‘Player welfare must be improved’

A year-long research project among SA’s professional players has revealed several key findings, including the fact that an ‘overwhelming majority intend to sign overseas deals soon’.

SA sides will need to find a spark

South Africa’s Vodacom Super Rugby franchises must discover unique ways to overcome the odds this season, writes SIMNIKIWE XABANISA.

Bulls suffer Sage blow

Vodacom Bulls centre Dylan Sage faces an extended period on the sidelines after injuring his ankle during a warm-up match last weekend.

France overtake Wallabies in rankings

France climbed to sixth in the World Rugby rankings following their 24-17 win over England in Paris on Sunday.

Chiefs dealt injury blow

The Chiefs will be without All Blacks trio Damian McKenzie, Nepo Laulala and Angus Ta’avao for their crucial derby against the Crusaders in Hamilton on Saturday.

Kaplan: Bring in a captain’s challenge

Former Test referee Jonathan Kaplan says rugby should consider introducing a captain’s on-field appeal to change poor decisions by match officials.

Super Rugby referees (Round 2)

Marius van der Westhuizen will referee Saturday’s Vodacom Super Rugby derby between the Stormers and Vodacom Bulls at Newlands.

Extra interest in Six Nations

Bok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk has indicated there will be extra attention paid to the Six Nations this season with an eye to the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa next year.

FEATURE: Brits’ road less travelled

Schalk Brits’ colourful career was capped by a World Cup winner’s medal, writes Jon Cardinelli.

Ioane out for several weeks

The Blues have been hit by an early injury blow as star back Rieko Ioane is expected to be sidelined for up to a month with a fractured hand.