Rugby Union

Wales assistant fitness coach Huw Bennett says being fitter than other teams at the 2019 World Cup is their aim.

Northampton Saints sign hooker Michael van Vuuren from Premiership rivals Bath.

Wales back-rower Aaron Shingler feared a knee injury would force him to retire, but the Scarlet is confident he will now be fit for the World Cup.

The sport's governing body in New Zealand said the tickets had been re-sold on the secondary market.

South African twins Dan and Jean-Luc du Preez sign permanent deals with Sale Sharks, having initially agreed to join on loan.

Prop Gareth Milasinovich will miss much of his debut season with Ulster with a knee ligament injury.

Billy Vunipola is determined not to disrupt England's World Cup plans and regrets the impact of defending Israel Folau's anti-gay comments on his team-mates.

Hooker Harry Thacker and wing Luke Morahan are two of seven players to sign extended contracts with Bristol Bears.

Lock Dominic Day leaves Premiership side Saracens after two seasons to join Major League Rugby side San Diego Legion.

Edinburgh back-row Magnus Bradbury vows to improve his consistency as he seeks to secure a place in Scotland's World Cup squad.

Australian utility back James O'Connor could make his international return this weekend after a six-year absence.

Worcester Warriors allow head coach Rory Duncan - a target for South African side Southern Kings - to leave Sixways.

Sale and Scotland back row Josh Strauss leaves the club to join South African Super Rugby side Blue Bulls.

New Zealand win the Women's Rugby Super Series title after beating England 28-13.

Great Britain's men and women will play in the rugby sevens at next year's Tokyo Olympics after England won their qualifying events.

Ken Owens has played at two World Cups, but hopes to actually start a game in the 2019 tournament in Japan.

England's men and women's teams reach the quarter-finals of the Olympic Rugby Sevens tournaments, with the winners earning qualification for Tokyo 2020.

Ulster utility back Will Addison joins Ireland's training squad for the Rugby World Cup in Japan this autumn.

Centre Kieran Williams earns a first senior deal with Ospreys at the age of 22.

Emily Scarratt scores two tries and kicks the winning points as England narrowly beat France in the Women's Rugby Super Series.