#Andy Friend

1 - Who will win the World Cup? On home soil, and with a star-studded squad full of pace and power, there is no doubt that France are the team to beat. However, this looks like being one of the most open World Cups ever, with at least six teams capable of going all the way. Bring it on. 2 - Can Ireland break their glass ceiling? Heart says yes,…

Connacht are first of the Irish provinces to head to the Southern Hemisphere this season with the second URC game of their South African tour taking place against the Bulls this weekend. Here's all you need to know about the game. Where and when is it on? The match takes place at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria at 5.30pm Irish time on…

Connacht are first of the Irish provinces to head to the Southern Hemisphere with the first URC game of their South African tour taking place against the Stormers this weekend. Here's all you need to know about the game. Where and when is it on? The match takes place at the Danie Craven Stadium Stellenbosch, an hour's drive from Cape Town, at…

Head coach: Marco Bortolami Captain: Dewalt Duverago/Michele Lamaro Last year: 13th Betting: 150-1 Players In: S Hildago-Klyne (Exeter Chiefs), T Menoncello (promoted academy), A Garbisi (Mogliano), G Nicotera (Rovigo), G Da Rae (Rovigo), F Drago (Mogliano), M Drudi (Mogliano), S Scrafton (Hurricanes), O Ratave (Fijian Drua), M Zanon (Pau), M…

Ulster and Connacht begin their seasons with a URC interpro clash this weekend. Here's all you need to know about the game. Where and when is it on? The match takes place at the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast at 7.35pm on Saturday. What's the team news? We'll bring you team news from both camps when it's released. Where can I watch the game? The match…