Bath boss Steve Meehan believes it is "quite possible" northern hemisphere players could be attracted by the prospect of playing Super 14 rugby in Australia. FULL STORY >>
Gloucester have granted Andy Hazell a Testimonial year this season while Guy Easterby has been appointed Chief Scout at Leinster.
The Top 14 kicks off on August 26, and the Guinness Premiership and Magners Leagues on the weekend of September 5/6, but none of the clubs will be heading into the season cold.
London Irish have moved to boost their back-line options with the signing of hard-running centre Elvis Seveali'i from Sale Sharks.
Wallabies legend Matthew Burke will be given a grand send-off by the Newcastle Falcons on Friday when the Guiness Premiership outfit hosts the Western Force.
Wellington and other tales Six Nations finale Understanding the ELVs
Never ones to miss a couple of moments of mirth, here are a few choice 'De Villierisms'!