Fiji’s victory over Australia at the World Cup was a boost for smaller rugby nations and a sign of the Pacific islanders’ rapid improvement, but structural issues within the game mean it is likely to be the exception rather than the norm.

Lock Eben Etzebeth has been passed fit to play for South Africa against Ireland in their Rugby World Cup Pool B clash in Paris as coach Jacques Nienaber opted for seven forwards on the bench for the fixture that could decide the group.

Portugal winger Vincent Pinto has been banned for two games for kicking Wales’s Josh Adams in the head while jumping to catch a high ball in a World Cup match in Nice last weekend.

Namibia have made nine changes to their starting XV for the Rugby World Cup Pool A clash with hosts France in Marseille on Thursday as coach Allister Coetzee looks to give his wider squad a taste of the tournament in this “special occasion”.

Italy’s first objective at this Rugby World Cup is to win their opening two games, and after disposing of Namibia, winning 52-8, they now face a Uruguay side who should not be underestimated.

The rugby journey of Flying Fijians fullback Ilaisa Droasese commenced at a young age, fueled by his unwavering passion, which ultimately paved the way for his rise to stardom.

The influence of Reverend Joji Rinakama has brought about a significant shift in the mindset of the Flying Fijians at the Rugby World Cup.

The Fiji Water Flying Fijians are now ranked eighth in the world after the 22-15 win over Australia in the Rugby World Cup yesterday.

Nadroga has another tough encounter this week as they face Suva in the Inkk Farebrother Trophy challenge.

When Italy line up to face Uruguay on Wednesday, and the national anthem rings out around the Stade de Nice, the opening words will have a special meaning for four members of the team.

South Africa will not rule out a 7-1 split between forwards and backs on their bench for the highly anticipated World Cup clash with Ireland, director of rugby Rassie Erasmus said as he confirmed flyhalf Handre Pollard will not play.

Uruguay have made two changes to their side for their second Rugby World Cup Pool A clash against Italy in Nice on Wednesday, largely sticking to the team that won praise following a brave performance in their opener against France.