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End-of-year player grades: How the All Blacks loose forwards rated in 2020
As the All Blacks season comes to a close with the Bledisloe Cup and Tri-Nations title in tow, we look back on how members of Ian …
Alex McLeod
06 Dec 2020, 17:15
Second wind
Liam Squire is back with the Highlanders and has rediscovered a desire to play test football.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
06 Dec 2020, 13:57
'Some of my mates were like, 'Chill out, man, what are you doing?' But I didn't care'
Juan de Jongh tells a story about the Olympic village, a smartphone and Serena Williams. There he was, at the heart of the acti…
Jamie Lyall
06 Dec 2020, 1:35
'When I caught up with him ten metres away, I made him understand that I hadn't liked it… I hate injustice'
Book Extract: Alongside his Springboks caps and medals, Bakkies Botha has also been labelled a "disgrace to international rugby" a…
Online Editors
06 Dec 2020, 0:06
Fun and games
Bernard Le Roux has been given a new lease of life by France's youngsters
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Gavin Mortimer
05 Dec 2020, 23:56
Mana on mana
The Maori All Blacks holds a special place for those who put on the famous jersey.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
03 Dec 2020, 21:09
Super Rugby coaches talk 2021 | The Breakdown | Episode 45
It's all happening on The Breakdown tonight as the crew looks back on the All Blacks season, reviews the Mitre 10 Cup finals and a…
RugbyPass
02 Dec 2020, 20:25
The All Blacks Strike Back | The Aussie Rugby Show | Episode 29
In the season finale of The Aussie Rugby Show the gang take a look at the All Blacks big win over the Pumas, essentially wrapping …
RugbyPass
02 Dec 2020, 20:12
'It's something that does burn in the back of my mind': All Blacks ambitions remain for Liam Squire
Liam Squire hasn't ruled out an All Blacks return as he gets set to make his Super Rugby comeback with the Highlanders.
Online Editors
02 Dec 2020, 15:13
'No-one gave South Africa stick for winning the World Cup but they played a pretty defensive set-piece, kicking based game'
European teams are being heavily criticised for dull rugby but Dylan Hartley says the trend began with the Springboks at the 2019 …
Liam Heagney
02 Dec 2020, 11:50
Rebuilding great
Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick are poised to re-establish themselves as the world's premier locking combination.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
02 Dec 2020, 11:42
'He's only going to get better': Former All Black names the youngster to watch out for in Super Rugby 2021
There are less than 24 hours until fans across New Zealand will know who exactly has been named in their Super Rugby squads for th…
Alex McLeod
01 Dec 2020, 19:26
Home comforts
Bryn Gatland has finally landed his dream contract at the Chiefs.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
01 Dec 2020, 13:36
Nations Cup a definite one-off as Scotland confirm November 2021 Springboks, Wallabies dates
Scotland are pressing ahead with November 2021 ticket sales, a three-match pack that includes a game versus the world champion Spr…
Online Editors
01 Dec 2020, 8:57
The Akira Ioane and Will Jordan Show | Aotearoa Rugby Pod | Episode 22
Host Ross Karl is joined by James Parsons and Bryn Hall as they analyse all the action from the final game of the All Blacks seaso…
RugbyPass
30 Nov 2020, 21:52
'An absolute warrior and a beast': The All Blacks star tipped for World Rugby Player of the Year award
It hasn't been a vintage All Blacks season by any means, but that's not to say none of their players will be in the running for th…
Alex McLeod
30 Nov 2020, 19:37
No. 10 or 15: Beauden Barrett opens up on preferred All Blacks position ahead of Japan sabbatical
Beauden Barrett has revealed his positional preference and how he'd ideally like to operate within the All Blacks next year.
Online Editors
30 Nov 2020, 15:56
Springbok fullback Gelant ruled out of 2021 Lions tour
Springbok fullback Warrick Gelant has been ruled out of competing against the British and Irish Lions next year in South Africa.
Online Editors
30 Nov 2020, 11:18
The All Blacks' number 6 jersey is Akira Ioane's for as long as he wants it
Ioane looked fit and fearless and even a little bit frightening against Argentina. More than that, he looked a man, and not the ov…
Hamish Bidwell
29 Nov 2020, 20:15
All Blacks end-of-year player grades: How the All Blacks' tight five stars rated in 2020
With the All Blacks' season coming to a close with Saturday's dominant 38-0 win over Argentina, we look back on how the Kiwis fare…
Alex McLeod
29 Nov 2020, 20:14
Finding a way through
Jeff Wilson was part of an All Blacks team that struggled and he sees similarities with the current side.
LONG READ
Jeff Wilson
29 Nov 2020, 18:42
'A straight red, no question' - Controversial high shot from prop Lomax overshadows the dominance of the All Blacks scrum
But arguably the most pleasing thing for the All Blacks, alongside the breakout tests from Jordan and Blindside Flanker Akira Ioan…
Online Editors
29 Nov 2020, 14:34
All Blacks, Chiefs halfback Brad Weber extends contract with New Zealand Rugby
All Black and Chiefs halfback Brad Weber has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs for another year.
Online Editors
29 Nov 2020, 14:16
How All Blacks can still lose the Tri Nations ahead of Wallabies and Los Pumas showdown
The All Blacks have effectively clinched the Tri Nations title thanks to their bonus-point victory over Argentina – barring a mi…
Online Editors
29 Nov 2020, 13:16
'The longest NFL field goal is probably 60 yards and that is also very doable with a rugby union ball'
It's a decade since injury for Saracens wrecked Derick Hougaard but he is back chasing an improbable NFL dream just shy of his 38t…
Liam Heagney
29 Nov 2020, 1:15
Confused fans are flooding the All Blacks Twitter with the same question about Caleb Clarke
His increased involvement led to more screen time on the TV broadcast, where fans began to notice Clarke looked different to the r…
Online Editors
28 Nov 2020, 19:56
'It's not the easiest job in the world' - Foster's praise for Cane after All Blacks silence doubters
The All Blacks rebounded from back-to-back Test defeats for the first time in almost a decade with a 38-0 demolition of Argentina …
AAP
28 Nov 2020, 17:00
'The spark, the X-factor I felt missing' - The two-try cameo off the bench which has Caleb Clarke under pressure
He finished the night with the most metres run of any player with 120 from four carries, in a performance which well and truly tur…
Online Editors
28 Nov 2020, 14:59
Miracle man
The All Blacks' search for a game-changing impact player may be over.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
28 Nov 2020, 14:04
'A totally different beast' - How the media reacted to the All Blacks' dominant win over Pumas
The All Blacks have all but secured the Tri Nations title following a 38-0 bonus-point victory over Argentina in Newcastle.
Online Editors
28 Nov 2020, 13:29
'Finally found their 6 since Jerome Kaino' - The performance by Akira Ioane that should settle who the All Blacks blindside flanker is
After a slow start and some misfires, the All Blacks raced away in the second half on the back of two tries in two minutes to subs…
Online Editors
28 Nov 2020, 13:19
All Blacks player ratings v Pumas - Tri Nations
The All Blacks have all but won the Tri Nations after defeating the Pumas 38-0 in Newcastle on Saturday. New Zealand now sits five…
Finn Morton
28 Nov 2020, 3:26
All Blacks score bonus-point win over Los Pumas to take pole position in Tri-Nations
The All Blacks have stormed to a 38-0 victory over Los Pumas to take pole position in the Tri-Nations title race at McDonald Jones…
Online Editors
28 Nov 2020, 2:45
'One of the classiest things you will ever see': All Blacks pay tribute to Diego Maradona during haka
The All Blacks have been praised for their touching tribute to the late Diego Maradona during their haka ahead of their Tri-Nation…
Online Editors
28 Nov 2020, 1:24
LIVE: Los Pumas vs All Blacks | Tri-Nations
Follow all the action on the RugbyPass live blog from the Tri-Nations clash between Los Pumas and All Blacks at McDonald Jones St…
RugbyPass
28 Nov 2020, 0:31
The five All Blacks with the most to prove in final test of the year against Los Pumas
It's last chance saloon in 2020 for many All Blacks squad members to dish out a quality performance that has eluded them for most …
Alex McLeod
27 Nov 2020, 20:16
How last week's draw against Wallabies may have placed Los Pumas well to beat All Blacks again
Most pundits expect the All Blacks to exact revenge on Los Pumas after their shock maiden defeat to the Argentines in Sydney a for…
Online Editors
27 Nov 2020, 18:41
'They didn't have Maradona but they had some great players and had a great team'
The All Blacks got a mention when Eddie Jones was put on the spot regarding whether rugby has any Diego Maradona-type figures.
Liam Heagney
26 Nov 2020, 23:49
'He's a God-like figure': All Blacks anxious of Diego Maradona effect on Pumas on eve of crucial Tri-Nations clash
The All Blacks can't bear to think about a rare third straight defeat as the Pumas look to "do it for Diego" in Saturday night's T…
AAP
26 Nov 2020, 20:06
Rugby league legend Andrew Johns joins Wallabies training after Pumas call on NRL star Nathan Cleary
On the same day that Los Pumas called in current NRL star Nathan Cleary for some pointers around their kicking game, the Wallabies…
Alex McLeod
26 Nov 2020, 19:45
The All Blacks' days of dominance are over unless they can learn how to win low-scoring tests
That’s not to say that they can’t still be a quality, winning team, but unless they can address some increasingly problematic …
Finn Morton
26 Nov 2020, 17:50
Los Pumas call NRL star Nathan Cleary into training camp ahead of All Blacks showdown
Soaking up the NRL off-season after Penrith's grand final defeat and then the NSW State of Origin series loss, star playmaker Nath…
AAP
26 Nov 2020, 16:30
'I was being honest': Sam Cane breaks silence on 'brutal' All Blacks fans comment
All Blacks captain Sam Cane has admitted he was "a wee bit" surprised by the backlash he received after comments he made about fan…
Online Editors
26 Nov 2020, 15:59
All you need to know: All Blacks v Los Pumas in Tri-Nations rematch
The All Blacks have made three changes to their starting lineup for Saturday's Tri Nations rematch against Argentina following the…
Online Editors
26 Nov 2020, 15:36
'We've had a few apologies from the referees': Foster sheds some light on off-the-ball scuffles
All Blacks coach Ian Foster has revealed the team have received apologies from match officials for some of the decisions made duri…
Online Editors
26 Nov 2020, 12:43
Breaking the stranglehold
Unless there's a dramatic shift in the way the game is played, fans won't return to stadiums any time soon.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
26 Nov 2020, 11:15
Game changers
The All Blacks once had the most devastating bench in world rugby.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
25 Nov 2020, 17:45
Green-eyed monster
Tri-Nations success has left Springbok fans with a sense of what might have been
LONG READ
Jon Cardinelli
25 Nov 2020, 9:10
'I don't think it's healthy': Warning as 44th South African set to join Premiership
With another South African signing set to join the Premiership, ex-Springboks assistant Alan Solomons is worried about the exodus.…
Chris Jones
25 Nov 2020, 3:47
Hope springs
With a new broadcast deal and coaching set-up, there's reason for optimism in Australia right now.
LONG READ
Will Genia
24 Nov 2020, 13:30
Real cost of criticism
Rugby players never go out on the park to lose - but it's not the players who criticism hurts the most.
LONG READ
Liam Messam
22 Nov 2020, 21:42
Ferocious Pumas
Right from the third minute of Argentina's win over New Zealand, the Pumas' intent was clear.
LONG READ
Ben Smith
20 Nov 2020, 14:24
Rethinking the Argentina approach
Argentina's victory over New Zealand showed that more matches don't always lead to better results.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
18 Nov 2020, 16:05
Hard truths
The All Blacks’ dominance is slipping away and the NZ youth may not be ready for the challenge ahead.
LONG READ
Ben Smith
17 Nov 2020, 13:40
Missing in action
Brodie Retallick’s absence has hurt the All Blacks this year and never more so than during their defeat to Argentina.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
16 Nov 2020, 13:06
Collapse of an empire
Once imperious and almost unbeatable, the All Blacks are now in the midst of a crisis that many fear will never end.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
14 Nov 2020, 12:46
Mind over matter
The All Blacks’ mental skills helped them win consecutive World Cups. Is it becoming a weakness again?
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Gregor Paul
11 Nov 2020, 15:10
High stakes
The All Blacks are struggling to come to terms with World Rugby's efforts to stamp out high tackling.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
10 Nov 2020, 19:51
Massive, massive heart
Makazole Mapimpi's story brought Rassie Erasmus to tears but he wants his situation to inspire change
LONG READ
Jon Cardinelli
10 Nov 2020, 9:24
Prop, rock and roll
Taniela Tupou showed in Bledisloe IV exactly what the All Blacks are missing from their propping stables.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
09 Nov 2020, 15:39
Red alert
The All Blacks have lost three men to red cards in four years. They've still not learned any lessons.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
07 Nov 2020, 15:39
Double trouble
Everyone said the All Blacks were mad to shift Beauden Barrett to fullback. But it turns out everyone was wrong.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
07 Nov 2020, 13:57
Winning combination
Picking the right captain can be difference between success and failure for a coach
LONG READ
Jake White
06 Nov 2020, 9:19
Back from the brink
Akira Ioane has always been earmarked for greatness - but there have been a few speedbumps along the way.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
04 Nov 2020, 18:27
Perfect prototype
Caleb Clarke may be 110kg of destructive power, but he’s no one-trick pony.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
04 Nov 2020, 14:40
Defensive horror show
After two relatively safe showings, the Wallabies' defence fell apart in Sydney. What went wrong?
LONG READ
Ben Smith
02 Nov 2020, 22:14
Order in the house
After four years of constant change, the All Blacks have now found a midfield partnership that works.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
02 Nov 2020, 13:36
On This Day in 2015: New Zealand make history to retain Rugby World Cup
The victory in the final over Australia at Twickenham cemented the All Blacks’ place as the greatest side in the sport’s histo…
PA
31 Oct 2020, 4:42
Fear factor
Pasifika's dreams continue to be crushed. Is it because Oceania's heavyweights fear for their labour supply?
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
30 Oct 2020, 15:17
Mate against mate
Justin Marshall and George Gregan became best friends amid the game's most ferocious rivalry.
LONG READ
Justin Marshall
28 Oct 2020, 15:53
SA Rugby investigates unsanctioned grassroots tournament that led to death of player
Covid-19 has limited rugby in South Africa by SA Rugby but an unsanctioned tournament last weekend resulted in a grassroots player…
Online Editors
28 Oct 2020, 3:01
Honeymoon is over
A wave of euphoria swept through New Zealand rugby in June, but the bubble has burst.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
27 Oct 2020, 14:01
From Russia with love
South Africans swapping heat of Highveld for cold comforts of a big payday in Russia
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Jon Cardinelli
27 Oct 2020, 11:12
Bledisloe mediator
One unusual moment from Liam Messam's many matches against Australia stands out above the rest.
LONG READ
Liam Messam
26 Oct 2020, 13:39
Defence against the dark arts
The All Blacks are no strangers to filth and yet they have no love of the enforcer.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
23 Oct 2020, 16:05
Rugby's greatest mismatch
The man set to replace Warren Gatland almost produced one of the greatest upsets of the modern era.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
21 Oct 2020, 16:18
Cowboy boots
Gopperth is the sheriff in town as Wasps prepare for final showdown
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
21 Oct 2020, 9:49
Flash in the pan
The All Blacks are rightfully fearful expectation could limit Caleb Clarke's potential.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
19 Oct 2020, 16:36
Power transition
The All Blacks changed tack and used their ball carriers to overwhelm the Wallabies in Bledisloe II.
LONG READ
Ben Smith
19 Oct 2020, 5:42
Long road to glory
A young, fearless Wallabies team is rebuilding the reputation of Australian rugby.
LONG READ
Ben Kimber
17 Oct 2020, 19:59
The pain game
Dave Ewers has overcome eviction, injuries and self-doubt to be on the cusp of glory
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
17 Oct 2020, 0:26
Same old All Blacks
Despite a new head coach, not much has changed for the All Blacks, tactically speaking.
LONG READ
Ben Smith
15 Oct 2020, 14:03
Taking sides
On Sunday, for the first time in almost three decades, a Kiwi referee took charge of an All Blacks match.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
14 Oct 2020, 20:42
Flaw in the Death Star
The All Blacks can't win games by dropping a goal and it's a big problem for them.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
13 Oct 2020, 20:02
Bouncing back
Sam Cane's reign began with a draw, but the new All Blacks captain won the respect of his nation.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
12 Oct 2020, 0:00
Powered by pain
Losing to England means the All Blacks start a new era with a pain that will fuel them for years.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
09 Oct 2020, 15:18
The Doc's wisdom
World Cup-winning coach believes a broken game can be fixed with a return to old school values
LONG READ
Jake White
09 Oct 2020, 4:50
Breaking the age barrier
Ian Foster begins his All Blacks coaching era with a luxury not afforded to his predecessor.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
08 Oct 2020, 23:17
Right man for the job
Sam Cane has long been destined to be All Blacks captain.
LONG READ
Liam Messam
07 Oct 2020, 15:00
The lost art
The homogenisation of loose forwards is killing a whole generation of would-be No 8s.
LONG READ
Wayne Buck Shelford
06 Oct 2020, 16:24
Money matters
Professional players face financial ruin if they don’t adapt to the new Covid world.
LONG READ
Jon Cardinelli
05 Oct 2020, 11:29
The Springboks pattern
Will the Springboks change up their tactics from the World Cup when the Lions come to SA?
LONG READ
Ben Smith
03 Oct 2020, 22:27
Hanging by a thread
Australia and New Zealand currently hate each other, but they desperately need each other.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
02 Oct 2020, 15:12
The end of an affair
South African rugby is throwing its weight behind the PRO16 after stagnating down South
LONG READ
Craig Ray
01 Oct 2020, 8:53
End of an era
Super Rugby Aotearoa engaged fans but broke the players and may not be the long term answer for NZ.
LONG READ
Tony Johnson
30 Sep 2020, 20:26
The forgotten man
Once heralded a superstar, Huw Jones saw his stock plummet but his self-belief has never waned
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
30 Sep 2020, 6:30
Tales of the unexpected
Tupou Vaa’i didn’t even have a Super Rugby contract at the start of the year. Now he’s an All Black.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
29 Sep 2020, 19:58
School of hard knocks
Anton Lienert-Brown has fought a long mental battle to become a regular All Black.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
26 Sep 2020, 15:08
Race against time
Jacques Nienaber says his Springboks are playing catch-up but the Lions should be wary
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Jon Cardinelli
26 Sep 2020, 0:41
Chance of a lifetime
A Pacific Island Super Rugby team could change the power base of the global game.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
22 Sep 2020, 16:47
Against the odds
Emotionally and physically broken at 27, former All Black Richard Kahui is still playing at 35.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
22 Sep 2020, 0:58
Home run
New Zealand is confident it will host a record breaking World Cup next year.
LONG READ
Ashley Stanley
20 Sep 2020, 16:20
13 World Cup finalists named as Springboks reveal draft roster for historic trial match
Thirty-two capped Springboks – 13 of whom were part of the Rugby World Cup-winning squad in Japan a year ago.
Online Editors
19 Sep 2020, 7:21
Iron men of rugby
There are self-styled enforcers everywhere but South Africa produces the hardest men.
LONG READ
Liam Messam
18 Sep 2020, 15:27
Concrete in the soul
The impossibly tough Jerome Kaino is proving hard to replace in the All Blacks No 6 jersey.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
17 Sep 2020, 16:08
Rugby reborn
Covid brought the death of Super Rugby, but it also saw NZ fall back in love with the game.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
16 Sep 2020, 16:56
The coin toss moment when Siya Kolisi learned the Springboks already had the World Cup title in the bag
Despite their different pathways to the World Cup final, Springboks captain Siya Kolisi has revealed his team were supremely confi…
Online Editors
04 Aug 2020, 22:48
All Blacks claim No.1 and No.2 spot on ex-England skipper Dallagio's opensides GOAT list
Former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio has named a pair of All Blacks as his picks for the greatest opensides of all-time.
Online Editors
02 Aug 2020, 6:08
Damian McKenzie torn over eligibility for exhibition match
All Blacks and Chiefs utility back Damian McKenzie has admitted he's torn about the prospect of representing the North Island in t…
Online Editors
30 Jun 2020, 14:22
Jacob Stockdale received death threats after Ireland World Cup exit
Ireland were hammered by New Zealand in last October's World Cup quarter-finals, a rout that resulted in social media criticism fo…
Online Editors
03 Jun 2020, 16:22
The changing weights of Rugby World Cup-winning hookers
Twelve years after South Africa’s second Rugby World Cup title, the hookers in Rassie Erasmus’ 2019 Springboks were noticeably…
Josh Raisey
28 May 2020, 11:33
New captain Cane hopes to lead All Blacks later this year
The 28-year-old was named the successor to Kieran Read last week by head coach Ian Foster.
Josh Raisey
11 May 2020, 3:00
The bench press records of 49 elite rugby players
It's a sports' cliché, but the bench press continues to occupy a uniquely macho seat in the pantheon of weight training disciplin…
Ian Cameron
26 Apr 2020, 1:07
New Zealand Rugby issue statement on Raelene Castle's 'unselfish' resignation
New Zealand Rugby have issued a statement regarding the resignation of Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle.
Online Editors
23 Apr 2020, 16:43
SA Rugby unveils crisis plan aimed at saving upwards of R1billion
The home of the 2019 World Cup winners has accepted they are in a fight for survival following the stoppage of rugby around the gl…
Online Editors
21 Apr 2020, 7:41
Trans-Tasman competition being discussed by Super Rugby officials amid coronavirus pandemic
A mooted Australasian Super Rugby competition is being discussed by Super Rugby officials as one of various options to resurrect t…
Online Editors
12 Apr 2020, 22:51
Mark Cueto doubles down on history-changing 'no-try' decision
In 2007, England came within an inch of becoming the first nation to win back-to-back World Cup championships.
Online Editors
09 Apr 2020, 19:56
Analysis: What makes the Springboks edge defence so hard to crack and the play that cost England in the final
The Springboks' defence on the edges is very unique. It is so successful, because it has so many accurate decision-makers within i…
Conor Wilson
08 Apr 2020, 0:19
New Zealand provincial competition reportedly cancelled for the first time in 104 years amid financial crisis
For the first time since 1916, a New Zealand provincial competition will be cancelled as NZR battle with finances in the wake of t…
Online Editors
29 Mar 2020, 19:44
Where are they now: The 2015 New Zealand U20 world champions
Some have flourished, while others have floundered, but where in the world are New Zealand's world champion U20 class of 2015?
Alex McLeod
23 Mar 2020, 21:27
Rugby Explorer | South Africa
Missing rugby? Keen to see the world from the confines of your own home? Watch our RugbyPass original series, Rugby Explorer, as…
RugbyPass
22 Mar 2020, 21:57
Just one Irishman makes PA's Lions XV for South Africa
The series against the world champions next year is eagerly awaited.
Online Editors
20 Mar 2020, 7:09
World Cup winner Francois Louw to quit at the age of 34
Bath's Springbok flanker has made 134 starts in 140 appearances with the English club and is quitting after playing nine seasons i…
Online Editors
13 Mar 2020, 3:24
A 17-year-old South African teenage sensation has been snapped up by Edinburgh
Currently attending Stellenbosch’s Paul Roos Gymnasium School, Jordan Venter will link-up with the Scottish capital club in Dece…
Online Editors
05 Mar 2020, 6:59
Jonah Lomu's ex-Wellington 'castle' up for sale
The hilltop house overlooking the Wellington harbour has long been a landmark to onlookers and neighbours in the suburb of Maupui…
Online Editors
03 Mar 2020, 1:28
Ireland rejig their squad in wake of Italian match postponement
With their March 7 Six Nations match at home to Italy now set to be postponed, Andy Farrell has released two players from the 28-m…
Online Editors
26 Feb 2020, 8:50
Louw capture the latest example of Quins following Sale's South African model
The London club's tactic of recruiting South African players under Paul Gustard is not new in the Gallagher Premiership as Steve D…
Josh Raisey
13 Feb 2020, 10:53
Ian Foster reveals where the All Blacks fell short at the Rugby World Cup
Ian Foster has admitted that the All Blacks need to "figure out" a new way of playing if they are to get back to the top of world …
Online Editors
11 Feb 2020, 12:49
'I grew up in South Africa with the Five Nations… it was the trendsetter'
Poised to become the first South African-born coach to take charge of a side in the Six Nations, new Italy boss Franco Smith has b…
Liam Heagney
31 Jan 2020, 8:26
The new requirement for an All Blacks loose forward
The role of a loose forward has grown considerably since the early years of professionalism where specialisation was key. Now, str…
Tom Vinicombe
25 Jan 2020, 20:38
'The Giant' Esterhuizen is coming to the Premiership
The 25-year-old, who has played eight Test matches for the Springboks, will join arrive in England for the 2020/21 season after a …
Online Editors
24 Jan 2020, 1:30
Cryptic Brits post leaves people guessing
Having won the recent World Cup with the Springboks, the former Bulls hooker brought the curtain down on his career by appearing f…
Josh Raisey
18 Jan 2020, 5:48
Siya Kolisi's bold Super Rugby claim in wake of South Africa's World Cup success
Springboks captain Siya Kolisi believes South Africa's recent successes in New Zealand could have positively impact the country's …
Online Editors
16 Jan 2020, 18:14
Akira Ioane's mental health battle after All Blacks RWC snub
After a roller-coaster season with the Blues in 2019, former All Blacks coach Steve Hansen left Ioane out of the squad for Japan.
Online Editors
14 Jan 2020, 6:28
Northampton fans are having their say on Reinach's Saints exit
The South African's decision to leave will bring to an end a three-season stint in which the recent World Cup winner was named Sai…
Online Editors
14 Jan 2020, 5:05
Cobus Reinach confirms he is leaving Northampton
Few would have thought the South African would revive his international career at the English club, but the scrum-half did this an…
Online Editors
14 Jan 2020, 2:05
Lood de Jager may have just cut his recovery time from shoulder surgery in half
The South African second row was expected to be sidelined for up to six months following his post-World Cup final operation, but t…
Chris Jones
02 Jan 2020, 3:40
Kieran Read reveals injury regret over World Cup loss to England
Former All Blacks captain Kieran Read has opened up about an injury which he played through during New Zealand's World Cup semi-fi…
Online Editors
22 Dec 2019, 18:56
All Blacks star rates World Cup loss worse than infamous Black Caps defeat
One of the All Blacks' key men would rather lose in heartbreaking fashion, like the Black Caps at the Cricket World Cup, than get …
Online Editors
20 Dec 2019, 16:56
Why England's semi-final victory over All Blacks meant more than World Cup title
England loose forward Tom Curry has made in interesting revelation in the wake of his side's World Cup upset over the All Blacks.
Online Editors
19 Dec 2019, 12:40
The New Zealand Sevens team just can't resist getting naked in front of one another
The New Zealand Rugby Sevens team claimed some more silverware for the trophy case with a Cape Town sevens win over South Africa -…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2019, 12:14
'I think we may have switched off a bit' - Easy win over Ireland catalyst for semi-final defeat says Hansen
In hindsight, Hansen believes the messages during the week may have been off given the preceding win in the quarterfinal. 
Online Editors
09 Dec 2019, 18:13
'I knew nothing about Edinburgh. I didn't even know it was in Scotland. I'd never really heard of it'
Duhan van der Merwe's European geography was of no help when an email from Richard Cockerill arrived in 2017, but the South Africa…
Jamie Lyall
06 Dec 2019, 1:45
Lions 2021 tour will almost certainly break one match attendance record
The British and Irish Lions will play the first Test of their 2021 three-match series in South Africa at the giant Soccer City sta…
Online Editors
04 Dec 2019, 2:43
What was said at the All Blacks' 'ruthless' review following their semi-final defeat to England
Halfback Aaron Smith has revealed the full extent of the 'ruthless' review that the All Blacks underwent following their Rugby Wor…
Online Editors
27 Nov 2019, 12:46
Springboks World Cup hero Cheslin Kolbe wants to cap off trophy-laden season with one more major accolade
Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe has identified the title he wants to add to his trophy cabinet alongside the Top 14, Rugby Champions…
Online Editors
25 Nov 2019, 20:51
Eddie Jones lifts lid on Rugby World Cup semifinal: How England plotted All Blacks' fall
England coach Eddie Jones lifts the lid on the dramatic moments leading up to last month's World Cup semi-final against the All Bl…
Online Editors
24 Nov 2019, 13:36
Richard Kahui has no regrets but 'it would be nice to play even just one more Test'
Calling time on an international career when you’ve still got plenty of rugby left in you is a tough decision to make, but it's …
Tom Vinicombe
23 Nov 2019, 19:43
Joe Schmidt reveals he asked for a recent Ireland World Cup match to be blown up early
With player safety of concern to the former Ireland coach, his new autobiography takes aim at the state of one World Cup pitch, Bu…
Liam Heagney
21 Nov 2019, 5:28
Analysis: The tactic Japan used at the World Cup that showed how to unlock Rush Defence
It wasn’t just South Africa that has become an amazing defensive side in recent years. The top teams have all gone through perio…
Ben Smith
20 Nov 2019, 21:51
Tom Curry: Pain of RWC defeat 'will never go away'
Arriving back to work at Sale has jolted the England flanker back into life but he admits the ultimate disappointment of Japan 201…
Online Editors
20 Nov 2019, 11:40
Has your club produced a Lion? If yes, then read this...
Leading kit manufacturer Canterbury have launched a splendid grassroots initiative after teaming up with rugby's most famed touris…
Online Editors
20 Nov 2019, 9:15
'Great coaches don't hang around waiting': Did Castle make a subtle Rennie dig at NZR?
Dave Rennie was thought to be among several candidates in contention for the vacant All Blacks coaching role, but by the time New …
Online Editors
20 Nov 2019, 7:41
'Not winning had a knock-on effect into the community - I dealt with some of that at 3am on a Sunday as a policeman'
Having had a previous career as a policeman in New Zealand, new Wales boss Wayne Pivac admits he is well aware of the impact a rug…
Online Editors
20 Nov 2019, 2:05
What the World Cup told us about the future of attacking rugby
Eddie Jones has stated that rugby defences are now so well organised, that the game is becoming more akin to a hybrid of “NFL an…
Conor Wilson
19 Nov 2019, 19:29
20 top South African schoolboys raided by overseas clubs as World Rugby's five-year residency rule drives younger recruitment
World Rugby's change to international qualification by residency is already having an impact in South Africa with Afrikaans newspa…
Online Editors
19 Nov 2019, 14:58
Scottish Rugby confirm All Blacks Test
The All Blacks and Argentina will join Japan as Scotland’s opponents in the 2020 Autumn Tests at BT Murrayfield.
Online Editors
18 Nov 2019, 6:02
Eddie Jones: How England's reaction to All Blacks victory proved to be costly in World Cup final
England head coach Eddie Jones believes the reaction from his side's World Cup semi-final victory over the All Blacks ultimately p…
Online Editors
17 Nov 2019, 15:56
Steve Hansen stayed on two years too long as All Blacks head coach says former NZR boss
Former New Zealand Rugby CEO David Moffett believes Steve Hansen and his All Blacks coaching staff stayed on two years too long, a…
Online Editors
17 Nov 2019, 13:19
Doping in South African rugby? Brian O'Driscoll isn't jumping on the Neil Francis bandwagon
Allegations of a doping culture being rife in South African rugby have arisen in the wake of their recent World Cup win, but an Ir…
Liam Heagney
17 Nov 2019, 0:13
'Siya got hit in the mouth at school and was bleeding... I just remember him bouncing guys and carrying on'
Edinburgh's Mike Willemse has never forgotten his first encounter as a 14-year-old with Siya Kolisi... he was utterly transfixed b…
Jamie Lyall
14 Nov 2019, 9:50
Schalk Brits has revealed the special game he wants to play just before his 40th birthday
It was Wednesday when it emerged the popular South African hooker was retiring for a second time but even that announcement was pr…
Chris Jones
14 Nov 2019, 5:20
Double World Cup winner Frans Steyn sounds ready to put the farm before rugby
Fresh from creating history as a two-time World Cup winner with the Springboks, the 32-year-old has turned his attention to his cl…
Online Editors
14 Nov 2019, 3:55
Warren Gatland explains why he said England had already played their final against the All Blacks
Gatland explained in-depth his recent comments about England having already played their 'final' against the All Blacks, drawing o…
Online Editors
13 Nov 2019, 17:59
'It's replayed every day': Eddie Jones reveals his World Cup final mistake
Eddie Jones has revealed one area where he "probably made a mistake" for the World Cup final against South Africa.
Online Editors
12 Nov 2019, 16:46
Wales' decision to play Davies against the All Blacks is now under scrutiny
Jonathan Davies played through the pain barrier in Wales' semi-final defeat and with the seriousness of his knee injury now diagno…
Josh Raisey
12 Nov 2019, 5:39
What the Springboks' World Cup win means for full-scale centralised contracting
South Africa are a groundbreaking team for many reasons – the first side to win the World Cup after losing a pool match, the fir…
Ben Smith
11 Nov 2019, 20:48
Midfield mass: The changing weight of centres since the 1987 Rugby World Cup to present day
The centres have also seen quite an evolution over the years, and that is made no clearer than comparing the finalists in each Rug…
Josh Raisey
11 Nov 2019, 7:38
Why New Zealand Rugby is up against it to produce a World Cup-winning All Black side in 2023
Based on what is bubbling below the surface at under-20 level, it will be one of the greatest ever achievements for New Zealand Ru…
Ben Smith
09 Nov 2019, 18:53
'I've already committed now': England players reveal how response to All Blacks haka didn't go to plan
It may have iconic, but it has been revealed by members of the England squad that the idea of advancing towards the All Blacks' di…
Online Editors
08 Nov 2019, 20:41
Sonny Bill Williams joins Toronto Wolfpack
All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams has given thanks to the New Zealand rugby community and fans following the announcement …
RugbyPass
07 Nov 2019, 10:20
Why Boks had the World Cup final won as early as the pre-game coin toss
Much has been made about how the Springboks physically dominated England, but a former South African assistant has made a startlin…
Josh Raisey
07 Nov 2019, 9:41
New world championship series possible following reports of meetings in Japan
World Rugby failed to get their Nations Championship series idea over the line earlier in 2019, but discussions between ten nation…
Online Editors
07 Nov 2019, 2:53
Pollard the latest Springbok facing stint on sidelines following World Cup final injury
RugbyPass revealed on Tuesday how Lood de Jager would likely need surgery to fix his World Cup final shoulder injury... now Handre…
Online Editors
07 Nov 2019, 1:43
'No, I don't live my life with regret' - Munster's van Graan on missing last Saturday's Boks triumph
A young spectator at the grounds for South Africa's two previous World Cup wins, Johann van Graan has no regrets at missing the th…
Liam Heagney
07 Nov 2019, 0:10
Analysis: What the Springboks did to dismantle England's attack
If you are going to win games by kicking three’s, then you better have a special defence. And the Springboks certainly did, one …
Ben Smith
06 Nov 2019, 19:07
'Beast' calls it quits after Boks' RWC win
Very few players get to go out on their own terms but Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira is a rare exception, calling time on his Test c…
Online Editors
06 Nov 2019, 7:21
'We won one, but I lost two and it's horrific and terrible'
The former lock says the best remedy after a painful World Cup defeat is getting together and winning again.
Online Editors
06 Nov 2019, 6:43
All Blacks coaching bombshell: Top candidate's surprise snub
One of the prime candidates to join the All Blacks' coaching staff next year has ruled himself out of working alongside the likes …
Online Editors
05 Nov 2019, 14:06
'Grateful, humbled and over-awed' South Africa have landed back home
Skipper Siya Kolisi and his celebrating Springboks were mobbed on their arrival back in South Africa with the Webb Ellis Cup on Tu…
Online Editors
05 Nov 2019, 13:42
World Cup winner Erasmus' poignant promise to the late Anthony Foley
The tragic October 2016 death of Munster's Anthony Foley wasn't forgotten by Rassie Erasmus in the hour of his greatest rugby triu…
Liam Heagney
05 Nov 2019, 12:47
Sale won't see World Cup winner de Jager in action in Manchester until 2020
South Africa are arriving home to celebrate their World Cup win and the price Lood de Jager will pay for getting injured in the fi…
Chris Jones
05 Nov 2019, 9:36
Have the Springboks found the man to replace Rassie Erasmus?
As South Africa are still revelling in their World Cup triumph, in the coming weeks Rassie Erasmus faces yet another gruelling tas…
Online Editors
04 Nov 2019, 22:29
Rassie Erasmus was on the cusp of quitting as Springboks coach after a run of average results
South Africa's inspirational coach may not have been on board to lead the Springboks to their third-ever World Cup win if results …
Tom Vinicombe
04 Nov 2019, 21:14
Beauden Barrett has seemingly taken a side in the All Blacks coaching debate
All Blacks fullback Beauden Barrett appears to have endorsed Ian Foster's bid to become the next head coach.
Online Editors
04 Nov 2019, 17:01
Springbok pair set for shock switch to Munster
World Cup winners Damian de Allende and RG Snyman are reportedly set to sign for Irish province Munster, in what represents a majo…
Online Editors
04 Nov 2019, 9:43
Transition plans for the 'big eight' at the Rugby World Cup
All eight of the nations to make the knockout rounds of the 2019 Rugby World Cup will already be beginning to look at their transi…
Alex Shaw
04 Nov 2019, 2:56
All Black TJ Perenara praised for World Rugby awards speech
All Blacks halfback TJ Perenara has been praised for using his speech for winning try of the year at the World Rugby awards to pra…
Online Editors
03 Nov 2019, 22:50
Pienaar: This is bigger than 1995
South Africa’s 1995 World Cup-winning captain Francois Pienaar has hailed the Springboks’ latest global triumph as bigger than…
Online Editors
03 Nov 2019, 7:21
When and where the Springboks will land back South Africa
The 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok squad are due to arrive back in South Africa on a number of flights from Japan over a t…
RugbyPass
03 Nov 2019, 4:20
The heartbreakingly simple truth of the Rugby World Cup
That’s the thing with sport, it doesn’t have much of a memory. However much we’d like to think it cares about what has come …
Sam Roberts
03 Nov 2019, 1:41
Alex Shaw's RWC 2019: XV of the tournament
We have selected a standout XV from the 2019 Rugby World Cup, where South Africa triumphed over England to lift their third title …
Alex Shaw
03 Nov 2019, 1:31
Scotland lock in Tests against new Rugby World Cup champions
The 2019 Test season may have ended on a dour note for Scotland, but 2020 is promising to be a big year for Gregor Townsend's side…
Tom Vinicombe
03 Nov 2019, 1:13
England's World Cup may have ended in disappointment, but it's not been the worst - or best - part of Eddie Jones' coaching reign
Eddie Jones suffered the agony of World Cup final defeat again. It's one of the most disappointing results of Jones' tenure with E…
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 21:38
From packed out training sessions to scratched swan songs: the highs and lows of RWC 2019
The 2019 Rugby World Cup has finally come to a close, with South Africa crowned champions for the third time. What were the highs …
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 21:02
Sonny Bill Williams is right - New Zealand is long overdue for a non-European coach
Sonny Bill Williams is right. We're overdue for a Pacific Island or M?ori coach of the All Blacks and not just in an assistant's o…
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 17:52
'That pisses a lot of people off' - Players, coaches react to scrum annihilation
South Africa's domination of the England scrum set the tone and the platform for South Africa's 32-12 Rugby World Cup final win in…
Ian Cameron
02 Nov 2019, 11:20
Erasmus' All Blacks admission: 'Terrible build-up' sparked Boks
The mastermind behind the Springboks’ inspirational Rugby World Cup campaign - Rassie Erasmus - says that it was a dire run-up t…
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 10:37
The only Boks player to beat England in two World Cup finals is feeling emotional
Frans Steyn was just 20 years old when South Africa beat England in the 2007 final in Paris... now he has experienced that thrill …
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 9:02
'We said after that first scrum, let's keep looking for more scrums'
Kyle Sinckler's concussion prompted Dan Cole's third-minute introduction and as soon as South Africa won a penalty at the scrum, t…
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 7:58
'The Springboks straightened us' - Maro Itoje's take on England's loss
Pointing the finger of blame in the wake of losing the biggest match of your career is difficult but Maro Itoje believes England's…
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 6:31
Full post-match press conference: Eddie Jones' attempts to explain RWC implosion
Eddie Jones says that England are going to be “kicking stones for four years” following their comprehensive World Cup final de…
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 6:26
What Rassie Erasmus said to Boks before RWC Final win
South Africa head coach Rassie Eramsus had some inspirational words for his Springbok team ahead of their historic Rugby World Cup…
Ian Cameron
02 Nov 2019, 6:07
South Africa player ratings vs England
No team had ever before won the World Cup having lost a pool match, but Rassie Erasmus' South Africa put that dubious history to b…
Liam Heagney
02 Nov 2019, 5:10
Kyle Sinckler 'out before he hit the ground' after being brutally KO'd just minutes into World Cup final
England got off to a shaky start in their lost World Cup final, an opening compounded by the loss of tighthead Kyle Sinckler after…
Ian Cameron
02 Nov 2019, 2:40
Nigel Owens left in tears by gesture from Owen Farrell and All Blacks captain Kieran Read
World Rugby referee Nigel Owens has opened up on his experience at the 2019 Rugby World Cup while revealing the heartwarming gestu…
Online Editors
02 Nov 2019, 1:26
Recap: England vs South Africa LIVE | Rugby World Cup final
Follow all the action on the RugbyPass live blog from the World Cup final match between England versus South Africa in Yokohama.
RugbyPass
02 Nov 2019, 1:18
'Not sure how that is going to work to be honest' - Steve Hansen's blunt assessment of Warren Gatland's coaching plans with the Chiefs
In the wake of his victorious final clash against Warren Gatland, Steve Hansen brought into question the departing Welsh head coac…
Alex McLeod
01 Nov 2019, 19:02
Steve Hansen overcome with emotion by crowd gesture as All Blacks career comes to a close
When the final whistle sounded in the All Blacks' 40-17 decimation of Wales for third place at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, it ended …
Online Editors
01 Nov 2019, 15:22
Owen Farrell: 'No fear' mantra as England stand on edge of history
Owen Farrell expects his England team-mates to seize their opportunity to realise their boyhood dreams by emptying the tanks in Sa…
Online Editors
01 Nov 2019, 14:59
'We are different South Africans from different walks of life'
As the captain who has come to personify his multi-cultural country, Siya Kolisi is delighted that so many players from different …
Online Editors
01 Nov 2019, 10:52
'It would break my heart if Wales went back into the doldrums'
Warren Gatland's twelve-year stint in charge of Wales came to an end on Friday in Tokyo and he has departed with one wish for thei…
Online Editors
01 Nov 2019, 10:05
At the risk of being labelled an arrogant Englishman, this group is primed to inspire a new generation - Andy Goode
Pinning his colours firmly to the mast for the World Cup final, columnist Andy Goode declares that this group under Eddie Jones lo…
Andy Goode
01 Nov 2019, 10:03
Why George Kruis feels England need to 'man up' versus the Boks
England are on their guard in Yokohama to ensure some aspects of their June 2018 tour to South Africa and the 2019 Six Nations don…
Online Editors
01 Nov 2019, 7:57
Steve Hansen fires a parting shot at the self-interested Six Nations
With Japan 2019 having caught the imagination of the non-rugby public around the world, Steve Hansen has called on the Six Nations…
Online Editors
01 Nov 2019, 7:01
Another Premiership player allowed to skip a match to watch a brother in the RWC final
Social media has illustrated its positive use this week, campaigning for Ben Curry and Marcus Watson to skip Premiership games and…
Josh Raisey
01 Nov 2019, 6:11
Wales player ratings vs New Zealand
Having played themselves to a standstill in their semi-final loss to South Africa last Sunday, Wales didn't have enough energy abo…
Liam Heagney
01 Nov 2019, 5:06
Six-try New Zealand prove much too good for Wales in bronze play-off
Participation in the bronze medal match wasn't what New Zealand or Wales wanted at the World Cup but a fixture that had eight trie…
Online Editors
01 Nov 2019, 4:17
New Zealand player ratings vs Wales
Conjecture in the lead up to the bronze play-off match was that the game was unwanted, but there was still plenty to cheer through…
Tom Vinicombe
01 Nov 2019, 4:04
Recap: New Zealand vs Wales LIVE | Rugby World Cup
Follow all the action on the RugbyPass live blog from the World Cup bronze medal play-off match between New Zealand versus Wales …
RugbyPass
01 Nov 2019, 1:44
The strange reason why Siya Kolisi was made Springboks captain
Siya Kolisi's appointment as captain of the Springboks has been widely considered one of the best decisions of coach Rassie Erasmu…
Tom Vinicombe
31 Oct 2019, 22:21
The Bill Ellis Podcast - Episode 8 - McOnie, Mils, & Bates dissect All Blacks RWC semi final loss
Were they All Blacks too light on experience? How do you stop Tuilagi? And do they need more Maori or Polynesian flavour on the ne…
RugbyPass
31 Oct 2019, 22:12
Major snubs in World Rugby Player of the Year nominations
World Rugby has announced the shortlist of players for the 2019 Player of the Year award and there are some major omissions.
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 21:15
The 'dreadful game of rugby' that bored the world
Last week's World Cup mixtures were a bit of a mixed bag, but they were both considerably more enthraling than what was going on i…
Josh Raisey
31 Oct 2019, 20:04
Rugby World Cup 2019 | All you need to know: All Blacks v Wales battle for bronze
It's the game no one wants to play, but the All Blacks and Wales will nevertheless do battle with each other in the World Cup bron…
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 19:21
'Bogus and bullying': UK media critic calls for All Blacks haka ban
New Zealand rugby's most famous critic has called for the All Blacks to stop performing the haka before test matches, calling it "…
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 18:21
Richie McCaw for All Blacks coach? Former captain on coaching, playing again and rivals
Richie McCaw says he would like to enter the coaching fraternity one day, but what about coaching the All Blacks?
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 17:02
One All Black was reduced to tears at a media conference ahead of bronze medal play-off
With New Zealand's semi-final defeat to England stil raw, a question about how helpful it was having family in Japan set off an em…
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 8:33
Warren Gatland's hilarious alternative to bronze play-off match against All Blacks
It's traditionally the World Cup's worst fixture, the bronze medal play-off, and Warren Gatland has floated a humourous alternativ…
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 6:12
Forget Jones and Erasmus, Jamie Joseph is fans' favourite to be coach of the year
Five coaches are shortlisted for World Rugby's coach of the year award and while Saturday's World Cup-winning coach will likely ge…
Josh Raisey
31 Oct 2019, 5:46
'We are a bit anxious, a bit nervous but also very excited'
Eddie Jones' four years in the England job are boiling down to a single 80 minutes in Yokohama and he spent some time on Thursday …
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 5:15
Watson and Tuilagi: How injury hell has given away to the time of their lives
Having lost so much time to lengthy injury spells on the sideline, the run that Anthony Watson and Manu Tuilagi are enjoying in Ja…
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 4:10
Erasmus to step down as South Africa head coach after Saturday's final
Rassie Erasmus has succeeded against the odds in guiding South Africa to the final of the 2019 World Cup, but he has confirmed he …
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 3:33
Erasmus and Jones head shortlist for World Rugby's coach of the year award
Having respectively guided South Africa and England to Saturday's World Cup final, it was inevitable that Rassie Erasmus and Eddie…
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 3:21
RWC Final: England vs South Africa - who has the advantage?
England and South Africa are set to contest the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday in Yokohama, but which of the two nations has th…
Alex Shaw
31 Oct 2019, 3:06
England and South Africa head five-strong shortlist for team of the year award
The list of nominees for the various World Rugby awards continues with five teams - among them, England and South Africa - chosen …
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 3:01
'I don't quite have a Stephen Donald story'
Ben Spencer was feeding his children at home when he took a phone-call that could change the Saracens scrum-half’s life.
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 0:23
Seven of the most chilling, thrilling or seriously ill-thought haka responses
England have been fined for crossing the halfway line in their response to New Zealand’s haka before last week’s World Cup sem…
Online Editors
31 Oct 2019, 0:08
All Blacks coaching race heats up as candidates assemble crack teams
The top two contenders for the soon-to-be-vacant All Blacks head coaching role are set for an almighty tug of war over the same as…
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 23:26
No questions about passion, but New Zealand's stalwart forwards look like spent forces
New Zealand were comprehensively taken apart by an English side that played the game of their lives, but that doesn't mean the All…
Tom Vinicombe
30 Oct 2019, 22:19
One change for England as Eddie Jones sticks to the tried and true for World Cup final
England men’s head coach Eddie Jones has named his team to play South Africa in the Rugby World Cup 2019 final at Yokohama Stadi…
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 20:02
42-cap All Black calls for an end to 'overused' haka
Former All Black Joe Karam believes it's time for the team to take a page out of the history books when it comes to the haka.
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 19:00
Cheslin Kolbe returns for South Africa for Rugby World Cup final
Rassie Erasmus had made one change to the Springboks match-day squad for their Rugby World Cup final with England.
Tom Vinicombe
30 Oct 2019, 17:18
The solid reason why TJ Perenara might not win 'Try of the Year'
TJ Perenara’s try against Namibia looks like the clear favourite, and the majority of fans on social media seem to agree.
Josh Raisey
30 Oct 2019, 12:57
How do England beat South Africa in the World Cup final?
Beating New Zealand in a World Cup semi-final is one thing but adding the scalp of South Africa in the final will be quite another…
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 9:55
Ntamack the obvious candidate for Breakthrough Player of the Year as Wainwright misses out
World Rugby have announced the three-man shortlist for the Breakthrough Player of the Year award and French talent Romain Ntamack …
Alex Shaw
30 Oct 2019, 8:03
Nigel Owens' classy response to Garces being named RWC final ref
The verdict is clearly that Nigel Owens was more deserving of taking charge of his second final, having supervised the 2015 showca…
Josh Raisey
30 Oct 2019, 7:49
Dallaglio: How England players responded at final whistle a 'good sign'
Lawrence Dallaglio has predicted a special future for England’s World Cup-chasing team ahead of their bid for global glory.
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 6:28
All Blacks fans wondering if XV versus Wales would have beaten England
With Ryan Crotty and a number of other seasoned internationals recalled to the New Zeland XV to face Wales, some ABs fans believe …
Josh Raisey
30 Oct 2019, 5:39
Perenara's acrobatic finish versus Namibia makes shortlist of four for try of the year award
New Zealand can no longer win the World Cup following their defeat to England but one of their tries in Japan, TJ Perenara's effor…
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 3:10
Wales fullback Liam Williams could be sidelined for three months
Wales fullback Liam Williams could face a lengthy lay-off after being injured at the World Cup.
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 3:06
Gatland finally explains what he really meant about England playing their final in the semi-final
Verbal sparring has always been a feature of the Eddie Jones-Warren Gatland relationship and with Jones landing a telling blow on …
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 2:45
Mtawarira: Unlike other Springbok coaches, Rassie is 'honest'
Springbok loosehead Tendai Mtawarira opens up on race, Siya Kolisi and Rassie Erasmus ahead of the Rugby World Cup final against E…
Alex Shaw
30 Oct 2019, 1:55
All Blacks respond to English fine: 'They're a pretty wealthy union so they can take the hit'
Dane Coles raised his hand for the best one liner of the World Cup by bluntly assessing how England's wealthy players will have no…
Online Editors
30 Oct 2019, 0:58
Steve Hansen quietens down the rumours: 'Thanks, Eddie. I'm not actually coming to Japan to coach that team'
Following Saturday's match between England and New Zealand, Eddie Jones made a few comments about Steve Hansen's future. It turns …
Tom Vinicombe
30 Oct 2019, 0:32
World Rugby announce Breakthrough Player of the Year nominees
World Rugby have named the three nominees for the breakthrough player of the year award, with the winner set to be announced this …
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 21:07
Wales chop and change side in final Test of Warren Gatland's twelve-year tenure
Wales have named a much-changed side for their World Cup bronze final match against New Zealand in Tokyo on Friday.
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 20:34
All Blacks welcome back departing veterans for Wales third-and-fourth play-off clash
Four departing All Blacks will get to sign off their international careers on their own terms after being named to face Wales in t…
Alex McLeod
29 Oct 2019, 19:45
World Rugby branded a 'joke' for reported haka fine
World Rugby has been accused of mixed messages after reportedly fining England for its counter to New Zealand's haka three days af…
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 16:56
Wales coach's warning to 'miserable as hell' Steve Hansen
If the browbeaten All Blacks were expecting an easier time of it in the World Cup bronze match against Wales on Friday, they have …
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 14:05
Erasmus sounds happy that South Africa have bored their way into Saturday's final
Rassie Erasmus accepts that South Africa's limited approach has won them few fans at the World Cup, but he insists that results ar…
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 10:18
World Cup winner Wilkinson on what England must do to emulate class of 2003
It's 16 years since England last lifted the World Cup and 2003 match-winner Jonny Wilkinson has some advice as the class of 2019 p…
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 9:49
A 'Watson To World Cup' campaign has now launched after the Curry success
Following social media's success convincing Sale to allow Ben Curry to watch twin Tom play in the World Cup final, a campaign has …
Josh Raisey
29 Oct 2019, 8:12
World Cup finalists England dominate potential British and Irish Lions XV for 2021
Who is currently impressing and who will be in good shape to compete for a spot on the British and Irish Lions tour of South Afric…
Alex Shaw
29 Oct 2019, 6:45
The veteran Bok and the young Englishman make an odd couple, but they have bonded over beers in Bath
There is an eleven-year age difference between Sam Underhill and Francois Louw but the respect will be clear when the Bath team-ma…
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 5:12
Ben Curry responds after social media campaign gets him to Japan to watch England twin Tom
The power of social media has been evident in recent days as support for Ben Curry has convinced Sale to allow him to skip a leagu…
Josh Raisey
29 Oct 2019, 3:59
'Everyone takes the mick out of me when I say I still think it was a try but I genuinely do'
Twelve years since he was denied what he felt was a legitimate try for England in the World Cup final versus South Africa, Mark Cu…
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 3:28
'Family can be a distraction. Tickets, giving you pointers on how to play rugby... my auntie is always great for that'
England's first appearance in a World Cup final since 2007 has caught the imagination of the large Vunipola family who are despera…
Online Editors
29 Oct 2019, 2:43
South Africa left out in the cold for developing 2020 mid-year schedule
The latest 2020 July fixture rumours could spell bad news for South Africa, with the top four European sides all having fairly pac…
Tom Vinicombe
29 Oct 2019, 0:42
Springboks 2007 World Cup stars: Where are they now?
In anticipation of facing the same opposition in the same match that secured them the 2007 World Cup title this weekend, we look a…
Alex McLeod
28 Oct 2019, 23:47
The successes keep coming for South Africa with Cape Town set to host the 2022 Sevens World Cup
South Africa will host Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022 after the World Rugby Council awarded the hosting rights for the premier tourna…
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 22:13
Jerome Garces to be first French referee to take charge of a World Cup final
World Rugby has announced that France's Jérôme Garcès will referee the Rugby World Cup 2019 final between England and South Afr…
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 21:28
Expect a Ben Smith swansong on Friday with All Blacks primed to make changes
Steve Hansen as good as confirmed that we shouldn't expect to see the same All Blacks team trotted out against Wales that waged wa…
Tom Vinicombe
28 Oct 2019, 20:34
The act abolished in the seventies that could prevent another semi-final snore-fest
One for the purists', a 'test of attrition', a 'classic slog'. There are many charitable ways to describe Sunday's RWC semi-final …
Tom Vinicombe
28 Oct 2019, 19:24
Why it would be 'extra special' if South Africa won World Cup under captain Siya Kolisi
Veteran Springboks prop Tendai Mtawarira believes it would be "extra special" if South Africa won their third World Cup crown unde…
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 18:30
Kiwi duo primed for Wales following World Cup exit
Two New Zealanders could play a key role in Wales' re-build following their semi-final exit from the World Cup.
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 18:04
Sonny Bill Williams' reported $9.7m post-World Cup offer
All Blacks second five-eighth Sonny Bill Willams has reportedly been offered a staggering $9.7m contract for his services after th…
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 14:33
Springboks must improve tactics or they'll lose to England
South Africa booked their place in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final against England with an attritional win over Wales on Sunday, bu…
Josh Raisey
28 Oct 2019, 10:27
Kiwi fans spewing as TVNZ won't be showing All Blacks on Friday - it'll be Coronation Street instead
It's the game no one wants to play - and TVNZ will not screen the All Blacks' playoff for the Rugby World Cup bronze medal with Wa…
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 8:15
Tindall: Ali Williams explained why 'V' formation the perfect Haka foil
England’s 2003 World Cup winner Mike Tindall believes England’s semi-final win over New Zealand was their best ever performanc…
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 7:35
England facing a kicking? South Africa ready to put boot to ball again
Both South Africa and England have excelled with their kicking games so far at the Rugby World Cup and it's likely to prove decisi…
Alex Shaw
28 Oct 2019, 3:08
Wales to 'bounce back' with third place over New Zealand, Tipuric says
The side will look to end their World Cup campaign on a high and claim a rare victory over New Zealand.
Online Editors
28 Oct 2019, 0:01
Can anyone stop England from scooping the player of the year award?
Next week, rugby royalty from across the globe will gather to see, amongst other awards, who has won the World Rugby Player of the…
Tom Vinicombe
27 Oct 2019, 23:35
Where the All Blacks got it absolutely wrong and played right into Eddie's hands
This recipe would be repeated over and over as the All Blacks failed to adopt a kicking strategy around contested kicking, which l…
Ben Smith
27 Oct 2019, 23:28
Analysis: The England tactics that stunned New Zealand
“Authority without wisdom is like a heavy axe without an edge, fitter to bruise than polish.” – Anne Bradstreet
Conor Wilson
27 Oct 2019, 9:58
South Africa player ratings vs Wales - RWC SF
It was far from a classic but South Africa did enough to book their place in Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against England with…
Online Editors
27 Oct 2019, 8:08
Billy Vunipola reveals the brutal plan England executed to beat the All Blacks
England’s number eight reflects on a stunning World Cup semi-final victory over New Zealand.
Online Editors
27 Oct 2019, 7:14
Warren Gatland identifies the key area that cost Wales against South Africa
Wales coach Warren Gatland admitted his side paid the price for conceding too many penalties as they suffered an agonising 19-16 d…
Online Editors
27 Oct 2019, 5:28
England quartet injury concerns as Willi Heinz is officially ruled out
Owen Farrell, Jonny May, Anthony Watson and Kyle Sinckler will all be monitored.
Online Editors
27 Oct 2019, 4:25
It's an England-South Africa RWC final as Boks edge out Wales
Handre Pollard kicked three penalties to Dan Biggar’s two.
Online Editors
27 Oct 2019, 4:08
Social media can't deal with the amount of kicking in #WALvRSA
The amount of kicking and the lack of passing has been a feature of the first half of the Rugby World Cup semi-final between Wales…
Ian Cameron
27 Oct 2019, 2:48
Recap: Wales vs South Africa LIVE | Rugby World Cup
Follow all the action on the RugbyPass live blog from the World Cup semi-final match between Wales versus South Africa in Yokoham…
RugbyPass
27 Oct 2019, 1:21
The scariest thing about this English side? Three of their best performers won't peak until the next World Cup - at the earliest
Maro Itoje, Sam Underhill and Tom Curry, three of England's best, were also the three youngest players in their 23 and will be ter…
Tom Vinicombe
27 Oct 2019, 1:10
What was the first thing that Steve Hansen did after the All Blacks' loss sunk in?
The morning after the night before and the All Blacks are struggling to suppress raw emotions attached to their World Cup semifina…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 23:24
New Zealand sorely missed the unpredictability of one of the game's most elusive players
A fit Damian McKenzie would have given the All Blacks a threatening ball-runner from the backfield and also allowed the nation's m…
Tom Vinicombe
26 Oct 2019, 21:52
Who is primed to take over from Steve Hansen as All Blacks coach?
Once the dust settles from the All Blacks' 19-7 loss to England, attention will turn to finding a successor to the departing Steve…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 19:15
Sir Ian McGeechan: New Zealand should have lost by more
It's no exaggeration to say that England's remarkable win over New Zealand was one of the best games of rugby Sir Ian McGeechan ha…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 18:54
'We knew it would rile them up, it probably felt like we disrespected them'
Mako Vunipola has admitted England knew they were playing with fire with their haka response, but they felt they needed to serve n…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 9:34
Video: 'New Zealand are the God of rugby' - Eddie Jones' full post-match press conference
England will face Wales or South Africa in next Saturday’s World Cup final.
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 9:18
Video: 'We are hurting' - Steve Hansen's full post-match press conference
New Zealand coach Steve Hansen praised England as deserved winners after Eddie Jones’ team ended their reign as world champions.…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 9:08
'I don't think my vocabulary is good enough to describe that!'
As he prepares to win his 91st Wales cap, George North knows the magnitude of Sunday's occasion but he is having trouble putting i…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 9:06
Sam Underhill cementing himself as All Blacks' budding bogeyman
England were dominant in their 19-7 win over New Zealand on Saturday and one man, Sam Underhill, is rapidly developing into the Al…
Alex Shaw
26 Oct 2019, 8:17
Owen Farrell and Manu Tuilagi explain England's response to the haka
Owen Farrell and Manu Tuilagi have explained England's response to the haka moments before their crunch semi-final with New Zealan…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 6:24
'Little boys bullied' - English media reacts to defeat of All Blacks
The Rugby World Cup will have a new home for the next four years after England knocked out the All Blacks with a stunning 19-7 sem…
RugbyPass
26 Oct 2019, 5:49
Steve Hansen turns on reporter over 'pretty disrespectful' Kieran Read question
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen turned on a reporter post-match in Yokohama after what he branded as a "pretty average" question tha…
Ian Cameron
26 Oct 2019, 4:51
Stunner... England dethrone New Zealand with one of their greatest-ever displays
The odds were against England causing an upset in their World Cup semi-final, but a power-packed performance floored New Zealand i…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 3:13
New Zealand player ratings vs England
It was the match many were billing as the 'true final' and it didn't disappoint... the All Blacks were bullied across the park, bu…
Tom Vinicombe
26 Oct 2019, 3:09
How Owen Farrell responded to the haka has split the internet
Owen Farrell is a player that tends to split opinion and his response to the haka in Yokohama before England's crunch semi-final w…
Ian Cameron
26 Oct 2019, 1:35
Itoje: 'We're going to get them'
Maro Itoje senses that England are poised to stun New Zealand in Saturday's World Cup semi-final by declaring: "We're going to get…
Online Editors
26 Oct 2019, 0:48
Recap: England vs New Zealand LIVE | Rugby World Cup
Follow all the action on the RugbyPass live blog from the World Cup semi-final match between England versus New Zealand in Yokoha…
RugbyPass
26 Oct 2019, 0:01
'Feeling pretty nervous': Dan Carter shares personal notes leading into 2015 World Cup crunch time
Dan Carter has shared an insight into his headspace leading into the 2015 World Cup knockout matches on the eve of New Zealand's W…
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 22:16
Rugby World Cup 2019 | All Blacks v England: All you need to know
After destroying Ireland 46-14, the All Blacks are seeking to find a similar level of performance against England.
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 21:11
Joe Moody steers clear of verbal clash with England's 'emotional time bomb' Kyle Sinckler
All Blacks prop Joe Moody refused to give an inch when quizzed about the prospect of coming up against in-form England prop Kyle S…
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 20:29
The million-pound jackpot England will put on the line against the All Blacks
A place in the Rugby World Cup final isn't the only thing that will go on the line as England prepare to face-off against the All …
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 19:23
'We're going to get them' - Maro Itoje senses England will stun New Zealand
The All Blacks are odds-on favourites to lift the Webb Ellis Trophy for a third successive time, but Maro Itoje believes an upset …
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 15:05
'By moving Farrell out one, he can't have the influence he does when he is in the No10 jersey' - Andy Goode
Eddie Jones has been bold with his selection again but it’s a mistake to revert to the George Ford/Owen Farrell axis against the…
Andy Goode
25 Oct 2019, 8:51
How Wales' Aaron Wainwright could have been playing League Two football this weekend at Colchester
Aaron Wainwright could this weekend have been lining out for Newport in a League Two game at Colchester instead of trying to help …
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 7:52
'I don't think we did our due diligence in terms of looking at them closely enough... it was very amateur'
It's 24 years since Jonah Lomu ran in four tries in a devastating semi-final display in Cape Town to eliminate England, but Dean R…
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 6:52
Wales fans still buoyant despite their injury worries ahead of semi-final
Wales have not had much luck with injuries at this World Cup, but they have an ability to roll with the setbacks and still produce…
Josh Raisey
25 Oct 2019, 6:18
'If they don't know who we are, then they will Saturday'
Five years since All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick mistakenly identified Courtney Lawes, calling him Michael Laws, the second row i…
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 4:59
England's biggest hurdle this weekend could well be what cricket legend Brian Lara once alluded to
A 24-year-old quip from cricket legend Brian Lara sums up what England's rugby team face this weekend as they prepare to cope with…
Sam Roberts
25 Oct 2019, 3:00
The very special story of how Makazole Mapimpi went from walking 10kms to his rural school to Springboks fame
Sixteen months ago, Makazole Mapimpi was someone who had yet to make a Test level debut. A dozen caps later, though, the 29-year-o…
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 1:50
Wales have never even made a final, let alone won a World Cup
.Warren Gatland believes it would be an “unbelievable” achievement for Wales to reach the Rugby World Cup final.
Online Editors
25 Oct 2019, 1:28
The Bill Ellis Podcast - Episode 7 - Rugby World Cup Semis
This week on the Bill Ellis Podcast, James McOnie, Mils Muliaina, and Steven Bates talk us through the Rugby World Cup semi finals…
RugbyPass
25 Oct 2019, 0:13
Outgoing Springboks head coach: 'I'm seeing the future and [Gatland and I] will definitely compete again'
The ‘coaching’ part of his job title may disappear, but don’t expect Rassie Erasmus to go sit behind a desk.
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 23:51
The rematch they've all been waiting for: age-grade New Zealand and England sides look to get revenge
It's been well documented that the last time England and New Zealand faced off in a World Cup was in 1999, but players from both t…
Tom Vinicombe
24 Oct 2019, 23:13
How to beat the All Blacks: The eight-point plan that could earn England a place in the World Cup final
Ex-World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward has offered England a comprehensive plan to dethrone the back-to-back reigning world…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 21:43
Travel delay for England forces change of plans for semi-final
England will review their travel plans for Saturday’s World Cup semi-final against New Zealand after arriving late for today’s…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 21:31
World Cup over for star fullback as Wales make three changes
Star fullback Liam Williams has been ruled out for the remainder of the Rugby World Cup following an ankle injury sustained in an …
Tom Vinicombe
24 Oct 2019, 20:06
Richie Mo'unga reveals heartache following Owen Franks' omission from All Blacks squad
An emotional Richie Mo'unga has revealed how he felt after longtime friend and teammate Owen Franks missed the cut for the All Bla…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 19:49
Eddie Jones and his English players have plenty of experience getting the best of the All Blacks
Eddie Jones said his England team were braced to deal with the unexpected when they play New Zealand in the World Cup semi-finals,…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 19:12
Eddie Jones compares England beating All Blacks to Alex Ferguson dethroning Liverpool
The All Blacks are in pursuit of an unprecedented third successive global crown.
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 15:12
'Jordie's a psycho because he's been bullied' - Dane Coles' humorous rundown of the Barretts
The presence of all three Barrett brothers in the New Zealand matchday squad to face England on Saturday has generated much attent…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 11:27
How a physio who fell into coaching became joined at the hip with Erasmus in rejuvenating the Springboks
Springboks duo Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber have been like two peas in a pod ever since they first went to work together at…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 7:23
'If I am the shield, Billy must be talking himself up as the sword'
It was an 'anything New Zealand can do, England can do better' type of Thursday in Tokyo as the Vunipola brothers fronted media to…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 5:19
Ford and Tuilagi switches show Eddie's hand ahead of All Blacks
The reintroduction of George Ford and positional switch for Manu Tuilagi promises a much more attacking England side than the team…
Alex Shaw
24 Oct 2019, 4:37
'You only usually get a press conference of this many people when you've done something bad... we haven't'
Having restored George Ford to start at out-half, Eddie Jones believes his England team are ready to play the certain game they ne…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 4:11
Jake White's ringing endorsement for Alun Wyn Jones' World Cup title chances
After leading Wales to their second World Cup semi-final in the last three tournaments, Alun Wyn Jones' leadership has been glowin…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 3:02
Reunited: 17 years after two of the brothers last shared a room, they are sharing again this week
World Cup semi-final week in Japan has provided Beauden Barrett with the novel opportunity of rooming with younger brother Scott f…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 2:08
England make one change for the semi-final and it is potentially massive
Eddie Jones has declared his hand for the World Cup semi-final versus New Zealand and his England XV shows one change from the qua…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 1:09
Steve Hansen not showing his hand on Cane/Barrett call, but 'obviously it's strategic'
Steve Hansen's surprise tactical selection of Scott Barrett at blindside flanker is far more important than any rhetoric either co…
Online Editors
24 Oct 2019, 0:49
Eddie Jones providing media with 'the best clickbait in the world'
New Zealand boss Steve Hansen has laughed off spying suggestions from the England camp and described them as “the best clickbait…
Online Editors
23 Oct 2019, 23:38
'I tried to be like him' - Manu Tuilagi heads into New Zealand clash looking to emulate idol Jonah Lomu
The England centre wants to make his mark when he faces the All Blacks in the World Cup semi-finals on Saturday.
Online Editors
23 Oct 2019, 23:27
Huge loss for Springboks with Cheslin Kolbe unavailable for semi-final
Young wing Sbu Nkosi has been drafted into the Springbok starting line-up for Sunday’s gripping Rugby World Cup semi-final again…
Online Editors
23 Oct 2019, 23:20
The best referee in the world won't be in charge of a match this weekend - but what does that mean for the World Cup final?
When Nigel Owens and Jérôme Garcès were announced as the referees for this weekend's World Cup semi-final matches, fans underst…
Tom Vinicombe
23 Oct 2019, 20:04
All Blacks spring a surprise for World Cup semi-final
New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen has broken from tradition and made an unexpected change to the All Blacks lineup for their sem…
Tom Vinicombe
23 Oct 2019, 19:34
The Rugby World Cup weekend that nobody wanted
It is true. For all the good that sport does, the way it can reach into the soul and nourish your nether regions, it doesn’t alw…
Sam Roberts
23 Oct 2019, 11:48
'They know they're human. They bleed, they drop balls, they miss tackles like every other player'
England are tapping into the experience of their squad who were on the drawn British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand in 2017 t…
Online Editors
23 Oct 2019, 10:05
'Doing something like that off the field is not something that we stand for'
South Africa assistant coach Mzwandile Stick has distanced the Springboks from allegations of spying on team training at the Rugby…
Ian Cameron
23 Oct 2019, 9:02
Forget his physique, Justin Tipuric must be considered Springbok enemy No.1
Justin Tipuric doesn’t do self-promotion. The most outlandish part of his persona is his bright blue scrum cap, which conver…
Owain Jones
23 Oct 2019, 7:57
Three key areas for England to beat New Zealand
England will be up against it when they take on New Zealand in the semi-finals, but if they win these three key areas, they will g…
Alex Shaw
23 Oct 2019, 6:00
Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira sends apology
Springboks prop Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira has apologised to his opposing loosehead Keita Inagaki after his first half yello…
Josh Raisey
23 Oct 2019, 4:38
All Blacks have Jonah Lomu's destruction of England to thank
Brodie Retallick claims to have never seen it, Sam Cane says he's only seen highlights, but it is highly unlikely they would be th…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 22:35
'Kiwi arrogance': James Haskell reveals explosive clash with All Blacks star Brodie Retallick
Former England rugby star James Haskell has revealed an explosive exchange with All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick, moments after Ne…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 20:10
Analysis: Irish con-job complete? The All Blacks' top-draw performance makes compelling evidence for shelved tactics last year
In the post-mortem of the 16-9 loss to Ireland in Dublin last November, a review of the All Blacks tactics showed some very peculi…
Ben Smith
22 Oct 2019, 19:54
James Haskell: 'Don't worry about the haka. It's 15 blokes dancing!'
Former international and Highlanders loose forward James Haskell has told the England side how to face the haka ahead of Saturday'…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 18:37
A dig at McCaw? Eddie Jones' sneaky shot at All Blacks legend
He made accusations of spying, said the pressure was on the All Blacks and had a crack at the Kiwi media but Eddie Jones' biggest …
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 15:24
Former All Blacks boss John Mitchell tackles accusations ABs have been spying on his England team in Tokyo
Now Eddie Jones' right-hand man with England, former All Blacks boss John Mitchell has tackled accusations that his team were spie…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 15:09
'I was thinking to myself: If he gives me a red card, this is the end of me'
Ross Moriarty's yellow card had been largely forgotten about due to him later scoring the crucial try against France, but the Wels…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 14:40
'Despite clearly being the least mobile of the four quarter-final referees, Nigel Owens remains without peer'
All the focus is currently on the fall-out from the Jaco Peyper fan picture, but Nigel Owens' effort in the New Zealand-Ireland ma…
Paul Smith
22 Oct 2019, 7:40
World Rugby accused of political correctness gone mad for punishing Peyper
Referee Jaco Peyper landed himself in trouble with World Rugby for a playful gesture in a picture taken with some Wales fans follo…
Josh Raisey
22 Oct 2019, 6:04
Hansen's withering message for European teams about discarded Nations Championship
Having played England just once in the last five years and seen European countries dismiss the Nations Championship idea, Steve Ha…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 4:48
Robin McBryde's courageous commitment to Wales in Japan despite family bereavement
Coaching at a World Cup is enough of a stressed job at face value but Robin McBryde is showing commendable commitment by continuin…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 3:02
'I'm desperate to win in order to get to a World Cup final, not because I have 0-0-0-0 record against New Zealand'
Joe Marler has never before beaten the All Blacks but after coming out of Test level retirement, the England loosehead now has the…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 2:13
Steve Hansen on why Kieran Read wasn't seen at All Blacks training on Tuesday
Kieran Read's absence from New Zealand's on-pitch training session on Tuesday has generated some doubts about his availability for…
Online Editors
22 Oct 2019, 1:28
All Blacks prepared for penalty shootout: 'Out of the forwards, I'd definitely back myself'
If two semifinalists can't be separated after 110 minutes of high-intensity Test rugby, it will all come down to a penalty shootou…
Tom Vinicombe
22 Oct 2019, 0:50
England claim their Tuesday training session was spied on ahead of World Cup semi-final
England coach Eddie Jones has claimed his team were spied on Tuesday morning during a training run ahead of their World Cup semi-f…
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 23:15
Why adding Japan to an existing competition is the worst solution to World Rugby's growing problem
After an excellent performance at the 2019 World Cup, calls are growing by the day for Japan to be added to either the Six Nations…
Tom Vinicombe
21 Oct 2019, 22:28
World Rugby announce referees for World Cup semi-finals and South Africans won't be happy
World Rugby has announced the match officials for the Rugby World Cup 2019 semi-finals at International Stadium Yokohama this week…
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 19:32
Cheika era needs to be buried nine feet deep and the mistakes never repeated
Early coaching credentials aside, the results have proven that Cheika is becoming as outdated as a dinosaur as the game evolves fo…
Ben Smith
21 Oct 2019, 19:06
'We have to count ourselves a bit lucky, but if you want my honest opinion, I could not care less.'
Dan Biggar admits he “could not care less” if Wales rode their luck to book a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 17:47
'Best I've seen': Is this Steve Hansen's hint at next All Blacks coach?
Steve Hansen has given his biggest hint yet on who he thinks should take over his top job when he steps down after the Rugby World…
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 15:12
'Is that supposed to be funny?': Brodie Retallick snaps at English writer
Brodie Retallick is in no mood for any funny business in the lead-up to the All Blacks' World Cup semi-final showdown with England…
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 14:48
England versus New Zealand: Composite XV
A composite XV of the England and New Zealand Rugby World Cup squads, before the sides meet in the semi-final in Yokohama on Satur…
Alex Shaw
21 Oct 2019, 8:56
Vermeulen warns that South Africa have work to do to quell influence of Wales' 'talisman'
Duane Vermeulen believes South Africa have to find a way to improve on perfection to combat Wales’s “talisman” Alun Wyn Jone…
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 5:27
England release positive injury update ahead of All Blacks semi-final
England expect to face New Zealand in Saturday’s World Cup semi-final with a fully fit squad after delivering a positive bulleti…
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 4:25
All Blacks career over? Sonny Bill Williams linked to shock coaching switch
All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams is being lined up for a rugby league coaching job, according to reports.
Online Editors
21 Oct 2019, 2:57
'It should have been red': World media react to Japan loss to Springboks
Suggestions of a red card were hinted at by some sections of the world's media in the wake of South Africa's 26-3 quarter-final de…
Online Editors
20 Oct 2019, 18:20
How Eddie Jones plans to beat 'the greatest team in sport' in World Cup semi-final
Eddie Jones has braced England to face what he is claiming is the most dominant team in the history of sport.
Online Editors
20 Oct 2019, 16:31
'Gutting to lose... but it genuinely doesn't taint Schmidt's legacy'
Ireland were blown away in the quarter-finals by New Zealand, yet reserve scrum-half Luke McGrath insists that their tame eliminat…
Online Editors
20 Oct 2019, 9:57
Rassie Erasmus on the logistics of Japan being added to the Rugby Championship
South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus believes adding Japan to the Rugby Championship would be an interesting proposition but fears lo…
Online Editors
20 Oct 2019, 9:28
Love him or loathe him, Jones played the perfect hand against Australia
Whatever your opinion of England head coach Eddie Jones, his selections and game plan was perfectly suited to downing Australia at…
Alex Shaw
20 Oct 2019, 9:00
South Africa player ratings vs Japan
Here's how the Springboks rated, their pack performing like a well-oiled machine to lay the foundation for their 26-3 quarter-fina…
Online Editors
20 Oct 2019, 6:57
Japan's World Cup dream over as powerful South Africa prove a step too far
The Brave Blossoms are out of the tournament as the Springboks bludgeoned past hosts Japan 26-3 to book a World Cup semi-final wit…
Online Editors
20 Oct 2019, 6:14
Japan player ratings vs South Africa
RugbyPass rates the Japan players after the World Cup hosts fell to a 26-3 quarter-final defeat to a powerful South Africa team in…
Alex Shaw
20 Oct 2019, 5:36
At least one change on the cards for New Zealand's World Cup semifinal
Expect at least one change to the All Blacks for their semifinal match with England next weekend, courtesy of a shoulder injury to…
Online Editors
20 Oct 2019, 1:04
The three players poised to cause the most grief for the All Blacks
Eddie Jones staked his England tenure on the midfield of Owen Farrell, Manu Tuilagi and Henry Slade and it was a decision that pai…
Online Editors
19 Oct 2019, 20:06
JDV: Japan 2015 victim has a word of warning for the Springboks
South Africa need to surprise Rugby World Cup hosts this weekend with variety if they are to win their quarter-final clash against…
RugbyPass
19 Oct 2019, 13:30
Ireland's four-year 'improvement' was the All Blacks taking seven minutes longer than Argentina to go 17 early points up
IRFU high-performance boss David Nucifora promised mistakes made for the 2015 World Cup wouldn't be repeated in 2019, yet Ireland …
Liam Heagney
19 Oct 2019, 10:47
'The All Blacks were fantastic... they put us on the back foot and never let us get off that again'
Rory Best arrived in Tokyo this week hoping to lead Ireland to World Cup history... instead he has been ushered into retirement fo…
Online Editors
19 Oct 2019, 7:03
Ireland player ratings vs New Zealand
Ireland hoped 2019 would be the year they would create World Cup history but their pool loss to Japan handed them a quarter-final …
Liam Heagney
19 Oct 2019, 5:36
New Zealand player ratings vs Ireland
New Zealand have disposed of Ireland 46-14 to get their Rugby World Cup finals campaign off to a successful start. Who were the be…
Tom Vinicombe
19 Oct 2019, 5:18
Seven-try All Blacks crush Ireland to set up England semi-final clash
Steve Hansen’s All Blacks ran out 46-14 winners in Tokyo, destroying Ireland hopes of reaching a first-ever semi-final at the Wo…
Liam Heagney
19 Oct 2019, 5:15
Recap: New Zealand vs Ireland LIVE | Rugby World Cup
Follow all the action on the RugbyPass live blog from the World Cup quarter-final match between New Zealand versus Ireland in Tok…
RugbyPass
19 Oct 2019, 1:45
The Irish stat that should scare the All Blacks
Ireland will be heading into their quarter-final matchup with the All Blacks knowing that they have the tools to beat the world ch…
Online Editors
18 Oct 2019, 21:19
Johnny Sexton left kicking himself before World Cup showdown
Ireland five-eighth Johnny Sexton cut a lonely figure in the lead-up to his nation's do-or-die clash with the All Blacks.
Online Editors
18 Oct 2019, 20:16
Tension grips New Zealand: All Blacks' plan to deal with nerves against Ireland
Forced to contemplate the prospect that the All Blacks could crash out of the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, tension and nerves i…
Online Editors
18 Oct 2019, 17:16
Irish newspaper claims All Blacks have undermined their own culture selecting Sevu Reece 12 months after IRFU tore up contract offer
Seve Reece's contract at Connacht was torn up following a guilty plea at a court case, but he now incredibly finds himself lining …
Liam Heagney
18 Oct 2019, 10:54
This is it, the moment of truth that will define Joe Schmidt's Ireland legacy
Joe Schmidt has been on the prowl with Ireland for six years and 75 matches, but his excellent stint in charge has come down to a …
Liam Heagney
18 Oct 2019, 6:25
'That second game in 2016 was almost the turning point for a lot of high tackle rule changes... yellows would be reds now'
Reflecting on recent Ireland-New Zealand encounters, Johnny Sexton believes how two All Blacks players avoided red cards in Dublin…
Online Editors
18 Oct 2019, 2:18
'I'm not getting rid of the mullet... there is scientific evidence that shows it makes me faster'
Having won the last two World Cups, the All Blacks know how to mix business with pleasure at the finals and they have been having …
Liam Heagney
18 Oct 2019, 1:52
Japan make one change for first-ever World Cup quarter-final
The Brave Blossoms have named a strong side for their maiden appearance in a World Cup knockout match.
Alex McLeod
17 Oct 2019, 21:25
Steve Hansen's unlikely friendship with Kiwi rugby nemesis
Away from plotting to end each other's tournaments, Steve Hansen caught up with one of New Zealand rugby's recent nemesis in Tokyo…
Online Editors
17 Oct 2019, 18:24
Former Irish coach highlights how Ireland can take advantage of All Blacks
Former Irish coach Eddie O'Sullivan believes the All Blacks' continued use of twin playmakers Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo'unga w…
Online Editors
17 Oct 2019, 15:51
Clear winner in fans' choice for the unluckiest All Black squad member
Based on the team that defeated the Springboks in the opening match of their Rugby World Cup campaign, there are not too many surp…
Josh Raisey
17 Oct 2019, 11:23
Springboks bench tells you all you need to know about their tactics for Japan
Much has been made of the experience of the Springboks named to take on Japan in their do-or-die match with Japan this weekend.
Ian Cameron
17 Oct 2019, 11:03
Experienced Ireland XV generates mixed reaction
Joe Schmidt has chosen a dozen starters from last November's Dublin win over the All Blacks to start in Saturday's rematch in Toky…
Josh Raisey
17 Oct 2019, 8:34
'It'll affect me when it's finished. You haven't got any room to get gaa-gaa emotional'
Hansen has already announced he will step down as New Zealand head coach after the World Cup.
Online Editors
17 Oct 2019, 8:00
Hansen: All Blacks know about Nigel Owens' 'idiosyncrasies'
All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen isn't worried about Nigel Owens' refereeing this weekend, but that doesn't mean he isn't a fan …
Ian Cameron
17 Oct 2019, 6:08
Justin Marshall completely writes off Ireland's chances of upsetting All Blacks
Ex-All Black Justin Marshall has whaled into Ireland ahead of their Rugby World Cup quarter-final encounter with New Zealand.
Ian Cameron
17 Oct 2019, 4:27
Richie Mo'unga's 'lost in translation' quip about the Irishman who coached him for two years
Consistent club form helped push Richie Mo'unga into Steve Hansen's plans as a starting All Black, but the Crusaders playmaker has…
Online Editors
17 Oct 2019, 3:49
The reason why Rassie Erasmus brought forward his South African team announcement by a day
Most coaches zealously guard the identity of their XV, but Rassie Erasmus had no hesitation bringing forward South Africa's quarte…
Online Editors
17 Oct 2019, 2:03
Gary Ringrose takes over from banned Bundee Aki for Ireland's do-or-die clash with New Zealand
Head coach Joe Schmidt has kept the changes to a minimum for Ireland's first official knockout match of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Tom Vinicombe
17 Oct 2019, 0:23
Springboks stick to the status quo for Japan quarterfinal
The Springboks have reverted to the starting XV and replacements that recorded a 49-3 victory over Italy a fortnight ago for the d…
Online Editors
16 Oct 2019, 22:44
Analysis: How the All Blacks could outsmart the rush defence
Rush defence has become the flavour of the year in world rugby, incorporated by teams across the globe. How could New Zealand look…
Conor Wilson
16 Oct 2019, 22:34
All Blacks stick with Anton Lienert-Brown and Jack Goodhue
All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen has named his side for New Zealand's quarterfinal clash with Ireland in Tokyo.
Online Editors
16 Oct 2019, 19:41
Weaponised Japan scrum on revenge mission after previous Bok humbling
Four years ago, the Bok scrum had no answer for what Japan threw at them. Under different guidance now, can the Brave Blossoms rep…
Alex Shaw
16 Oct 2019, 9:18
Sean Cronin's World Cup looks over as Ireland reportedly fly in replacement hooker
Sean Cronin only featured off the bench in two of Ireland's four pool matches and his World Cup now appears to be over after a tra…
Online Editors
16 Oct 2019, 7:40
Former All Blacks captain already looking past Ireland
One former All Blacks captain is already worrying about a potential semi-final against England, just days out from New Zealand's c…
Ian Cameron
16 Oct 2019, 3:28
Melbourne Storm's Solomone Kata is crossing codes for a Super Rugby stint
Solomone Kata has represented Tonga and New Zealand at Test level in rugby league, but he is now undertaking a code switch and tak…
Online Editors
16 Oct 2019, 1:23
'There is a saying that dynamite comes in small packages'
South Africa winger Cheslin Kolbe insists rugby isn't all about size... just look at his impact at Test level along with some of t…
Online Editors
15 Oct 2019, 23:17
Calls for 'Irish Christian Cullen' to be unleashed on All Blacks
An Irish rugby legend has called on Ireland coach Joe Schmidt to have the "moral courage" to bring young fullback Jordan Larmour i…
Online Editors
15 Oct 2019, 19:20
New Zealand Rugby boss accuses Northern Hemisphere of 'colonialism' against Pacific nations
New Zealand Rugby chairman Brent Impey has compared the way in which Northern Hemisphere unions treats Pacific players to that of …
Online Editors
15 Oct 2019, 18:16
'We sort of owe them one' - All Blacks haven't forgotten 2016 and 2018 defeats to Ireland
Ahead of New Zealand's blockbuster quarterfinal against Ireland, the defending champions haven't forgotten that night in Dublin la…
Online Editors
15 Oct 2019, 16:03
England assistant John Mitchell looking for redemption from All Blacks' 2003 World Cup defeat
John Mitchell's last visit to the Rugby World Cup knockout phase ended with a Wallabies ambush that cut short his All Blacks coach…
Online Editors
15 Oct 2019, 15:25
Owens' appointment has Irish fans - and one former player - nervous about facing the All Blacks
Ireland fans are worried about next Saturday's quarter-final versus New Zealand as Nigel Owens left them frustrated when he previo…
Josh Raisey
15 Oct 2019, 3:54
Three Europeans lead the way as World Rugby picks its four quarter-final referees
Referees have been under the microscope at the World Cup for their early-round inconsistencies, but the organisers believe they ha…
Online Editors
15 Oct 2019, 3:00
When Ireland get smacked in the mouth by this new All Blacks team, how will they react?
But this is what the All Blacks have been doing even when the stakes are as high as a Rugby World Cup, as far back as nearly a dec…
Ben Smith
14 Oct 2019, 22:13
New Japanese club competition planned post-World Cup, test stars set to be targeted
Plans for a new club competition in Japan following on from this year's World Cup could force Southern Hemisphere test stars to ch…
Alex McLeod
14 Oct 2019, 20:55
Springboks showing no charity: 'Japan is the enemy'
Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus, despite himself being a big fan of the Brave Blossoms, won't have any qualms with cutting short J…
Tom Vinicombe
14 Oct 2019, 18:26
Etzebeth suing human rights body that are suing him
Etzebeth, along with a group of friends, has been accused of assault and racial abuse during a night out in Langebaan in the Weste…
Online Editors
14 Oct 2019, 10:03
The strange death of the blindside flanker
The blindside flanker might be the least glamorous position in modern rugby, and increasingly, they aren't even on the field.
Rhiannon Garth Jones
14 Oct 2019, 8:58
The Joe Schmidt 'weakness' Hansen admits he is willing to exploit
Steve Hansen has said that he will look to use Joe Schmidt's famed attention to detail against him when New Zealand take on Irelan…
Online Editors
14 Oct 2019, 4:53
'We've got that quarter-final performance out of our system' - Ireland ready to peak for All Blacks says Sexton
Johnny Sexton has questioned the “strange” negativity around Ireland’s World Cup campaign, insisting Joe Schmidt’s men are…
Online Editors
13 Oct 2019, 20:45
'Beat NZ? I can't see it': Ireland written off ahead of World Cup quarter-final clash with All Blacks
Ireland aren't being tipped by many to upset the All Blacks for the third time in three years as the two sides prepare to do battl…
Online Editors
13 Oct 2019, 19:17
Survival of the fittest: Will the fresh legs of New Zealand, England and France prevail over battle-hardened World Cup opponents?
A mouth-watering Rugby World Cup quarter-final schedule should provide answers to one of the sport's enduring questions: Do teams …
Online Editors
13 Oct 2019, 14:56
Furlong on New Zealand: 'There's an element of just being physical'
Tadhg Furlong says physicality is key against New Zealand as Ireland prepare to face the back-to-back world champions in the World…
Online Editors
13 Oct 2019, 9:38
The Aki midfield puzzle, Sexton's double omen and restrained quarter-final expectation as Ireland head to Tokyo
Bundee Aki's likely suspension will give Ireland a midfield headache but they head into 2019's quarter-finals in a healthy state a…
Liam Heagney
13 Oct 2019, 8:23
Ireland, Scotland or Japan: Who will play the All Blacks in World Cup quarter-final?
The All Blacks will be eagerly awaiting the announcement on whether tournament organisers will call off today's Japan v Scotland g…
Online Editors
12 Oct 2019, 17:27
'They definitely know that we can beat them' - Irish winger reminds the All Blacks of last result between the two sides
Ireland have crushed Samoa 47-5 despite playing more than half the contest with 14 men to secure their spot Rugby World Cup quarte…
Online Editors
12 Oct 2019, 16:30
How World Cup stars reacted to the full force of Typhoon Hagibis
Members of the New Zealand, Scotland and Japan squads have taken to social media to show the havoc caused by Typhoon Hagibis.
Online Editors
12 Oct 2019, 15:53
De Allende: Rugby has changed 'immensely' since 2015
It's only been four years, but Damien de Allende says rugby has changed immensely since the 2015 edition of the Rugby World Cup.
Ian Cameron
12 Oct 2019, 1:34
Safety first but World Rugby's lack of a contingency plan must be questioned - Andy Goode
People safety absolutely has to be paramount but it’s only natural to question World Rugby’s contingency plans when simply awa…
Andy Goode
11 Oct 2019, 5:33
Scotland fans fire back at Eddie Jones over his 'no sympathy' jibe
Eddie Jones has ruffled Scottish feathers with his jibe about their qualification situation and how their hopes could be scuppered…
Josh Raisey
11 Oct 2019, 4:24
Erasmus delivers fitness update on the all-important Cheslin Kolbe
With South Africa having 12 days between their last pool game and their quarter-final, Rassie Erasmus is putting this break to goo…
Online Editors
11 Oct 2019, 1:21
World Rugby reacts to shock All Blacks cancellation claim
World Rugby has responded to reports that the All Blacks turned down the chance to play their final Rugby World Cup pool match aga…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 18:48
Fiji set for massive clash at beginning of 2020 Test season
When the Nations Championship died, it was wrongly assumed that Fiji's chances for a bigger slice of the Test rugby pie were scupp…
Tom Vinicombe
10 Oct 2019, 18:41
All Blacks could have played Italy but declined - report
The All Blacks could still have played their final Rugby World Cup pool game against Italy, but turned it down, according to multi…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 18:09
World Cup in court? Furious Scotland make incredible threat
The devastation of Typhoon Hagibis could send this already-chaotic World Cup into the court room is Scotland are denied the chance…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 17:46
Steve Hansen takes hilarious jab at Donald Trump in wake of typhoon drama
The All Blacks head coach's infamous wry sense of humour was on full display at a press conference on Thursday.
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 15:58
'Whatever transpires from now on, this has tainted the tournament'
Never work with animals, small babies and 1400km-wide biblically-sized typhoons. That old adage routinely does the rounds in live …
Owain Jones
10 Oct 2019, 10:20
Super League newcomers preparing to renew contact with SBW once RWC is over
It was no April Fool's joke when All Black Sonny Bill Williams was linked earlier this year to a switch to a Canadian rugby league…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 9:13
Fans gutted that Sergio Parisse is bowing out off the field - not on it - due to Hagibis
Saturday's fixture versus New Zealand was expected to be Sergio Parisse's Test level swansong, but the cancellation of the match i…
Josh Raisey
10 Oct 2019, 4:45
'If New Zealand needed four or five points against us it would not have been cancelled... it's ridiculous'
Sergio Parisse was looking forward to Italy having a crack off New Zealand in their final pool match, but that opportunity has bee…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 4:12
A history of cancelled rugby matches, from wild weather to political impasses
World Cup matches have been cancelled for the first time in the competition's history. There are only a handful of Tests - and som…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 3:25
The three-week RWC suspension that won't elapse until next February
Three-week suspensions are common currency at the World Cup in Japan but Canada's Josh Larsen curiously won't be able to play agai…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 2:57
'I saw the players' reaction after training and it was horrible... I feel bad'
Conor O'Shea took his team to train as normal on Thursday morning only to devastatingly find out later that Italy's match on Satur…
Online Editors
10 Oct 2019, 1:54
Losers all-round in World Cup cancellations - but biggest victims still to be decided
It's the outcome that no one was hoping for, but that many expected: two Rugby World Cup matches have been called off due to the i…
Tom Vinicombe
09 Oct 2019, 22:44
Two matches called off by World Rugby, one still under clouds
Today, World Rugby announced that two major clashes have been called off at the 2019 Rugby World Cup due to the impending threat o…
Tom Vinicombe
09 Oct 2019, 20:10
Is it time to expand The Rugby Championship to include Fiji and Japan?
The question is how much of their own power would SANZAAR nations be willing to forgo to expand The Rugby Championship to include …
Ben Smith
09 Oct 2019, 18:44
Rugby World Cup power rankings: Week three's movers and shakers
RugbyPass' Rugby World Cup power rankings from week three of the tournament in Japan, where a number of teams secured their places…
Alex Shaw
09 Oct 2019, 9:18
Canadian Larsen showed class with red card apology in Springboks' dressing room
Getting sent off at a World Cup is a difficult ordeal for any player to cope with but Canada's Josh Larsen has gained kudos for hi…
Josh Raisey
09 Oct 2019, 5:15
Cobus Reinach catapults himself into contention on back of turbocharged hat trick
With three high-class scrumhalves competing with one another, Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus is in a good position at the en…
Josh Raisey
08 Oct 2019, 20:05
Former Ireland international claims 'refs letting All Blacks cheat'
The Irish are at it again. Not for the first time during the Rugby World Cup, an Irish writer has had a crack at the All Blacks.
Online Editors
08 Oct 2019, 19:06
Referee Luke Pearce praised for handling of Canadian red card
Referees have not been popular at the World Cup but England's Luke Pearce bucked that trend with the decisive manner in which he h…
Josh Raisey
08 Oct 2019, 8:37
How South Africa's players rated versus Canada
South Africa ran amok against Canada in Kobe, shredding the minnows early on with a clinical performance that resulted in two of t…
Online Editors
08 Oct 2019, 7:15
Cobus Reinach clocks fastest ever RWC hat-trick as Springboks run riot in Kobe
South Africa made multiple changes for their game in Kobe but they didn't skip a beat as they carried on the momentum of their win…
Online Editors
08 Oct 2019, 5:39
The trouble with Ardie Savea and his protective goggles
Ardie Savea's decision to start wearing protective eye goggles has aroused much curiosity at the World Cup and the New Zealander i…
Online Editors
08 Oct 2019, 3:04
Close the polls early - the try of the tournament has already been scored
All Black TJ Perenara’s late finish against Namibia is a leading contender for the try of the Rugby World Cup despite the tourna…
Josh Raisey
08 Oct 2019, 0:38
Has Ben Smith played his final Test? New Zealand's masters of versatility jostling for just one spot in the team
Ben Smith and Jordie Barrett both started for the All Blacks in their most recent Rugby World Cup match against Nambia. Chances ar…
Tom Vinicombe
07 Oct 2019, 22:23
The video clip that has split Bok fans along racial lines
A video has emerged online in the wake of South Africa’s comprehensive win over Italy on Friday that has flared tempers.
Josh Raisey
07 Oct 2019, 22:14
Could the All Blacks' midfield pairing against Namibia take them to the final?
With one game against Italy to come before a quarter-final against Ireland, Japan or Scotland, what is likely to be the top All Bl…
Online Editors
07 Oct 2019, 18:30
Rassie Erasmus' stern warning for South Africa ahead of Canada clash
South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus has left his side with a stern warning ahead of their final Pool B match against Canada.
Online Editors
07 Oct 2019, 14:55
5 magical moments of the Rugby World Cup so far
We pick the five most magical moments so far from a World Cup which has already proved to be one to remember.
Rhiannon Garth Jones
07 Oct 2019, 6:04
Picking a 'Rugby World Cup XV' up to this point
Rhiannon Garth Jones pieces together the best collective XV from a Rugby World Cup which has lived up to its billing as the most c…
Rhiannon Garth Jones
07 Oct 2019, 5:07
Only one team can stop the All Blacks according to ex-World Cup-winning coach
The All Blacks are "unquestionably the favourites" to win the World Cup, but there remains one team that can challenge for the wor…
Online Editors
06 Oct 2019, 18:42
Rassie Erasmus hoses down racism claims after Makazole Mapimpi excluded from white-player celebrations in private team joke
South African coach Rassie Erasmas was quick to explain why winger Makazole Mapimpi was excluded from celebrations at the end of t…
Online Editors
06 Oct 2019, 15:51
'Haven't seen him like that': Steve Hansen's epic halftime spray to All Blacks
Dane Coles said he would describe Steve Hansen's verbal spray of the All Blacks as a nine out of 10 on the Richter scale.
Online Editors
06 Oct 2019, 14:26
Hansen: 'We didn't turn up with the right attitude'
Steve Hansen was disappointed with New Zealand's start against Namibia on Sunday, with the All Blacks only leading 10-9 with 30 mi…
Online Editors
06 Oct 2019, 8:18
Italy pair handed bans for horror tackle on Vermeulen
Italy props Andrea Lovotti and Nicola Quaglio both attended a disciplinary hearing in Tokyo on Sunday.
Online Editors
06 Oct 2019, 4:35
New Zealand run riot in Tokyo
Minnows Namibia managed to keep it touch with the All Blacks before Steve Hansen's team pulled away with seven second-half tries.
Online Editors
06 Oct 2019, 2:55
Damian de Allende shifts to outside centre as Springboks make 13 changes for final pool game
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has named a hugely changed team for his side's final pool match of the Rugby World Cup but wi…
Tom Vinicombe
05 Oct 2019, 20:57
New Zealand player ratings v Namibia
The All Blacks took some time to get into their work but they ultimately cruised to a comfortable victory over Namibia - who were …
Tom Vinicombe
05 Oct 2019, 17:00
Canadian players wowed by touching gesture: 'It's huge, it's an honour'
The All Blacks have once again shown why they are the nice guys at the Rugby World Cup, with Canada left touched by their gratitud…
Online Editors
05 Oct 2019, 16:21
Sir Graham Henry warns of the 'little chinks' in All Blacks' armour
Former All Blacks coach Sir Graham Henry believes that expectation levels are not as high as previously among New Zealand supporte…
Online Editors
05 Oct 2019, 9:16
Relax Bok fans - Cheslin Kolbe is fine
South Africa reported no major injury concerns following their decisive 49-3 Pool B victory over Italy at the Shizuoka Stadium ECO…
Online Editors
04 Oct 2019, 23:56
'They deserved to win, but not by that much' - Sergio Parisse shares disappointment following Springboks defeat
Italy captain Sergio Parisse didn't hide his disappointment following his side's 49-3 thrashing at the hands of South Africa on Fr…
Alex McLeod
04 Oct 2019, 20:34
Steve Hansen opens up on selection of Sevu Reece and George Bridge over Rieko Ioane and Ben Smith
All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen has left a subtle warning for George Bridge and Sevu Reece about complacency.
Online Editors
04 Oct 2019, 18:59
Kieran Read learns fate after no arms tackle against Canada
Kieran Read has learned the outcome of the dangerous tackle he made against Canada on Wednesday.
Online Editors
04 Oct 2019, 15:12
Springboks player ratings versus Italy
The Springboks overcame a big hurdle on their way to qualification for the play-offs at this year’s World Cup when they beat Ita…
RugbyPass
04 Oct 2019, 6:38
Horror red card tackle mars Italy Springboks encounter
South Africa ran in seven tries to all but ensure their place in the last eight.
Online Editors
04 Oct 2019, 5:47
England face test of their 'manlihood'
Eddie Jones believes England face a test of their “manlihood” when they attempt to guarantee passage into the World Cup quarte…
Online Editors
04 Oct 2019, 4:11
Steve Hansen on his new playmaker: 'Hopefully we don't see him at 10 too many times'
Jordie Barrett is an exceptionally talented footballer. He's now been given the opportunity to add another string to his bow and w…
Tom Vinicombe
03 Oct 2019, 21:12
Brodie Retallick returns for All Blacks clash against Namibia as new flyhalf revealed
Brodie Retallick will return to action for the first time in just over two months as the All Blacks name a new playmaker for their…
Alex McLeod
03 Oct 2019, 19:37
Waratahs rejection blessing in disguise for All Blacks prop Angus Ta'avao
Angus Ta'avao was shown the door by former Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson two years ago. Now he's an All Black at the Rugby World Cup…
Online Editors
03 Oct 2019, 19:00
Ireland player ratings versus Russia
Ireland just about bagged a bonus-point win against Russia, but it was the performance the under pressure side needed.
Ian Cameron
03 Oct 2019, 5:54
Rugby World Cup power rankings: Week two's movers and shakers
The latest Rugby World Cup power rankings see Ireland and Australia drop, as Wales and Japan rise, with just over a week to go unt…
Online Editors
03 Oct 2019, 5:22
The argument for a longer Rugby World Cup
Scotland assistant coach Mike Blair has called on World Rugby to extend the length of the World Cup and increase the number of pla…
Online Editors
03 Oct 2019, 4:45
Boks captain Kolisi thought earthquake drama was Kolbe snoring
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi revealed he was “excited but scared” after an earthquake in the Shizuoka region of Japan in t…
Online Editors
03 Oct 2019, 3:11
Rieko Ioane back on the scoreboard - but will it be enough to usurp George Bridge?
Rieko Ioane's fall from grace has been almost as sudden as his emergence as a rugby superstar. In his first start in almost two mo…
Tom Vinicombe
03 Oct 2019, 0:28
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