Sexton and Kearney battling for fitness but van der Flier’s Six Nations looks to be over

Powerful Toulon centre in the frame for the opener against England at Twickenham

CJ Stander again to the fore as Munster see off Ronan O’Gara’s visiting Racing team

Rassie Erasmus’ side begin Champions Cup quest with considerable challenge of Racing

Rassie Erasmus’s side need to offer more variety than they displayed against Leinster

Ireland lock defends props as he prepares for another physical encounter with England

Joe Schmidt unable to hide anger as France turn game around in second half

Joe Schmidt’s aiming to beat France four times in row and good start will be half battle

Guy Noves backs Jefferson Poirot and Uinio Atonio to cause Irish pack problems

Prop bedding in well to international set-up but not willing to take anything for granted

A Sergio Parisse inspired Italy push Les Bleus to the death in Six Nations opener in Paris

Sevens star will start on the wing when France take on Italy in Six Nations

French side keep up unbeaten record in Champions Cup

New Zealand set up Springbok semi-final with nine-try rout of demoralised France side

Joe Schmidt’s players knew jobs inside-out and performed them to maximum effect

Sexton and O’Connell departures fail to halt unstoppable Irish momentum

‘It is imperative to go after him, to tire him so that he finds it tough to make the calls’

Players from ethnic minorities will play key role for Les Bleus in tournament challenge

Six Irish make team of tournament joined by players from France, England and Wales

Stuart Lancaster’s side determined to win silverware ahead of World Cup

France coach says Ireland are favourites but expects ‘another tight one’

Injured prop Alexandre Menini drops out off the team as Eddy Ben Arous steps up

Uncapped Clermont winger named in Philippe Saint-Andre’s 31-strong training squad

Fans get behind home team as English outhalf takes the plaudits with 16-point haul