Franchise coaches excited after return to contact go-ahead

The coaches from South Africa’s seven franchises expressed their delight and excitement at getting the green light to return to contact training.

NZ’s North vs South to hit SA screens

SuperSport has confirmed that New Zealand Rugby’s North vs South fixture will be broadcast live on Saturday morning.

Olympic-qualified teams get financial lifeline

World Rugby has announced details of a rugby sevens investment strategy to optimise the sport’s preparation for, and participation at, next year’s Olympic Games.

Pollard: We’re prepared to be tested daily

Springbok and Montpellier flyhalf Handre Pollard says players are so eager for the new French Top 14 season to begin that they’re willing to undergo Covid-19 tests every day if need be.

Robertson keen to assist Farrell with Lions defence

Crusaders boss Scott Robertson says his desire to work with the British & Irish Lions doesn’t necessarily have to be as an assistant coach.

Australasian sevens tournaments called off

World Rugby has announced the New Zealand and Australian legs of the 2021 World Rugby Sevens Series will not be played amid the continued uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic.

McGeechan: Robertson doesn’t know northern players

Sir Ian McGeechan has argued that Warren Gatland should think twice before bringing Scott Robertson into the British & Irish Lions coaching staff set-up.

Pollard rubbishes rumours of Montpellier exit

Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard has dismissed rumours from England linking him with a move to Premiership side Bath at the end of the season.

In Pictures: Lions prepare for contact training

Following mandatory Covid-19 health tests, the Lions, along with the rest of the South African franchises, will return to full-contact training this week.

Local competition set for October start

A revised double-round domestic competition – dependent on all regulation approvals – is expected to kick off in the first half of October, writes CRAIG LEWIS.