New Zealand's women break English hearts as they retain their World Cup crown in a nail-biting and hard-fought contest at The Stoop.

Prop Soana Tonga'uiha scores twice as Northampton begin their Premiership campaign with a 27-19 victory over reigning champions Leicester.

Sam Vesty scores 17 points as Bath open their Premiership campaign with a bonus-point victory at Leeds.

Wales Women end the World Cup in ninth position with a comfortable revenge win over South Africa at Surrey Sports Park.

Fly-half Gareth Steenson stars as Exeter claim a memorable win 22-10 over Gloucester on their Premiership debut.

Italian side Benetton Treviso announce their arrival in the Magners League with a stunning home victory over the Scarlets.

Australia edge a classic Tri-Nations encounter in Bloemfontein, a last-ditch penalty from Kurtley Beale settling the outcome in favour of the visitors.

London Irish stage a second-half comeback to defeat Saracens in the Premiership's opening London double-header.

Wasps share honours with Harlequins in a 29-29 draw at Twickenham.

Cardiff Blues claim a bonus point win as Dan Parks has a dream debut against many of his Scotland team-mates.

Munster's under-strength side have to battle hard before overcoming Magners League newcomers Aironi in Saturday's clash at Musgrave Park.

Connacht get their Magners League campaign off to a winning start with a comprehensive 40-17 win over the Dragons at the Sportsground in Galway.

Ospreys and Wales centre Jonathan Spratt is battling to play again this season after knee ligament surgery.

Sale Sharks open their new Premiership account with a 35-18 win over a poor Newcastle Falcons side.

Ospreys captain Jerry Collins berates the officials after the 27-26 defeat to Ulster in Ravenhill.