Erasmus: ‘All Blacks the team to beat’

Rassie Erasmus says that, considering the depth and experience in the All Blacks’ squad, the reigning champs remain the team to beat at the World Cup.

Dyantyi’s B-sample comes back positive

The South African Institute for Drug Free Sport has confirmed that Aphiwe Dyantyi’s B-sample has tested positive for banned substances.

Twist in Etzebeth case

Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth met with the Human Rights Commission (HRC) on Thursday in relation to allegations of his involvement in an unsavoury incident in Langebaan last weekend.

Italy tweak pack for France clash

Coach Conor O’Shea has made three changes to Italy’s starting lineup for Friday’s World Cup warm-up against France in Paris.

Hansen: All Blacks have advantage

Coach Steve Hansen believes the All Blacks have an advantage over the competition heading into the World Cup in Japan.

Who is Felix Jones?

Former Munster coach Felix Jones was strongly linked with a job in the Irish national team set-up but instead heads to the World Cup as part of the Springbok coaching team. Ireland-based journalist JONATHAN BRADLEY reports.

Players called for defence enhancement

Springbok players petitioned for a defence consultant at the expense of an attack coach at the upcoming World Cup in Japan.

Jones joins Bok coaching staff

SA Rugby has confirmed the appointment of former Ireland utility back Felix Jones as a defence consultant for the Springboks during the World Cup.

France lock handed RWC lifeline

Paul Gabrillagues will only miss France’s opening game at the World Cup with his six-week suspension reduced following a successful appeal.

Georgia survive Kings scare

Georgia claimed a hard-fought 24-20 win against the Kings in their World Cup warm-up in Tbilisi on Tuesday night.