A heated war of words has erupted between Irish and French rugby camps after France coach Fabien Galthie accused Ireland players of foul play in Antoine Dupont's devastating knee injury.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus pioneered the use of forward-dominated bench splits and veteran coach Eddie Jones says the tactic makes perfect sense.
The Ireland rugby team has enjoyed an excellent run of success but some feel it has been tarnished by arrogance and that the law looks the other way when they transgress.
France captain Antoine Dupont faces months on the sidelines after confirming he tore knee ligaments during their crucial Six Nations victory over Ireland. The injury to the world's best scrum-half could impact France's title hopes.
France's commanding 42-27 victory over Ireland has put them on the brink of Six Nations glory, but their triumph was overshadowed by a potentially serious injury to captain Antoine Dupont.
England's Six Nations campaign faces a crucial test against Italy at Twickenham, with critics questioning their attacking strategy despite recent victories. Steve Borthwick's side must deliver a convincing performance to keep their title hopes alive.
IOL rugby writer Mike Greenaway casts his eye over the United Rugby Championship and the Six Nations, and predicts the weekend's winners.
Three Irish rugby stalwarts - record holder Cian Healy, captain Peter O'Mahony and centurion Conor Murray - have announced their international retirement following the current Six Nations campaign.
All Blacks wing Caleb Clarke has admitted to dangerous driving charges after a December motorcycle incident in Auckland. The 25-year-old rugby star, who failed to stop for police, expressed remorse and embarrassment while facing potential career implications from New Zealand Rugby.