Paul O’Connell last night warned his Ireland side they have a mountain of a challenge in front of them if they are to beat France next Sunday and top their World Cup pool.

Sergio Parisse would be lauded as the world’s best number eight if he were an All Black, according to Italy lock Quintin Geldenhuys.

In as competitive an arena as the battle for places in Ireland’s backline at this World Cup, Luke Fitzgerald believes his resilience in overcoming a series of serious injuries gives him the mindset to thrive in the white heat of a Test match.

Tommaso Allan knows the routine.

Ireland’s fears over Rob Kearney’s fitness have eased but the full-back remains a doubt for Sunday’s World Cup Pool clash with Italy.

Sergio Parisse is unlikely to train with Italy until Thursday this week, at the earliest, once again calling into question the Azzurri captain’s fitness ahead of their critical Rugby World Cup Pool D meeting with Ireland at London’s Olympic Stadium this Sunday.

Sonny Bill Williams made an instant impact as New Zealand opened their World Cup defence with victory against Argentina, but says there is plenty of work to do.

With the Rugby World Cup taking place so close to home, many of the stadiums will be familiar to Irish fans.

Bakkies Botha has told Paul O’Connell his move to Toulon could extend the Ireland captain’s career by up to four years — if he relaxes and learns to enjoy his time in France.

Usain Bolt completed another triumphant appearance at London’s Olympic Stadium as he led the Racers Track Club team to success in the 4x100 metres relay in the Sainsbury’s Anniversary Games.

Chris Froome’s Tour de France victory is a “huge achievement” while Britain’s back-to-back wins in the event are “monumental”, six-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy said today.

London’s Olympic Stadium has been confirmed as one of 13 venues for the 2015 Rugby World Cup and will host five matches, tournament organisers announced today.

Winning at the Olympics does away with the need for any profundities when signing the visitors’ book.