By Sota Nakazaki
Note: Sota Nakazaki, from Japan, will also start covering Rugby.
It seemed like just yesterday that last month was one of the most action-packed periods in the world of rugby, with international battles and dramatic turns in domestic leagues taking centre stage. Here is a recap of everything that mattered.
INTERNATIONAL RUGBY HIGHLIGHTS
1. AUTUMN TESTS DELIVER BIG UPSETS
The autumn internationals brought surprise teams into the spotlight across the board. Tier-two nations continued to bridge the gap, with many matches decided by just a few points. This increased physicality, improved defensive systems, and faster attacking play showed how global rugby is steadily evolving.
2. SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE GIANTS REMAIN RESILIENT
Even while experimenting with new line-ups, New Zealand showed flashes of brilliance through developing young talent. South Africa stuck to their power-based game, while Australia focused on rebuilding under new coaches.
NORTHERN HEMISPHERE: EUROPE HEATING UP
3. SIX NATIONS PREPARATION UNDERWAY
As the next Six Nations draws closer, teams such as Ireland, France, and England tested new combinations.
- Ireland remained disciplined and well-organised.
- France continued their fast, creative style of rugby.
- England improved their attack by blending youth with experience.
4. SCOTLAND DOES IT AGAIN
Scotland continued to build momentum through smart defence, better forward organisation, and dangerous backline play — promising signs looking ahead to 2026.
RUGBY IN AMERICA
5. USA RUGBY GROWING QUICKLY
Major League Rugby continued to expand its talent pool, with more American players entering professional academies. The USA made noise internationally as part of their long-term World Cup build. Youth rugby participation increased again, a very positive sign for the sport in the U.S.
CLUB RUGBY AROUND THE WORLD
6. DOMINANCE OF EUROPEAN CLUBS
Premiership, URC, and Top 14 clubs all delivered intense, high-level matches.
- French clubs showed elite attacking ability.
- Irish clubs remained consistent and disciplined.
- English clubs impressed with defence and emerging young talent.
7. SUPER RUGBY SQUADS TAKE SHAPE
Although the season has not yet begun, squads were finalised last month. With returning stars and exciting young players, anticipation is growing among fans of New Zealand franchises.
KEY TRENDS OF THE MONTH
- Faster playing tempo
- Increased use of dual playmakers
- Greater emphasis on defence and kicking accuracy
POOLS AND PREDICTIONS: RUGBY WORLD CUP 2027
POOL A
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Chile
- Hong Kong China
Prediction: New Zealand to top the pool, Australia to finish second.
POOL B
- South Africa
- Italy
- Georgia
- Romania
Prediction: South Africa clear favourites to finish first. Italy to take second, but Georgia will push them hard.
POOL C
- Argentina
- Fiji
- Spain
- Canada
Prediction: Very competitive. Argentina to win the pool, with Fiji advancing in second.
POOL D
- Ireland
- Scotland
- Uruguay
- Portugal
Prediction: Ireland to top the group, with Scotland comfortably finishing second.
POOL E
- France
- Japan
- United States
- Samoa
Prediction: France to win the pool. Second place likely decided between Japan and Samoa, with Japan slightly favoured.
POOL F
- England
- Wales
- Tonga
- Zimbabwe
Prediction: England and Wales to qualify. England first, Wales second.
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