Lyon surrendered first place in Top 14 as they lost away to Bordeaux-Begles, who won a contest that was closer than the scoreline suggests.
London Irish handled challenging conditions impressively to win at Harlequins, while champions Saracens were too good for Sale Sharks.
The Brumbies looked to be heading for victory following a Folau Fainga'a hat-trick, but they were unable to hold off the Highlanders.
Stuart Hogg was among the scorers on his Exeter Chiefs return as Gloucester were beaten at home.
It was a record-breaking outing for Munster in Pro14 action on Friday, while Glasgow Warriors were also big winners.
The 20th annual Laureus World Sports Awards will take place on Monday in Berlin, with Lionel Messi and Liverpool in the hunt.
Andrew Kellaway scored two tries against his former club, the Waratahs, to give the Rebels a valuable win in Melbourne.
Worcester Warriors posted an update on Michael Fatialofa, while Saracens announced a pledge towards his recovery fund.
Allianz admitted it was a "difficult decision" to cease their sponsorship of disgraced Premiership champions Saracens.
There was mixed news from head coach Eddie Jones for England on the injury front on Thursday.
Several Saracens stars are expected to stay despite the club's relegation from the Premiership, and Jamie George said he is going nowhere.
The Olympic Games and Paralympic Games are set to go ahead this year in Tokyo, with officials vowing to deal with coronavirus concerns.
Owen Williams suffered a hamstring injury while warming up ahead of Wales' Six Nations defeat to Ireland on Saturday.
Lee Blackett has taken over as interim Wasps head coach, with Dai Young moving away from first-team duties for an unspecified period.
Vincent Rattez, a try-scorer against England, will play no further part in the Six Nations for France.
Finn Russell looks unlikely to play for Scotland under Gregor Townsend after a statement released by the head coach on Monday.