Latest from Rugby Analysis

Key to RWC final... start strong

There's been a common theme in the previous two sporting World Cup finals between New Zealand and Australia this year - disastrous starts.

Grant Nisbett: No fear of the unknown

Rugby World Cup 2015 - Australia v Argentina: How the Pumas got it wrong

Argentina have come to grips with the Rugby Championship but have some way to go to comprehend World Cup rugby, writes Wynne Gray.

Marshall: The Springboks' biggest threat

As the ABs prepare for a massive semifinal against the Springboks, their halfback and captain poses the biggest threat, writes Justin Marshall.

Scots have only themselves to blame

COMMENT: Referee Craig Joubert is copping flak from all sides, but the outcome isn't his fault, writes Chris Rattue.

Suddenly Wallabies look vulnerable

COMMENT: Many of Australia's old demons have resurfaced, writes Wynne Gray.

'They just can't handle the pressure'

COMMENT: All Southern Hemisphere semifinal creates distinct impression that the rugby played on either side of the equator is vastly different, writes Gregor Paul.

Marshall: My one concern for the ABs

COMMENT: If All Blacks can't solidify that scrum and dominate, then France may have an advantage, writes Justin Marshall.

Gregor Paul: Richie McCaw is not a cheat

He put his team under pressure and let them down - but the All Black captain hasn't suddenly turned to the dark side, writes Gregor Paul.

England won't win Cup with this team

The list of names England announced for their opening game doesn't scream champions, writes Gregor Paul.

Rugby: 'World Cup every six years' - Sir Brian Lochore

What about a six-year gap between Rugby World Cups to allow the game to take on a deeper context rather than repeat preparation for the next tournament? It's an idea Sir Brian Lochore has been pushing since the idea of a global tournament was encouraged about 30 years ago. Andrew Mulligan interviews the All Blacks legend at the the NZME. Legends in Black dinner.

Milner-Skudder proves explosive formula

Maybe the equation should be changed to Energy=MS2 or in this case Milner-Skudder at the double.

Worrying signs for Wallabies after semifinal defeats

Aussie TV rugby commentator Phil Kearns has more to worry about than a dodgy penalty try decision and a few other things that didn't go his way in a Super Rugby semifinal, writes Chris Rattue.

Dream final too close to call

We've got the two best teams going head to head and you wouldn't put your house on the winner, writes Justin Marshall.

Sour grapes in Sydney

The grapes were very sour in Sydney as the Highlanders hillbilly forwards soaked up all the hometown posturing - then rattled to the winning post, writes Wynne Gray.

Justin Marshall: Blues' gameplan isn't working

After writing a couple of weeks ago that I was really pleased with the quality and intensity early in this Super Rugby competition, along came this latest weekend.