Blues shock Highlanders

The Blues began their season with a bang when they beat the 2015 champions 33-31 in Auckland on Friday. JON CARDINELLI reports.

Gold explains flyhalf pick

Sharks director of rugby Gary Gold says the decision to start Joe Pietersen ahead of Garth April was a carefully considered selection, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

Stormers locks hold key

Springbok locks Eben Etzebeth and Pieter-Steph du Toit will power the Stormers to an important victory over the Bulls at Newlands on Saturday, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Jantjies to jol in Japan

Elton Jantjies will play an important attacking role for the Lions against the Sunwolves in Tokyo on Saturday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.