Craig Lewis

Craig Lewis

All Blacks stalwarts to step up

The All Blacks’ old guard will have a key role to play if they are to get their title defence off to an emphatic start against Argentina at Wembley on Sunday, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

Dusautoir must lead French charge

Thierry Dusautoir needs to make his mark when the French kick off their World Cup campaign against Italy at Twickenham on Saturday, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

Big test for Ford against Fiji

The performance of young George Ford will be key to England’s cause in their World Cup opener against Fiji, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

All Blacks deploy big guns

The All Blacks have named a full-strength side for their World Cup opener against Argentina at Wembley on Sunday.

Ireland name strong side

Luke Fitzgerald will start at inside centre in place of the injured Robbie Henshaw in Ireland’s World Cup opener against Canada at the Milennium Stadium.

Spedding at 15 for France

South African-born Scott Spedding will start at fullback in France’s World Cup opener against Italy at Twickenham on Saturday.

‘Jean most comfortable at 12’

Heyneke Meyer says he wants to afford Jean de Villiers the opportunity to ‘lay down his marker as captain’ in his preferred position when the Springboks take on Japan.