All Black coach Graham Henry expects the Bledisloe Cup Test against Australia to be full-blooded and has named a strong lineup for the match.

With less than two years to go before they begin their defence of the Rugby World Cup, South Africa have right to be brimming with confidence.

Cricket Australia has played down reports that retired leg-spinner Shane Warne could return to international cricket for next year's Ashes tour of England. The former leading Test wicket-taker, who quit the international arena after Australia's 5-0 victory over England in early 2007, was quoted in local media as saying he would consider returning for the next Ashes series.

Gilles Simon suffered a bittersweet experience on Monday, advancing to the Australian Open quarterfinals after Gaels Monfils was forced to retire.

After a poor Tri-Nations campaign, the Boks are under increasing pressure as the president orders the World Cup home and fans hope for their success.

The Reds' victory can be seen as a portent of what is to come in just under two months when the World Cup begins in New Zealand.

New Zealand were 137 for two chasing 401 in the first test against South Africa when bad light stopped play four overs early on the fourth day.

The Proteas say they will not lose sleep over two controversial umpiring decisions made on the first day of their final Test against the Black Caps.