Players embarrassed by defeat

Victor Matfield says the humiliating loss to Japan has increased the pressure on the Boks to win the World Cup, reports JON CARDINELLI in Brighton.

Boks can’t explain defeat

Neither coach Heyneke Meyer nor captain Jean de Villiers know why the Springboks slumped to their first-ever defeat against Japan on Saturday. JON CARDINELLI in Brighton, reports.

Japan humiliate Springboks

Japan recorded one of the biggest upsets in Test rugby history when they edged the Springboks 34-32 on Saturday, reports JON CARDINELLI at Brighton Community Stadium.

Dominant Lions outplay Sharks

The Golden Lions clinched their seventh successive win of the Currie Cup as they defeated the Sharks 26-18 at Ellis Park on Saturday. CRAIG LEWIS reports.

Alberts out, Du Toit in

Pieter-Steph du Toit will start at blindside flank for the Springboks against Japan after Willem Alberts injured his calf during the captain’s run.

WP batter Blue Bulls

Rob du Preez scored 14 points as Western Province clinched an impressive 29-14 win over the Vodacom Blue Bulls at Newlands on Friday, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

Pumas do double over Kings

The Pumas erased an early deficit to defeat the EP Kings 20-9 in Friday's Currie Cup match at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit. MARIETTE ADAMS reports.

Springboks ready to rumble

Bok captain Jean de Villiers says they could not have asked for more during their final week of preparation for Saturday’s World Cup game against Japan.