Johnny Sexton drives Irish hopes against strong Springboks 7-1 bench strategy

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Saturday’s fixture Ireland v South Africa is a moc-Cup Final. It sees Johnny Sexton drive Irish hopes of a pinnacle World Title while defending title-holders the Springboks utilize their advanced 7-1 bench strategy. Ideally, fans could view this match-up later in the draw – your number one versus numbered teams two, three, or four should […] READ MORE


2003 RWC Anniversary: Simon Shaw

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It’s been 20 years since England were crowned 2003 Rugby World Cup champions, and Last Word on Rugby caught up with one of the successful squad members Simon Shaw. 2003 Rugby World Cup Anniversary: Simon Shaw Simon Shaw shared with Larissa Falls his favourite moments and memories from the 2003 triumph, and looked ahead to […] READ MORE


2003 RWC Anniversary: Matt Giteau

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Hard to fathom that this year’s Rugby World Cup brings up the 20-year anniversary since the 2003 RWC tournament in Australia. A contest where Wallabies playmaker Matt Giteau would be involved in one of the more epic finales in all RWC folklore. The 40-year-old was then in his early career with the Australian national team, […] READ MORE


Rugby World Cup 2023 fixtures: Top games in Round Two action

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The first round of Rugby World Cup 2023 fixtures felt like ‘Christmas come early’ for rugby fans. It was a celebration across the French host nation, and this weekend looks to be just as action-packed. That first weekend certainly delivered some shiny gifts. Attacking flair from Wales v Fiji, a brilliant no-look cross-field kick from […] READ MORE


France to win the 2023 Rugby World Cup

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The 2023 Rugby World Cup promises to be the most open tournament since its inception in 1987. Pointers suggest France to win this World Cup as host . Realistically there are six teams who have a genuine claim to winning the famous Webb Ellis trophy. France are favourites, with Ireland and South Africa very close […] READ MORE


Barbarians push Northampton Saints hard in Gallagher Premiership preseason

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The ongoing 2023/24 Gallagher Premiership preseason has heated up, and not just due to a long summer. The Barbarians FC became a ‘player’ last weekend when they pushed the Northampton Saints hard at Franklin’s Gardens. In a type of festival game atmosphere, spectators will have enjoyed the 12-48 win to the Baabaas, though Saints ‘dye […] READ MORE


RWC Anniversary: 2007 Memories with Mamuka Gorgodze

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RWC Anniversary: 2007 Memories with Mamuka Gorgodze It’s been exactly 16 years since France last hosted the Rugby World Cup tournament. I was lucky enough to interview former 2007 competitor and Georgian international back-rower, Mamuka Gorgodze, as he takes us down memory lane and looks towards this years’ campaign.    What are your memories of […] READ MORE


England v Argentina: rich rewards come at a risk on September 9

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After England’s first ever loss to Fiji at Twickenham, confidence has plummeted ahead of the World Cup. Now with fears of a Group Stage exit ever-present, the England v Argentina fixture sparks great anxiety for English fans. Below is a playing XV which offers a different approach. There is definitely some controversial calls enclosed, yet […] READ MORE


RWC 2023 Pool A: France or New Zealand, who will blink first?

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Pool A promises to be a thriller with the host France taking on the All Blacks in the opening match of the RWC (Rugby World Cup) 2023. The host of this year’s RWC 2023 France will be keen to better their results in front of their home crowd. These two rugby powerhouse will be keen […] READ MORE