What we’ve learned

Five lessons from the past weekend's Super Rugby warm-up, Top League and Six Nations matches, according to SIMON BORCHARDT.

Highlights: France vs England (2014)

France scored a late try to win a thrilling Six Nations match in Paris.

Highlights: Blues vs Hurricanes (2014 pre-season)

The Hurricanes edged the Blues 38-35 in Masterton.

‘England pack will gain huge confidence’

Former England No 8 LAWRENCE DALLAGLIO, writing in the London Sunday Times, praised the England pack for their performance in Paris.

Reason for England optimism

Former England flyhalf STUART BARNES, writing in the London Sunday Times, says England should emerge a stronger side following their heartbreaking loss in Paris.

Lions see off Kings

The Lions beat the Kings 19-12 in their warm-up match in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

Wales struggle past Italy

Wales began their quest for a third successive Six Nations title with an unconvincing 23-15 win against Italy in Cardiff.

Highlights: Wales vs Italy (2014)

The defending champions began their Six Nations campaign with a 23-15 win in Cardiff.

Pietersen impresses for Panasonic

JP Pietersen made a big impact as a substitute for the Panasonic Wild Knights, who thrashed the Toshiba Brave Lupus 55-15 in the first semi-final of Japan's Top League on Saturday.

Preview: Ireland vs Scotland

Ireland have a point to prove against Scotland in Dublin on Sunday after losing at Murrayfield last year.