Boks seriously locked and loaded

Lood de Jager deservedly gets another start for Springboks, but having so many locks in the 23-man squad and only two reserve backs for the Italy clash is quite bizarre, writes JOHN GOLIATH.

Ireland incorrectly penalised against Japan

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt says World Rugby has confirmed that there were three incorrect offsides calls in their shock loss to Japan.

Boks receive Kriel blow, Willemse called up

The Springboks have taken another injury blow with the news that Jesse Kriel has been ruled out for the rest of the World Cup.

Sexton to captain as Ireland ring the changes

Johnny Sexton will lead Ireland on his return from injury in one of 11 changes to their lineup to face Russia in Kobe City on Thursday.

Boks bench split may cause injury headache

Rassie Erasmus admits that he may be forced to play a loose forward in the Bok backline if there are more than two injuries against Italy on Friday.

Rassie: Players must set the tone

Coach Rassie Erasmus says the Bok players have to be at their best to get the desired result against Italy in Shizuoka on Friday because it will be a defining Test.

All Blacks star to wear protective goggles

All Blacks flank Ardie Savea will wear protective goggles in their next Rugby World Cup match against Canada in Oita on Wednesday.

Boks on right mental track

A do-or-die mindset will shape the Springboks’ physical and tactical approach between now and the end of their World Cup campaign, writes JON CARDINELLI in Omaezaki.

Bongi busts down A-side door

Bongi Mbonambi has earned the right to wear the No 2 jersey in the must-win clash with Italy, writes JON CARDINELLI in Omaezaki.

Beast, Mbonambi in Bok team to face Italy

Beast Mtawarira and Bongi Mbonambi will both start for the Springboks in their crucial World Cup clash with Italy in Shizuoka on Friday.