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Rugby News

Hansen hails 'special' All Blacks

After thrashing France at the Rugby World Cup, New Zealand were praised by coach Steve Hansen.

Dejan Kalinic

French coach takes full responsibility for embarrassing loss

Philippe Saint-Andre took the blame for France's loss to New Zealand at the Rugby World Cup.

Dejan Kalinic

All Blacks coach says the French have lost their flair

France's physicality and flair should give New Zealand cause for concern in the Rugby World Cup quarter-final, says coach Steve Hansen.

Nicholas McGee

Martin threatens O'Connor: I know where your skeletons are buried

The feud between former Australia international Greg Martin and out-of-favour Wallaby James O'Connor heated up on Friday.

Sacha Pisani

Maradona, marriage proposals and Japanese joy - RWC memorable moments

The pool stage of the Rugby World Cup provided no shortage of memorable moments, with Diego Maradona among the excited observers.

Christopher Devine

RWC 2015: Pool stage in numbers

With the pool stage of the Rugby World Cup complete, we look at a number of interesting Opta statistics on the tournament to date.

Christopher Devine

Japan focused on USA clash

Reaching the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals remains a possibility for Japan heading into their final Pool B fixture against United States.

Sacha Pisani

Wales hoping to end Wallabies hoodoo

Australia have dominated Wales over the last seven years, but that record could end on Saturday, according to an optimistic Jamie Roberts.

Iain Strachan

All Blacks star ruled out of Tonga match

Richie McCaw would be playing if New Zealand were in a knockout game, but Steve Hansen is not prepared to risk him for their Pool C finale.

Nicholas McGee

Whinging Pom Alert: Hooper criticised for shoulder charge

Mike Brown has expressed his anger at a shoulder charge from Michael Hooper that earned the Australia star a one-week ban.

Peter Hanson

Video: Wallabies star cited for foul play

Michael Hooper could miss Saturday's Pool A decider with Wales after being cited for clearing out Mike Brown in a ruck.

Peter Thompson

Wallabies injury fears eased

Rob Horne's scan results were "better than expected", but the Australia wing will be assessed on a daily basis.

Peter Thompson

Gatland targets Pool A top spot

Pool A was dubbed the 'group of death' at the Rugby World Cup, but Wales coach Warren Gatland believes it was far worse than that.

Peter Hanson

Battling Ireland win ousts Italy

Italy can no longer make the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup, while Ireland and France will contest top spot in Pool D next weekend.

Christopher Devine

Maradona joins Argentina party

Football legend Diego Maradona joined the celebrations of his rugby-playing compatriots after Argentina's thrashing of Tonga.

Peter Thompson

South Africa see off Scotland

After a stuttering start to the Rugby World Cup, South Africa now sit top of Pool B after a 34-16 win against Scotland.

Jack Davies

'Devastating' defeat to Wales has brought England closer

Following their crushing defeat to Wales, England captain Chris Robshaw believes the players are now closer together.

David Manuca

McCaw: All Blacks must lift

New Zealand are unsurprisingly unbeaten at the Rugby World Cup, but captain Richie McCaw wants the standard to improve versus Georgia.

Peter Hanson

Wallabies make 14 changes

Michael Cheika has returned to the Wallabies who opened their Rugby World Cup as his side prepare to face England.

Dejan Kalinic

Jones: Robshaw could struggle

A former coach of Australia has tipped Michael Cheika's side to dominate the breakdown against England.

Christopher Devine

Revealed: 2016 Super Rugby schedule and format

Super Rugby has confirmed details of its fresh format for 2016, with the new teams from Japan and Argentina learning their schedules.

Peter Hanson

Mitchell on Lomu's try-record

Jonah Lomu's try record at the Rugby World Cup will stay intact, says Australia winger Drew Mitchell who is now third on the all-time list.

Peter Hanson

Cheika demands more from Wallabies

Australia must increase their performance levels at the Rugby World Cup if they are to beat England next weekend, says Michael Cheika.

Alex Fisher

Surugiu proposes to girlfriend at Wembley

Although Romania never came close to stunning Ireland at the Rugby World Cup, scrum-half Florin Surugiu has plenty to celebrate.

Nicholas McGee

Schmidt not fully satisfied

Joe Schmidt was reluctant to praise his Ireland side despite their comfortable win over Romania at the Rugby World Cup.

Nicholas McGee

Fan joins ruck during RWC match

South Africa's Rugby World Cup clash with Samoa was interrupted when a supporter attempted to join a ruck.

Jack Davies

Cheika confident in much-changed XV

Australia coach Michael Cheika expects his side to maintain their winning Rugby World Cup start against Uruguay despite a raft of changes.

Alex Fisher

Argentina rout Georgia

A second-half blitz from Argentina saw them take command of the race for second spot in Rugby World Cup Pool C by beating Georgia 54-9.

Nicholas McGee

Lobbe wants more clinical Argentina

Despite running in seven tries in an emphatic World Cup win over Georgia, Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe wants Argentina to be more clinical.

Nicholas McGee

Farrell ignoring critics ahead of crucial Wales clash

Stuart Lancaster's team selection for England's clash with Wales has been criticised, but Owen Farrell is paying no attention.

Peter Hanson

Samoa braced for Springboks backlash

South Africa will be a "very angry team" on Saturday, Samoa front-rower Census Johnston has claimed ahead of their Rugby World Cup clash.

Sacha Pisani

Nayacalevu out of World Cup

Waisea Nayacalevu has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup and will return to club side Stade Francais.

Dejan Kalinic

Gatland's plan for Burgess and England

Wales coach Warren Gatland says his side plans to smash Sam Burgess and the rest of the England team in their Pool A Rugby World Cup match this weekend.

Sacha Pisani

Rugby on the mend after NRL, AFL domination

Facing competition from rugby league and Aussie rules football, rugby union is fighting back in Australia according to Adam Ashley-Cooper.

Jack Davies

All Blacks dispatch Namibia with ease

Namibia put in a creditable performance but were unable to prevent New Zealand from chalking up a 58-14 victory.

Jack Davies

Galarza suspended for nine weeks

Argentina will be without second row Mariano Galarza for the remainder of the Rugby World Cup after he was suspended for nine weeks.

Alex Fisher

Preview: Wallabies v Fiji

Australia coach Michael Cheika insists he had no choice but to choose Michael Hooper and David Pocock in his starting XV for Wednesday's Rugby World Cup clash against Fiji on Thursday (1:45am AEST)

Dejan Kalinic

Depth is the All Blacks' biggest strength

Sean Fitzpatrick hailed the quality of the New Zealand bench after their tough win over Argentina at the Rugby World Cup.

David Manuca

Du Plessis: Springboks can win World Cup

Despite their stunning loss to Japan at the Rugby World Cup, South Africa can go all the way – according to Morne Du Plessis.

Dejan Kalinic

England injury opens door for Burgess to start

Sam Burgess' hopes of winning a starting berth in England's pivotal Pool A World Cup clash against Wales have received a boost, with centre Jonathan Joseph in doubt with a chest injury.

Sporting News

Easier group will not leave All Blacks underprepared

Following victory over Argentina, Steve Hansen does not believe New Zealand's Rugby World Cup progression will be a walk in the park.

Jack Davies

South Africa suffer rankings tumble, Wallabies steady

In the latest edition of the World Rugby rankings, South Africa have slipped three places thanks to their World Cup defeat to Japan while the Wallabies have held their position

Jack Davies

McCaw unfazed by London boos

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw was not a popular figure after being sin-binned in New Zealand's Rugby World Cup win against Argentina.

Sacha Pisani

Cheika explains why he gave Genia the nod

Will Genia will start Australia's Rugby World Cup opener against Fiji with coach Michael Cheika keen to assess his options.

Matthew Scott

Cheika names team to play Fiji, reveals selection policy

Michael Cheika has named his best squad for their opening Rugby World Cup clash against Fiji, while also revealing his new selection policy.

Michael Huguenin

Smit: Springboks in a 'dark hole'

John Smit says South Africa must win the remainder of their Rugby World Cup pool fixtures after a surprise defeat to Japan.

Jack Davies

Wales win overshadowed by injuries

A routine World Cup win for Wales may have come at a cost, after several players limped off to provide further injury concerns.

Christopher Devine

Samoa have 'a lot to do' - Betham

Victory over the United States was not enough to satisfy Samoa coach Stephen Betham, who has called for improvement from his team.

Christopher Devine

All Blacks survive Argentina scare

New Zealand survived a scare at the Rugby World Cup thanks to two late tries as they beat Argentina 26-16.

Alex Fisher

Hansen weighs-in on yellow cards

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen admits the two first-half yellow cards the All Blacks conceded in their 26-16 win over Argentina were "dumb."

Brendan Bradford

Jones had to check if Japan win was 'miracle or reality'

Japan's dramatic victory over South Africa was scarcely believable to most observers, particularly head coach Eddie Jones.

Nicholas McGee

Jones revels in stunning Japan win

Japan's sensational 34-32 victory over South Africa in the Rugby World Cup left Eddie Jones understandably delighted.

Christopher Devine

Video: Michalak boots France to opening win over Italy

France capitalised on ill-discipline from Italy to cruise to a 32-10 win in Rugby World Cup Pool D.

Nicholas McGee

Twitter reacts to Japan RWC shock

Author J.K. Rowling and a host of prominent rugby union stars took to Twitter to laud Japan for their astonishing win against South Africa.

Christopher Devine

Video: Sexton stars as Ireland crush Canada

Ireland made light work of Canada in their Rugby World Cup opener, with Jonathan Sexton instrumental in an easy win.

Nicholas McGee

Video: Georgia record historic victory over Tonga at World Cup

European minnows Georgia caused an early shock at the Rugby World Cup with a hard fought 17-10 Pool C win over Tonga.

Alex Fisher

Video: Outstanding Japan stun the Springboks

An injury-time try from Karne Hesketh enabled Japan to send shockwaves through the rugby world with a remarkable victory over South Africa.

Christopher Devine

Rugby World Cup 2015: Pool guide

We assess the likely qualifiers from the pool stage of the Rugby World Cup, which begins on Friday with England facing Fiji.

Christopher Devine

Burgess denies rugby league return rumours

Sam Burgess has broken his silence on the constant speculation he is set to return to rugby league after the Rugby World Cup, declaring he won't be returning to the NRL or English Super League next season.

Sporting News

Bath coach says Sam Burgess going nowhere

Bath head coach Mike Ford says there is no truth to the constant speculation Sam Burgess is set to return to the NRL next season.

Sporting News

Australia in "Pool of Opportunity" says Gregan

Australia should welcome their difficult pool at the Rugby World Cup, according to George Gregan.

Dejan Kalinic

Fitzpatrick backs All Blacks

New Zealand will relish the chance to make history at the Rugby World Cup, former All Black Sean Fitzpatrick said.

Dejan Kalinic

Slipper handed Wallabies armband

Australia have named James Slipper as captain in the absence of Stephen Moore for Saturday's Rugby World Cup warm-up against United States.

Sacha Pisani

Dagg not retiring, still hopeful of World Cup ticket

After being left out of the All Blacks' Rugby World Cup squad, Israel Dagg clarified he is still available - in the short and long term.

Luke Sheehan

All Blacks half-back Smith re-signs

All Blacks half-back Aaron Smith has signed a new deal through to the end of the 2019 season.

Sacha Pisani

Toomua backs surprise Wallabies selections

Australia playmaker Matt Toomua lauded the Wallabies' versatility after their Rugby World Cup squad was named on Friday.

Dejan Kalinic

Lancaster denies Burgess selection

Sam Burgess is reportedly set to be selected as part of England's Rugby World Cup squad.

Sacha Pisani

Burgess axed from England squad

Former rugby league star Sam Burgess has been dumped from England’s 23-man squad for Saturday’s return Test match against France.

Sporting News

All Blacks humiliate Wallabies to claim Bledisloe Cup

As a host of stars made their last appearance on home soil, New Zealand kept hold of the Bledisloe Cup with a convincing win over Australia.

Jack Davies

Farrell: Burgess is ready

Sam Burgess is being backed to shine by Andy Farrell when England play France in a Rugby World Cup warm-up at Twickenham.

Peter Hanson

Cooper starts as one of six changes

Despite beating the All Blacks last time out, the Wallabies have made six changes to their starting team.

Dejan Kalinic

All Blacks make shock team change

Richie McCaw will become Test rugby's most-capped player when he leads New Zealand out against Australia on Saturday.

Matthew Scott

All Blacks feeling the pressure

The All Blacks have not lost to the Wallabies at Eden Park in Auckland since 1986 but New Zealand are not taking it for granted.

Sacha Pisani

Wallabies and All Blacks skippers square off

Rival skippers Richie McCaw and Stephen Moore have cited different motivating factors ahead of Saturday's Rugby Championship decider.

Gareth Morgan

McCaw: Bledisloe Cup belongs to All Blacks

All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw has no plans to give Australia a parting gift as he prepares for his final Bledisloe Cup series.

Michael Huguenin

Simmons to miss Bledisloe Cup

The Wallabies are confident lock Rob Simmons will be fit in time for the start of the Rugby World Cup in September.

Sacha Pisani

Reds sign former Waratahs star

Kane Douglas has returned home to Australia in order to boost his chances of a Rugby World Cup berth.

Sacha Pisani

Cooper explains his Twitter outburst

After lashing out on Twitter, Quade Cooper has explained what motivated his actions.

Matthew Rogerson

Hooper cited for punch

Australia's Michael Hooper has been cited for punching Argentina's Nicolas Sanchez during Saturday's Rugby Championship clash.

Harry West

Wallabies storm to bonus-point win over Pumas

The Wallabies top the Rugby Championship standings after two games, after remaining unbeaten with a bonus-point result over Argentina.

Luke Sheehan

McCaw try seals thrilling win for All Blacks

New Zealand skipper Richie McCaw scored the decisive try as his side defeated South Africa 27-20 in a thrilling Rugby Championship clash

Gareth Morgan

Speight targets Olympics, World Cup

Wallabies winger Henry Speight is excited to potentially play Rugby Sevens at Rio 2016 but remains focused on the Rugby World Cup.

Michael Huguenin

Genia, Horne out of Wallabies squad

Injuries have ruled Rob Horne and Will Genia out of Australia's trip to Argentina in the Rugby Championship.

Dejan Kalinic

Meyer rues "heart-breaking" defeat

South Africa head coach Heyneke Meyer was left dismayed after Australia overcame a 13-point deficit to beat his charges in Brisbane.

Gareth Morgan

Cheika hails Aussie attitude

Michael Cheika was quick to praise Australia's mental strength following their comeback win over South Africa

Gareth Morgan

Wallabies rely on out-of-form duo

Despite having European champion Matt Giteau at his disposal, Australia coach Michael Cheika has named Quade Cooper at fly-half.

Michael Huguenin

Palu, Lealiifano omitted

Australia cut their squad from 40 to 31 ahead of their Rugby Championship meeting with South Africa.

Dejan Kalinic

Blake given six-month ban

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) have slapped former Manly, Rabbitohs and Warriors player Phil Blake with a six-month ban for breaches of its anti-corruption and betting regulations.

Nicholas McGee

Stormers clinch SA conference

The Australian conference is still to be decided, but the Super Rugby play-off contenders were all confirmed in the penultimate round.

Peter Hanson

Former Melbourne Rebels star Cipriani arrested

Danny Cipriani could be in trouble again after his agent confirmed he was questioned by police regarding a car accident.

Michael Huguenin

Brumbies boost play-off hopes

Brumbies moved top of the Australia conference in Super Rugby, as Crusaders also kept their play-off hopes intact on Friday.

Peter Hanson

Hurricanes secure play-off berth with win over Blues

Hurricanes qualified for the Super Rugby play-offs for the first time in six years with a 29-5 win over Blues on Saturday.

Harry West

Bath reach Premiership final

Bath secured a Premiership final meeting with Saracens after a superb showing in Saturday's 47-10 victory over Leicester Tigers at The Rec.

Harry West

Chiefs strengthen grip

A victory over Bulls saw Chiefs remain fourth in Super Rugby, while Sharks ended a six-match losing run at Reds.

Jack Davies

Rebels capture Wallabies hooker from Reds

Wallabies hooker James Hanson has signed with the Melbourne Rebels for 2016 and 2017 after six seasons with the Queensland Reds.

Michael Huguenin

Aussie 'Jonah Lomu' set for overseas move

Highly rated winger Taqele Naiyaravoro has opted to leave Waratahs and join Glasgow Warriors on a three-year contract.

Peter Thompson

Reds secure rare win

Reds, who this week appointed former Australia coach John Connolly as a coaching consultant, also picked up just their third win of the season as they thumped Rebels 46-29 for their first bonus-point triumph of the campaign.

Jack Davies

Aussie 'Jonah Lomu' on Wallabies radar

Australia coach Michael Cheika is interested in testing 'Australia's Jonah Lomu' Taqele Naiyaravoro with the Wallabies.

Michael Huguenin

Reid commits to Melbourne Rebels

Jordy Reid has opted against taking on a fresh challenge by signing a new contract with the Melbourne Rebels.

Peter Thompson

Giteau unsure about reaching Wallabies level

Matt Giteau is unsure if he can meet the standard required for the Wallabies despite winning his third straight European title with Toulon.

Michael Huguenin

ARU reaches agreement with Patston

A line has been drawn under the text scandal involving Kurtley Beale, after the ARU reached an out-of-court settlement with Di Patston.

Christopher Devine

Bulls capitalise on slip-up

Following Stormers' defeat to Cheetahs, Bulls climbed to second with a 35-33 Super Rugby win over Lions.

Jack Davies

Mitchell: Toulon answered critics

After producing a memorable try in Toulon's Champions Cup final victory over Clermont Auvergne, Drew Mitchell addressed the team's critics.

Jack Davies

Waratahs maintain hold over Brumbies with narrow win

New South Wales Waratahs came through a close-fought contest to do the double over Brumbies on Friday.

Matthew Rogerson

Cheika: Waratahs-Brumbies not World Cup audition

Michael Cheika denied Friday's Waratahs-Brumbies clash will decide spots in Australia's Rugby World Cup squad.

Michael Huguenin

Wallabies eligibility change the way of the future

England should make foreign-based players such as Nick Abendanon eligible for the Rugby World Cup according to one of his club team-mates.

Michael Huguenin

McCaw forced off in Crusaders win

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw suffered a blow to the head in Crusaders' victory over second-bottom Blues in Super Rugby.

Peter Thompson

Cheika keen on Giteau, Smith and Mitchell

Michael Cheika confirmed he will contact Matt Giteau, George Smith and Drew Mitchell about representing Australia soon.

Michael Huguenin

Cheika must pick 'world class' Giteau

Toulon's Matt Giteau is a "world class" inside-centre, according to former Australia coach John Connolly.

Michael Huguenin

Cruden almost certain to miss RWC

Aaron Cruden has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, almost certainly ruling him out of the Rugby World Cup.

Dejan Kalinic

Super Rugby Review

Waratahs became the first side to defeat Hurricanes in Super Rugby 2015 with a thrilling 29-24 victory on Saturday.

Harry West

Cruden injured in Chiefs win

An injury to Aaron Cruden marred a comfortable victory for Chiefs as they beat Crusaders 26-9.

Nicholas McGee

Djokovic and Ricciardo recognised at Laureus Awards

Novak Djokovic was named World Sportsman of the Year at the Laureus Awards, while Daniel Ricciardo picked up the breakthrough of the year gong.

Jack Davies

Waratahs fall to Stormers

Stormers returned to winning ways in Super Rugby, as there were tries aplenty in Bulls' contest against Reds.

Peter Hanson

Muliaina released on bail

Mils Muliaina has been released on police bail following his arrest on suspicion of sexual assault last week.

Peter Hanson

Lealiifano stars in Brumbies win

Brumbies did enough to see off Cheetahs in Saturday's Super Rugby encounter, while tempers frayed between Sharks and Crusaders.

Peter Hanson

Muliaina led away by police live on television

Connacht's Mils Muliaina was led away by police live on television, in connection with allegations of sexual assault.

Harry West

Coopers suffers injury setback

Quade Cooper suffered a fractured scapula on just his second appearance back after a collarbone injury in Reds' defeat to Rebels on Friday.

Peter Hanson

Reds can't break Rebels curse, Hurricanes win seventh straight

Beauden Barrett inspired a 25-20 win for Hurricanes over Stormers to stretch their unbeaten run in Super Rugby to seven games.

Alex Fisher

Reds unhappy with Stade Francais

Reds chief executive Jim Carmichael has criticised Stade Francais for the timing of their announcement of Will Genia's impending transfer.

Alex Fisher

Gibson named Waratahs coach

Daryl Gibson will succeed New South Wales Waratahs head coach Michael Cheika at the end of the 2015 Super Rugby season.

Sacha Pisani

Hooper: Cheika has instilled World Cup belief

Australia captain Michael Hooper says the Wallabies believe they can win the 2015 Rugby World Cup thanks to coach Michael Cheika.

Sacha Pisani

Homophobic sledger Potgeiter will not change approach

Dave Dennis said Waratahs team-mate Jacques Potgieter will be mindful of sledging but has no plans to change his on-edge approach.

Sacha Pisani

Super Rugby wrap: Rebels and Reds both beaten

Hurricanes fought back from 12-10 down at half-time to beat Melbourne Rebels and make it six Super Rugby wins out of six.

Peter Thompson

Waratahs' Potgieter reprimanded for homophobic slurs

Jacques Potgieter's offensive comments have landed the Waratahs player a hefty fine from the Australian Rugby Union.

Peter Hanson

Folau: No homophobia at Waratahs

Israel Folau denied his Brumbies outfit were homophobic, after David Pocock's claims during their Super Rugby clash on Sunday.

Luke Sheehan

Drugs ban a 'blessing' - Hunt

Queensland Reds full-back Karmichael Hunt said his drugs ban was a "blessing in disguise" as he nears a return to rugby union.

Sacha Pisani

Waratahs accused of homophobia

Brumbies flanker David Pocock has accused Waratahs of making homophobic slurs during their Super Rugby meeting on Sunday.

Harry West

Waratahs overcome Brumbies

The New South Wales Waratahs scored 22 unanswered points to beat the ACT Brumbies 28-13 in Super Rugby on Sunday.

Dejan Kalinic

Ireland retain Six Nations title

After England failed to achieve the required points differential against France, Ireland have retained the Six Nations title.

Jack Davies

Sharks edge Chiefs

Three players were sent off as Sharks claimed a 12-11 Super Rugby victory over Chiefs on Saturday.

Jack Davies

Super Rugby Review

Hurricanes remain the only side in Super Rugby with a perfect record following a 20-13 win at Highlanders on Friday.

Harry West

Super Rugby wrap: Brumbies hammer Reds to move top

Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham was delighted as his side put in another dominant display against Reds in Super Rugby.

Sporting News

Savea stars for Hurricanes

Hurricanes are still unbeaten in Super Rugby after Julian Savea's double helped them see off Blues, while Rebels held off Force in Perth.

Nicholas McGee

England raring to bounce back

After failing to score a try against Ireland, England roared to life on Wednesday - with Stuart Lancaster's men hungry to bounce back.

Luke Sheehan

England bring in Brown and Lawes

England have made two changes to their XV for Saturday's Six Nations clash with Scotland at Twickenham.

Matthew Rogerson

Stormers go top, Cheetahs defeated

Stormers moved top of the Super Rugby standings, but Cheetahs' unbeaten start was ended in Saturday's action.

Peter Hanson

Hunt: 'I don't have a drug problem'

Reds back Karmichael Hunt thanked the Queensland Rugby Union and showed his remorse during a media conference on Friday.

Dejan Kalinic

Super Rugby Review: Brumbies move top

Marty Banks kicked a last-gasp penalty to earn Highlanders a 20-17 victory over Chiefs in Super Rugby.

Harry West

Bulls ease pressure on Ludeke

The Bulls defeated the Sharks in a pulsating clash in Pretoria, as the Crusaders were humbled by the Chiefs in Super Rugby action.

Peter Hanson

Super Rugby wrap: Force suffer worst home loss

Hurricanes continued their 100 per cent start to the Super Rugby season with a 42-13 win over Western Force.

Sporting News

Wallabies assistants named

Stephen Larkham and Nathan Grey have been appointed assistants to Australia coach Michael Cheika.

Sacha Pisani

Preview: Highlanders v Queensland Reds

The Highlanders host the Reds at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin. The match kicks-off at 5.35pm (AEDT)

Sportal

Burgess frustrated by his rugby union progress

Rugby union convert Sam Burgess is finding the going tough early in his career with Bath Rugby.

Sacha Pisani

Hunt to remain on sidelines

The Queensland Rugby Union confirmed the Reds' Karmichael Hunt would remain sidelined in Super Rugby.

Dejan Kalinic

Super Rugby wrap: Reds overcome turbulent week

The Lions fell to a 29-12 Super Rugby defeat at the Sharks on Saturday, while the Reds beat Western Force 18-6.

Sporting News

Russell Crowe backs Burgess for England

Sam Burgess can be a hit for England after switching to rugby union, according to Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe.

Sporting News

Super Rugby wrap: Bulls suffer Hurricanes blow

The Hurricanes picked up a 17-13 Super Rugby win over the Bulls, while reigning champions the Waratahs beat the Rebels.

Sporting News

Last year for McCaw

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw revealed on Thursday that he is likely to retire after the Rugby World Cup.

Michael Huguenin

SBW sets up Chiefs victory

Sonny Bill Williams returned to domestic rugby union after two years playing league in Australia and he set up the Chiefs' two tries, which came in the opening 15 minutes courtesy of James Lowe and a debut Super Rugby score for Bryce Heem.

Peter Hanson

Rebels claim maiden overseas win

The Melbourne Rebels claimed their first overseas win in Super Rugby, overcoming the Crusaders 20-10, while the ACT Brumbies impressed.

Michael Huguenin

Crusaders' Carter blow, Brumbies belt Reds

New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter sustained a calf injury in the Crusaders' 20-10 defeat to the Melbourne Rebels on Friday.

Harry West

Preview: Ireland v France

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt knows his forwards must be on top of their game if they are to counteract France's powerful pack.

Harry West

Scotland hungry for revenge

Greig Laidlaw hungry for revenge as Scotland host Wales at Murrayfield in the Six Nations after their drubbing last year.

Alex Fisher

Lancaster eyes fast start

England were 10-0 down inside eight minutes against Wales and Stuart Lancaster wants to avoid a repeat when Italy visit Twickenham.

Russell Greaves

Lancaster buoyed by leaders

Stuart Lancaster has lauded his wealth of leaders as Brad Barritt, Kyle Eastmond and Geoff Parling return to Six Nations training.

Jack Davies

England win vital - Shaw

Former England international Simon Shaw says victory over Wales in the Six Nations on Friday is "crucial".

Jack Davies

Gregan impressed with Ireland

Ireland have the consistency, discipline and talent to win back-to-back Six Nations titles, says former Australia scrum-half George Gregan.

Alex Fisher

Burrell and Joseph start at centre

England will boast a new centre partnership of Luther Burrell and Jonathan Joseph when they open their Six Nations against Wales on Friday.

Jack Davies

Burrell and Joseph start at centre

England will boast a new centre partnership of Luther Burrell and Jonathan Joseph when they open their Six Nations against Wales on Friday.

Jack Davies

Six Nations in numbers

Ahead of the Six Nations, we take a look at some of the facts and figures behind Europe's premier international rugby union competition.

Adam Walker

Six Nations 2015: Players to watch

With the 2015 Six Nations almost upon us, here we look at some of the men who could play a key role in this year's championship.

Jack Davies

Six Nations 2015: Team-by-team

With the 2015 Six Nations almost upon us, here we look at the teams and their chances of glory over the next two months.

Jack Davies

Brown seeks Cardiff revenge

Mike Brown does not have fond memories of England's last trip to Wales and is seeking revenge in Friday's Six Nations opener.

Peter Hanson

Cotter impressing with Scotland

Assistant coach Matt Taylor has hailed head coach Vern Cotter's influence on Scotland ahead of the Six Nations.

Michael Huguenin

Blues 2015 Super Rugby season preview

The 2015 Super Rugby season is almost upon us, so here’s your Blues preview with everything you need to know about how Sir John Kirwan and Jerome Kaino will go this year.

Brendan Bradford

Sam Burgess improving after switch to union

Sam Burgess feels he is making good progress as he continues his learning curve having made the switch from rugby league to union.

Sporting News

Sam Burgess set for England Saxons bow

Sam Burgess is set to represent England Saxons against Ireland Wolfhounds on Friday as he targets an England call-up.

Matthew Rogerson

Ex-Wallabies coach to lead Barbarians

The Barbarians will be coached by Robbie Deans for forthcoming fixtures against Ireland and an England XV.

Sporting News

Wasps sign All Blacks wing Halai

Frank Halai has opted to leave Super Rugby outfit Auckland Blues to ply his trade in England with Wasps next season.

Peter Thompson

Beale re-signs with Australian rugby, Waratahs

Playmaker Kurtley Beale has signed a one-year contract with the Australian Rugby Union and New South Wales Waratahs.

Dejan Kalinic

Burgess finding it tough

Sam Burgess has conceded that his switch from rugby league to union has proved harder than he expected.

Harry West

Sports stars to watch in 2015

There are some major sporting events to look forward to in 2015 - here we look at the stars capable of making a big impact at them.

Sportal

Hooper set to avoid punishment

Michael Hooper is not expected to face punishment from the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) over an alleged incident in Bryon Bay.

Sporting News

Honey Badger returns to Western Force

Popular winger Nick Cummins will be eligible for Australia's Rugby World Cup squad after gaining a release from Japan's Coca Cola Red Sparks.

Michael Huguenin

Ashley-Cooper to move to France

Australia international Adam Ashley-Cooper has agreed a two-year deal to join Bordeaux after the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Sportal

Cooper re-signs with ARU

Fly-half Quade Cooper is available for the 2015 Rugby World Cup after signing on with the Australian Rugby Union for another year.

Dejan Kalinic

Burgess helps Bath belt Montpellier

Bath put in a dominant display to thrash Montpellier 30-5 and keep their European Champions Cup qualification hopes alive.

Harry West

Botha to join Sharks

The Sharks have announced lock Mouritz Botha will join them in Super Rugby after five years in the Premiership with Saracens.

Alex Fisher

Cheika positive about Wallabies' future

Australia coach Michael Cheika feels he has plenty of positives to take from the side's performances in the November internationals.

Sportal

ARU warns Pocock after arrest

David Pocock has been warned by the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) following his arrest on Sunday.

Luke Sheehan

De Villiers' diagnosis confirmed

South Africa have revealed Jean de Villiers suffered "significant ligament damage" after dislocating his left kneecap against Wales.

Christopher Devine

Cheika laments scrummaging

Australia coach Michael Cheika believes an inferior scrummaging display was partly to blame for Saturday's 26-17 defeat to England.

Sportal

Wallabies lose to England

Ben Morgan's brace of tries helped England to a hard-fought 26-17 victory over Australia at Twickenham on Saturday.

Sportal

Wales claim drought-breaking win

Wales finally ended their southern hemisphere hoodoo with a gritty 12-6 victory over South Africa in Cardiff.

Sportal

Sam Burgess makes union debut

Sam Burgess made his rugby union debut in Bath's 25-6 Premiership win over Harlequins on Friday.

Sportal

Ireland hold on against Wallabies

Stirring late defence and the boot of Johnny Sexton edged Ireland past Australia 26-23 as they completed a November series clean sweep.

Mark Bowering

All Blacks down Wales

Wales were denied their first win over New Zealand since 1953 as the world champions fought back to triumph 34-16 at the Millennium Stadium.

Russell Greaves

Beale set for substitute role

Kurtley Beale could make his Australia return from the substitutes bench when the Wallabies face Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

Matthew Scott

France earn Wallabies revenge

France gained revenge for their humiliation at Australia's hands earlier this year with a dramatic 29-26 win in Paris on Saturday.

Sportal

Springboks edge England

South Africa held firm to bounce back from last weekend's loss to Ireland by beating England 31-28 in a pulsating clash at Twickenham.

Sportal

Beale recalled by Australia

Kurtley Beale has been recalled to the Australia squad just a few weeks after being hit with a big fine following a text message scandal.

Peter Thompson

New Zealand rally for victory

England fell to another narrow loss to New Zealand despite a strong first-half show, as the All Blacks ran out 24-21 winners at Twickenham.

Gareth Morgan

Gatland: Wales will bounce back

Wales coach Warren Gatland says his side will be a "different animal" when they face Australia at next year's Rugby World Cup.

Jack Davies

Foley inspires Australia

Bernard Foley's superb second-half display consigned Wales to a 10th straight defeat against Australia in a 33-28 victory for the Wallabies.

Jack Davies

Cheika hails Foley

Australia coach Michael Cheika hailed Bernard Foley after the fly-half inspired his side to a 33-28 victory over Wales on Saturday.

Jack Davies

Hooper relishing Cheika's 'hands-on' style

Australia captain Michael Hooper has relished new coach Michael Cheika's "hands-on" style over the first few weeks of the 47-year-old's tenure.

Michael Huguenin

Carter makes comeback in rout

Dan Carter made his long-awaited return as New Zealand put United States to the sword, winning 74-6 in Chicago on Saturday.

Sacha Pisani

Beale satisfied with outcome

Kurtley Beale felt "vindicated" after the versatile Wallabies back avoided suspension at a tribunal hearing.

Sacha Pisani

Japan on track for Super Rugby

Japan will almost certainly become the home of Super Rugby's 18th franchise after Singapore's bidders pulled out on Thursday.

Michael Huguenin

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