South Africa welcome back four experienced forwards for their Rugby Championship opener against Argentina, including Eben Etzebeth.
Tom Robertson described his call-up to Australia's starting XV against New Zealand in the Rugby Championship as "a dream come true".
Steve Hansen heaped praise on New Zealand's Sam Whitelock, who will win his 100th cap against Australia in the Rugby Championship.
Gloucester fly-half Danny Cipriani has pleaded guilty to charges of common assault and resisting arrest following a nightclub incident.
Beauden Barrett has been preferred to in-form fly-half Richie Mo'unga when New Zealand meet Australia in the Rugby Championship opener.
With Scott Sio sidelined with a shoulder injury, Tom Robertson comes into Australia's line-up for Saturday's showdown in Sydney.
Danny Cipriani will appear in Jersey Magistrates Court on Thursday after being hit with five charges following an incident at a nightclub.
Following the improvements made by the Jaguares in Super Rugby, Argentina will hope to make similar strides in the Rugby Championship.
A year of persistent injury problems prompted England centre Ben Te'o to contemplate his future.
Beauden Barrett will start at number 10 when New Zealand take on Australia in the Rugby Championship, according to Bernard Foley.
Bryan Habana believes the Rugby Championship will provide the first true indication of South Africa's standing under Rassie Erasmus.
Wales assistant coach Shaun Edwards will juggle his international commitments with a role at the Ospreys in the Pro14 this season.
New Zealand have been the Southern Hemisphere's dominant force and will be looking to once again win the Rugby Championship.
Michael Cheika's Australia head into the Rugby Championship out of form and they have cause for concern and optimism ahead of their opener.
Anthony Watson suffered an Achilles injury in March and a serious setback means there is still no return date for the England man.
Although contracted for another year, Alasdair Dickinson has called time on his rugby career, switching to a coaching role.