Rugby

Coach Ian Foster refused to discuss his future with the All Blacks after their 2-1 loss in a three-test series at home against Ireland that ended with a 32-22 defeat in Wellington.

France has displaced South Africa at the top of the world rugby rankings, while New Zealand slumped to an all-time low of fourth.

Head coach Andy Farrell says Ireland "back themselves against anyone" after they beat the All Blacks in New Zealand for the first time to set up a series decider in Wellington on Saturday.

New Zealand and Ireland are preparing for a second titanic test in Dunedin as the tourists fight to stay alive in the series and the All Blacks look to drive home their advantage.

Israel Folau's four-year exile from Test rugby will end on Saturday when he starts for Tonga against Fiji in the Pacific Nations Cup.

Crusaders winger Leicester Fainga'anuku will make his All Blacks debut on the wing, while Chiefs loosie Pita Gus Sowakula will debut off the bench in the first test against Ireland.

World Rugby has changed its Graduated Return to Play protocols which will now require elite players with concussion symptoms to avoid playing for a minimum of 12 days.

Legendary Wales and British and Irish Lions captain and fly-half Phil Bennett has died at the age of 73.

The Detail brings you the issues that matter every weekday. Here’s what we covered this week.

What does New Zealand Rugby's deal with Silver Lake actually mean for the game? The Detail finds out.

Opinion - The Silver Lake deal and the National Under-85kg Club Cup final are at opposite ends of the rugby news spectrum, but they might just have more in common than first thought, writes Jamie Wall… Video

Analysis - New Zealand Rugby and Silver Lake finally appear set to tie the knot.

Analysis - Talk about saving the best for last: Moana Pasifika and the Fijian Drua both ended their first season in fine style yesterday. Video