Quotes of the day: ‘It’s a slap in the face’
A selection of the best quotes from coaches and players at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan on Wednesday.
‘Refs must be open-minded at World Cup’
Rassie Erasmus says that the uncertainty around the No 1 ranking should have referees heading into the World Cup with no preconceived ideas about one team’s dominance. JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo reports.
Rassie: Continuity in selection is key
Coach Rassie Erasmus hopes the match-day 23 he selected for the Springboks’ World Cup opener will have enough firepower to overcome the All Blacks on Saturday.
‘Boks not looking beyond first game’
Hear what Damian de Allende, Matt Proudfoot and Frans Malherbe had to say in the lead-up to the Springboks’ highly anticipated World Cup opener against the All Blacks on Saturday.
Faf: One moment will decide Yokohama showdown
Faf de Klerk expects a stroke of luck or a refereeing decision to separate the All Blacks and Springboks in the World Cup Pool B opener. JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo reports.
Boks to target All Blacks halfbacks
The Springboks have made their kicking and defensive intentions clear ahead of the campaign-shaping match against the All Blacks on Saturday. JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo reports.
Stick: Ref must treat Boks, ABs as equals
Mzwandile Stick has called for the match officials to treat the Springboks and All Blacks as equals in the big Pool B opener in Yokohama. JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo reports.
Head knocks force Denton to retire
Scotland loose forward Dave Denton has announced his retirement from all rugby.
Ireland dealt injury blow
Ireland have confirmed that centre Robbie Henshaw will miss their crunch World Cup opener against Scotland in Yokohama on Sunday.
England sweat over crocked duo
England are sweating over the availability of Joe Cokanasiga and Mark Wilson for their World Cup opener against Tonga on Sunday.
