Joseph’s Highlanders edge Crusaders

All Blacks coach frontrunner Jamie Joseph masterminded an attacking Highlanders to a thrilling win against the champion Crusaders on Friday.

Nigel warns of ref ‘inconsistency’ in new trial

Former Test referee Nigel Owens believes one of Super Rugby Pacific’s new law trials could create confusion and inconsistency for match officials this season.

England seek statement Six Nations win

England may be on a run of 12 straight wins but they travel to Edinburgh for a Six Nations clash against Scotland on Saturday with a point to prove.

Eddie: Boks may have peaked too soon

Eddie Jones has cast doubt over whether the Springboks can sustain their current level through to the 2027 World Cup.

Lowe back in Ireland shake-up

Veteran wing James Lowe returns to the Ireland starting XV for Saturday’s Six Nations match against Italy in Dublin.

Azzurri put faith in Pani for Ireland clash

Lorenzo Pani will make his first start for Italy in almost two years after being named in the side to face Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

Ireland poach another SA schoolboy

SA Rugby’s high-performance GM David Wessels says Ireland should get a loyalty card after Ulster snapped up another South African youngster.

Naas: Sacha taking 10 to new level

From one legendary Springbok flyhalf to another in the making, Naas Botha has backed Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu to elevate the No 10 role to new heights.

Crusaders back Bomb Squad in Super Rugby

An All Blacks-heavy Crusaders kick off their title defence against the Highlanders on Friday as Super Rugby Pacific trials a raft of law changes.

Franco to take over from Townsend?

Scotland coach Gregor Townsend heads into Saturday’s Six Nations match at home to England knowing even a win is unlikely to quell the debate about his position.