Lambie keeps his cool

Pat Lambie produced a faultless kicking display to set up a Sharks victory in France on Thursday, writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Rebels finish strong

The Rebels finished their pre-season schedule with a come-from-behind 25-24 win over the Highlanders in Melbourne on Thursday.

Smith next to go

All Blacks centre and Hurricanes centre Conrad Smith will join French club Pau after the World Cup in England.

Hunt handed No 10 jersey

Karmichael Hunt will start at flyhalf in the Reds' final pre-season match against the Crusaders in Queensland on Friday.

Who will win the Duel of the Week?

Lambie vs Sanchez

The battle between the two No 10s will be decisive in Thursday's big game at the Stade Mayol, writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Italy opt for experience

Jacques Brunel has named an experienced side as Italy look to put last year's winless campaign behind them against Ireland in Rome on Saturday.

Heaslip misses out

Jamie Heaslip has lost his fitness battle and will sit out Ireland's Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome on Saturday.

Laidlaw to lead Scots into battle

Scrumhalf Greig Laidlaw will captain Scotland in their Six Nations opener against France in Paris on Saturday.

Preview: Wellington Sevens

World Rugby looks ahead to this weekend's sevens tournament in New Zealand's capital city.