This year’s Rugby World Cup has the potential to deliver a billion-dollar boost to the New Zealand economy, according to a report commissioned by MasterCard.

Springboks coach Peter de Villiers has leapt to the defence of Wayne Barnes following his decision not to consult the television match official following a controversial missed penalty kick that potentially cost Wales victory.

Bad-boy Wallabies first five Quade Cooper reckons his lack of popularity was the reason he was chosen to undergo a random drugs test following his side’s 32-6 victory over Italy in their Rugby World Cup opener in Albany last night.

Both Wales fullback James Hook and coach Warren Gatland believe a controversial missed penalty kick during their side’s narrow loss to the Springboks in Wellington last night should have been referred to the television match official.

Optimists will tell you the All Blacks face ‘good’ problems after their opening RWC hit-out; pessimists will say some of the cracks that surfaced earlier this year became painfully apparent during their unimpressive second half effort.

Australia is the team to beat at the Rugby World Cup, says Italy coach Nick Mallett.

The All Blacks have an experienced squad, but one that is too old to win the Rugby World Cup, says former Wallabies skipper Andrew Slack.

Wales coach Warren Gatland has sprung a couple of selection surprises for his side’s opening Rugby World Cup game against South Africa in Wellington on Sunday.

Tonga’s physicality will provide the perfect test for the All Blacks when they open their Rugby World Cup campaign at Eden Park tonight, says assistant coach Wayne Smith.

There is only one spectator Japan coach John Kirwan feels the most pressure to impress when his side opens its Rugby World Cup campaign against France in Albany tomorrow.

France wing Maxime Médard has labelled his side’s Rugby World Cup opener against Japan in Albany tomorrow as a “danger match”.

After months of talking and planning, the Rugby World Cup is here and All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw cannot wait to get stuck into it.

Enjoy the Rugby World Cup.

The Springboks have named the most experienced starting XV in history for their Rugby World Cup opener against Wales in Wellington on Sunday.

Wallabies flanker David Pocock is flattered former All Blacks fetcher Josh Kronfeld rates him so highly.

Delon Armitage will make his Rugby World Cup debut when England opens its campaign against Argentina in Dunedin on Saturday.

Wing Mark Cueto will play no part in England’s opening Rugby World Cup clash against Argentina in Dunedin due to a back injury.

Tongan skipper Finau Maka is in doubt for tomorrow night’s opening Rugby World Cup clash against the All Blacks at Eden Park.