Battle of the codes

This weekend sees the northern hemisphere take on the south in both codes of rugby.

In the Rugby World Cup down in Australia, England are looking to avenge last week's defeat to New Zealand. While back in Blighty the Union boys are taking on Australia at Twickenham in what is Martin Johnson's first big test as head coach.

Down under England have had a tough time of it, edging past PNG before getting hammered by the Aussies and then throwing away a healthy lead against the Kiwis. Luckily for them, the absurdity of the tournament allows for them to forget those matches and just concentrate on producing two top level performances which could yet see them lift the cup, unlikely though.

Flair at HQ

Johnson's men are fairing better, with a resounding victory against a hard-hitting Pacific Islands team last weekend they will be hoping they can continue there dominance over their antipodean rivals.

Last week the Wallabies could only sneak past Italy thanks to a late try from debutant Quade Cooper. This week he is replaced by the ignimous Matt Giteau who can blow both hot and cold. An exciting game is in prospect and going on last week's efforts, Australia should not just be worried about the power of England's front three but also the pace of their back three.

Meanwhile France take on the Islanders, Ireland face New Zealand, Italy host Argentina and Scotland have the chance to get one over world champions, South Africa.

And don't forget the Guinness Premiership gets back under way this weekend after what seems like and infact has been an eternity. The week's fixtures are as follows:

Friday:
Sale v Worcester
Saturday:
Bath v Leicester
Sunday:
Bristol v Northampton,
Harlequins v Wasps,
Newcastle v London Irish,
Saracens v Gloucester,