Legends of the Cup: Part two

South Africa lifted the Cup in their first appearance in 1995 before Australia became the first nation to win it twice. Photo / Getty Images/AllSport

With the 2011 Rugby World Cup less than a month away, the Herald looks back at the past six tournaments in a three part series.

The latest edition looks at the 1995 and 1999 tournaments.

Part one: 1987 and 1991

1995:
Video: Great World Cup moments - 1995

Setting the scene: The drop goal that helped heal a nation

Doubt and drama on road to '95

Shine of top ref's gold day marred

Tournament action: Springboks' first time unites divided nation

The outcome: Mandela factor unified an emerging nation

How we won it: South Africa - Magic of coaching a world-class team

All Black memories: 'We had the weapons to win it'

Tournament star: Jonah Lomu - The try scoring blitz

Legendary characters of the World Cup

1999:
Video: Great World Cup moments - 1999

Setting the scene: Big shift when the game turned pro

Tournament action: Sacre bleu! France demolish All Blacks

How we won it: Australia - 'Trust gave us belief'

All Black memories: 'In reality we were a team of individuals'

Aussies didn't need a curfew

Tournament star: John Eales - King John's coronation