Are South Africa now the best team in world rugby by some distance—or can France expose weaknesses in the back-to-back world champions?

Ben Jaycock is joined by South African rugby analyst Steve Noble to preview one of the biggest matches of the Nations Championship: France against the Springboks in Paris.

They assess South Africa’s form following their 66–7 demolition of Italy, Rassie Erasmus’ evolving attack and the players driving the Springboks’ continued dominance.

Steve also explains what makes France dangerous, how South Africa can contain Antoine Dupont, whether the French pack can withstand the Springbok power game and where the world champions remain vulnerable.

Plus, are South Africa even stronger than the side that won the 2023 World Cup—and who will decide this heavyweight contest?

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What should England supporters know about Eddie Jones’ Japan ahead of their Nations Championship meeting at Twickenham?

Ben Jaycock is joined by Japanese rugby expert Steve Noble to examine the Brave Blossoms’ development, tactical identity and form since Jones returned as head coach.

They discuss Japan’s 28–21 defeat by Wales, the key players England must watch, the influence of Japan Rugby League One and whether the national side has developed the physicality required to compete with the world’s leading teams.

Steve also assesses where Japan could trouble England, how Eddie Jones’ second spell is viewed domestically and what would constitute a successful afternoon at Twickenham.

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Can Marcus Smith inspire England against Australia—and should George Furbank replace Freddie Steward at full-back?

This week on The Rugby Paper Round-up, we preview England’s opening November Test and assess Steve Borthwick’s biggest selection decisions. We discuss England’s growing injury list, the loss of Alex Mitchell and why a fit Immanuel Feyi-Waboso could transform their attack.

We also predict the inaugural Nations Championship, asking whether France, Ireland or New Zealand can prevent South Africa from adding another trophy.

Elsewhere, we examine Italy’s underwhelming campaign and extensive injury problems, reflect on the lessons from the Red Roses’ two defeats by Canada and look ahead to the launch of the new Premiership Women’s Rugby season.

Pick up The Rugby Paper every Sunday for exclusive interviews, expert analysis and comprehensive coverage from the international game, Premiership, PWR, Championship and National Leagues.

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In this episode, I take a deep dive into Andy Farrell’s latest Ireland squad announcement and give my thoughts on the selections, what Andy may be planning for the upcoming Nations Championship Northern Hemisphere Series, and preview one of Ireland’s most epic Interpro rivalries: Leinster v Munster!

With Andy going mostly for brawn, selecting 19 forwards and 17 backs, I discuss what I think certain key players will add to the international side, shine a light on the two debutants, and look at how the ever-reliable expected call-ups have shown us time and again that they are worthy of pulling on the green shirt.

This Saturday, the epic clash between Leinster and Munster kicks off once more at 6pm at the Aviva Stadium. I give my thoughts on team pairings, the face-offs I’d like to see, and how I think Leinster will right last year’s wrongs!

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After 41 matches without defeat, the Red Roses have finally been beaten, with Canada claiming a dramatic 24-21 victory in Toronto.

But is this a warning sign for England, or exactly what women's international rugby needs?

In this week's special edition of The Rugby Paper Roundup, Assistant Editor Ben Jaycock is joined by The Guardian's Sarah Rendell to examine Canada's remarkable rise, what went wrong for John Mitchell's world champions and how England can respond in Friday's rematch in Ottawa.

🌹 England's unbeaten run ends We discuss: How Canada overturned England's advantage to claim a historic victory Whether England have become too reliant on forward dominance What John Mitchell needs to change Whether defeat could make the Red Roses stronger

🇨🇦 The rise of Canada After losing the 2025 World Cup final, Canada have now drawn and beaten England in successive meetings. How have they closed the gap so quickly, and can they establish themselves as the dominant force in women's rugby?

🌍 Why WXV matters We explore the importance of regular competitive internationals, growing women's rugby beyond its traditional strongholds and creating meaningful rivalries ahead of the 2029 World Cup.

🔥 England v Canada – Ottawa preview Can England bounce back on Friday, or will Canada make it two consecutive victories over the world champions?

🏆 PWR season preview With the Premiership Women's Rugby season approaching, we discuss: Saracens' title defence Trailfinders' impressive form Gloucester-Hartpury's ambitions The players and teams to watch this season Plus, the Black Ferns' emphatic victory over France and the wider future of women's international rugby.

💬 JOIN THE DEBATE Is England losing actually good for women's rugby? Can Canada win again in Ottawa? And who will win the PWR? Let us know in the comments! 📰 Read The Rugby Paper: https://www.therugbypaper.co.uk/ 👍 Like, subscribe and turn on notifications for weekly rugby analysis and debate. #RedRoses #CanadaRugby #WomensRugby #WXV #PWR #TheRugbyPaper

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Today I was delighted to be joined by the founder of The Arthur Wharton Foundation, Shaun Campbell!

Arthur’s remarkable story began when he moved from Ghana to England, settling in Darlington in 1883. He went on to become the world’s first Black professional footballer, the first officially recognised fastest man and a professional cricketer and rugby player.

The foundation works to promote racial harmony for the public benefit by promoting knowledge and mutual understanding between different racial groups. It also advances education and raises awareness of equality and diversity by promoting activities that foster understanding between people from diverse backgrounds.

On Saturday 17th October, Darlington Mowden Park Rugby Club will be welcoming Shaun and the Arthur Wharton trust to celebrate Black History Month and Darlington will be presenting a ball signed by all of their players of colour from the minis to the seniors.

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