Lions keen to respond against red-hot Sharks

The Lions are bracing for Test match intensity in their Vodacom URC derby against the Sharks at Ellis Park on Saturday. The Joburgers are looking to bounce back from their heavy defeat to the Vodacom Bulls, and halt a Durban-based side that is rapidly building...

Costelow, Hamer-Webb start for Wales

Sam Costelow will start at flyhalf with debutant Gabriel Hamer-Webb on the wing for Wales against Scotland in Cardiff on Saturday. Scarlets’ Costelow and Leicester’s Hamer-Webb were two of four changes to the starting side announced by coach Steve Tandy on Thursday,...

JP shocked by Sharks’ silence

JP Pietersen says a telling moment in his first meeting as interim coach revealed just how much work lay ahead at the Sharks. The former Sharks and Springbok winger, who was confirmed as permanent head coach on Wednesday after stepping in for John Plumtree in...

Dobbo lifts lid on Paulo signing

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson is expecting big things from new recruit Vernon Paulo. The 24-year-old linked up with the Cape club from the Cheetahs at the beginning of February, and has already been part of the squad’s training sessions as they prepare for...

‘World wants France to beat Boks’

Former England utility back Ben Foden believes it would be good for rugby if France can topple the Springboks in the build-up to the 2027 World Cup. Les Bleus have made a strong start to this year’s Six Nations, winning their opening two matches as they look to defend...

Joseph ‘miffed’ by NZ Rugby observation

Jamie Joseph, one of the front runners to take over from Scott Robertson as All Blacks coach, is reportedly frustrated with the selection process. According to New Zealand Herald rugby writer Gregor Paul, Joseph is not impressed with how NZ Rugby is handling the...

Van Graan retains Saffa workhorse

Former Stormers lock Quinn Roux will extend his stay with English champions Bath for another season. The 35-year-old has become a key figure in Bath’s engine room, particularly during a second-row injury crisis this season, and his renewal follows new deals for Tom de...

Dupont caught up in salary cap scandal

France captain Antoine Dupont finds himself in the eye of a salary cap breach storm as the Six Nations champions prepare to face Italy. An article last week in French sports newspaper L’Equipe looked into suspect payments made to scrumhalf Dupont and his Toulouse...