Wherever and whenever it’s been doable this past week or so, I’ve squeezed in chats with interesting rugby folk while south of the equator.

One or two bad apples in an orchard is no big problem. At the start when I took over there was some weeding to be done in the garden and it wasn’t done in one afternoon either. It took time

Leinster’s collapse against Northampton raises major concerns about their Lions contingent and tactical judgment under pressure

Maybe the way Leinster have been steamrolling the knockout stages has something to do with it. Are people saving for the final? 

Finally a win after a long time eating fish. So why am I still grumpy?

Ronan O’Gara reflects on pressure, perspective, and why La Rochelle’s fight starts and ends with Saturday’s clash

We've decamped down to Cap Ferret for a change of air but 50km up the coast on Saturday this rejuvenated Munster team should not be underestimated 

The older kids know Dad needs a win, but two of them went to rugby training this week in Munster jerseys.

As Ireland seek a strong Six Nations finish, France’s depth, mentality, and Galthié’s tactical masterclass spark key discussions

There hasn’t been this much anticipation in France around any game since the World Cup quarter-final with South Africa.