Fixtures and standings as Nations Championship returns

The Nations Championship, a rugby competition featuring northern hemisphere teams against southern hemisphere teams, began on Friday with Ireland defeating Argentina 42-12. Ireland currently leads the standings in the northern hemisphere, but France and Scotland could surpass Ireland with wins on Saturday. France will play Fiji, while Scotland aims to defeat New Zealand for the first time at Murrayfield, followed by games against Australia and Japan.

England, who have 10 points, will face Australia on Sunday before playing Japan and New Zealand. Ireland, also with 10 points, will play South Africa in the final round after their match against Fiji. Wales, having lost their first three matches, will host Japan, New Zealand, and Australia in their home games. Italy, who lost all three of their away games, will face South Africa on Saturday.

The Springboks led New Zealand on points difference after beating England, Scotland, and Wales in their opening three Tests. The Nations Championship features six northern hemisphere teams competing against the southern hemisphere giants, including South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina. The competition consists of three rounds of fixtures, with results ranking teams within their hemisphere.

The final weekend in November features a play-off event at Allianz Stadium, culminating in the two top-ranked sides competing for the inaugural Nations Championship title.