After brawls, drama and excitement, an initially controversial tour cemented Australia's place on the Lions southern hemisphere agenda.
A lesson in sustainability can be found in England's Championship, where Bedford Blues continue to balance the books whilst consistently operating at the top end of the table.
Uluamu Niutupuivaha is the sole debutant across both USA squads for the upcoming HSBC SVNS Series events in Hong Kong China and Singapore.
From stricken heroes to magnificent tries and everything in between, RugbyPass profiles the best and worst of this year's championship.
Steve Borthwick's men were much maligned at the start of the Six Nations but their renaissance is gathering momentum
The returning Japan supremo works in a world of lightning speed and sudden contradiction.
England may have to deploy some new tactics if they don't have the players to execute Borthwick's rigid gameplan
Finn Russell's move to Bath could determine whether he fulfils his prodigious gifts and he has the support network to thrive
David Denton's issues with concussion have been well documented in recent years and his retirement from the game this week has sparked an outpouring of respect for his career.
America's flagship professional rugby league is just about to get underway for its second season, with plenty of mouthwatering action in store once again.