English rugby star James Haskell has gone naked to celebrate the World Cup - and he has Warren Gatland to thank for the inspiration.

Former England lock Paul Ackford has given Richie McCaw's men in black his seal of approval lauding the All Blacks as "ruthless" and "confrontational".

ITV commentator Nick Mullins has been slammed after making disrespectful on-air comments about Fiji.

The England squad will share a jackpot of almost $14m if they lift the tournament trophy as ultimate victors.

Kerr-Barlow tells how backyard drills inspired him to become pass master.

The 2015 Rugby World Cup kicked off this morning. Here's all that occurred in the early hours.

Fans on social media were quick to react to this morning's Rugby World Cup opener between Fiji and England, with many critiquing the commentary and referee's decisions.

Opening night didn't suggest England are on track as a serious contender

England were the winners but viewers were increasingly looking at their watches during a lengthy Rugby World Cup opener full of stoppages.

Organisers of Rugby World Cup's opening ceremony showed they had a sense of humour by transforming Prince Harry into a peasant gardener.

Former All Black captain Sean Fitzpatrick was the focal point for NZ during the opening ceremony, while some very royal familiar faces were spotted front and center.

The All Blacks have become masters at bringing through new players who can contribute from day one.

Remember it's the new game in town. After weeks of window-dressing about team arrivals, hypothetical discussions and likely combinations, the World Cup begins.

The Japanese rugby side, known as the Cherry Blossoms, have a strong reputation for their courageous yet comparably small players.

Daniel Carter has a World Cup winner's medal, yet no memories of dominating the tournament. He's in London to put that right.

If you are up early today you'll still be too late to catch the opening Rugby World Cup game at one downtown Auckland bar.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has named his strongest lineup for the World Cup opener against Argentina.

There's something reassuring about the side the All Blacks have picked for the opening game, writes Gregor Paul.

Kiwis are reaching for their wallets as the Rugby World Cup draws near, with Trade Me searches for memorabilia and jerseys increasing dramatically in recent weeks.

The World Cup won't be just about what happens on the field. Here are the storylines likely to dominate during the course of the tournament.

England v Fiji is a tricky start for the hosts and it's fair to say there are plenty of normally confident English fans who are a tad nervous, writes Grant Nisbett.

The 2015 Rugby World Cup kicks off on Saturday morning - here's everything you need to know to prepare your weekend viewing.

Steve Deane scours global media for an offbeat look at rugby's biggest show.

We identify the "real" reason why each team won't win the Rugby World Cup.