Over the past week, several significant events have unfolded in the world of rugby:
International Rugby
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Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry – Final Test: On September 12, 2026, South Africa faced New Zealand in the fourth and final Test of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. South Africa led the series 2-1, aiming to secure a decisive victory. The All Blacks, determined to level the series, fielded a strong lineup, including captain Codie Taylor and key players like Richie Mo’unga and Jordie Barrett. (ultimaterugby.com)
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Pacific Nations Cup 2026: The tournament commenced on September 12, 2026, featuring semi-final matches between Fiji and Canada, and Japan and the USA. The games were held at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka, Japan. Fans in the U.S. could watch the matches live on Paramount+. (majorleague.rugby)
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WXV Global Series Challenger 2026: The inaugural WXV Global Series Challenger began on September 13, 2026, at Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground in Hong Kong. Six teams—Brazil, Fiji, Hong Kong China, the Netherlands, Samoa, and Spain—are competing across three match weekends. The opening round featured Spain vs. Fiji, Hong Kong China vs. Brazil, and Netherlands vs. Samoa. (rugbyworldcup.com)
Domestic Rugby
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NRL Finals Series: The 2026 NRL Finals Series kicked off with Qualifying and Elimination matches. The top four teams—Panthers, Roosters, Warriors, and Dolphins—competed in the Qualifying Finals. The Dolphins secured a 26-16 victory over the Warriors, earning a week off. The Panthers faced the Roosters in a crucial matchup at CommBank Stadium. In Elimination matches, the Knights defeated the Rabbitohs 20-10, and the Sharks overcame the Cowboys 26-16. (techradar.com)
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Super Rugby AUS 2026: The competition resumed with Round One matches. The defending champions, NSW Waratahs, faced the ACT Brumbies, while the Queensland Reds hosted the Western Force at Ballymore, Brisbane. Notably, Tom Lynagh made his return for the Queensland Reds after a series of injuries. (rugby.com.au)
Legal Proceedings
- Trial of Far-Right Activists in Paris: The trial for the 2022 fatal shooting of former Argentine rugby player Federico Martín Aramburú began in Paris. Loïk Le Priol, charged with murder, and Romain Bouvier, charged with attempted murder, are facing potential life imprisonment. The case has drawn attention due to the violent backgrounds of the accused and the circumstances surrounding Aramburú’s death. (apnews.com)
Upcoming Events
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WXV Global Series Challenger 2026: The tournament continues with Round Two on September 19, featuring Samoa vs. Spain, Hong Kong China vs. Fiji, and Brazil vs. Netherlands. (rugbyworldcup.com)
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Pacific Nations Cup 2026 Finals: The third-place play-off and final are scheduled for September 19 at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo. (majorleague.rugby)
These events highlight the dynamic and evolving landscape of rugby, encompassing international competitions, domestic leagues, and significant legal proceedings.
Highlights:
- How to watch NRL Qualifying and Elimination Finals 2026: FREE streams, TV channels for Panthers vs Roosters, Published on Saturday, September 12
- Paris trial into the fatal shooting of former rugby player Federico Martín Aramburú has begun, Published on Monday, September 07
- How to watch Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry: FREE streams, TV channels, schedule for New Zealand’s 2026 tour of South Africa, 4th and final Test, Published on Tuesday, September 08
