The Springboks are used to being the pantomime villains of world rugby. Their bruising style, proclivity for controversy and yes, success, make them a team everybody loves to hate.

The possibility of Ronan O'Gara being part of France's backroom team for the 2019 World Cup has increased with French Rugby Federation sources in Paris confirmed the Munster and Ireland legend was "under consideration."

Japan Rugby Football Union chairman Nobby Mashimo has confirmed his country has made a formal bid to host the World Cup in both 2015 and 2019.

THE Japan Rugby Union have denied any involvement in the legal attempt made last week to have the result of the 2011 World Cup vote annulled.

Australia and Japan have signed an historic accord designed to promote co-operation between the two rugby football unions.