Latest News & Developments
european challenge cup
Jake White: Playing at home won’t mean we will automatically win our games
The men from Pretoria set their sights on winning crucial home games over the next couple of weeks at Loftus Versfeld to boost their chances of hosting URC play-off matches.
Long-term Lions deal for captain Horn: We can still achieve big things
The Johannesburg team secured another one of their stars for the next three years as they continue to build on their squad for the United Rugby Championship and European competitions.
Eben Etzebeth’s concussion recovery must be about prioritising his health
Eben Etzebeth’s health should take precedence this season as the Sharks and Springboks navigate his concussion recovery, prioritising a successful return for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Eben Etzebeth’s concussion woes could be big concern for Sharks, Springboks
As the Sharks continue to navigate their injury crisis, the ongoing symptoms of their captain and enforcer lock could have a major impact on their season.
WATCH: Dive into the heart of South African rugby with The Last Word On Rugby podcast
Welcome to the exciting new podcast The Last Word On Rugby, presented by Independent Media Sport, that aims to bring more insights into the rugby sphere in SA and abroad.
Redemption on the cards for Sharks after heavy defeat in Bordeaux
The Durban side look to regain momentum as they face Cardiff Rugby in the United Rugby Championship (URC) following a heavy defeat in the Champions Cup.
SA rugby teams can’t be all things to all people
Explore the reasons behind South African rugby teams' struggles in European competitions and the implications for player management.
Lions and Bulls prosper as Shark and Stormers flounder
South African rugby teams faced a challenging week in European competitions, with only the Lions and Bulls performing well while others struggled.
Flyhalf poser for Bulls as Jake ‘very happy’ about ending losing run
The Bulls emerged out of their dark hole to knock over Stade Francais 48-7 and end their Champions Cup campaign on a high note, and qualify for the Challenge Cup round of 16.
Dragon-slaying Lions laud mix between kicking and attacking game
Lions secure a spot in the Challenge Cup play-offs with a commanding 60-10 victory over the Dragons, showcasing their X-factor players in a must-win clash
Dominant Lions roar to victory over Dragons in Challenge Cup showdown
Lions secure a commanding 60-10 victory against the Dragons at Ellis Park, showcasing their strength and skill as they advance to the Challenge Cup round of 16
We want to make Loftus alive again, says Cameron Hanekom as Bulls stampede past Stade Francais
Cameron Hanekom admitted that the Bulls had been feeling the pressure heading into the Stade Francais game after four consecutive losses, but they were determined to rectify things.
Springbok flank Ruan Venter, star centre Henco van Wyk bring real bite to Lions against Dragons
The Lions lost 28-5 away to pool leaders Montpellier last week, their second loss in three Challenge Cup matches. Yet, they remain in play-off contention on their return to Ellis Park.
Lions amped to breathe fire on Dragons, says Izan Esterhuizen
Lions flanker Izan Esterhuizen said his team have no choice but to go for broke against Welsh side Dragons in the Challenge Cup at Ellis Park this weekend.
Lions aim for ‘prettier’ rugby in Challenge Cup quest
The equation is simple for the Lions: win at Ellis Park against the Dragons, and they will play in the Round of 16 of the Challenge Cup.
Quan Horn back, Kelly Mpeku makes Lions Challenge Cup debut against Montpellier
Lions No 11 Edwill van der Merwe is sure to have a battle royale against Montpellier No 14 Madosh Tambwe, who also once played for the Johannesburg outfit.
We don't want to get caught with our pants around our knees against Antoine Dupont, says Shark's Ox Nche
The 29-year-old Ox Nche said his side will have to be alert to the danger of the explosive Toulouse and France scrumhalf Antoine Dupont.
Lions keen to claw back style points in Montpellier clash
While the Lions are renowned for spreading the ball wide, they also want to bring greater balance to their play, starting with Saturday’s Challenge Cup clash against Montpellier.
Lions speedster Edwill van der Merwe wary of Montpellier ‘physicality’
The Lions’ quest for dominance will be boosted by the return from injury of Springbok fullback Quan Horn, while exciting backline prospect Kelly Mpeku is embarking on his debut tour.
Quan Horn’s return from injury welcome boost for Lions for tricky Montpellier trip
Coach Ivan van Rooyen’s Lions team are feeling energised after their two-week break, and Springbok fullback Quan Horn’s return will only add to their optimism of an upset win.
Sharks juggle Springboks around ahead of European date with Antoine DuPont's Toulouse
The Sharks are poised to welcome back Springboks Eben Etzebeth and Bongi Mbonambi for their European Champions Cup match against Toulouse.
Pressure on Bulls, Stormers in Champions Cup
It is the Last Chance Saloon for the winless Stormers and Bulls in the Champions Cup and the Cheetahs in the second-tier competition.
Sharks all at sea as Tigers pounce, Lions hold off Pau in thriller
The Sharks conceded five first-half tries to be blown away by Handré Pollard’s powerful Leicester Tigers outfit in their Champions Cup showdown at Welford Road on Saturday night.
Fort Ellis key to the Lions’ revival against Pau
The Lions will look to turn their fortunes around at Ellis Park as they face French club Pau in the EPCR Challenge Cup this afternoon.
Lions aim to French-fry Pau in Joburg heat
After a disappointing run of three consecutive losses, the Lions aim to restore their season’s momentum against Pau in the Challenge Cup.