Recap: Your weekend in rugby

A look back at some of the biggest stories in the world of rugby over the past weekend. Catch up with the news here.

Hansen: All Blacks happy to avoid Japan

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen has paid Japan the ultimate compliment by saying they were happy to avoid the Brave Blossoms in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

Watch: Larsen’s red card

Canada lock Josh Larsen was red-carded for this illegal and dangerous clear-out on Thomas du Toit in the first half of their match against the Springboks in Kobe on Tuesday.

‘All the pressure is on South Africa’

Italy coach Conor O’Shea believes his side have the ‘heart and courage’ to challenge the Springboks in this Friday’s crucial Pool B clash at the Shizuoka Stadium.

World Cup teams (Round 3)

All the lineups from the third round of World Cup matches in Japan.

SA Team of the Week (Round 16)

JON CARDINELLI picks a South African XV based on performances in the 16th round of the Vodacom Super Rugby tournament.

Jaguares have one hand on SA title

While all four South African sides remain in the playoff hunt, the Jaguares are one victory away from clinching the conference title, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Saffas must bury tour bogey

The South African teams’ successes in the Vodacom Super Rugby tournament – as well as the success of the Springboks at the World Cup in Japan – may hinge on an improved showing in Australia and New Zealand, writes JON CARDINELLI.

SA Team of the Week (Round 4)

JON CARDINELLI picks a South African XV based on performances in the fourth round of the Vodacom Super Rugby tournament.

June Test teams (Week 3)

This weekend’s Test lineups as they are announced.