A troublesome knee injury has ended Northampton Saints and England hooker Dylan Hartley's career at the age of 33.
A fine of £5.36million fine and the deduction of 35 points will not necessitate a fire sale at Saracens, the club's chairman insists.
Winning the Rugby World Cup with South Africa was Tendai Mtawarira's last act for the Springboks, and he called it a "perfect ending".
Having been the dominant force at home and abroad, Saracens' success is now facing significant scrutiny.
Chris Robshaw says "the pinnacle of English rugby is illegal" after Saracens were found to have breached the salary cap.
European Professional Club Rugby are not happy that Champions Cup holders Saracens were not represented at a launch event on Wednesday.
South Africa returned home from Japan to a rapturous reception from a nation still celebrating their Rugby World Cup triumph.
Steve Hansen enjoyed a hugely successful spell in charge of New Zealand and the search for his replacement is under way.
Saracens will appeal against what they described as "heavy-handed sanctions", insisting they are not guilty of any wrongdoing.
Premiership and European champions Saracens have been hit with huge sanctions for salary-cap breaches.
Makazole Mapimpi, Tendai Mtawarira, Lukhanyo Am and Herschel Jantjies are set to feature for the Barbarians at Twickenham.
Playmaker Beauden Barrett has suggested New Zealand should promote from within, hailing Ian Foster as a "very intelligent coach".
There were four All Blacks and as many Japan players in the Opta team of the Rugby World Cup, but no world champions.
Siya Kolisi captained South Africa to Rugby World Cup success on Saturday and Roger Federer was among the many to congratulate him.
A late Harry Williams try proved decisive as Exeter Chiefs came from 14 points behind to overcome Worcester Warriors.
A dream weekend for World Cup winners South Africa got even better at a World Rugby awards ceremony in Tokyo on Sunday.