Latest from Rugby Analysis

David Leggat: Much still at stake for World Cup teams

Tana Umaga: Timely focus on Smith's All Black milestone

David Leggat: An upset would be a win for the game

Chris Hewett: England brought tabloid siege upon themselves

Wynne Gray: Tougher schedules leave World Cup underdogs playing catch-up

Wynne Gray: Little sense in conspiracy theory

Colin Meads: Henry's backs look okay, but the forwards are a worry

Chris Rattue: Mil's fading star burns too long

Peter Bills: Northern arrogance masks mediocrity

James Lawton: Here's to the meaning and hopes of NZ rugby

David Leggat: Early upset high on tournament wish-list

Bevan Rapson: Go Switzerland... oh, hold on, it's those Tongan fullas

Peter Bills: Crooked scrum feeds a blight on the game

Emmerson's World Cup view: Sheridan's song

Chris Rattue's Rugby World Cup wishlist (SBW to shine)

It would be nice to think that whatever the tournament outcome, we can enjoy and look back on characters and magical players who force their way into the limelight past the phase counters and ruck interpretation specialists.

Dylan Cleaver: Rugby World Cup good buggers and bad buggers