned a recall to the Australia set-up, but Kurtley Beale was sidelined as he awaits a hearing.

After a shaky start to their Currie Cup season, Blue Bulls coach Frans Ludeke believes his side has reached top form.

Wales fullback Leigh Halfpenny said he was excited to be finally able to make his Toulon debut, following his switch from Cardiff Blues in the off-season.

At the end of the first half, the score was 0-0 after Free State had missed three penalty kicks at goal, Western Province won.

EXCLUSIVE: Matt Hawkins, the former United States Eagles player, captain and coach, takes us inside the world of Sevens!

Thursday was the last day of the Under-15 Iqhawe Tournament at City Park in Cape Town, ending with the main match between Western Province and Free State and followed by awards and lots of thanks.

Leicester boss Richard Cockerill is not to blame for the injury-hit Tigers early season struggles according to sidelined skipper Ed Slater.

Ed Morrison, one of rugby's great referees and England's former refereeing boss, is back. PRO12 Rugby has appointed him as a refereeing consultant.

Leinster captain Jamie Heaslip admits they won't be celebrating a third straight title in May if last Saturday's performance becomes a habit this Pro12 season.

Springbok Sevens veteran Frankie Horne will reach yet another milestone - his 69th tournament.

It is the final round of the Currie Cup before the play-offs and there is a number of cracking games in store

The Currie Cup teams will have one last chance to fight for the remaining home semifinal and semifinal berth in the competition this weekend.

It is the opening match of the IRB's Sevens Series in Gold Coast, Australia, this weekend. The appointments of match officials for Day 1 are made known.

Neil Powell admitted the team’s preparations for the tournament have not been ideal, however, he cautioned his team will be primed to challenge.

INTERVIEW: Western Province flyhalf Kurt Coleman will hope to avoid the milestone blues when he make his 50th appearance for the union.

Blue Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has opted to play Springbok star Handré Pollard from the bench in their Currie Cup crunch match with Griquas on Saturday.

After nine straight defeats, the Kings are desperate to end their return to the Currie Cup on a high when they host the Pumas in Port Elizabeth on Friday.

Seasoned prop Brok Harris will captain Western Province in their final Currie Cup league match, against the Sharks at Newlands on Saturday.

The Sharks will be bolstered by the return of Cobus Reinach who featured for the Springboks in the Rugby Championship.

The Lions have been bolstered by the return of Springbok Warren Whiteley as Johan Ackermann looks to solidify his loose trio when they take on the Cheetahs.

The Golden Lions will turn back the clock once more when they tackle the Free State Cheetahs in a Currie Cup crunch match on Saturday.

The Gold Coast Sevens serves as the start of the qualification process for Sevens’ debut at the Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil in 2016.

All Blacks veteran Dan Carter's comeback has been further delayed, as he struggles to overcome his latest injury setbacks.

Former All Black David Hill will join the coaching team at the Blues for the forthcoming Super Rugby season.

Western Province have reacted quickly to a drunken episode in Bloemfontein at the weekend, following their 34-29 victory over the Cheetahs.

The Highlanders sign off 2014 with a wrap of what happened behind the scenes.

BREAKING NEWS: Troubled Wallaby Kurtley Beale faces new allegations of having breached the players' code of conduct.

New Zealand-born Kelly Haimona and Fijian Samuela Vunisa are among three uncapped players in a 30-man Italy squad.

Bath coach Mike Ford told cross-code convert Sam Burgess to take all the time he needs before joining up with the English Premiership Rugby Union club.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The race to become the 18th Super Rugby franchise in 2016 took an intriguing twist on Wednesday.

Twelve matches, 49 tries, plenty of drama and heaps of entertainment. It is time for rugby365's famous Rugby Championship kudos.

As seems often the case Western Province will play the match on the final day of the Iqhawe Tournament for the pupils of lesser-known rugby schools, being played at City Park in Cape Town.

Itembelihle of New Brighton in Port Elizabeth played in the KZN Development Tournament in Glencoe and won all of their matches against regional teams.

Wasps captain James Haskell has insisted the English Premiership side had little choice but to move to Coventry.

The second Iqhawe Tournament has been taking place at City Park in Cape Town this week.

South African Sevens coach Neil Powell hopes his team can kick on from their Commonwealth Games success earlier this year.

Cheetahs coach Rory Duncan wasted no time in rushing back all his available Springboks for the must-win Currie Cup encounter with the Lions.

Griquas have been forced to make a number of changes ahead of their crucial encounter with the Blue Bulls, in the final round of Currie Cup league matches.

The latest episode of the Sonny Bill Williams show got into full swing at Pukekohe on Wednesday.

Ulster revealed that Neil Doak has been appointed as the Irish province's new head coach, with immediate effect, until at least 2017.

The Highlanders revealed that Japanese international Fumiaki Tanaka will be returning to play for the Dunedin-based franchise in 2015.

World Cup-winning All Black back row forward Adam Thomson has become the latest high-profile signing by the Reds.

Western Province on Tuesday won the SARU Under-18 Sevens competition at Hoërskool Monument in Krugersdorp by defeating South Western Districts 31-24 in a thrilling final to cap off an exciting tournament.

The International Rugby Board has appointed referees for the November Tests, starting on November 1 and ending on November 29.

Western Province and Stormers loose forward Nizaam Carr was the big winner at the WP Rugby Awards Evening on Tuesday.

 Wasps will be moving to Coventry after the city Council voted on Tuesday to sell the club their controlling interest for £30-million pounds.

Canterbury and Crusaders midfield back Adam Whitelock will switch to Top 14 side Bayonne from Canterbury at the end of October.

Jimmy Stonehouse made two injury enforced changes to the starting team to take on the Eastern Province Kings.

Sharks wing Lwazi Mvovo believes a shift in mindset has been key to their dramatic turnaround as momentum begins to build in Durban.

INTERVIEW: The EP Kings could be at the receiving end of a Pumas backlash in their Currie Cup encounter in Port Elizabeth on Friday.

Injuries to props CJ van der Linde and Charles Marais have forced the EP Kings to field a new-look front row when they take on the Pumas.

Western Province have been gradually improving their scrummaging performances during the Currie Cup and Assistant Coach Mat Proudfoot believes it is due to the players taking responsibility.

One is a little man between two big guys and the other a big guy between even bigger guys!

The Sharks, undefeated in a run of four matches, have enjoyed a run of continuity and momentum that bodes well.  

The ARU's integrity unit is looking to finalise its investigation into the incident involving Kurtley Beale and Di Patston.

Anthem butchers come and go, but where does this Argentinean tenor rate?

De Kock Steenkamp will see specialists this week to discover the extent of an Achilles injury sustained in training for the Ospreys.

New Zealand have added two fresh faces to their side to play the opening tournament of the Sevens World Series at the Gold Coast in Australia.

Sonny Bill Williams will make his second return to rugby union from the bench after being named among the replacements for Counties Manukau.

Western Province will be aiming to win the Currie Cup and then to become the first South African provincial side to beat Saracens in London.

Reports of Morne Steyn being released from his contract with French Top 14 club Stade Francais are pure speculation.

WP have wrapped up a home semifinal regardless of this weekend's result which means there could be a number of selection surprises.

This weekend there is a World Cup qualifier in Montevideo, the second and decisive leg between Uruguay and Russia and two competitions get going - CONSUR's South American C Championship and the Americas Championship for national A/B teams.

Western Province will be sweating over the fitness of Springbok Jaco Taute ahead of their final Currie Cup league match.

OPINION: It is that time of the year again, when our selectors sit down to name rugby365's famous Rugby Championship selection.

Sharks' centre, Paul Jordaan will be out of action for approximately six months after undergoing surgery for a fracture dislocation on his hip.

Unsurprisingly the Bulls gave the Pumas a bit of a hiding, but more surprisingly the Sharks beat the Lions and as such these teams have the big representation.

The Lions suffered a major set back in their push for the Currie Cup trophy with Nicolaas Hanekom out for the remainder of the season.

Flyhalf Handré Pollard is one of the South African heroes of the weekend's win over New Zealand that will return to Currie Cup duty.

Rumours have been circulating that former Springbok coach Peter de Villiers may be in line as Technical Director at the Zimbabwe Rugby Union.

The South African rugby community is backing ground-breaking new research that might help players in coping with the stresses of a professional career.

World Cup 2015 hosts England have moved up to third in the latest IRB world rankings as a result of Argentina's historic win over Australia.

Newcastle Falcons Director of Rugby Dean Richards was a happy man as the north-east side ended a run of 20 straight league games without a win.

OPINION: Darryn Pollock delves into what makes rugby such a special game at the highest level in comparison to other sports.

There has been massive movement in the Rugby365 SuperBru pool.

Pressure is building on coach Ewen McKenzie after the Wallabies' loss to Argentina was described as ill-disciplined and dispirited.

New Zealand have started the hunt for a new scrumhalf who will travel with the side to the Northern Hemisphere after Tawera Kerr-Barlow suffered a crippling injury.

The referees have been appointed to the brand new European Champions and Challenge Cup. Tow Welshmen get the competitions going - Ian Davies in the Challenge Cup and Nigel Owens in the Champions Cup.

New Zealand media dismissed the All Blacks' loss to South Africa as a "minor blip", which confirmed the Boks will be their major threat at the World Cup.

Geraint John has named an extended 13-man squad that will represent Australian at the Gold Coast Sevens this week.

OPINION: Jake White's departure from the Sharks resulted in far flung rumours - across the globe - of his next role. Darryn Pollock gives his view!

Two tries from Tommy Seymour were the highlight as Glasgow Warriors returned to the top of the PRO12 table with a 40-23 victory over Treviso in Italy.

Noah Cato's late try handed Newcastle Falcons their first win in 21 Premiership games as they defeated Exeter Chiefs 29-24 at Kingston Park.

While Duane Vermeulen has been compared to Thor, the two Springbok flyhalves could both now claim to have superhero alter egos.

The Springboks will face Wales at the Millenium Stadium without any of their overseas-based players as the match falls outside the international window.

While Argentina celebrated victory, Australia flyhalf Bernard Foley lashed out at laser beamers after fluffing a simple penalty in Mendoza.

Argentina dedicated their first Rugby Championship victory after 16 losses and a draw over three seasons to former star Agustin Pichot.

Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie refused to blame off-field distractions for his team's defeat to the Pumas in Mendoza.

Griquas coach Hawies Fourie wants his side to end their season on a high when they face the Blue Bulls at Loftus Versfeld next week.

Free State Cheetahs captain Torsten van Jaarsveld said that the manner of their defeat to Western Province was quite familiar.

Although his side have already secured a home semifinal, Western Province skipper Juan de Jongh does not want to surrender any momentum.

All Black coach Steve Hansen suffered his first defeat against the Springboks, but admitted that the hosts deserved the win at Ellis Park.

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer was a satisfied man after his side 'ticked the box' of beating the All Blacks at Ellis Park.  

There was an obvious South African flavour in French Top 14 as a number of players from the Republic got onto the scoresheet.

OPINION: Jan de Koning rates the Australian players after their shocking 17-21 loss to Argentina.

OPINION: Jan de Koning rates the Argentinean players after their historic 21-17 win over Australia in Mendoza on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: Argentina finally secured their first Rugby Championship win, after three years of trying.

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen said that the late penalty awarded to South Africa which cost his team a 22-match unbeaten record was a fair decision.

South African coach Heyneke Meyer described the 27-25 win over New Zealand as one of the best matches in which he had been involved.

In the final match of the inaugural Jock Hobbs Memorial Tournament for provincial schools teams, Wellington beat Canterbury 32-21 to win the tournament and the Graham Mourie Cup

Ian Keatley scored 21 points as Munster held off a second half comeback from rivals Leinster to claim a 34-23 win.

Harlequins returned to winning ways as Marland Yarde grabbed his first two Premiership tries for the club in a bonus-point 52-0 shut-out of London Welsh.

The All Blacks record undefeated run has finally come to an end as the Springboks dealt them a 25-27 defeat at Ellis Park.

The Springboks managed to topple the mighty All Blacks at Ellis Park with a entertaining 27-25 victory on Saturday.

The Springboks have finally managed to end the All Blacks' impressive unbeaten record with a 27-25 victory.

After a great fightback by the Australian Schools team the New Zealand Secondary Schools team finished strongly and won 34-24 in Wellington, New Zealand.

Griquas remain in the fight for Currie Cup survival after beating the Eastern Province Kings 45-25 in their match at GWK Park.

Western Province remain the front runners in this year's Currie Cup competition after beating the Free State Cheetahs 34-29.

Tasman heaped further frustration on Canterbury when claiming a first NPC Cup win in Christchurch 38-10 to go to the head of the table.

Jonny Wilkinson admits he is willing to lend his expertise to England's World Cup challenge as he moves into coaching.

Brad MacLeod-Henderson felt the growing 'gees' in his squad played a key role in helping to overcome the Lions  in Durban.

Australian star Matt Giteau led French and European champions Toulon to a scrappy, bad-tempered 21-18 win over Oyonnax.

Ospreys made it five wins from five games so far in the Pro12, as they picked up a less than comfortable victory over second-bottom Zebre.

Jonathan Joseph and Kyle Eastmond combined as Bath moved to the top of the Premiership table with an impressive win over Saracens.

REPORT: The Blue Bulls kept alive their Currie Cup hopes with a rampaging 37-6 bonus-point win over the Pumas on Friday.

The Sharks had to come from behind to claim a hard-fought 26-23 victory over the Golden Lions at Kings Park  on Friday.

The Griffons will host the Falcons in the First Division Final at the North West Stadium, in Welkom, next Friday.

The Springboks and South Africa Sevens teams came together in a unique way as the Blitzboks handed out the Test jerseys before Saturday’s match  

On Monday the second Iqhawe tournament, started by the South African Legends in conjunction with SARU starts in Cape Town.

If the Cheetahs have any hope of playing in the semifinals, they need to beat log-leaders Western Province.

The All Blacks have not lost a match in two years, but Jean de Villiers believes his side can beat the world champions in Johannesburg.

Griquas and the Eastern Province Kings both have a point to prove when the two sides clash in a bottom of the log Currie Cup encounter.

When the World Cup culminates, a number of high profile players could find themselves on some wealthy European club's shopping lists.

The much talked about mid-air argument between Kurtley Beale and Di Patston was all due to a request that the utility back change the T-shirt he was wearing.

Four international schools teams are in action in New Zealand on Saturdsay - New Zealand Schools, Australian Schools, Fijian Schools and New Zealand Barbarians Schools.

Hawke’s Bay have defeated the Wellington Lions 36-14, which provisionally moves the Napier based union to top of the NPC table.  

Coach Steve Hansen has stirred debate by saying All Blacks wing Julian Savea is "probably" a better player than the great Jonah Lomu.

Following the mid-air altercation with Kurtley Beale, Australia team business manager Di Patston's qualifications and exact role has been brought into question.

Global gladiators South Africa and New Zealand come face to face Saturday, with All Black skipper Richie McCaw a central figure.

Day two of the inaugural Jock Hobbs Memorial National Under-19 Tournament saw Canterbury and Wellington advance through to the Graham Mourie Cup Final with narrow victories over Waikato and Auckland A respectively.

Both New Zealand schools teams had big wins on Tuesday and are again in action Saturday when New Zealand Schools play Australian Schools and New Zealand Barbarians Schools play Fiji.

It is the final round of the Rugby Championship and it is set to be a cracker, and don't forget the Currie Cup!

Argentina are chasing their first win since joining the Rugby Championship and probably haven't had a better chance of victory than right now.

All Blacks flyhalf Dan Carter has, one again, returned to the sidelines after bruising his calf during a provincial match for Canterbury.

New Zealand chiefs said that All Black flyhalf Aaron Cruden had 'paid his dues', after going out on a booze binge and missing the team's flight.

Paul Dobson takes a look at the greatest rivalry in the game, with his own, unique insights into the clash between the Springboks and All Blacks.

The scramble for the last two semifinal berths in is expected to heat up this weekend as only two rounds remain for the four teams in the running.

The Golden Lions Rugby Union have secured the services of their successful coach, Johan Ackermann, for at least another two years.

Sean O'Brien will miss Ireland's November internationals and possibly the Six Nations as well, after being ruled out for up to six months.

PREVIEW: Glasgow Warriors coach Gregor Townsend urged his players to ensure the defensive frailties that almost cost them against Connacht.

South Africans whose memory still exults in that 1995 victory over the All Blacks in the 1995 World Cup Final may have the idea that Ellis Park is a winning venue for the Springboks and take comfort in the thought.

INTERVIEW: Golden Lions mentor Johan Ackermann is hopeful of securing his first Currie Cup win, as a coach, in Durban.

Bath coach Mike Ford believes his side have the attacking weapons at their disposal to break down Saracens' defence.

Allister Coetzee is expecting a tough game in Bloemfontein from a desperate Cheetahs side fighting to keep their play-off hopes alive.

The Springbok Sevens have named uncapped Golden Lions centre Ruhan Nel in their 12-man squad for the opening tournament in Australia.

PREVIEW: The First Division semifinals on Friday will have a Groundhog Day feel for the participating teams.

Philippe Saint-Andre has laughed off the idea that Rory Kockott would fail to fit into the French fold after a training camp where he made a strong impression.  

We bring you one of the most iconica games in the history of rugby!

The Barbarians will have a South African flavour for their match against the Wallabies in early November at Twickenham.

Dillyn Leyds has been named at fullback for Western Province's Currie Cup meeting with the Free State Cheetahs.

JP Pietersen, having returned from Japan, has said the team's performance proves the shift in their approach.

The Cheetahs added Eastern Province Kings flank Devin Oosthuizen for the 2015 season along side Lions' Willie Britz.

England Sevens have named their squad for the first leg of the Sevens World Series at the Gold Coast in Australia.

England's preparations for their November Test series were dealt another blow on Thursday with loose forward Tom Johnsonset to miss the series.

INTERVIEW: New Zealand coach Steve Hansen labelled it 'another classic Springboks-versus-All Blacks Test', a view supported by most pundits.

TOP 14: The spotlight will be shone brightly on struggling giants Toulouse, who host Stade Francais on Saturday.

Cheetahs lock Waltie Vermeulen has retired from rugby after an injury plauged season in order to concentrate on his career as a doctor.

England coach Stuart Lancaster's record six-year contract extension will be reviewed after next year's World Cup on home soil.

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Wallaby back Kurtley Beale is under formal investigation by the Australian Rugby Union and has been dumped.

BREAKING NEWS: New Zealand were dealt a big blow ahead of their Rugby Championship encounter with South Africa at Ellis Park on Saturday.  

Springbok stalwart Victor Matfield believes South Africa needs to win the crucial moments if they want to bring New Zealand's unbeaten run.

FEATURE: Four teams will be fighting for the remaining two places in the Currie Cup play-offs in the next fortnight.

Griquas will be bidding farewell a number of their stalwarts when they play their final home match of the Currie Cup season.

FROM THE BOK CAMP: South Africa fear New Zealand's kicking game, more than their attack, ahead of their Rugby Championship clash at Ellis Park.

Ulster tighthead prop, Declan Fitzpatrick has been given a one week suspension following the red card he received in the match against Zebre on Saturday.

Australia's build-up to their Rugby Championship Test against Argentina at Estadio Malvinas Argentinas, in Mendoza, has hit a few speedbumps.

Kurtley Beale's Wallaby future may be in jeopardy after the playmaker was allegedly involved in an incident on a flight to South America.

Springbok Lwazi Mvovo's availability headlines the Sharks team for their Currie Cup crunch match with the Golden Lions in Durban on Friday.

Werner Lourens will start at lock for the Free State Cheetahs against Western Province in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Argentina coach Daniel Hourcade has made several changes to his starting side for the final Rugby Championship Test against Australia.

Argentina's inexperience on the international stage has led to inconsistent performances during the Rugby Championship.

Francois Hougaard wants to improve his decision-making when he gets another start in the clash with the All Blacks at Ellis Park.

BREAKING NEWS: Bismarck du Plessis will start at hooker for South Africa against New Zealand in their final round Rugby Championship match.

The Rugby Football Union have decided to retain Stuart Lancaster as the Head Coach of England and have extended his contract until 2020.

The Pumas will require a fast start if they are to end their three match losing streak when they host the Bulls at the Mbombela Stadium.

Stade Francais' South African prop Heinke van der Merwe had surgery on a torn biceps tendon.

LOOKING AROUND: Discarded Wallaby coach Robbie Deans has revealed he still hopes to coach his native New Zealand.

The Highlanders have signed South African journeyman Ross Geldenhuys as they went on a buying spree ahead of the 2015 Super Rugby season.

Justin van Staden will receive a starting berth in the only change to the Pumas' run-on side for their Currie Cup clash against the Blue Bulls

Brad MacLeod-Henderson says he had no problem with former director of rugby Jake White after he quit the Durban franchise.

Despite being short-handed due to a spate of injuries, Carlos Spencer hopes his inexperienced side's commitment will pull them through

With both teams chasing a semifinal berth, the Blue Bulls have done the necessary homework on the Pumas as they take it one game at a time.

A year ago the Springboks were chasing a four-try bonus point victory over the All Blacks, but were ultimately showed up in the fitness department.

Schalk Burger has said that the Boks need to embrace the daunting challenge that awaits them when they face the All Blacks.

Jaco van Heerden, a young referee who has made great strides this year, is overjoyed at the news that he is to head for France on Thursday to referee two club matches, the first South African referee to referee such matches.

INTERVIEW: Springbok prop Trevor Nyakane has been given the nickname 'biggest loser' by his teammates after losing 12 kilograms since June.

WP have been rocked with numerous injuries in key positions, none more so than at fullback which has seen them lose Cheslin Kolbe to injury.

The All Blacks may have the Rugby Championship all wrapped up but it does not mean they are will be taking the Springboks lightly.

England suffered a double blow for their November Test series with prop Alex Corbisiero and lock Geoff Parling both set to miss the internationals

Cardiff Blues have captured the signature of Pumas back Lucas Amorosino, the former Leicester man will bolster the back division.

The Sharks can count on the services of Pat Lambie, for at least the next three years, as he and a host of players have extended their contracts.

Blue Bulls coach Frans Ludeke made two rotational changes to his team for his side's Currie Cup clash against the Pumas in Nelspruit.

Ma'a Nonu has been linked to French club Toulon as the European champions ramp up recruitment ahead of next year's World Cup.

Russia holds the advantage over Uruguay for the final place in Pool A at the World Cup.

Russia holds the advantage over Uruguay for the final place in Pool A at the World Cup after a pulsating first leg qualifier.

Russia holds the advantage over Uruguay for the final place in Pool A at the World Cup after a pulsating first leg qualifier.

Russia holds the advantage over Uruguay for the final place in Pool A at the World Cup after a pulsating first leg qualifier.

The Sharks, who have a very different team to their Super Rugby setup, are well aware of the dangers the consistent Lions pose.

England prop Andrew Sheridan has been forced to retire due to a neck injury which required an operation in February.

Aaron Cruden is set to turn out for Manawatu against Hawke's Bay in a clash between the two top sides in the NPC.

The Golden Lions will welcome back Springbok Marnitz Boshoff into the starting team when they take on the Sharks.

rugby365 and ASICS have again combined to give five lucky readers a chance to watch the big Test between the Springboks and All Blacks at Ellis Park.

The Springboks will look to rid themselves of aimless kicking when they come up against the All Blacks at Ellis Park.

It's the last round of SANZAR's rugby championship but, never fear, there will be Tests, this time in Europe.

Western Province seemed to have fallen under their injury curse again late in the Currie Cup, but Allister Coetzee is focusing on his returning players.

Sonny Bill Williams has put an end to all the speculation and will make his return to rugby for Counties Manukau on Wednesday.

Boland bosses have been cleared on allegation of match-fixing by the South African Rugby Union.

Stefan Willemse will miss the rest of the Eastern Province Kings' season after the lock picked up an AC joint injury during the loss to the Sharks.

OPINION: New Zealand and South Africa, who go head-to-head this coming Saturday, are now clearly the two bests teams in the world.

In a round with some big results there was bound to be some big representation by a few teams, namely the Sharks, Lions, Bulls and Western Province.

Western Province have suffered three big injuries ahead of the business-end of the 2014 Currie Cup competition.

William Small-Smith has recovered from his knee injury and will be available for selection for the Bulls' upcoming clash against the Pumas.

BREAKING NEWS: Springbok No.8 Duane Vermeulen will be managed this week, as he recovers from injury.

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer says he is happy with the depth they have built ahead of the World Cup next year.

Jake White has stepped down as Director of rugby at the Sharks as he goes in search of an international opportunity.

STRYD VAN DIE REUSE: Jan de Koning neem 'n terugblik en beskryf wat 'n Toets tussen Suid-Afrika en Nieu-Seeland so spesiaal maak.

Louis Jacques Botes, the most capped player in Sharks and Currie Cup history, will play his final home game against the Lions before his retirement.

BATTLE OF THE GIANTS: Jan de Koning takes a look back and speaks about what he feels makes a Test between South Africa and New Zealand so special.

New Zealand flyhalf Dan Carter came through unscathed after Canterbury’s 26-28 loss to Southland, despite taking one or two heavy knocks.

Round Eight results have brought major movement in the Rugby365 SuperBru pool.

One of the longest serving CEOs in NSW history, Jason Allen, has announced his decision to move on from the organisation, following four years at the helm.

The defending champions have lost their second match in five days, going down in a dramatic thriller 28-26 to Southland.

Hooker Dane Coles and centre Ryan Crotty will rejoin the All Blacks squad for their final match in the Rugby Championship against South Africa.

All Black flyhalf Dan Carter launched his latest comeback aimed at making next year's World Cup, playing 40 minutes in a provincial NPC match.

Two quickfire scores from Hallam Amos finally kick-started Newport Gwent Dragons season with a 33-15 win over Treviso

Wasps condemned Newcastle Falcons to their 20th consecutive loss after picking up a 35-18 win at Adams Park

The SWD Eagles and the Falcons on Saturday did enough to shut out the Boland Cavaliers for the last two semifinal spots in the First Division.

Despite sinking to their eighth successive loss in the Currie Cup season, Kings coach Carlos Spencer feels that their first win will get them going.

Sharks' coach Brad Macleod-Henderson admitted that their scrum was an area of concern and needed to improve over the next two weeks.

The inaugural Jock Hobbs Memorial National Under-19 Tournament kicked off on Sunday in Taupo.

The Australian Schools team won the first of its three matches on its tour to NZ, beating Fiji Schools 50-15 at Levin on Friday evening.

The Springboks may not be able to win the Rugby Championship, but their clash with the All Blacks at Ellis Park is still their most important this year.

Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie was left frustrated with the way his team wilted in the last 10 minutes against the Springboks at Newlands.

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer felt vindicated by the decisive contribution from the experienced players on the bench against Australia.

Ged Robinson has signed a two-year deal with the Crusaders, the hooker having left the Highlanders after one season.

The Wallabies will be without three key players as they head into their final Rugby Championship match against Argentina next week.

The Griquas downward spiral continued as they went down 46-8 to the Lions on Saturday with Hawies Fourie especially upset with their poor defence.  

Johan Ackerman has lauded his side's defence as one of their strong points in their 46-8 victory over the Griquas in Kimberley.

The All Blacks may have another issue at lock with the impressive Brodie Retallick looking to have suffered a concussion against Argentina in La Plata.

The Springboks could be looking at a big loss after a big win against Australia as they wait and see how severe No.8 Duane Vermeulen's rib injury is.

Argentina are still looking for their first win in the Rugby Championship after going down 34-13 to the All Blacks in La Plata.

The All Blacks needed a bonus-point victory in La Plata and they delivered to take their third consecutive Rugby Championship title.

The All Blacks secured a 34-13 bonus-point victory over Argentina in La Plata to claim another Rugby Championship title.

Clermont retained their French Top 14 lead with a 19-8 win at Oyonnax, but a 40-17 triumph for Toulon over Montpellier trimmed their advantage.

Dan Biggar fired Ospreys back to the top of the Pro12 table with a composed kicking performance in a narrow 19-14 victory over Munster.

Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall tried to allay concerns over the fitness of England flyhalf Owen Farrell.

Russia will take a slender one-point advantage into their World Cup 2015 final qualifier second leg in Montevideo next month after beating Uruguay.

Western Province coach Allister Coetzee heaped praise onto flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis for his starring role in his side's 37-23 victory over the Pumas.

The Cheetahs put up a spirited display in their 22-31 loss to the Bulls on Friday, but it was not enough for coach Rory Duncan.

Blue Bulls coach Frans Ludeke has lauded his side for grinding out a much-needed 31-22 Currie Cup victory over the Free State Cheetahs.

OPINION: Jan de Koning rates the Australian players after their 10-28 loss to South Africa at Newlands on Saturday.

OPINION: Jan de Koning rates the South African players after the Springboks' 28-10 win over the Wallabies at Newlands.

MATCH REPORT: South Africa rallied to score three tries in the final 10 minutes to record a bonus-point 28-10 win over Australia.

MATCH REPORT: The Golden Lions came, they saw and they conquered Griquas 46-8 in Kimberly on Saturday.

MATCH REPORT: The Sharks eased past a hapless Eastern Province Kings, beating them 53-24 in their Currie Cup encounter on Saturday

Toulouse slumped to a fifth successive defeat Friday as Bayonne claimed a 35-19 win in a match which saw the indisciplined 19-time French champions play for an hour with 14 men.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Code swapper Sonny Bill Williams says he leaves Australia's National Rugby League with no regrets.

SATURDAY WRAP: Counties Manukau thrashed the Wellington Lions 55-7 in an NPC Round Seven match.

Glasgow Warriors maintained their 100 percent record in the Pro12 with a convincing 39-21 bonus point win against Connacht.

PREMIERSHIP: Director of David Humphreys wants Gloucester to conjure up some backline wizardry every week.

Western Province were made to work hard, but came away with a bonus-point 37-23 win over a determined Pumas team in Nelspruit on Friday.