Daily wrap from Japan: ‘Rassie must let ref do his job’

We take a look at what happened on Thursday as the Springboks build toward their opening World Cup clash with the All Blacks.

RWC whistle’s 20 000km journey

The whistle to be used by referee Nigel Owens during the opening match of the World Cup has safely been delivered by two audacious cyclists.

Unpredictable France go again

Unpredictable. There is no better word to describe France’s World Cup performances and French rugby in general, writes DYLAN JACK in previewing the outsiders for the bumper edition of SA Rugby magazine.

Japan at the World Cup: What you need to know

As part of SA Rugby magazine’s in-depth World Cup preview, we bring you up to speed with key numbers and facts about the hosts Japan.

Russia at RWC 2019: 4 things to know

Russia have had a tumultuous time with regard to their World Cup aspirations, DARRYN POLLOCK highlights some interesting points about the Bears’ progress.

Springboks to honour Chester Williams

The Springboks will have the image of late World Cup-winner Chester Williams embedded on their jerseys in the tournament opener against the All Blacks.

Throwback Thursday: 2018 Bok-All Black thrillers

Relive two heart-stopping 2018 Rugby Championship clashes between the Springboks and All Blacks before they meet in the Pool B opener on Saturday.

Hansen: Not easy picking a RWC winner

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen discusses the difficulty of picking World Cup winners, while Kieran Read talks up the clash with the Springboks as ‘one of the biggest’ of his career.

Hansen: Sonny Bill will provide something different

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is hoping midfielder Sonny Bill Williams can impact the game positively from the bench against the Springboks on Saturday.

France pick young halfbacks against Argentina

Romain Ntamack will partner scrumhalf Antoine Dupont for France in their World Cup opener against Argentina in Tokyo on Saturday.