Jamie Roberts believes Wales' critical World Cup opener against South Africa has "all the ingredients to be a classic".
Martin Johnson has been praised for transforming England into "strong contenders" for the World Cup - by tournament favourites New Zealand.
Scotland centre Graeme Morrison is excited about the Rugby World Cup and one game in particular - the clash with auld enemy England.
Two-time World Cup finalists France look set to be without three key backs for their World Cup opener against Japan in North Harbour next Saturday according to French assistant coach Emile Ntamack.
The All Blacks on Saturday said they are ready to challenge for the World Cup as they shrugged off a barrage of grim news just six days before they open the tournament on home soil against Tonga.
England manager Martin Johnson admitted Saturday to concerns about playing Argentina first up in the World Cup given the South Americans' record of upsetting the form book.
Japan has had a taste of the wet and cold conditions likely to greet teams at the World Cup and many of its players aren't impressed.
New signing Pat says he cannot wait to get stuck into action with the Exeter Chiefs, after arriving at Sandy Park on Friday.
Canterbury won their fourth successive NPC title, when they beat Waikato 12-3 in the first-ever tryless Final at the Waikato Stadium, in Hamilton, on Saturday.
Wales coach Warren Gatland is optimistic about the World Cup fitness prospects of Lions trio Gethin Jenkins, Stephen Jones and Ryan Jones.
Their opening match may be just over a week away, but Wales coach Warren Gatland wasted no time in getting the first shot in, in what is sure to be an interesting verbal stoush in the coming days.
Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, true to form, marked his arrival in New Zealand with a statement that raised the eyebrows.
South Africa coach Peter de Villiers again rated New Zealand as the favourites at the World Cup, but dismissed out of hand the notion that the Springboks are the most prone to kicking.
Sir Ian McGeechan has warned his Bath side they cannot afford to take Newcastle lightly in their Premiership opener on Saturday evening.
Ireland's forwards coach Gert Smal remains convinced they possess "something special" despite a troubled build-up the World Cup.
