Rugby News, Analysis, History, Schedule, Rumours
Back in the summer the Six Nations organisers hinted that there may be changes to the tournament. At the time, Last Word On Rugby covered the possibilities. Following discussion, the first of these changes will take effect in the 2017 competition [begins February]. After being approved by all parties, there will be Six Nations bonus points awarded over […] READ MORE
The All Blacks might have all the odds and history in their favour, but Steve Hansen is not taking a Pumas side that is on the rise ‘lightly’ this week. With that mindset, it shows the All Blacks are ready for a Pumas onslaught in round three of the The Rugby Championship. Beating Argentina would see […] READ MORE
With the autumn International Tests approaching, and a tough summer tour of New Zealand to look back on, only wins will constitute success for Wales in their continued pursuit of the rugby world’s elite. The initial aftermath of the series whitewash against the All Blacks was a low period. The fact that New Zealand were victorious […] READ MORE
A common question raised by many fans and commentators in South African Rugby – “is Adriaan Strauss a bad Springbok?” If you hear some pundits and many of the Boks followers, it’s commonly claimed that Strauss is one of the worst players within Allister Coetzees’ setup. Statements made are that “he doesn’t tackle”, “Malcolm Marx brings more […] READ MORE
The closer we get to the knockout stages of the competition, all levels are on the rise. Tension, blood-pressure and; hopefully most of all, skill level. As fans enjoy Week Eight Mitre 10 Cup action, you need to applaud the players and the games results, with all played at the highest level. That counts for Mitre […] READ MORE
Two terrific test matches were played on opposite sides of the world. Final round of The Rugby Championship, but in reality, one side had dominated the tournament in 2016–the All Blacks claiming the trophy with ease. They visited South Africa to play their longtime foe, the Springboks. Across the world, in London, Argentina and Australia […] READ MORE
Super Saturday brings you a weekly update on the state of New Zealand (NZ) Rugby. This week we get a step closer to the playoffs. A rise in temperature you might conclude, as the heat is turned on all sides and Top Teams Need To Shine. This weekend, you have a full-card of matches: three Mitre […] READ MORE
Plenty of intrigue surrounds this traditional South Africa v New Zealand (RSAvNZL) Rugby Championship battle in Durban. Teams at either end of the rugby-spectrum: the All Blacks claiming the Championship (TRC) and the Springboks with only two wins. READ MORE
Widely-touted as a star of the future, Damian McKenzie has survived his first appearance for the All Blacks and can now continue to grow into his role. Given 30-minutes on the field, McKenzie was able to experience the white-hot heat of test match rugby as an All Black. The game was already ‘in the bag’ at […] READ MORE
A dogged display at Loftus Versfeld saw the Springboks snap their current losing streak in the Rugby Championship. READ MORE
Ryan is the Managing Editor at Last Word on Rugby and resides in Johannesburg, South Africa. He specializes in opinion pieces relating to International rugby, Super Rugby and domestic rugby in South Africa.
His career highlights include being granted media accreditation for the Rugby World Cup tournament.