Peter O'Mahony and Francois Cros play brilliantly effective if somewhat unheralded roles for Ireland and France.
With his own Test career on hold in Japan, George Turner says Scotland have the right environment for success.
Former Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Kiwis utility Joseph Manu has scored on debut for Toyota Verblitz in Japan Rugby League One
It was the French who caught the eye in round one with six of their eight teams winning, including Stade Rochelais and Toulon away from home.
This weekend’s return of the Gallagher Premiership following a five-week hibernation was given its banner headline on Wednesday when Joe Marler confirmed he will retire from playing with immediate effect following Friday night’s Harlequins match at home to Bristol.
Rory Lawson recounts how his legendary grandfather's favourite sweets helped inspire Scotland to victory in his first Test as captain.
Round six of the Gallagher Premiership promises to deliver another thrilling weekend of action, with teams looking to solidify their positions ahead of a break before the Test rugby returns in November.
They maybe in the veteran stage of their careers but Grant Gilchrist and Richie Gray can be a vital cog in Scotland's engine room
Rugby has a curious habit of sons of former international players becoming current day stars, a trend that is being replicated by the Graysons in Northampton.
There are fears the lock's exit is another sign of Glasgow's slow, distressing drift away from rugby's top table, but the upside is Scotland will surely benefit from his Exeter adventure.