January 2012 - new-look England – be brave – that’s the motto need to live by if they’re to build a team that can challenge for the 2015 World Cup says Stuart Barnes, North star – after a classy World Cup George North has become a household name in Wales but the Scarlets’ teenage wing insists he can still up hi sgame says Sarah Mockford, stories from the back of the bus – throughout the ups and downs of his Scotland career Nathan Hines loved playing a prank and he talks with Tom English about why he has retired from international rugby, I’m not going quietly – fed up with the view from the Munster bench Donncha O’Callaghan is fighting for his red NO. 4 shirt and his career writes Tom English, game zone – learn how to…, big in Japan – James Haskell has turned his back on England honours this season to get a taste of life in Japan and New Zealand writes Ian Stafford, the Stephen Jones column – rebuilding the North – first Leeds now Newcastle look set for the drop so what can be done to revive the fortunes of the big clubs in the North of England, life after rugby – fail to prepare…and prepare to fail – it’s a trap that many professional players are keen to avoid so Katie Field finds out what the likes of Tom May and James Grindal are up to as they start to plan for life after rugby, photos of the year – the rugby year in pictures, 10 RFY gaffes – the current political turmoil at England’s governing body is just the latest in a long line of boardroom blunders at HQ writes Gavin Mortimer, why are new Zealand so good? – in a word, culture as John Daniell goes back to his homeland to examine the reasons why the All Blacks are consistently top of the pile, proving ground – Twickenham this month hosts a raft of talent from Saracens and Harlequins eager to show their England credentials says Sarah Mockford, guide to the grounds – Kingston park home of Newcastle Falcons, Team of the Month – Basel (Switzerland), focus on Wales including a profile of Cardiff Blues and Wales scrum half Lloyd Williams, national land regional news from England including spotlights on Dings Crusaders, Haslemere, St Francis, North Dorset, Widden Old Boys, Driffield, Blackburn, Rolls Royce and Stoneygate, schools rugby, Canterbury School Team of the Month – Dulwich College, Canterbury Schools Player of the Month – Jordan Ethelston (Pangbourne), Scarlets and Wales centre Jonathan Davies talks of his rugby journey.

February 2012 - – new England’s first test is the oldest fixture of them all – a bone-chilling trip to Edinburgh writes Frank Keating, fixtures and TV info for January, 2012 RBS Six Nations fixtures, spotlight on England interim head coach Stuart Lancaster, spotlight on Ospreys & Wales second row Ian Evans, spotlight on Munster & Ireland scrum half Conor Murray, spotlight on Castres & Scotland wing Max Evans, follow our lead – Danny Care believes England can bounce back from a woeful few months by learning from the winning example of his Harlequins team writes Ian Stafford, no pain no gain – injury forced Matthew Rees to miss the World Cup and cost him a starting place and now he wants his Wales shirt back says Sarah Mockford, confidence is saying we can and I know we can – Jamie Heaslip is not afraid to predict big things fire Ireland and the No. 8 hopes his team-mates will stand tall in 2012 too says Tom English, Gray outlook – Scotland’s superstar lock Richie Gray has a lot on his mind as he opens up on the move to Sale, Six Nations ambitions and his hunger to succeed writes Richard Bath, game zone – learn how to…, a year in rugby – review of the year by Gavin Mortimer, our tribute to absent friends – remembering some of those from the game’s global family who sadly passed away in 2011 writes Adam Hathaway, throwing their hat into the ring…there are a legion of contenders for the England coaching job but who should be the head man asks Stuart Barnes, who will replace Shane Williams? – the wing’s retirement has left a gaping hole in Wales’ back line so who are in the running to fill the No. 11 shirt writes Sarah Mockford, photo special – a rugby weather warning – photos of inclement weather conditions, all in a good cause – get coaching, walking, cycling, rowing, recycling or hosting to help the fantastic work of our super seven rugby charities, the Stephen Jones column – ten wishes for 2012 – a new year means a new start and Stephen Jones believes he has the perfect plan to improve the game, rising star – champagne Charlie – having just missed out on a place at the World Cup Gloucester try machine Charlie Sharples is hoping to get England fizzing in the Six Nations writes Ian Stafford, it all started here…Paul Hodgson at Sutton & Epsom writes Alan Pearey, Team of the Month – RC Delft Dames (The Netherlands), focus on Wales including a profile of Scarlets & Wales centre Scott Williams, national and regional news from England including spotlights on Hull, Maidstone, Ely Tigers, Oakmedians, Somerton, Liverpool Collegiate, Durham University Women, Leicester Forest and Birmingham University, schools rugby, Canterbury School Team of the Month – Edinburgh Academy, Canterbury Player of the Month – Alex Wootton (Sedbergh), Bath & England wing Matt Banahan tells of his unusual journey to Test rugby.

March 2012 - big banana skin – Ireland have never lost to Italy in the championship but hooker Rory Best expects a fierce battle in Dublin, Scots on the warpath – Chris Paterson tells Bea Asprey that it’s time to bloody French noses once again, a king of kings – ten years after his Test debut we still marvel at Ireland’s towering totem Paul O’Connell, fixtures and TV info for February, spotlight on Harlequins & England flanker Chris Robshaw, spotlight on Cardiff Blues, Wales & Lions centre Jamie Roberts, spotlight on Ulster, Ireland & Lions wing Tommy Bowe, spotlight on Edinburgh & Scotland tighthead prop Geoff Cross, who will win the Six Nations – new coaches and fresh talent make this year’s championship one full of unknowns says Stuart Barnes, life at the Cole face – it’s been a tough few months for England’s Dan Cole and he’s determined to make amends for a gloomy World Cup in 2012 writes Ian Stafford, vive la difference – ten years learning his trade in England has given new French coach Philippe Saint-Andre the belief that Les Bleus can conquer the world says Ian Borthwick, Ferris zeal – Stephen Ferris relishes the physical side of rugby and the Ireland flanker is looking forward to making his presence felt in the Six Nations says Tom English, the contenders – here’s everything you need to know about the teams chasing Six Nations glory by Gavin Mortimer, rugby is like a computer – new models always come along but none stand the test of time like Italy’s Mauro Bergamasco writes Gianluca Barca, from humble beginnings…to Wales’ first choice fly half Rhys Priestland who didn’t like rugby at first but the Scarlet is making up for lost time says Sarah Mockford, Mr intense – Scotland coach Andy Robinson wears his heart on his face and he’s hoping his players will deliver in the Six Nations writes Richard Bath, England’s world beaters – England Women put the men to shame in 2011 with a comprehensive series win over New Zealand and now a hat-trick of Six Nations Grand Slams is on their agenda says Katie Field, game zone – learn how to…, we’re Eton Manor – save our season! – we promised to help an under-performing amateur club; and this Essex outfit ticked all the boxes says Alan Pearey, let us entertain you – the new Super Rugby season kicks off this month and the southern hemisphere elite face challenges on both sides of the whitewash as they try to attract bigger crowds says John Daniell, the big debate – should there be relegation from the Six Nations asks Nick Cain, it all started here…Paul Diggin at Northampton Boys’ Brigade Old Boys, more than meets the eye – David Pocock is the king of turnovers but away from the dark arts of the breakdown the Wallaby flanker has more humanitarian goals writes Sarah Mockford, king of Sevens – Gordon Tietjens is a hard taskmaster but his methods have made New Zealand the best sevens team in history writes Alex Lowe, Team of the Month – Cashel (Munster), focus on Wales including a profile of Cardiff Blues and Wales wing Alex Cuthbert, national and regional news from England including spotlights on Richmond, Norwich, Seaford, Southmead, Puddletown, Old Crossleyans, Burnage, Oadby Wyggestonians and Coventry Welsh, schools rugby, Canterbury School Team of the Month – Woodhouse Grove, Canterbury Schools Player of the Month – George Plowman (Tregib CS), Ospreys, Wales & Lions tighthead prop Adam Jones talks through his rugby journey.

April 2012 - up for the cup – Katie Field says this month’s LV Cup semi-finals have extra significance for Bath, no rest at Rugbyfest! – John Bentley tells Alan Pearey about one of the game’s great social tournaments, hollow turf – postponed in Paris? Why, 40 years ago not all the teams even made it to the finish line says Frank Keating, fixtures and TV info for March, spotlight on London Irish & England prop Alex Corbisiero, spotlight on Bayonne, Wales & Lions scrum half Mike Phillips, spotlight on Leinster & Ireland tighthead prop Mike Ross, spotlight on Scarlets & Scotland wing Sean Lamont, Mr Cool – Owen Farrell is England’s latest bright young thing and Ian Stafford finds out how his path to the top has enabled him to stay calm under pressure and take everything in his stride, a day in the life of Toby Faletau – everyone has seem the Wales No. 8 bowling over opponents but what does ho do off the pitch – Sarah Mockford finds out, we need to be better at everything – it’s proving an eventful Six nations for Ireland fly half Jonathan Sexton who is constantly demanding improvements says Tom English, Ross examination – he’s a publicity-shy former skier who’s been making a big impact in the No. 7 shirt for Scotland as we put Ross Rennie under the microscope writes Richard Bath, game zone – learn how to…, we’re Eton Manor – save our season! Part 2 – the under-performing amateur club asked for our help so we took them down the gym to meet the pros writes Alan Pearey, the Stephen Jones column – who’s the next Lions coach? – it’s time to appoint the man to guide the British Isles’ best players on the 2013 tour to Australia and Stephen Jones assesses the contenders, photo special – viva Italia! – passion for the game, it all started here…Dave Attwood at Frampton Cotterell, the last eight – here’s the lowdown on the European knockout stages – Heineken Cup quarter-finals – Edinburgh v Toulouse, Leinster v Cardiff Blues, Munster v Ulster and Saracens v Clermont-Auvergne, Amlin Challenge Cup quarter-finals – Stade Francais v Exeter Chiefs, Toulon v Harlequins, London Wasps v Biarritz and Brive v Scarlets, pearls of the orient – the eyes of the rugby world will focus on the Hong Kong Sevens this month but the island plans to be far more than just a short-term stop-off says Owain Jones, Team of the Month – Salisbury, focus on Wales including a profile of Saracens & Wales prop Rhys Gill, national and regional news from England including spotlights on Otley, Trojans, Harwich & Dovercourt, Redingensians Rams, Painswick, Bradford Salem, Fleetwood, Newark and Northampton Old Scouts, schools rugby, Canterbury School of the Month – St Joseph’s College, Canterbury Schools Player of the Month – Sam Underhill (Sir Thomas Rich’s), a few things you didn’t know about England & Lions second row Simon Shaw.

May 2012 - Ford on the radar – there’s growing competition for England’s No. 10 shirt as Leicester’s LV Cup triumph confirmed, take your seat for London 2012 – Great Britain’s preparations for the Paralympics wheelchair rugby step up a notch this month reports Alan Pearey, rugby rant – Gavin Mortimer gets wound up by TV wannabes, fixtures and TV info for March and April, spotlight on Scarlets & Wales centre Jonathan Davies, spotlight on Leicester & England second row Geoff Parling, spotlight on Ulster & Ireland hooker Rory Best, spotlight on Edinburgh & Scotland half back Greig Laidlaw, Wales the best of a bad bunch – it wasn’t a dazzling Six Nations but the portents are still good for the men in red says Stuart Barnes, Big Ben Morgan – England’s No. 8 was impossible to miss in the Six Nations thanks to his rampaging runs and now he wants to get stuck into the Boks writes Ian Stafford, half measures – why are Wales Grand Slam Champions…because men like Leigh Halfpenny leaves no stone unturned in a bid to bring success to their country writes Sarah Mockford, the flying Dutchman – the solution to Scotland’s try-scoring travails is waiting in the Edinburgh wings for Tim Visser can wear the thistle in June writes Richard bath, in safe hands – Rob Kearney is one of the most consistent full backs in world rugby so how does the Irishman stay on top of his game asks Bea Asprey, game zone – learn how to…, we’re Eton Manor – save our season! Part 3 – what happened when the amateur Essex club went to London Irish for a training session writes Alan Pearey, the Stephen Jones column – Welsh regions on red alert – Wales may be Grand Slam champions but the exodus of the team’s star players is a growing concern as Stephen Jones offers his solutions, just another rugby team – as England’s only mixed-ability rugby team the Bumble Bees are flying the flag for social inclusion so Alan Pearey went to Yorkshire to see just how far the boundaries are being pushed, Owain Jones meets Derek McGrath who is chief executive of the ERC and asks the questions that the Rugby World readers want answered, Pumas’ progress – Argentina for too long bit-part players on the world stage are finally taking a leading role, thanks to the drive of their former skipper Agustin Pichot writes Frankie Deges, it all started here…James Gaskell at Sandbach, Team of the Month – Enfield Ignatians, focus on Wales including a profile of Cardiff Blues back rower Andries Pretorius, national and regional news from England including spotlights on Launceston, Twickenham, Newmarket, Old Patesians, Swindon, Chester, Hartlepool Boys’ Brigade Old Boys, Long Eaton and Bakewell Mannerians, schools rugby, Canterbury School Team of the Month – Old Swinford Hospital, Canterbury Schools Player of the Month – George Trick (Bryanston), things you didn’t know about Australia scrum half Will Genia.

June 2012 - count on us – next month England Counties tour will be their most exciting and significant to date says Alan Pearey, emergency measures – knowing what to do if a player collapses can help save lives says Sarah Mockford, rugby rant – RFU coach Carson Russell on the Middlesex Sevens, fixtures and TV info for May, June and July, spotlight on George Robson (Harlequins & England Saxons), spotlight on Alex Cuthbert (Cardiff Blues & Wales), spotlight on Sean O’Brien (Leinster & Ireland), spotlight on John Barclay (Glasgow & Scotland), Owain Jones meets England’s new head man Stuart Lancaster who reveals how much his life has changed in recent weeks, bouncing black – Ireland are facing the formidable task of repairing their dented confidence by taking on the All Blacks but wing Andrew Trimble says his nation can prosper if they learn some lessons from his province Ulster writes Katie Field, the two sides of Dan Lydiate – the flanker’s work ethic was forged from childhood spent on the family farm’s fields and now it’s paying dividends for Wales on the world’s rugby pitches says Sarah Mockford, the whole Hogg – full back Stuart Hogg has made a flying start to his Scotland career and he talks mentors, attacking intent and the friend who spurs him on writes Tom English, happy go lucky – there have been plenty of peaks and troughs in the roller-coaster career of David Strettle but he keeps on smiling says Sarah Mockford, game zone – learn how to…, we’re Eton Manor – save our season! Final part – the Essex amateurs conclude their incredible journey with a memorable visit to high-flying Harlequins reports Alan Pearey, the Stephen Jones column – good time to turn over the big guns – the southern hemisphere giants should be looking nervously over their shoulders as the home nations come calling, it all started here…Dom Waldouck at Richmond, the trouble with Africa – Bhubesi Pride is an intrepid group of rugby fold and have met with a few adventures during their travels across the African continent to spread the game’s gospel, the big debate – is the Heineken Cup better than Super Rugby asks Nick Cain, special report – depression – coping with the end of your playing career can be hugely traumatic and former pro john Daniell looks at why ex-players are vulnerable to depression and how to help avoid it, rock climbing – there’s a spot of ruck and roll happening in Gibraltar and Gavin Mortimer meets the men developing a rugby culture in the British territory, Team of the Month – Halstead, focus on Wales including a profile of Ospreys centre Ashley Beck, national and regional news from England including spotlights on Caldy, Bognor, Thanet Wanderers, Cheltenham Sarries, Dorchester, Barnsley, Bernard Castle, Worksop and Ashbourne, schools rugby, Canterbury School Team of the Month – The Leys, Canterbury Schools Player of the Month – Dan Leavy (St Michael’s College), things you didn’t know about Ospreys, Wales & Lions utility forward Ryan Jones.

July 2012 - 30 minutes with Glasgow & Scotland scrum half Chris Cusiter, they could be heroes – Jonny Wilkinson is challenging England to match the Class of 2000 writes Sarah Mockford, talk back with Bismarck du Plessis, Andrew Blades and John Afoa, hotshots – Ross Harrison (Sale Sharks) and Cory Hill (Cardiff Blues), the one and only – Gareth Edwards recalls the last time Wales were triumphant over the Wallabies on Australian soil, Ryan ready to go blow for blow – Ireland’s lock can’t wait to reacquaint himself with the All Blacks, rugby rant – Dan Cottrell wants a rule change for junior rugby, fixtures and TV info for June, July and August, 2013 RBS Six Nations fixtures, spotlight on Christian Wade (Wasps & England Under 20), spotlight on Dan Biggar (Ospreys & Wales), spotlight on Conor Murray (Munster & Ireland), spotlight on Tom Ryder (Glasgow & Scotland A), Manu from heaven – Manu Tuilagi is relishing the physical challenge of playing in South Africa and the centre believes this tour will prove that England are on the up writes Ian Stafford, the beat goes on – music man Gethin Jenkins has been a Test prop for a decade but the Welshman is still hitting all the right notes and is ready for new challenges says Sarah Mockford, last chance saloon – Ireland play new Zealand three times this month and Brian O’Driscoll knows those Tests are likely to represent his final opportunity to beat the All Blacks writes Tom English, I’ve got enough demons without letting other people give me theirs too – this has been the most trying of years for Nick de Luca but the Scotland centre is determined to rise above the abuse says Richard Bath, game zone – learn how to…, power of London – The HSBS Sevens World Series finished at Twickenham with the shortened format in rude health writes Owain Jones, cheers I’ll drink to that and that… Stephen Jones toasts both the highs and lows of the 2011-12 season as he presents his alternative awards, ready Eddie – he took Australia to a World Cup final and South Africa to the Trophy itself but can Eddie Jones now turn Japan into genuine contenders asks Rich Freeman, Heineken Cup final at Twickenham on 19 May 2012 – Leinster 42 Ulster 14 – photos plus views from the coaches, players and fans, Amlin Challenge Cup final at The Stoop on 18 May 2012 – Biarritz 21 Toulon 18 – photos plus views from the coaches, players and fans, it all started here…Ben Moon at Cullompton, data protection – top clubs are not only using detailed statistics to make tactical decisions but to prevent injuries and aid recruitment as Simon Creasey reports, Matt Hampson interviews Shaun Edwards, meet the two Melbourne magicians who trip the light fantastic for the Wallabies – James O’Connor and Kurtley Beale, Team of the Year – Old Bristolians, divisional champions in Wales and England, schools rugby, Canterbury School of the Year – Coleg Sir Gar, Canterbury Schools Player of the Month – Matthew Van Sertima (Merchant Taylors’ Crosby), things you didn’t know about Scotland wing Simon Danielli.

August 2012 - talk back with Gonzalo Camacho, Gwyn Jones and Paul Wallace, hotshots – Sam Hill (England Juniors) and Luke Hamilton (Wales Juniors, Hitchin a lift – Owain Jones finds the President’s XV Awards going from strength to strength when he visits his local club, Elektrik youth for Barkley – the Bath centre is running his own coaching camps but with a difference, rugby rant – Katie Field seethes at the Heineken Cup seedings, fixtures and TV info for July and August, spotlight on Jonathan Joseph (London Irish & England), spotlight on Darren Cave (Ulster & Ireland), spotlight on Bradley Davies (Cardiff Blues & Wales), spotlight on Ryan Grant (Glasgow & Scotland), the North’s still playing catch-up – Scotland may have enjoyed an unbeaten June tour but the other home nations were left battered and bruised so what lessons can be learned asks Stuart Barnes, armed Robshaw – Chris Robshaw has been firing on all cylinders for club and country and he’s delighted to have proved himself worthy of leading this England team says Ian Stafford, we’ve had enough of heroic losses – a series whitewash in Australia has taken the shine off Wales’ Grand Slam for Sam Warburton and the maturing captain is determined to help change his country’s fortunes writes Sarah Mockford, pro active – Ireland prop Cian Healy has adopted a more professional attitude to find the right balance between work, rest and play says Sarah Mockford, blood test – his clash of heads while celebrating victory over Australia made Joe Ansbro a You Tube sensation and now the centre wants Scotland to crack on says Richard bath, game zone – learn how to…, World of Sevens – the sevens game is on the cusp of becoming an Olympic sport for the first time so what better time to discuss its future says Owain Jones, top trumps – after a sizzling month of test rugby action how many Europeans would make a World XV asks Gavin Mortimer, the Stephen Jones column – does the Heineken Cup need a change of direction – Stephen Jones debates whether the English and French are right to demand a new format for Europe’s elite event, Zac the knife – All Blacks wing Zac Guildford has a talent for slicing open defences but his most recent challenge involves cutting alcohol out of his life writes Sarah Mockford, photo special – showing their super powers – a selection of photos from the 2012 Super Rugby season to date, players won’t remember the team talks or practices…they’ll remember the way you make them feel – Lion king Ian McGeechan draws on his vast experience to offer some sound advice to next year’s tour planners, shock and oar – he might have been competing in the London Olympics but instead Cadeyrn Neville has stunned the rugby world by changing from an elite rower to a Wallaby contender In just three years writes Sarah Mockford, Wray’s treasure – the world’s most valuable collection of sports memorabilia belongs to one of rugby’s own – Nigel Wray and here’s just a fraction of the Saracens chairman’s amazing hoard writes Alan Pearey, X factor – they’ve confounded commentators and exceeded expectations for the past three years as wing Matt Jess explains the secret of Exeter Chiefs’ success writes Katie Field, calling the toon – Gregor Townsend is stepping out of Andy Robinson’s shadow to take up his first head coaching role as Katie Field reports, King’s bounty – he was part of a hugely successful Wasps side but Alex King has now moved into coaching to help Clermont-Auvergne thrive is France writes Gavin Mortimer, Wales back rower Gareth Delve talks about birthdays, boarding school and bodybuilding.

September 2012 - big push for RWC 2015 – qualifying for rugby’s showpiece event in England in three years’ time is well underway, talk back with Craig Chalmers, Mark Evans and Marco Bortalami, hotshots – Jan Serfontein (Blue Bulls) and Iain Henderson (Ulster), peak practice – Phil Vickery invited two stars of the women’s game to join him on a madcap mountain dash for charity, rugby feast – Scotland and England greats are joining forces for a charity Calcutta Cup dinner in London, rugby rant – Pontypool’s Dai Watt fires some shots at the WRU, fixtures and TV info for August, spotlight on Dean Mumm (Exeter Chiefs & Australia), spotlight on Steve Tandy (Ospreys head coach), spotlight on Angus Macdonald (Glasgow & New Zealand), spotlight on James Downey (Munster & Ireland Under 19), sweet dream – Ben Foden has his sights set on big goals for club and country says Ian Stafford, extra extra read all about it – a strong work ethic has taken Jonathan Davies from bit-part player to a Wales mainstay and the centre promises that there’s more to come says Sarah Mockford, right at home – Ireland wing Tommy Bowe os back in Belfast and after an enforced break he’s raring to hit new heights with Ulster says Sarah Mockford, starter for 10 – Scotland’s fly half dilemma has run and run in the pro era but they look to have found the answer is wee Greig Laidlaw writes Richard Bath, game zone – learn how to…, the Rugby Championship – the southern hemisphere has a new competition – Argentina now starring with Australia, New Zealand and South Africa writes Sarah Mockford, the Stephen Jones column – rugby left red-faced by exiles farce – London Welsh’s belated promotion to the premiership highlighted huge flaws at the top of the game and Stephen Jones offers his solutions, tales of the unexpected – from a hairy spider to a scary hider have a chuckle at these weird and wonderful stories from a round the world in the past 12 months writes Sarah Mockford, six men and a boat – transforming Bath’s fortunes will seem like a doddle for Toby Booth after he took part in the world’s longest canoe race as Nigel Botherway reports, photo special – wham bam that’s how to win a Slam – photos of Wales’ RBS Six Nations Grand Slam, wanted man – he’s been hailed as the next Ireland coach and a must for the Lions tour not that Leinster would dream of letting Joe Schmidt says Tom English, it’s like chess with violence – history beckons for great Britain wheelchair rugby team as they head into London 2012 under captain Steve Brown as Alan Pearey reports, capital gains – Phil Godman has swapped Edinburgh for London in the hope of reviving his rugby career so why has he picked London Scottish in England’s second tier asks Katie Field, the big debate – should we have more covered stadia asks Nick Cain, the Youngs ones – one is an established international and the other is still learning his trade at hooker after a change of position – Meet the brothers turning out for Leicester and England – Ben and Tom Youngs by Ian Stafford, it felt like they’d transported the Millennium Stadium to Brisbane – Nathan Grey will never forget the 2001 Lion series as the former Wallaby talks about the highs, the lows and the incident with Richard Hill writes Sarah Mockford, Munster & Ireland hooker Jerry Flannery talks about the past, present and future.

October 2012 - Wayne Smith – The New Zealand World Cup winner who coached the Chiefs to a first Super Rugby title, den of Dragons – the Gwent-based side may have lost a few stars but there’s a new batch raring to go at Rodney Parade, Lawrence Dallaglio – the iconic former England and Lions No. 8 who is now a RWC 2015 ambassador, rugby rant – referee criticism hit a new low with Graham Henry’s outburst says reader Ian Dunne, fixtures and TV info for August and September, spotlight on Dom Waldouck (Northampton & England Saxons), spotlight on Jonathan Mills (London Welsh & Wales Under 21), spotlight on Paddy Jackson (Ulster & Ireland Under 20), spotlight on Paul James (Bath & Wales), look who’s back! – Danny Ciprani believes he’s returning to English rugby all the better for his Australia sojourn and Sale Sharks’ new star fly half is ready to do his talking on the pitch says Sarah Mockford, advance Ospreylia fair – Alun Wyn Jones led the Ospreys to the Pro12 last season but now the lock wants to guide them to success in Europe as well as on the domestic front writes Sarah Mockford, chasing history – he’s been around the block but Ireland centre Gordon D’Arcy has a spring in his step as he helps Leinster go for a record third straight Heineken Cup writes Tom English, running wild – David Denton is famed for surging at opposition defences with ball in hand but this summer it was the Edinburgh No. 8 who found himself facing a charging beast writes Richard Bath, pro insight – army camp with London Irish – discipline and team bonding topped the agenda during the Exiles’ pre-season preparations, fitness – how to maintain strength, mini rugby – how to sidestep – learning how to dart around defenders is a great attacking tool, here comes the sun – when Gloucester owner Tam Walkinshaw died his son Ryan chose to take on the running of the club so why did he step up to the plate asks Katie Field, head 2 head – there’ll be a battle royal at Glasgow this season as test stars Stuart Hogg and Rory Lamont fight for the No. 15 jersey says Richard Bath, last throw of the dice – Leicester captain Geordan Murphy has won everything in the club game but the Irishman hopes to mark his final Premiership season with one more piece of silver writes Alan Pearey, when Barnesy met Hilly – Rugby World sent Stuart Barnes to grill his old Bath buddy Richard Hill about his hopes and expectations for Worcester Warriors this season, I’m back – having served his time for Bloodgate Dean Richards has ambitious goals in mind for Championship outfit Newcastle writes Nigel Botherway, photo special – let the games begin! – the Olympics may have captured the public’s attention but rugby’s top players have been busy in pre-season, call to Arms – the Cardiff Blues squad was decimated at the end of last season but new director of rugby Phil Davies is determined to revive the region as they move back to the Arms Park writes Matt Lloyd, knees up Master Brown – it was party time for Mike brown at the end of last season but the Harlequins full back is chasing more glory in this campaign says Sarah Mockford, the Stephen Jones column – Saracens break new ground – before settling in Barnet Sarries are taking games far and wide – Stephen Jones looks at the club’s innovative approach, the Penny drops – Munster know they need to revolutionise their game to challenge Leinster for Irish supremacy and have brought in Rob Penney to lead the way writes Tom English, true pro – Welsh fly half Stephen Jones has been tasked with helping Wasps out of the doldrums and his unstinting commitment will be key says Owain Jones, former Ireland & Lions flanker and now Scarlets head coach Simon Easterby talks farms, photographs and philosophies.

November 2012 - Paul Wallace – the former Ireland prop who was part of the last victorious Lions team in 1997, save Raeburn – the birthplace of international rugby is under threat as Richard bath reports from Edinburgh, Pumas’ continental drift – Argentina’s involvement in the Rugby Championship has captured South Africa’s attention, David Flatman – the former Bath and England prop who was forced to retire because of injury, rugby rant – the crooked feed needs straightening out says coach and scrum devotee Andy Hopper, fixtures and TV info for October, spotlight on Julian Salvi (Leicester & Australia A), spotlight on Hanno Dirksen (Ospreys & USA Eagles in two uncapped matches), spotlight on Simon Zebo (Munster & Ireland), spotlight on Chris Fusaro (Glasgow & Scotland A), duty of Care – it’s been a turbulent 12 months for Danny Care off the field yet he’s enjoyed his greatest triumph on it writes Sarah Mockford, home town boy – Jamie Roberts is thrilled to be back playing at the Arms Park as Cardiff Blues rebuild but like his club is his career at a crossroads asks Owain Jones, pain is temporary glory is forever – with three Heineken Cup winners medals in storage Jamie Heaslip knows all about European success but can he help Leinster to record a third straight title asks Tom English, the road less travelled – the professional academies thought he was small beer but Lee Jones still became the toast of Edinburgh’s Heineken Cup run last season but can he stand tall again asks Richard Bath, losing their sparkle? – Toulouse may be French champions but they flopped in Europe last season and scrum half Luke Burgess tells us what to expect this time writes Gavin Mortimer, hitting the big time – Samu Manoa has made a huge impression at Northampton but there’s much more to the powerful forward than meets the eye says Ian Stafford, photo special – moments like these…are what make the Heineken Cup the best club competition in the world, pro-insight – top tips from Jonny Wilkinson – the World Cup winner offers advice to the next generation, fitness – how to reduce body fat, mini rugby – how to box kick – here’s a way to turn a defensive situation into an attacking opportunity, one direction – after the success of London 2012 all roads lead to the Gold Coast this month as the HSBC Sevens World Series gets underway in Australia writes Owain Jones, the Stephen Jones column – stage set for 2015 – England must take on the baton of London 2012 when it comes to hosting the next World Cup says Stephen Jones, Eastern promise – the arrival of Sonny Bill Williams in Japan’s Top League is big news but the country’s rugby culture has to change if they’re to fulfil their potential says Black Rams coach Rob Hoadley, rising stars – 10 to watch – Michael Hooper (Australia), Jonathan Joseph (England), Christopher Tolofua (France), Liam Williams (Wales), Greig Tonks (Scotland), Brodie Retallick (New Zealand), Johan Goosen (South Africa), JJ Hanrahan (Ireland), Sevanaia Galala (Fiji) and Pablo Matera (Argentina), Matt Hampson interviews Margo Wells the woman rugby players swear by when it comes too running faster, record chasers – rugby is still a fledgling sport in Cyprus yet the islanders are already homing in on a world record writes Andreas Vou, golden wonder – John Eales led Australia to their first Test series win over the Lions in 2001 but what does he make of the Wallabies’ chances of repeating the feat next year asks Sarah Mockford, focus on Wales including a profile of Dragons and Wales wing Tom Prydie, regional news in England including spotlights on Whitton Lions, Dorchester, Seaton Carew and Lutterworth, schools rugby, Charlie Hodgson talks through his life and times.

December 2012 - Sean Holley – the former Ospreys coach who is now a media analyst, island invasion – Fiji, Samoa and Tonga head up an exciting European schedule for second-tier nations says Alan Pearey, Ben Ryan – the England Sevens head coach who has overseen a sporting revolution, rugby rant – foreign imports are stifling France’s home-grown talent says Biarritz’s Dimitri Yachvili, fixtures and TV info for November, spotlight on Donnacha Ryan – the Ireland lock hopes this month’s tests will banish the pain of a tour debacle, spotlight on Mike Blair – life in France has given the Scotland scrum half new enthusiasm for the fray, spotlight on Ryan Jones – the Wales back rower hopes to make experience count this autumn, spotlight on Danielle Waterman – the England flier says she has unfinished business to attend to as the Black Ferns come to town, splash back – he’s had a bumpy ride since that famous try against Australia but Chris Ashton is determined to get back to doing what he does best this month which is scoring for England reports Ian Stafford, North face – super-sized wing George North is tired of Wales’ near misses and he wants big wins which means challenging the best this autumn reports Owain Jones, Best wishes – they’ve been more up and down than a pogo stick but Ireland simply must deliver against the Boks and the Pumas as hooker Rory Best tells Tom English, if we’re not at our best then we’ll get our arse handed to us on a platter – Scotland have never defeated the All Blacks and skipper Ross Ford isn’t talking up his team’s chances ahead of their EMC Tests reports Richard Bath, the Stephen Jones column – Europe – we have the answer – the squabbling can end now by adopting a brilliant new structure to the season that satisfies every nation and need, photo special – rugby road show – to mark the start of European qualification for RWC 2015 the Webb Ellis Trophy embarked on a road trip across the continent with a few famous faces, Jersey Shore – their home is a tax haven but Jersey haven’t climbed the league ladder by writing cheques and there’s a real rugby heart beating on the island says Rupert Bates, Matt Hampson interviews Dylan Hartley, Lions bolters – it’s not just proven internationals who get picked by the Lions – meet ten men who came from left field to play a memorable role on tour by Gavin Mortimer – Keith Earls (2009), Peter Wright (1993), Derek Quinnell (1971), Jeremy Guscott (1989) Elgan Rees (1977), Will Greenwood (1997), Dickie Jeeps (1977), Ian McLauchlan (1971), Delme Thomas (1966) and Peter Dixon (1971), pro insight – learning from martial arts – combat sports have a host of transferable skills for rugby as London Wasps discovered, fitness – how to stay in top condition, mini rugby – how to catch a high ball – follow these straightforward tips and you’ll be safe as houses, Read all about it –Kieran Read has been called the best player on the planet and is central to New Zealand’s bid for continued world domination as Sarah Mockford reports, marked man – tattoos and tries are the hallmarks of Digby Ioane but there’s much more to Australia’s danger man as Sarah Mockford find out, Pumas on the prowl – after a winless Rugby Championship Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe and his team are striving for Argentine success in Europe this autumn writes Frankie Deges, Jean genie – he’s long been a magical player and now skipper Jean de Villiers hopes to conjure up Springbok wins against Ireland, Scotland and England this month writes Liz McGregor, Team of the Month – Old Haberdashers, focus on Wales including a profile of versatile Wales back James Hook, national and regional news from England including spotlights on Clifton, Trojans, Guernsey, Bishopston, Bredon Star, North Shields, Cleckheaton, West Bridgford and Peterborough Lions, schools rugby, Canterbury School team of the Month – Marlborough College, Canterbury Schools Player of the Month – James Chisholm (Brighton College), England Sevens star Tom Mitchell talks about his unusual route to professional rugby.