RUGBY WORLD CUP | All the news and action

04 September 2023 - 12:21 By TimesLIVE
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RECORDED | Springboks’ Cape Town victory tour ...

The Springboks are taking their national Webb Ellis Cup tour to Cape Town today.

By TimesLIVE
News Editor's Choice

WATCH | ‘Elizabedi’ fan meets the Springboks, ...

The young Springbok fan who went viral for his hilarious nickname for Eben Etzebeth has met some of the victorious ...

By TIMESLIVE

Intoxicating day of celebration as Gauteng comes ...

There will be similar scenes in Cape Town on Friday, Durban on Saturday and East London on Sunday

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

WATCH | Siya Kolisi places the 2023 Rugby World Cup alongside the 1995, ...

The second day of the Rugby World Cup tour in Cape Town included a priceless moment when Springbok captain Siya Kolisi ...

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

IN PICS | Boks Victory Tour: Soweto Leg

The inner city of Johannesburg was adorned in green and gold, as eager supporters swarmed the streets to catch a ...

By TIMESLIVE
Sport Editor's Choice

IN PICS | Boks Victory Tour: Joburg Leg

The Springboks, winners of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, have commenced their national Webb Ellis Trophy tour. They started ...

By TimesLIVE

MARK KEOHANE | I say keep our World Cup warriors, young and old

With several members of the Bok squad into their 30s, it would be wise to retain that experience and tactical nous

By Mark Keohane

RECORDED | Springboks' victory tour

The 2023 Rugby World Cup Champions, the Springboks, kick off their national Webb Ellis Trophy tour at the Union ...

By TImesLIVE

WATCH | Kaizer Chiefs, Mama Joy and fans cheer Boks at FNB Stadium

The Springboks were greeted by thousands of excited supporters on the last stop of the Gauteng leg of their World Cup ...

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

WATCH | Joburg and Soweto erupt as Boks bring city to standstill

The Springboks brought Johannesburg to a standstill on their World Cup trophy tour on Thursday afternoon.

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

WATCH | Joburg boisterous as it awaits the Boks

As the Springboks' first leg of their trophy tour in Gauteng continued on Thursday, Johannesburg was already in ...

By Marc Strydom, Mahlatse Mphahlele and Thabo Tshabalala
News Editor's Choice

Pretoria hosts 'rainbow nation' celebration for Boks

Joyous South Africans, young and old, of all races, skipped work, school and even left their hospital beds on Thursday ...

Sport Editor's Choice

WATCH | New clips show Jordie Barrett shaking ...

Siya Kolisi defended Barrett and ensured South Africans the All Blacks centre shook Ramaphosa’s hand amid social media ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

WATCH | Amazing scenes as huge crowds greet Boks in Pretoria

As the Springboks' first leg of their trophy tour in Gauteng continued their open-top bus was greeted by huge crowds on ...

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor
Sport Editor's Choice

WATCH | President Ramaphosa greets Springboks at Union Buildings

President Cyril Ramaphosa and almost the entire cabinet received the Springboks at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on ...

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

LISTEN | 'Diversity is our strength in South Africa' – Siya Kolisi

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi says diversity is South Africa's strength.

Thabo Tshabalala
Multimedia producer

Springbok victory tour: Here's where you can see the team

South African Rugby has released the routes of the Springboks' victory tour, which kicks off on Thursday in ...

By TimesLIVE

3am start for two Atteridgeville fans keen to see ...

Hundreds of South Africans, young and old, have gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria where the 2023 rugby world ...

Springboks to get bonuses from SA Rugby, government non-committal

Springbok players are expected to smile all the way to the bank after winning the Rugby World Cup in France due to what ...

By MAHLATSE MPHAHLELE AT OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

SA Rugby in no rush to find Boks coach Nienaber’s successor as Erasmus ...

SA Rugby director of rugby Rassie Erasmus will take over the Springbok coaching reins until a new coach is found.

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter
Sport Editor's Choice

WATCH | ‘My wife is happy about it’: Etzebeth on haircut after bet with ...

Fan favourite lock Eben Etzebeth received much attention for his fresh haircut.

By Sinesipho Schrieber
Sport Editor's Choice

LISTEN | It’s a day off as locals take long drives to celebrate Springboks

A teacher and rugby coach at an Ekurhuleni primary school arrived at the OR Tambo International Airport at 7am on ...

WATCH | Kolisi leads Bok heroes out to rapturous ...

The Springboks returned home to a heroes' welcome at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday after they won a record ...

By Mahlatse Mphahlele at OR Tambo International Airport

Springbok victory tour: Here's where you can see the team

South African Rugby has released the routes of the Springboks' victory tour, which kicks off on Thursday in ...

By TimesLIVE
Sport Editor's Choice

RECORDED | The Springboks are back! 2023 Rugby World Cup champions arrive ...

The 2023 Rugby World Cup champions, the Springboks, touch down at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday.

By TimesLIVE

WATCH | OR Tambo packed to rafters as fans await world champion Boks

OR Tambo Airport was already a hive of activity by 9am on Tuesday morning with throngs of rugby supporters eagerly ...

By Mahlatse Mphahlele at OR Tambo International Airport

WATCH | ‘Boks all the horror movies rolled into one’: NZ DJ’s poem has ...

New Zealand radio host Daniel McHardy’s dark ode describing the Springboks as "all the horror movies rolled into one" ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER
Sport Editor's Choice

POLL | How do you feel about the Boks squad not ...

While the Springboks beat New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final to win the Webb Ellis trophy for a record-breaking ...

By Sinesipho Schrieber
Opinion & Analysis Editor's Choice

EDITORIAL | Let’s take the Boks’ unity and use it in everyday life to ...

We need to replicate this unity when we head to the polls next year

Distraught All Blacks left with little to say after seismic defeat

The questions were perhaps redundant. What could the shattered All Blacks say after they had left so much on the field ...

By Reuters

WATCH | Bok fans celebrate World Cup victory: 'It's a special time to be ...

Fans across the country celebrated the Springboks' victory over New Zealand, which saw them win their fourth Rugby ...

By TIMESLIVE VIDEO
Sport Editor's Choice

WATCH | 'We are capable of magical things': Springbok fans celebrate rugby ...

The international terminal at OR Tambo airport was already lined with Springbok supporters from 7am on Tuesday as they ...

By THABO TSHABALALA and ANTHONY MOLYNEAUX

Saru announces details of World Cup trophy tour ...

SA Rugby (Saru) has confirmed a World Cup trophy tour with the history-making Springbok rugby team in four provinces, ...

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter
Sport Editor's Choice

SA fans shocked at World Rugby’s ‘dream team’ which includes only one ...

World Rugby released its dream team on Sunday after the Springboks won a gruelling World Cup campaign to settle their ...

Anthony Molyneaux
Lead video journalist

Springbok World Cup final player ratings: Pieter-Steph and Siya’s night

The skipper and fellow flank were the bedrock of the Boks’ hard-fought victory

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

Ardie Savea named best rugby player of the year, Farrell wins coach

All Blacks loose forward Ardie Savea was named World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year on Sunday, despite ending up on ...

By Reuters

WATCH | Ramaphosa declares December 15 a public holiday in honour of the ...

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday announced that Friday, December 15th as the official public holiday earmarked to ...

Ernest Mabuza
Journalist

Kolisi to Bok coach Nienaber: ‘I appreciate you, ...

“It hasn't been an easy journey. I can't believe what we've achieved today,” beamed Kolisi.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Eiffel Tower lit for Boks as Ox has his cake

The Eiffel Tower stood lit in the colours of the South African flag late on Saturday night but it took a near ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Boks bask in glow of City of Light after final contested by two best teams ...

The Springboks basked in the glow of the City of Light's north after they edged the All Blacks 12-11 in a tense, wet ...

By Liam Del Carme at Stade de France

All Blacks dealt a hard hand

Though gracious in the spirit of c'est la vie after his team's tantalisingly close 12-11 defeat to their arch rival ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Boks, and South Africa, on top of the world — again

The Springboks held on grimly in the closing minutes as they secured a record fourth Rugby World Cup title with a ...

By Liam Del Carme at Stade de France

WATCH | Delirium, tears and joy in Paris and SA ...

The Springboks beat the All Blacks in another nail-biter in the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Paris on Saturday night, ...

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor

BLOW BY BLOW | Champions of the world! Boks win final by point against All ...

All the action, live, blow by blow, from the 2023 Rugby World Cup final between the Springboks and the All Blacks.

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor

IN MEMES | Springboks' journey to winning the World Cup

See all the funny, sad and silly moments that made this an unforgettable win for the boys in green and gold

Thango Ntwasa
Lifestyle Digital Editor
Sport Editor's Choice

Four our nation: We are the champs

On top of the world, giant-slayers, champions, heroes, magicians! Let the superlatives rain down on our glorious rugby ...

By Sunday Times reporters
Sport Editor's Choice

All roads lead to Paris: Boks, All Blacks final promises to be one for the ...

‘I don't think it's stuff that you can dream about because it doesn't happen often’

By Liam del Carme

Last dance for Bok great Duane 'Thor' Vermeulen ...

After doing much of the heavy lifting in the last Rugby World Cup final Duane Vermeulen nailed it even further when he ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Boks won’t be gripped by fear in World Cup final against All Blacks, ...

There may be the overwhelming sentiment that the Bok Class of '23 is more streetwise and battle hardened than the ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

WATCH | John Smit’s eloquent breakdown of the Boks-All Blacks final

The Springboks' 2007 World Cup-winning captain John Smit has given an eloquent breakdown of Saturday's 2023 final ...

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor
Politics Editor's Choice

'Play your hearts out!': Ramaphosa wishes the Springboks well ahead of ...

President Cyril Ramaphosa is jetting off to France on Friday afternoon to show his support for the Springboks when they ...

Amanda Khoza
Presidency reporter

Farrell admits England had to scrap their way to bronze medal

England achieved their ambition of finishing the Rugby World Cup with a victory, and a medal, but captain Owen Farrell ...

By Reuters

England hold off Argentina fightback to take ...

England held off a spirited Argentina 26-23 at the Stade de France to take third place at the Rugby World Cup on Friday ...

By Reuters

LIAM DEL CARME | To become truly global, rugby must broaden its base

Tier two teams need game-time and meaningful competition

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

POLL | Will the Boks defend their title when they face off against All ...

Rugby fans across the globe are waiting with bated breath to see whether the Springboks can defend their title when ...

By Sports staff

Big in Japan: as Boks face 2023 final, a look back at coverage of their ...

Four years ago, give or take a few days, on November 2 2019, second-half tries by Makazole Mapimpi and Cheslin Kolbe ...

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor

DStv announces Rugby World Cup final subscription special

In a nod to the famous maiden World Cup-winning Boks of 1995, DStv has temporarily lowered the price of its DStv Stream ...

Hendrik Hancke
Senior reporter

For the highest peak, Boks opt for ...

Sport played on the highest peaks demands competitors deal with agony as they do with ecstasy.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

WATCH | John Smit’s eloquent breakdown of the Boks-All Blacks final

The Springboks' 2007 World Cup-winning captain John Smit has given an eloquent breakdown of Saturday's 2023 final ...

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor

Bok coach Nienaber has Pollard, De Klerk at half-back for World Cup final

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber made only two changes to his starting team for Saturday’s 2023 Rugby World Cup final ...

By Sports Staff

Across the globe: Mosito Ramaili of Saffas in NYC ready for Rugby World ...

South Africans in New York are gearing up for a watch party for Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final between the Springboks ...

By Jen Su

England’s Youngs bows out content and proud after 127 caps

Scrumhalf Ben Youngs will make his 127th and last appearance for England on Friday, having decided to retire from ...

By By Mitch Phillips

Bongi Mbonambi cleared to play in World Cup final

Bongi Mbonambi is off the hook. World Rugby announced early on Thursday its investigation into the allegation that ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

It’s a scrum out there: what the stats tell us about Boks v All Blacks ...

The Boks have been less efficient at the ruck, an area in which New Zealand have excelled

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Willie le Roux reflects on semifinal post-match fracas against England

More accustomed to drawing defenders before delivering the final pass, Bok fullback Willie le Roux on Wednesday tried ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Manie Libbok dilemma: who will tick the Boks' box at No 10?

Some thought it audacious four years ago when Rassie Erasmus unveiled his team to play in the Rugby World Cup final ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Sunak asks World Rugby to look at it carefully: how the UK press is ...

Even UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has weighed in on allegations of a racial slur by Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi ...

By Marc Strydom

Mbonambi: World Rugby still probing Bok, but ...

World Rugby is still in its evidence gathering phase in its investigation into whether Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Boks in green and gold in final ... All Blacks, well, all black

Springbok fans can rest easy, their team will be in their traditional green and gold jersey when they take on the All ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Curry picked for 50th cap in England team to face Argentina for bronze

Henry Arundell and Freddie Steward will start on the wing for England in the bronze final against Argentina on Friday, ...

By Mitch Phillips
Sport Editor's Choice

Polarising All Blacks boss Foster a win against Boks away from RWC triumph

Underestimated and underappreciated, Ian Foster is one win away from becoming the fourth coach to deliver New Zealand a ...

By Ian Ransom

Here are public viewing sites in Cape Town for the Rugby World Cup final

Three public viewing sites with DJs and big screens have been confirmed by the City of Cape Town for the Rugby World ...

By TIMESLIVE

WATCH | Footage emerges that may shed light on ...

New video footage may shed light on what Springbok hooker Bongani Mbonambi uttered during the Springboks' at-times ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

All Blacks’ Band of Brothers ready to face up to Boks’ Bomb Squad

New Zealand have named their response to South Africa’s Bomb Squad in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final ‘Easy Company’ ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

World Rugby announces expanded World Cup and new Nations League

The World Rugby Council has approved a new aligned international calendar, expanded 24-team men's World Cup and a top ...

By Nick Said

Tournament mentality: How Boks and All Blacks’ RWC monopoly persists

It's been 20 years since a team other than South Africa and New Zealand have had their hands on the game's most coveted ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

England’s Wayne Barnes to blow the whistle in Boks-All Blacks final

As expected the game's most experienced Test referee will be handed the whistle for Saturday's Rugby World Cup final ...

By LIAM DEL CARME in Paris

UPDATE | World Rugby to investigate Boks’ ...

Bongi Mbonambi’s participation in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand has been presented a fresh ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

South Africans rally behind Boks' Mbonambi, ask for proof of 'racial slur'

The Springboks' heated Rugby World Cup semifinal match against England at the weekend did not go down without drama.

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

Springboks mum on Bongi's prospects of playing in the final

As expected, the Springboks opted to shed no further light on their go-to hooker Bongi Mbonambi's prospects of playing ...

By LIAM DEL CARME in Paris

POLL | Do you believe Boks' Mbonambi uttered a racial slur against ...

Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi is in the spotlight, this time not for being a man-of-the-match but for allegedly ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

Kolisi puts Nienaber in focus as Boks’ quieter coach enters his last week

Jacques Nienaber has been loath to draw attention to himself during his almost four years as Springbok head coach.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Tiring Boks, with a day less to final, summon ...

With one day less than the All Blacks to prepare for the final the Springboks will have to rest and recover well after ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Bok player ratings: key performers earned low energy Boks place in final

Ox Nché came on and breathed life into the Springbok performance against England on Saturday

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

Bok Mbonambi’s place in final under threat after alleged racial slur on ...

Bongi Mbonambi's prospects of playing in Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against the All Blacks may be in jeopardy ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Boks the kings of chasing down lost causes

Last week in the wake of Cheslin Kolbe charging down Thomas Ramos's conversion attempt Springbok head coach Jacques ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

‘I knew that was the job I had to do. Luckily it came off’: Pollard on ...

Converting the deciding kick in a Rugby World Cup knock-out game is something you dream of from the time you're a ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Ox helps Bok scrum plough ahead as Bomb Squad ...

The demise of the scrum as one of rugby's true battle grounds has been greatly exaggerated.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Boks somehow turn lost cause against England into World Cup final glory

Handré Pollard reprised his role from the 2019 Rugby World Cup semifinal win over Wales on Saturday night when he again ...

By Liam Del Carme at Stade de France

BLOW BY BLOW | Incredible! Boks snatch last-gasp win against England in ...

All the action, blow by blow, as it happened as the Springboks beat England 16-15 in their 2023 Rugby World Cup ...

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor

Boks and England prepare for wet conditions

Paris is cloaked in a blanket of cloud.

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

SA v England: Who will join New Zealand in Rugby World Cup final?

It is easy to draw the conclusion that the Springboks have taken the bigger leap over the last four years than their ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Rassie Erasmus responds to supposed death threats ...

Springbok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach has received a supposed online death threat and Rassie Erasmus has taken to social ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN FRANCE

All Blacks breeze into fifth RWC final

The ruthless and efficient All Blacks continued the restoration of their reputation when they beat Argentina 44-6 in ...

By LIAM DEL CARME at Stade de France

Jordan keeps delivering prime numbers for New Zealand

New Zealand winger Will Jordan's hat-trick of tries in Friday’s Rugby World Cup semifinal continued his incredible form ...

By By MARK GLEESON

Stick disappointed at ‘hooligan’ who supposedly directed death threat to ...

Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick is disappointed at a user on social media platform X, going by the name of ...

By LIAN DEL CARME IN FRANCE

Boks in muted tones as seismic World Cup semifinal against rivals England ...

Out in the woods, the sticks if you like, well north of Paris, the Springboks had their final word before they clash ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

RUGBY WORLD CUP | All the pools, fixtures and ...

All the 2023 Rugby World Cup pools, results and fixtures.

By Sports Staff

Rugby World Cup pool A | Epic tussle between hosts France and All Blacks

Hosts France, who are the bookmakers’ favourites to claim the Webb Ellis Cup, and three-time World Cup winners New ...

By Grant Shub

Rugby World Cup pool B | Boks, Ireland headline ‘pool of death’

Pool B is arguably the “group of death” at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

By Grant Shub

Rugby World Cup pool C | Australia, Wales to fight it out for first place

The clash between Australia and Wales on September 24 is set to decide the pool winners but Fiji will aim to throw a ...

By Grant Shub

Rugby World Cup pool D | Samoa eye upset of England and Argentina

Argentina and England are set to battle for bragging rights but Samoa may have the final say on standings in the Rugby ...

By Grant Shub

POLL | Will the Springboks dump England out of ...

Will South Africa again send England crashing out of the Rugby World Cup or will the English team redeem its nation's ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

WATCH | ‘Yimincili!’ Mapimpi stunned as he receives spontaneous hero's ...

With a bucket hat and an oversized t-shirt Springboks wing Makazole Mapimpi could not escape the staff and shoppers of ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

Facts and stats — Argentina v New Zealand

A selection of facts and statistics before the Rugby World Cup semifinal between Argentina and New Zealand at Stade de ...

By Reuters

A Springboks vs All Blacks World Cup final is not guaranteed: Bob Skinstad

England haven’t lost yet and continue to build momentum, says former Bok skipper.

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

MARK KEOHANE | Rassie and Jacques prove two heads are better than one

The Bok coaching duo have been spot on with their game management and squad selection during the World Cup

By Mark Keohane

LIAM DEL CARME | Boks must stamp their authority ...

The Boks will be wary of a repeat of the 2019 semifinal, where they allowed Wales to stay in the game right until the ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

As usual, it’s about scrums and physicality for Boks against England

The Springboks' demolition of England's scrum paved the way for their success in the final of the Rugby World Cup four ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Nienaber’s Boks ‘Dad’s Army’ boasts world of experience

For only the second time in 64 Tests in the Rassie Erasmus/Jacques Nienaber era the Springbok team has been left ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Bok coach Nienaber names unchanged team for semifinal against England

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber has shown faith in his match-winning Rugby World Cup quarterfinal squad by retaining ...

By Sports Staff

All Blacks make two changes for semi, Argentina bring in Bertranou

Winger Mark Telea returned to The All Blacks’ starting line-up for Friday’s World Cup semifinal against Argentina at ...

By Mark Gleeson and Nick Said

Semifinalists’ stats: Boks top dominant tackles, ...

South Africa, though limited in the number of line breaks and carries in their quarterfinal, proved potent when ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

England must be ready for ‘dark arts’ of Erasmus: Wales coach Gatland

Wales coach Warren Gatland said his England counterpart Steve Borthwick must be ready to counter the “dark arts” of ...

By Mark Gleeson

Appointment of criticised ref will be welcomed by both England and Boks: ...

The appointment of referee Ben O’Keeffe for a second successive South Africa knockout game at the World Cup will be ...

By Mark Gleeson

England sweat on Marcus Smith for Boks semifinal

England are sweating on the fitness of star utility back Marcus Smith before their Rugby World Cup semifinal against ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris
Sport Editor's Choice

LIAM DEL CARME | BOK VOYAGE: Whistle-stop tour continues in France

Notes from the road at the Rugby World Cup

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Let them have boeuf, says Pollard on ...

If teams want to have beef with the Boks, they should pull up a chair, says Handré Pollard.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

DAVID ISAACSON | Rugby needs to clean out Beaumont’s fart-filled boardroom

World Rugby has not only let Ireland down, but they failed the French too and robbed the home fans of two matches

David Isaacson
Sports reporter
Sport Editor's Choice

That moment: How Boks’ Kolbe charged down Ramos’ conversion

Chasing lost causes is the kind of pursuit that has helped set the Springboks apart.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Jesse Kriel bloodied but unbowed after his Bok opus against France

Though he was coy, the Springbok centre was simply magnifique against France, in possession and defence

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

This is real transformation, says Kaya Malotana, first black Bok to play ...

Former Springbok centre Kaya Malotana is impressed at how balanced the Springbok squads have been in the Rugby World ...

By Anathi Wulushe

Mapimpi recovering after surgery but not back on ...

It remains unclear when Springbok wing Makazole Mapimpi might be back on the playing field as he recovers from the ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

RWC semis: Southern hemisphere flexes muscle to keep old order intact

A weekend that threatened to herald a change to the Rugby World Cup pecking order instead saw the Southern Hemisphere ...

By Mark Gleeson
Sport Editor's Choice

Springbok player ratings: every player came to the party against France

From Man of the Match, Bongi Mbonambi to the impact of the bench, all 23 players played their part

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

Bok hearts filled with belief: How they got the job done

The Springboks earned the right to meet England in Saturday's Rugby World Cup semifinal, but it required a performance ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Fiji laid foundation for their next generation in France

Fiji’s World Cup campaign started and ended with defeats in exhilarating contests against tier one nations, and while ...

By Nick Said and Nick Mulvenney

France captain Dupont bemoans refereeing in Boks’ ...

A pall has descended over France. The hosts will have to watch the rest of the Rugby World Cup from the sidelines after ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Irrepressible Earl drives England into World Cup last four date with Boks

Owen Farrell was the official man of the match but not an England fan leaving the Marseille Velodrome is likely to have ...

By Mitch Phillips and Nick Said
Sport Editor's Choice

Boks pure courage, grit as they keep all of France at bay to reach RWC ...

They were at times scintillating, but the mostly resourceful and resolute Springboks kept all of France at bay as they ...

By Liam Del Carme at Stade de France
Sport Editor's Choice

‘An incredible athletic display’ — Cyril Ramaphosa praises Springboks for ...

President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed the country’s national rugby team for defeating France in the Rugby World Cup ...

Sisanda Mbolekwa
Politics reporter

BLOW BY BLOW | Superhuman Boks beat France by point in quarter thriller

Live updates, as it happens, of Sunday's huge 2023 Rugby World Cup quarterfinal between France and the Springboks

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor

Farrell kicks England to narrow win over brave ...

Captain Owen Farrell kicked 20 points to lead England to a gripping 30-24 World Cup quarterfinal victory over Fiji on ...

By Nick Said

All Blacks lead way, giving Boks ‘the thought maybe they’ve got a chance’

Few will argue with former Springbok captain Bob Skinstad's succinct assessment of the events that unfolded at the ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Boks have made plans for fielding France’s tactical kicking: Willemse

It is not panache but pragmatism that has entrenched France among the modern game's elite.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Gatland commits to Wales after quarterfinal loss to Argentina

Soft penalties and an inability to turn the screw when ahead were behind Wales’ 29-17 World Cup quarterfinal defeat to ...

By Nick Said

Ireland’s wait continues after All Blacks prevail in match like no other

It was breathless and unrelenting in skill and intensity. Ireland's Rugby World Cup quarterfinal against New Zealand ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

All Blacks dump Ireland out of the Rugby World ...

Ireland's quest for a first ever quarterfinal win at the Rugby World Cup drew another blank when New Zealand stunned ...

By LIAM DEL CARME at Stade de France

Argentina surge into semis with battling comeback win over Wales

Carried on a wave of incredible support, Argentina overcame a 10-0 deficit to eventually overwhelm Wales 29-17 as late ...

By MITCH PHILLIPS

France captain and talisman Antoine Dupont reappears against the Boks ...

The face of the Rugby World Cup will not be entirely obscured when hosts France take on defending champions South ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Ireland look to bury World Cup jinx in crunch All Blacks clash

Ireland are looking to bury their World Cup jinx forever against New Zealand at the Stade de France on Saturday in one ...

By By Nick Mulvenney

Boks must go to a dark place and unleash 'violence' in World Cup ...

The Stade de France may shade even the Eiffel Tower as the most illuminated structure in all of France on Sunday night, ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Rassie and Galthié’s paths cross again, this time ...

Fabien Galthié left quite an impression on Rassie Erasmus when their off-the-field paths crossed half a dozen or so ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Old wise heads Vermeulen and Le Roux expected to play crucial roles for ...

The experience and game management skills of No 8 Duane Vermeulen and fullback Willie le Roux helped get them the nod ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Bok coach Nienaber names strongest possible squad for World Cup ...

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber named an experienced team, including 15 players who featured in the 2019 final, for ...

By SPORTS REPORTER

LIAM DEL CARME | Will Jacques and Rassie’s meticulous planning be enough?

What will the Springbok coaching duo’s legacy be if, dare I say it, we lose in the quarterfinal?

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Backrow and scrum battles could decide France vs Boks: Serge Betsen

Dupont ace in French pack but Kolisi can rally South Africa, says Cameroon-born ex-flanker.

By Grant Shub

Boks turn up volume to prepare for Stade de ...

Such is the deafening din the Springboks are expecting at the Stade de France on Sunday, they have recreated it at ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

EDITORIAL | Boks v France: what a nerve-racking 80 minutes it will be from ...

The fromage in both countries has mould — and people in France long for some sporting cheer about as much as those in ...

By TIMESLIVE PREMIUM EDITORIAL

Lacking game time, weak cheekbone — Dupont a threat to Boks: Rassie

France talisman Antoine Dupont may not have recent game time under the belt but he is capable of pulling the strings ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Ireland up? What the numbers game tells us about RWC quarterfinalists

As a numbers-based science, statistics aren't there to be bent. They are, however, readily applied and interpreted to ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

MARK KEOHANE | Hard to separate but Boks edge France on defence, ...

With French fullback Thomas Ramos’s deadly accurate boot, discipline will be non-negotiable for the Boks.

By Mark Keohane

‘Tier 2’ teams made strong case at World Cup for ...

There is no doubt the increased spend World Rugby committed to some emerging rugby nations has paid dividends.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Ireland have shed inferiority complex, says Farrell ahead of All Blacks ...

Andy Farrell concedes Ireland have suffered from an inferiority complex in the past but believes his team are ready to ...

By Nick Mulvenney

England set to drop Ford, start Smith at fullback in Fiji quarterfinal

England coach Steve Borthwick looks set to make radical changes for Sunday's World Cup quarter-final against Fiji by ...

By Mitch Phillips

Biggar back for Wales in boost for World Cup quarterfinal with Argentina

Wales' influential flyhalf Dan Biggar will start this weekend's Rugby World Cup quarterfinal against Argentina in ...

By Mark Gleeson

Plenty of respect but no fear for All Blacks in Ireland clash

The All Blacks have a healthy respect for Ireland as the best team in the world but there will be no fear when the two ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Bok maul, where are you hiding?

It was at this stage four years ago at the Rugby World Cup that the Springboks unleashed the might of their maul and ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Taking France to a dark place? Squeaky clean Boks think not, says Rassie

Four years ago Sébastien Vahaamahina's pointed elbow didn't just knock Wales' Aaron Wainwright in the face, but also a ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

More attacking Boks happy to ‘go to old traditional ways’ if needed

With the Bok arsenal now carrying more firepower, scrumhalf Faf De Klerk is thrilled to have options

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

LIAM DEL CARME | BOK VOYAGE: Flying the Klippies flag and a Pied Peyper

Notes from the road at the Rugby World Cup

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Boks get calm Kiwi Ben O’Keefe as ref against France

Ben O'Keefe, a Kiwi with a calm, easy-going demeanour, is the man who will have to drown out thousands of French voices ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Nation on song, imposing win record — France are ...

French mood has been bolstered by the news that captain Antoine Dupont has been cleared to play on Sunday.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

France's Dupont in race against the clock to face Springboks

France captain Antoine Dupont faces a race against the clock to be fully fit to play against the Springboks as the ...

By Julien Pretot

Faf talks down Dupont’s influence in Bok camp

The face of the Rugby World Cup in France may be scarred but the host nation is hoping an indelible mark will be made ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

No quarter will be given in scrums in Boks vs France showdown

Scrumming is a serious business in France. It then stands to reason that tightheads are viewed as precious commodities, ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Gambling backfired as Wallabies wallowed out of World Cup

Australians are among the most enthusiastic gamblers on the planet so it is perhaps no surprise the country's worst ...

By Nick Mulvenney

France star Dupont cleared to play in Springboks ...

Antoine Dupont's chances of playing in France's quarterfinal clash against defending champions South Africa at the ...

By Julien Pretot

France vs Boks clash will break new ground — and hearts

Defending champions South Africa face hosts and three-time losing finalists France in Paris on Sunday in a match likely ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Straight back to drawing board for Fiji as England rematch clash looms

Fiji just managed to qualify for the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals but, having lost to minnows Portugal in their final ...

By Julien Pretot and Nick Said

Flag issue doesn’t bother Boks: scrum coach Human

Talk of the Springboks not playing under the national flag does not bother no-nonsense scrum coach Daan Human.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Fiji lose but go through to quarters, knocking Australia out

Fiji sneaked into the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals despite a 24-23 defeat by Portugal, who claimed their first ever ...

By Julien Pretot

Argentina down Japan in Nantes thriller to reach ...

A clinical hat-trick from winger Mateo Carreras helped hoist Argentina into the World Cup quarter-finals with a 39-27 ...

By Rex Gowar

We haven’t played our best rugby yet, says Ireland coach Farrell

Ireland coach Andy Farrell said his team have not played their best rugby yet despite booking their place in the ...

By Forrest Crellin

Springboks to face host nation France in crunch World Cup quarterfinal

Four years ago, the Springboks were thrust into the role of party poopers and they may well have to perform the same ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON

Damian’s in high spirit in France

If your name is Damian, you are probably in high spirits at this year's Rugby World Cup.

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Ireland loss was prick Boks needed

The Boks, as this piece was penned, were on the cusp of Rugby World Cup quarterfinal qualification, with three wins and ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Vincent Koch on Boks being switched on for ...

Vincent Koch has for long cut a content figure in the Bok back seat.  He certainly isn't part of the factory-fitted ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON

France braced for second 'World Cup final' in five weeks, possibly against ...

France coach Fabien Galthie declared himself satisfied with Friday's 60-7 drubbing of Italy to move into the knockout ...

By By Nick Mulvenney

Boks' star centre Lukhanyo Am opens up on the frustration of being on ...

He may be the coolest, most unflappable player you could possibly lay eyes on but even Lukhanyo Am admits being on ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON
Sport Editor's Choice

POLL | How would you feel if Boks and Proteas had to play without SA flag ...

Having your country’s flag hoisted abroad after a great victory gives sportswomen and men a sense of pride.

By TIMESLIVE

The heart of Boks lock Kleyn says Scotland but his mind says Ireland

Boks lock Jean Kleyn may have played five Tests for Ireland in 2019 but he will be hoping Scotland gets the rub of the ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON

Boks take training break to relax with WAGS in ...

While the bedbugs were biting in Paris, in the south the Springboks took to the salty waters of the Mediterranean ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

England will benefit from Samoa close shave, says Borthwick

England may have scraped home against a superb Samoa on Saturday, but coach Steve Borthwick believes it was just the ...

By Nick Said

MARK KEOHANE | All World Cup-winning teams share the same traits

Since 1987, Rugby World Cup winners have not necessarily played attractive rugby but they have all had strong kicking ...

By Mark Keohane

Lukhanyo Am welcomed with open arms

Popular squad member Lukhanyo Am was welcomed with open arms when he reunited with the Springbok teammates in Toulon ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Boks cast in party poopers role

Four years ago the Springboks were thrust in the role of party poopers and they may well have to perform the same grim ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter
Sport Editor's Choice

Mapimpi’s race may be run, but he passed the ...

At 33 he is unlikely to play another World Cup. His dream of winning back-to-back Webb Ellis Cups is now over

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

‘It’s a disgrace’: Boks may fly flagless at World Cup over Wada threat

“It will be a sad day if the Springboks win the World Cup without the South African flag,” SA Rugby president Mark ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

LIAM DEL CARME | To tinker or not to tinker? That’s the burning Bok ...

The arrival of Handré Pollard and Lukhanyo Am provides the Boks with a wealth of experience, but should they replace ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

All Blacks wait on Lomax as ‘monster game’ looms in quarters after ...

Tyrel Lomax's return to action was cut short on Thursday as New Zealand's top tighthead prop suffered another injury in ...

By Julien Pretot and Nick Mulvenney

MARK KEOHANE | All World Cup-winning teams share the same traits

Since 1987, Rugby World Cup winners have not necessarily played attractive rugby but they have all had strong kicking ...

By Mark Keohane
Sport Editor's Choice

POOL B SUPREMACY AT STAKE | Watch your backs, ...

TimesLIVE’s expert sports reporters bring you an extraordinary Rugby World Cup guide celebrating a tournament the ...

By TimesLIVE sports team

RUGBY WORLD CUP | France’s nine sparkling stadiums

A guide to all the nine of the 2023 Rugby World Cup stadiums.

By Marc Strydom

Stars of the Rugby World Cup | Wonder wing Penaud ‘most exciting player in ...

France's Damian Penaud is the man capable of breaking the World Cup's long-standing eight-try record.

By Grant Shub

Stars of the Rugby World Cup | Canan Moodie, Springboks’ super-starlet

Canan Moodie, the second-youngest player to represent the Springboks after Francois Steyn, has enjoyed a meteoric rise ...

By Grant Shub

Stars of the Rugby World Cup | Selestino Ravutaumada, Fiji’s wonder wing

Selestino Ravutaumada, who was named man of the match after cutting England to shreds in Fiji’s 30-22 win at Twickenham ...

By Grant Shub

Stars of the Rugby World Cup: Ardie Savea, All Black flank fantastic

Not that Ardie Savea needed any motivation, but the flashbacks of how the All Blacks failed to reach the final of the ...

By SITHEMBISO DINDI

Stars of the Rugby World Cup | Will Skelton, modern-day Aussie giant

At the Rugby World Cup (RWC) in France, a relatively young Australia will be led by monster of a lock Will Skelton, one ...

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

Stars of the Rugby World Cup | Ireland's Johnny Sexton set for last dance

Having played a crucial role in helping Ireland reign supreme in the 2023 Six Nations Championship, Irish veteran ...

By SITHEMBISO DINDI

Stars of the Rugby World Cup | Antoine Dupont, master scrumhalf

Antoine Dupont, widely regarded as the world’s best scrumhalf owing to his masterful all-round game, will aim to lead ...

By Grant Shub

Mama Joy and Botha not paid to be at Rugby World ...

But the department of sport, arts and culture admits it did pay for superfans' flights and accommodation in France

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

Rassie unfazed as Irish radio host mocks him for his ‘giant rugby brain’

South Africa's director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has ruffled some feathers after warning Ireland of a possible exit from ...

By SINESIPHO SCHRIEBER

Ireland laugh off idea of collusion to knock out Springboks

Ireland assistant coach Mike Catt has laughed off the idea that there might be collusion with Scotland to ensure both ...

By Nick Mulvenney

WATCH | Lukhanyo Am joins Boks as they resume training

Lukhanyo Am reported for duty in Toulon on Wednesday as the Springboks returned to the training field with an eye on ...

By Sports Staff

Fearless Fourie to the fore for Boks after strong display against Tonga

Fearless Springbok warrior Deon Fourie says his confidence and fitness are improving game by game and he is ready for ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer
Sport Editor's Choice

Moodie ‘was almost not in WP mix’: youth coach on ...

Craven week coach is impressed by the young star’s progression from school rugby to the highest stage

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

France captain Dupont meeting training goals, to see surgeon on Monday

France captain Antoine Dupont is meeting his goals at training after his return to their World Cup squad after surgery ...

By Julien Pretot

Handré Pollard back for Boks but Manie Libbok hasn’t gone anywhere

He did not strike the ball cleanly at all in warm-up, which made Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard doubly delighted he ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

LIAM DEL CARME | BOK VOYAGE: Boks sidestep French obsession with Speedos

Notes from the road at the Rugby World Cup

By Liam Del Carme in Marseille

Siya Kolisi’s story offers lessons in resilience when life tries you

The Bok captain’s ability to bounce back and succeed is not limited to rugby

By Tinashe Timothy Harry

Springboks call up Lukhanyo Am as replacement for ...

The Springboks have called up outside centre Lukhanyo Am as an injury replacement for wing Makazole Mapimpi, adding the ...

By Nick Said

Boks’ Makazole Mapimpi out of the World Cup

It was anticipated but news of Makazole Mapimpi's exit from the Rugby World Cup still had a jarring effect on Monday.

By Liam Del Carme in Marseille

Players ‘deserve some accolades’: Jones after Portugal win as Wallabies ...

Wallabies coach Eddie Jones said he was disappointed that Australia's World Cup destiny was no longer in their own ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Pollard the chef as Boks bash win at the meat-grinder against Tonga

The Springboks knew this was a job for the meat-grinder, not the sushi chef's blade.

By Liam Del Carme at Stade Velodrome

BLOW BY BLOW | Boks beat tough Tonga in Marseille

Catch all the live action as the Springboks meet Tonga in their final Rugby World Cup pool B game at Stade Vélodrome in ...

Marc Strydom
Digital Sports Editor

Scotland’s Romania rout adds pressure on Boks for ...

The pressure on the Springboks has gone up a notch after Scotland did what most expected of them — a rout of Romania to ...

By Liam Del Carme in Marseille

Duane believes Boks' best yet to come

The Springboks' best is yet to come, insists loose forward Duane Vermeulen ahead of Sunday's Rugby World Cup pool B ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN FRANCE

Graham’s try blitz helps Scotland to huge win over Romania

Darcy Graham led the way with four tries as Scotland romped to an 84-0 bonus-point triumph over Romania at the Rugby ...

By Mark Gleeson And Nick Said

Sanchez shines as Argentina set up Japan showdown

Nicolas Sanchez celebrated his 100th cap in style with a try and a flawless kicking performance as Argentina set up a ...

By JULIEN PRETOT

Bok flyhalf Pollard to take a big jump against Tonga

Handrè Pollard admits playing a Test with just 30 minutes of rugby under his belt since returning from injury is a big ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN MARSEILLE

Siya Kolisi takes milestone of leading Boks for ...

Siya Kolisi's storied existence enters a new chapter when he captains the Springboks for a 50th time against Tonga on ...

By Liam Del Carme in Marseille
Sport Editor's Choice

POLL | Will Pollard stop Springboks' kicking woes?

Pollard, who is making a return to the Bok team after a 13-month absence, takes over at No 10 from Manie Libbok who has ...

By TImesLIVE

Japan looking forward to ‘grand final’ against Argentina

Japan quickly turned their focus to their Pool D decider against Argentina after beating Samoa 28-22 on Thursday as ...

By Reuters

WATCH | Boks get fan-tastic response from 8,000 crowd while training in ...

They usually train behind closed doors, hidden by a canvas strip that runs around the perimeter of the field - but on ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

All Blacks recall quartet after injury to face genuine threat from Italy

New Zealand see Italy as a genuine threat in Friday's key World Cup pool A clash and will wait until after the match to ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Bok coach Nienaber sets record straight on ...

Though Handré Pollard is back in the Springbok team after a 13-month absence coach Jacques Nienaber was quick to temper ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Fifita suspension: Tonga’s loss is Boks’ gain, but islanders still carry ...

The heavy hitter will miss the game against SA, the one against Romania, the Scarlets' clash against the Bulls and ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Boks to gallop for bonus point against physical Tonga: Kwagga

Kwagga Smith is in no doubt the Springboks will be galloping in full pursuit of a bonus point in their Rugby World Cup ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

France’s recovering Dupont on course for quarter, probably against Boks

Antoine Dupont's recovery from surgery on a broken cheekbone is progressing well and it may not be too long before the ...

By Julien Pretot

Ireland defeat produces head-scratchers for Boks against Tonga

Had the Boks won on Saturday evening in Paris, there would be less team selections to ponder

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Kickers worth their weight in gold at Rugby World ...

Every Rugby World Cup has been won by a nation with a strong goal-kicker who can turn pressure into points and it is ...

By Nick Said

Boks’ scrum coach Human takes the rough with the smooth

The sun's out in familiar surrounds and the Boks can warm to another challenge.

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

LIAM DEL CARME | BOK VOYAGE: Cons, curious thrills and a Gentle Ox

Notes from the road at the Rugby World Cup

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

All Blacks confident they can match level of Ireland, Springboks

New Zealand return to their training camp in Lyon this week after spending a bye week on the west coast of France but, ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Will Skelton backs Eddie Jones as Wallabies fall to new rankings low

Wallabies captain Will Skelton backed coach Eddie Jones as the man to revive Australian rugby on Monday as the nation ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Stats show Boks need to up their conversion rate

The tale of the tape, if one has to zero in on an enduring sporting quirk, doesn't always tell the long and the short ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Handré Pollard is not Superman, says Boks director of rugby Rassie Erasmus

The perception that Handré Pollard will be the panacea to the Springboks ills is well off the mark, according to Rassie ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Could this World Cup be a Northern Hemisphere party?

South Africa went down 8-13 to Ireland in a titanic nail-biting Rugby World Cup contest to decide the top of pool B in ...

David Isaacson
Sports reporter

Seven-try Scotland see off Tonga in World Cup win

Scotland got their World Cup campaign back on track with a bonus-point 45-17 victory over Tonga in their clash in Nice ...

By Nick Said

Boks v Ireland: beautiful brutality in the City of Love

There were no reds, or yellows, just a sea of green at the Stade de France.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Sexton backs Boks’ battling Libbok

There was praise and perhaps encouragement for Manie Libbok from an unlikely source in the immediate aftermath of the ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Springbok player ratings against Ireland

The Springboks suffered their first defeat in the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France when they lost 13-8 to the world’s No ...

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

Boks can still defend title, says Nienaber, but mistakes must be fixed

Jacques Nienaber is adamant the Springboks can still successfully defend their Rugby World Cup crown but some ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

France hope for Dupont return after captain undergoes surgery

France captain Antoine Dupont has undergone surgery on a facial injury and will return to his Rugby World Cup squad to ...

By Julien Pretot

Ireland beat Springboks in tightly contested World Cup match in Paris

Ireland beat the Springboks 13-8 in the Rugby World Cup's box-office pool clash at a tension-filled Stade de France on ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

BLOW BY BLOW | Ireland edge the Springboks in ...

Blow-by-blow action from the Springboks' Rugby World Cup clash against top-ranked Ireland.

David Isaacson
Sports reporter

Clouds disperse for heavyweight bout between Boks and Ireland

Much of the finishing touches in preparation to Saturday's clash between the Springboks and Ireland were done under ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS
Sport Editor's Choice

Stakes high as Springboks take on Ireland in seismic World Cup clash

The streets of Paris are wet but it does not compare with how appetites have been whet ahead of South Africa's Rugby ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Five-try Arundell caps 71-0 England win over Chile

Winger Henry Arundell scored five tries as England tore up the safety-first playbook from their first two matches at ...

By Reuters

Sloppy Samoa left to rue mistakes in defeat by Argentina

Samoa were left to rue too many handling errors at a wet Stade Geoffroy Guichard as they slipped to a 19-10 defeat by ...

By Reuters
Sport Editor's Choice

POOL B SUPREMACY AT STAKE | Watch your backs, ...

TimesLIVE’s expert sports reporters bring you an extraordinary Rugby World Cup guide celebrating a tournament the ...

By TimesLIVE sports team

Argentina solid enough to beat Samoa in World Cup Pool D

Argentina claimed their first win in this year's Rugby World Cup as they beat Samoa 19-10 to stay on course for a ...

By JULIEN PRETOT

POLL | Ireland vs Springboks: Who will win the battle?

South Africa take on top-ranked rivals Ireland in the much-anticipated 2023 Rugby World Cup pool B clash at the Stade ...

By TIMESLIVE

Half centurion Aki will face different Boks compared to his debut six ...

It was at a cold and wet Lansdowne Road that Bundee Aki made his Test debut for his adopted country against the ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN PARIS

Namibia's Deysel apologises to Dupont for dangerous tackle

Namibia captain Johan Deysel was the target of online abuse after his clash with France skipper Antoine Dupont left the ...

By Reuters

Siya Kolisi unplugs from online abuse

Rugby, for most of its jacket and tie existence, has portrayed itself as the gentlemen’s game.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

France ‘extremely concerned’ after Dupont suffers possible jaw fracture

France were sweating about the condition of captain Antoine Dupont after the mercurial scrumhalf suffered a suspected ...

By MITCH PHILLIPS

France get record win against Namibia but worry over Dupont injury

France dazzled as they ran in 14 tries for their biggest ever victory in tests with a 96-0 hammering of Namibia but it ...

By Nick Said

Mondli Gungubele: 'We have not honoured Rassie Erasmus enough'

Communications minister Mondli Gungubele says South Africa has failed to properly honour former Springbok coach Rassie ...

Andisiwe Makinana
Political correspondent

Chance in a lifetime for fans flying to back Boks against Ireland

Maritjie van Eck thought someone was pulling a prank on her when she received a call informing her she had won an ...

Bareng-Batho Kortjaas
Sports editor and columnist: Sunday Times

Lambie backs Libbok to kick on to greatness at ...

Flyhalf Manie Libbok has been recalled to the starting line-up for the mouthwatering clash against Ireland

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

Bok shooter Libbok, familiarly, in everyone’s crosshairs

For much of Manie Libbok's career he has had to put at ease, please and placate. That often comes with the territory -- ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Bomb Squad-plus: a question — again — of Boks' innovation and evolution

It is perhaps France head coach Fabien Galthié's explanation of his team's transformation that best describes the ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

LIAM DEL CARME | BOK VOYAGE: Horrors and haughty couture in France

Notes from the road at the Rugby World Cup

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Rugby World Cup organisers hail ‘spectacular’ TV numbers

Rugby World Cup organisers have welcomed impressive domestic and international television audiences that far exceed ...

By Mitch Phillips

Bold move as Nienaber brings back 7/1 split in ...

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber made 13 personnel changes and a positional switch naming a seven/one split in favour ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

‘He’s helluva vital’: spectre of Sexton looms large in Boks’ Paris camp

The spectre of Johnny Sexton is looming large in the Springbok camp.

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Galthie calls back France’s big guns for game against Namibia

France coach Fabien Galthie recalled his premium players for their third pool A match against Namibia as Les Bleus look ...

By Julien Pretot and Nick Mulvenney

Rassie dismisses frock froth as Boks line up all-white jersey for Ireland

In the capital of haute fashion and sartorial elegance, it is a plain white Springbok jersey that is commanding some of ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Etzebeth set for Paris run against Ireland, Pollard stays out

Eben Etzebeth looks set to take his place against Ireland in the Springboks' Rugby World Cup pool B clash at Stade de ...

By Liam Del Carme in Paris

Handré Pollard will have to earn his Bok starting ...

Handré Pollard may be Paris-bound after playing half-an-hour for his club, but his journey to the Springbok starting ...

By Liam Del Carme in Bordeaux

Game time spread, mission accomplished for Boks in Romania romp

Dressed to the nines and finding hookers left, right and (not quite) centre, the Springboks left Bordeaux for Paris ...

By Liam Del Carme in Bordeaux

Fiji make compelling case for a place among rugby’s elite

Fiji's convincing victory over the twice world champion Wallabies on Sunday was the first big upset of the World Cup ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Four-try England hail improved attack in Japan win

England will take any scrap of luck that comes their way as they improve their attacking play, captain Courtney Lawes ...

By Nick Said

Eddie Jones regrets nothing after young Wallabies fall to Fiji

Australia coach Eddie Jones said he had no regrets after his inexperienced Wallabies were beaten by Fiji for the first ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Springboks call up key flyhalf Handré Pollard as ...

The Springboks called up flyhalf Handré Pollard to their World Cup squad as an injury replacement, significantly ...

By Mark Gleeson

Fiji shock Australia to throw RWC pool C wide open

Fiji threw the outcome of Rugby World Cup pool C wide open with a 22-15 win over Australia on Sunday, in the first ...

By Mark Gleeson

Boks romp over Romania in Bordeaux, but Koch injury a dampener

The Springboks romped home with a 76-0 win against Romania in their Rugby World Cup pool B match here on Sunday but it ...

By Liam Del Carme at Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux

Ja well no wine: rugby supporters pour into Bordeaux as Boks meet Romania

Thousands of rugby fans have poured into France's revered wine region for South Africa's Rugby World Cup Pool B clash ...

By Liam Del Carme in Bordeaux

BLOW BY BLOW | Reinach, Mapimpi hat-tricks help Boks to big win

Catch all the action as it happens in the Springboks' second match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, against Romania in ...

By Marc Strydom

Boks seek to keep footing in potentially slippery encounter against Romania

It is in this epicurean stronghold of Bordeaux that the Springboks will hope to turn Romania into their hors d'oeuvre ...

By LIAM DEL CARME in Bordeaux

'I'm delighted to be representing my country of birth,' says lock Kleyn ...

Jean Kleyn is a little surprised. Not that he is at the Rugby World Cup, but at the short turn around it required for ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN FRANCE

Bok brains trust mulling over a shock return of Pollard as replacement for ...

A return from injury 30-minute stint for Leicester Tigers on Friday night appears to be Handre Pollard's passport to ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

All Blacks prepare to contest De Groot red card

The All Blacks are preparing evidence to contest any suspension arising from the red card handed to prop Ethan De Groot ...

By NICK MULVENNEY

Bok flanker Van Staden allays fears he will be in ...

With Malcolm Marx out of the Rugby World Cup, Marco van Staden has had to throw his weight around in a very different ...

By Liam Del Carme in Bordeaux

Irish wary of Tongan pack ahead of World Cup showdown

Ireland's forwards do not expect Tonga's pack to be a pushover when the two sides meet in their Rugby World Cup Pool B ...

By Reuters

All Blacks delight at big win over Namibia but discipline still an issue

All Blacks coach Ian Foster was delighted with New Zealand's first win of the World Cup on Friday but, such are the ...

By Reuters

Boks brains trust not yet decided on Malcolm Marx’s replacement

The Springboks left sunny Toulon and arrived in Bordeaux with a chill in the air and more than one cloud above.

By Liam Del Carme in Bordeaux

Court orders food producer Eskort to remove 'Springbox' ambush marketing

The South African Rugby Union has won the legal battle to have food company Eskort cease its ambush marketing campaign ...

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

The Pieter-Steph du Toit machine purrs again

The player and injury have been sidekicks for some time, but he is back to making his mark, as he did in the last World ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Chorus of discontent makes World Rugby take action on disharmonious anthems

Fans' and pundits’ chorus of discontent has had Rugby World Cup bosses change their tune.

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Nienaber names four scrumhalves in Springbok squad to face Romania

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber named all four scrumhalves in the Springbok squad in the match-23 to face Romania in ...

By Sports Staff

France youngster Bielle-Biarrey ready to shine against Uruguay

France's Louis Bielle-Biarrey made quite an impression with his silky footwork in his first Test, scoring a try in a ...

By Reuters

Fourie, finding a lease on life, ready for first Bok Test at hooker at 37

Deon Fourie is in for an early birthday gift. His big celebration is on September 25 but before that he'll have reason ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Nonchalant France pushed all the way by inspired ...

A largely reshuffled France side showed a worrying lack of discipline and a certain nonchalance as they laboured to a ...

By Reuters

Bok lock Eben Etzebeth in the race against time to face Ireland next ...

The odds on Eben Etzebeth recovering in time for the Springboks' clash against Ireland have lengthened with the news ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN FRANCE

Bok hooker Malcolm Marx ruled out of World Cup

The Springboks have been dealt a crushing blow with the news that star hooker Malcolm Marx is out of the Rugby World ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN FRANCE

Boks dressed to the nines

The Springboks will take on Romania on Sunday dressed to the nines, though their jersey this time isn't part of the ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN FRANCE

Namibia make four changes for New Zealand game

Namibia have made four changes to their team to face New Zealand in a daunting Rugby World Cup Pool A clash in Toulouse ...

By NICK SAID

He may not have raised flags enough, but Boks’ ...

The flyhalf's distributions skills have been a keen feature in the team’s recent performances

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Scrum coach Daan’s Human touch a hit for Boks at the World Cup

Daan Human's views on scrumming are as firm as his handshake. A steely stare from under his now trademark bucket hat ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Wallabies wing Nawaqanitawase soars into the limelight at World Cup

Australia winger Mark Nawaqanitawase celebrated his 23rd birthday at a French primary school on Monday morning, the ...

By Nick Mulvenney

World Cup off to a flyer on memorable weekend

Rugby World Cup organisers hoped for a blockbuster opening weekend and they certainly got one, starting with host ...

By Mitch Phillips

Springboks’ injured Etzebeth can be ready for Ireland

Eben Etzebeth’s seven to 10-day recovery prognosis does not bedevil the Springboks' plans for the match against ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

LIAM DEL CARME | BOK VOYAGE: Songs, seagulls and ...

Saffa voices cut through the calm of the Cote d’Azur like a hot knife through foie gras

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

All Blacks want more ball-in-play at World Cup

The All Blacks are hoping for more time with the ball in play during World Cup matches so that their renowned fitness ...

By Nick Mulvenney

England’s Curry banned for Japan, Chile RWC games

England flanker Tom Curry has been handed an effective two-game suspension and will miss the Rugby World Cup pool D ...

By Mitch Phillips

DAVID ISAACSON | Englishmen are mad dogs? ‘Ruffian’ Farrell deserves a ...

England’s Owen Farrell is a serial offender and is lucky not to have spent longer periods of time on the sidelines

David Isaacson
Sports reporter

Peripheral Boks keeping up with the Joneses

Sunday's Rugby World Cup clash against Romania may not be one of the tournament's marquee fixtures, but for several ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Some squint as Rassie and Boks put on a red light

Another Bok game, another storm, though this time in a Rugby World Cup.

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

WATCH | Siya for president: Bok skipper jumps hoardings to greet fans, ...

If there is an underrated weapon for the Springboks at the 2023 Rugby World Cup it is — quite apart from his obvious ...

By Marc Strydom

Springboks’ jersey leaves some with the blues

Despite the Springboks’ bold win in their first game at the Rugby World Cup against Scotland, some supporters were ...

By TImesLIVE

Etzebeth says he’s fine as major Boks ticked in Provence

Though there was concern the Springboks' 18-3 win over Scotland in their Rugby World Cup opener in Marseille had come ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Wales coach Gatland sees little wrong with Biggar's blast at North

Wales coach Warren Gatland said he saw little wrong with Dan Biggar's outburst at team mate George North during ...

By Reuters

Boks forced back to playbook, bash solid win against Scots

The Springboks were forced to revert to a dog-eared page in their playbook to eventually subdue Scotland 18-3 in their ...

By Liam Del Carme at Stade Velodrome

BLOW BY BLOW | All the action as Boks start by beating Bravehearts

All the updates you'll need for the Springboks vs Scotland at Stade Vélodrome — South Africa's 2023 World Cup opener — ...

By Marc Strydom

Appalling access, crushes, queues mar England-Argentina World Cup clash

Springbok fans heading to Stade Vélodrome in Marseille for the team's Rugby World Cup opener against Scotland on Sunday ...

By Liam Del Carme in Marseille

Its' about the Bok, not the frock: Champs give away jersey thumbs-up

It's more about the Bok and less the frock, Kurt-Lee Arendse insisted as the Springboks continued to give the thumbs up ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Nienaber anticipating Scottish onslaught in their ...

On the eve of their much-awaited Rugby World Cup opening match against Scotland at Stade Velodrome in Marseille on ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON

Nienaber focuses on Boks preparations as issue of spying is raised at ...

Spying will never beat good and thorough analysis, Springboks coach Jacques Nienaber said on Friday.

By LIAM DEL CARME

Boks’ opener opponents Scotland capable of upsetting odds in France

Scotland have been nothing if not consistent at the World Cup, reaching at least the quarterfinals in seven of their ...

By Reuters

Moving from loosehead to tighthead like trying to write with right hand if ...

It was with a broad smile that Trevor Nyakane sought to set the record straight this week. Not all, in the land of ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON
Sport Editor's Choice

POLL | Will the Springboks win the Rugby World Cup again?

The Rugby World Cup kicks-off on Friday and defending champions, the Springboks, seem ready for a tough battle against ...

By TIMESLIVE

England claim confidence boosting victory over ...

Few would have left the Stade Velodrome on Saturday having arrived at the conclusion they had just witnessed Rugby ...

By Liam Del Carme in Marseille

WATCH | Zizi Kodwa on SABC/DStv Rugby World Cup broadcast agreement

On Friday sports minister Zizi Kodwa is briefing the media on the Rugby World Cup broadcasting rights saga.

By TIMESLIVE

eMedia blasts MultiChoice for denying 3.2-million OpenView viewers chance ...

eMedia CEO Khalik Sherrif has blasted MultiChoice for its decision not to allow the SABC to broadcast Rugby World Cup ...

Sazi Hadebe
Sports reporter

Ireland thrash Romania 82-8 in sweltering Bordeaux

Ireland thrashed Romania 82-8 to get their World Cup campaign started in style in Bordeaux on Saturday, running in 12 ...

By Reuters

Donaldson shines as Australia down Georgia 35-15

Australia's Ben Donaldson scored two tries to fire his side to a comfortable 35-15 bonus-point victory over Georgia in ...

By NICK MULVENNEY

DAVID ISAACSON | It’s the anticipation before the ...

The Rugby World Cup in France is almost upon us and I’m getting that ‘schoolboy’ feeling again

David Isaacson
Sports reporter
Sport Editor's Choice

Rebuilt France team on track with win over New Zealand in opener

When Fabien Galthie took charge of France after a mediocre 2019 World Cup, his one obsession was rebuilding a squad ...

By By Forrest Crellin

Back to the drawing board for Foster's frustrated All Blacks

All Blacks coach Ian Foster said he was confident the 27-13 loss to France in their opening match at the World Cup on ...

By By Nick Mulvenney

France down All Blacks to open home World Cup with a bang

France rode a wave of passionate home support to beat three-times champions New Zealand 27-13 on Friday in the opening ...

By Reuters

All Blacks left to plot course through uncharted waters

World Cup winners Sam Whitelock, Aaron Smith and Beauden Barrett are confident New Zealand will bounce back from their ...

By NICK MULVENNEY

South African adventurer Rutland in France to ...

Ron Rutland has done it again.

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON

LIAM DEL CARME | The Boks have evolved and are a greater attacking force

A stout defence used to be enough to win games but the game has evolved and teams now need more than just that

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

World finally back in Union

Champions in their respective hemispheres at least once in the last two years France and New Zealand will perhaps ...

By LIAM DEL CARME IN TOULON

EDITORIAL | Take a bow Rassie — the team you built leaves a legacy beyond ...

The Springbok mentor has created a side all South Africans can identify with, more than any Bok combination before it

Sport Editor's Choice

PODCAST | Complete guide to the Rugby World Cup jerseys you might wear

TimesLIVE discusses the 2023 Rugby World Cup jerseys.

By TImesLIVE

Boks favourites, Bravehearts have spirit of ...

The Springboks have won 23 of the contests against Scotland in their 28-Test history

By GRANT SHUB

SABC, MultiChoice agree on deal for public broadcaster to televise RWC ...

MultiChoice and the SABC have reached an agreement for the public broadcaster to televise 16 of the 2023 Rugby World ...

By Marc Strydom and Sazi Hadebe

Boks’ Snyman ready to go full heavy metal again

The what? Bok lock RG Snyman was the focus of befuddled looks as he explained the musical act that blasts through his ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

All Blacks make three changes for France opener, Narawa out of RWC

Anton Lienert-Brown replaced the injured Jordie Barrett at inside centre in one of three changes to the New Zealand ...

By Nick Mulvenney

MARK KEOHANE | SA should be hosting the World Cup, but Boks will still ...

If France want to win this World Cup, they’re going to have to do it on the field, there will be no voting this time

By Mark Keohane

Boks name team for momentous World Cup opener

Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk wins his 50th Test cap in a settled Springbok team for the momentous Rugby World Cup ...

By Sports staff

Ag, it’s just the way we do things’: Nienaber happy to Bok trend ...

The relief across the rugby world is palpable. The Springboks will go into Sunday's Rugby World Cup opener against ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Boks Nyakane, Snyman back plan to flush out online trolls, hate speech

There was high praise for World Rugby's initiative to stamp out online abuse of players and officials. In 2.06m RG ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon
Sport Editor's Choice

Laws, their application and refs in spotlight — hopefully not glaringly — ...

In the professional era, rugby fans have craved consistency in the application of the laws but this has not always been ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Beast sees tides moving north as World Cup looms

The renowned prop is not the only one optimistic about Ireland and France's prospects

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Vermeulen didn’t expect third World Cup, now ...

You’d think at the ripe old age of 37 there would be little to surprise Duane Vermeulen. He admits, though, that ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

R162 a beer: South Africans travelling to France will hope Boks make it ...

This is how much you should expect to part with at the World Cup

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Love is in the air as France gear up for New Zealand clash

France do not feel the weight of expectations as they prepare for a mouthwatering World Cup curtainraiser against ...

By Julien Pretot

All Blacks midfield weapon Barrett in doubt for World Cup opener

New Zealand midfielder Jordie Barrett is in doubt for the World Cup opener against France while battling knee soreness.

By Ian Ransom

OPINION | Rugby World Cup 2023: Africa’s hopes lie with South Africa and ...

Squad depth and options in selection will boost Bok chances but they must stay disciplined and adjust to how referees ...

By Wilbur Kraak

Will it be Great Scott! for the Bravehearts against Boks on Sunday?

Scotland have been hatching a plan for the Boks at the Rugby World Cup, with coach Gregor Townsend's men ready to test ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

Williams feared his World Cup dream was over

Grant Williams feared his bid for a place in the Rugby World Cup squad had been plunged into permanent darkness earlier ...

By Liam Del Carme in Toulon

Kodwa optimistic there won’t be Rugby World Cup blackout on SABC

While sports minister Zizi Kodwa remains confident there won’t be a Rugby World Cup blackout on the SABC, he has called ...

Sithembiso Dindi
Sports Reporter

All the Rugby World Cup pools and star players profiled

The 2023 Rugby World Cup in France kicks off on September 8 with the pool A match between the hosts and the All Blacks ...

By TimesLIVE

Scotland undaunted by world champ Bok challenge ...

Scotland will not be intimidated when they face defending champions South Africa in their opening Pool B fixture at the ...

By Reuters

Ooh la la! 10 French phrases that may come in handy over the RWC

With three days to kickoff, many South Africans are ready to wing their way to France to back the Boks at the 2023 ...

By TimesLIVE

Tearful Chalureau denies racism as France gear up for All Blacks clash

French lock Bastien Chalureau insisted on Monday he is not racist amid an outcry over his call-up into the Rugby World ...

By Julien Pretot

Boks’ Erasmus, who knows Townsend well, wary of Scots’ ‘lekker squad’

The Springboks must be firing on all cylinders if they want to overcome a powerful Scotland side that will be expertly ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

Genius Dupont ready to lead France at World Cup

Antoine Dupont takes the metro when in Paris and his name is one of the country's most banal but everything else about ...

By Julien Pretot

MultiChoice and SABC in Rugby World Cup broadcast ...

Millions of South Africans without pay tv will not be able to watch the Springboks bid to defend their Rugby World Cup ...

Bareng-Batho Kortjaas
Sports editor and columnist: Sunday Times

Bok opponents Ireland's 2023 fate inextricably linked again with Sexton

For the third successive World Cup it is hard to separate Ireland's fate from the fitness of Johnny Sexton, their ...

By Padraic Halpin

Boks ready to deal with expectation

The paradox that is Springbok rugby has seen the defending Rugby World Cup champions drawn from their comfort zone by ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Wallabies have not lost belief despite poor form, says forward Frost

Australia forward Nick Frost says the Wallabies can cast aside their poor form at the Rugby World Cup as Eddie Jones' ...

By Michael Church

Review criticises New Zealand Rugby for 'unsustainable' model

New Zealand Rugby is presiding over a sport in decline and needs urgent reform to address dysfunction in its leadership ...

By Reuters

Boks in better position than four years ago, says assistant coach Stick

Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick insists the Rugby World Cup holders are in a “better position” going into ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Rugby World Cup tarnished as draw makes mockery of rankings

World Rugby’s integrity in question after early World Cup draw.

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter
Sport Editor's Choice

No hazy island holiday for Springboks in Corsica

Unlike the late, great actor Peter O'Toole, the Springboks are no accidental tourists to Corsica.

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Review criticises New Zealand Rugby for 'unsustainable' model

New Zealand Rugby is presiding over a sport in decline and needs urgent reform to address dysfunction in its leadership ...

By Reuters

Boks sweat in hot, humid Corsica and put All ...

If the Springboks were searching for similarities from their build-up to the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, they have ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Boks must sharpen up on discipline, says Duane Vermeulen

Sharpening up on discipline and fixing aspects of the Springboks' game that did not go to plan will the focus in their ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

‘Calm down’: All Blacks coach Foster not panicking despite Boks spanking

Coach Ian Foster said the All Blacks were not panicking ahead of the World Cup despite being thrashed 35-7 by the world ...

By Nick Mulvenney

All the Rugby World Cup pools and star players profiled

The 2023 Rugby World Cup in France kicks off on September 8 with the pool A match between the hosts and the All Blacks ...

By TimesLIVE

All Blacks’ Barrett cleared for World Cup opener after red card against ...

New Zealand lock Scott Barrett will face no further sanction after his red card in the record 35-7 loss to South Africa ...

By Reuters

France thrash beleaguered Wallabies in final ...

Two tries from flying winger Damian Penaud helped World Cup hosts France complete their preparations for next month’s ...

By Reuters

All Blacks' Foster takes positives from record loss to Springboks

New Zealand are sweating on the fitness of prop Tyrel Lomax in the wake of their record 35-7 loss to South Africa in a ...

By Reuters

Boks in seventh heaven after crushing All Blacks but coach Nienaber says ...

If Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber was elated after his team's record win over the All Blacks he hid it very well on ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

England could scarcely head to a Rugby World Cup in worse shape

England could scarcely be heading to the Rugby World Cup in worse shape after a run of five defeats in six games that ...

By Reuters

After flaying All Blacks, Boks keep grounded eyeing Scotland opener

Despite galloping to dazzling record runaway wins over Wales and the All Blacks on successive weekends, the Springboks ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

Record-breaking Boks flex muscles to crush All ...

South Africa will march to the Rugby World Cup with the biggest spring in their step after recording their biggest win ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Boks have depth and players to defend World Cup crown: Sean Fitzpatrick

The former All Blacks skipper cautions it will take a monumental effort to win consecutive titles

By Grant Shub

Clash of heavy hitters: Boks throw caps in the ring for All Blacks dress ...

What do you do on the eve of a Rugby World Cup that has already seen crippling, if not soul-destroying, injury play its ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

‘It’s going to be a big physical battle’: Siya Kolisi on tonight’s game ...

Springboks captain Siya Kolisi says his team will “not hold back” in their Rugby World Cup warm-up game against the ...

By TIMESLIVE

LIAM DEL CARME | The Friday Test ...

The Boks have assembled much time-hardened intellectual property for their final RWC warm-up match against the All ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

SA ref Jaco Peyper in charge of World Cup opener

South Africa’s Jaco Peyper will referee the Rugby World Cup 2023 opening match between hosts France and New Zealand at ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Savea wants All Blacks to go ‘bang’, while Boks will have their Bomb Squad

The question of whether the fiercest rugby rivalry will be scaled down a notch on Friday has been raging in the ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

England dealt World Cup blow as Farrell red card upheld

England captain Owen Farrell will miss the first two matches of the Rugby World Cup after an independent disciplinary ...

By Aadi Nair

Boks will fix earlier All Blacks mistakes, says Kurt-Lee Arendse

Fixing mistakes they made when they lost to the All Blacks in the Rugby Championship will be a priority for the ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

Etzebeth wants Bok pedal to the metal

They may be more than 18,000km away from the scene of the crimes they committed against the All Blacks in the Rugby ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Box tickers and dragon slayers: Kolisi marks ...

The captain didn’t just come through the game unscathed, he delivered a performance full of energetic enterprise

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Boks’ wonder wing with jet feet Moodie fires warning at All Blacks

Springbok wonder wing Canan Moodie fired an ominous incoming try alert to the All Blacks ahead of Friday’s blockbuster ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

Kolisi ‘really grateful’ for leading Boks to record win against Wales

“Thank you for all the support and prayers through my rehab. I am really grateful.'

Former All Blacks coach Hansen to help prepare Wallabies in France

Former New Zealand coach Steve Hansen has joined Australia in a short-term advisory role in the leadup to the World Cup ...

By Ian Ransom

Canan Moodie moved to centre for Springboks against All Blacks

Canan Moodie will play a first Test at centre and there is another start for returning captain Siya Kolisi as ...

By Reuters

Five talking points that the Boks’ warm-up Tests ...

Next week’s selection against the All Blacks might give a clearer idea of what the Boks’ default setting might be in ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Returning Bok captain Kolisi expecting highly competitive clash from Wales

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and assistant coach Mzwandile Stick have emphasised the importance of showing Wales the ...

By SPORTS REPORTER

Boks crush Wales as they continue to gear up for the World Cup

This time the Principality Stadium was not bathed in the artificial light that routinely beams down from its roof. ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Jacques Nienaber wants Boks to be better

His side may have posted a record Springbok win over Wales on their home turf but head coach Jacques Nienaber was ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Faf not bothered if All Blacks field C team against the Boks

Scrumhalf insists SA will prepare the same way as they have things to fix

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

It's a miracle Siya recovered from knee surgery ...

"106 days ago Siya Kolisi had a massive knee surgery, today [Saturday] he’s leaving with the Boks ready to play in the ...

Former skipper McInally misses out as Scotland name World Cup squad

Scotland selected 15 players with Rugby World Cup experience for next month’s tournament in France when they named ...

By Reuters

Scottish Van der Merwe wings his way to World Cup

The Springboks’ pool B rivals Scotland have included Duhan van der Merwe in their Rugby World Cup squad despite the ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Kolisi and Hendrikse need minutes for Boks against Wales: Nienaber

Siya Kolisi and Jaden Hendrikse will remain on the pitch for as long as their match fitness allows when the Springboks ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Bok prop Ox Nché admits he feared not making World Cup squad after injury

Springbok prop Ox Nché feared he might miss out on the World Cup squad after he suffered a torn pectoral muscle injury.

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

Mapimpi agonises over teammate Am

Makazole Mapimpi, one of the big winners at the unveiling of the Springbok Rugby World Cup (RWC) squad earlier this ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

England coach Borthwick will wait on Farrell, Gatland furious with defeat

England coach Steve Borthwick declined to speculate over a potential World Cup opener ban for Owen Farrell after his ...

By Mitch Phillips

IN PICS | Rousing send-off for Springboks as they depart for Rugby World ...

There was an outpouring of support from ardent South African rugby fans who converged on Johannesburg's OR Tambo ...

By THAPELO MOREBUDI

France flyhalf Ntamack to have scan on knee as World Cup looms

France flyhalf Romain Ntamack will undergo a scan on his knee on Monday to see if there is serious damage after limping ...

By Reuters

Etzebeth, Erasmus send warning on Boks’ World Cup opener against Scots

Unpredictable Scotland will be gunning to knock the Springboks off their perch when the sides collide in a pivotal ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

Nienaber has big calls to make on Boks’ World Cup ...

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber faces major selection issues regarding the forwards to take to the World Cup, former ...

George Byron
Deputy sports editor & rugby writer

Eve of World Cup squad reveal dealt cruel blows to the Boks

The eve of the Springbok squad announcement for the Rugby World Cup was cruel to the defending champions.

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter
Sport Editor's Choice

Bok injuries a huge blow, but World Cup squad still boasts experience

Springboks may have to tweak their game in the absence of Handre Pollard

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

No Pollard, Am as Springbok World Cup squad named

The Springboks' 33-man squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup was announced on Tuesday, with no place for star players ...

By Sithembiso Dindi

‘I was scared’: Bok captain Siya Kolisi admits fears trying to regain ...

“I was scared,” Springbok captain Siya Kolisi admits about the injury that nearly ruled him out of this year's Rugby ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

New Springbok jerseys unveiled and opinion may be ...

Nine months in the making. the Nike-designed Springbok jersey for the Rugby Championship has finally been unveiled.

By Sports Staff

POLL | What do you think of the new Springbok jerseys?

The Springboks' long-awaited new Nike-designed jersey has been revealed and is a hit among fans.

Boks' class of 2023 in better shape than 2019, but caps are not everything

The Rugby Championship in a World Cup year is perhaps the least reliable indicator of form

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Boks find voice against Argentina and show Nienaber has options galore

The Springboks fluffed their lines in their final audition for places in the Rugby World Cup in the first half against ...

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter

Bok coaches now have more to ponder as World Cup squad reveal looms

Squad to be finalised but injury to Am could be late setback

Liam Del Carme
Sports reporter
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