The Latest Breaking News from World Cup

Key talking points as Ireland prepare for Rugby World Cup opener against Romania

Johnny Sexton will captain the world’s top-ranked nation on his return from suspension.

The Independent UK · Sep 8, 2023

Ireland have greatest chance to break Rugby World Cup curse but questions remain

Ireland are desperate to final get beyond the quarter-finals in Johnny Sexton’s last stand, writes Luke Baker, but fates may be conspiring against them again

The Independent UK · Sep 8, 2023

Lawrence Dallaglio column: Steve Borthwick passion play vital to set England World Cup tone

Red Roses coach must strike the right emotional pitch to inspire his players before Saturday’s pivotal Pool D opener against Argentina

Evening Standard · Sep 8, 2023

Alex Mitchell ready to continue World Cup rollercoaster ride in England’s opener

Mitchell starts Saturday’s showdown at the Stade Velodrome despite being overlooked for Steve Borthwick’s 41-man training squad named in late June.

The Independent UK · Sep 8, 2023

Darcy Graham passed fit for Scotland in World Cup opener against South Africa

The Edinburgh wing missed the last warm-up match with a quad strain but is now ready to play.

The Independent UK · Sep 8, 2023

Josh Sheehan using ‘dark days’ after injury as motivation to revive Wales career

The 28-year-old was sidelined for nine months after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in November 2021.

The Independent UK · Sep 8, 2023

2023 FIBA World Cup: SGA struggles as Canada loses to Serbia in semifinals, 95-86

Canada's 2023 FIBA World Cup run ends with a whimper in 95-86 semifinals loss to Serbia.

USA Today Sports Media Group · Sep 8, 2023

Shhhh! Rugby World Cup fans face fines if they are too noisy in Marseille

England and Scotland open their World Cup campaigns in city this weekend with fines of up to £154 for noise pollution and £128 for drunkenness

The Guardian - UK · Sep 8, 2023

Who will get over the line? Bumper weekend for pubs as rugby fans hope England can beat the odds

The opening match of the tournament sees the hosts clash against favourites New Zealand

Evening Standard · Sep 8, 2023

Rugby World Cup predictions: Winner, top try scorer, surprise package and more

Who are The Independent’s writers tipping for glory in France?

The Independent UK · Sep 8, 2023