Moodie backed for giant Bok role

Canan Moodie will fly out of the starting blocks at outside centre when he partners Andre Esterhuizen in a giant Springbok midfield against the All Blacks.

Eddie plays down Hansen’s role

Eddie Jones said former All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is merely helping the Australia side on training and leadership this week as an unpaid advisor.

Faf: Boks have a point to prove

Faf de Klerk says the Springboks will be focused on themselves, and not the All Blacks on Friday, although a painful loss to the old enemy still gnaws at the world champions.

Capuozzo leads RWC charge for Azzurri

Backline ace Ange Capuozzo has shrugged off fitness concerns and will travel to the World Cup in France after being selected in the Italy squad announced on Tuesday.

Watch: Willie bulldozed by Kiwi bruiser

The Springboks and All Blacks clash for the second time in 2023 on Friday, and Willie le Roux will want to make amends for this howler of a tackle attempt on Shannon Frizell.

Meyer: Kriel a better fit at 15 for Boks

Heyneke Meyer says the Springboks’ style doesn’t always suit Jesse Kriel at outside centre, but is delighted with the experienced campaigner’s performance against Wales.

RWC to use review bunker, shot clock

The review bunker and shot clock for goal-kicks will feature at the upcoming World Cup in France, World Rugby has announced.

Willemse a force in France RWC squad

SA-born lock Paul Willemse has been named in hosts France’s World Cup squad by Fabien Galthie, with flanker Anthony Jelonch also included despite nursing a serious knee injury.

No Folau for Tonga at World Cup

In a blow to Tonga’s World Cup aspirations, fullback Israel Folau has been omitted from Toutai Kefu’s 32-man squad for the showpiece in France due a lingering knee injury.

Nienaber: Right mix for All Blacks threat

Head coach Jacques Nienaber is confident a much-changed Springbok 23 can match the high-tempo style of the All Blacks in their final World Cup warm-up on Friday.