England fly-half Fin Smith says an under-par autumn would trigger fundamental questions about the team's direction.

Former Scotland scrum-half Mike Blair reveals his excitement after teaming up with Dave Rennie as New Zealand attack coach and the prospect of facing up against his home country.

Canada captain Sophie de Goede says she still loses sleep over their World Cup final loss to England last year.

Northampton director of rugby Phil Dowson tells the BBC's Saints Show that the club has better chance of defending their title.

History favours Wales, but a slump in form leaves their WXV opener against South Africa finely poised.

The club says there has not been enough demand for the project.

Exeter boss Rob Baxter says the Prem club has been sharing knowledge with Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.

Wales and Bristol back Louis Rees-Zammit says he will be a winger who can play full-back this season for club and country.

Hooker Bryony Field will make her first start for England as the Red Roses take on Canada, who they beat in last year's World Cup final, in the WXV Global Series

Connacht back row Jemima Adams Verling is handed her senior Ireland debut in Sunday's WXV Global Series opener against the United States in Dublin.

Wales fly-half Gareth Anscombe is still hungry for action despite signing up for a supporting role with Scarlets in United Rugby Championship.

Ospreys could field a side that is a third Australian after a summer recruitment drive that brought in four players from the southern hemisphere.