The Waratahs went down to the Blues despite Israel Folau making Super Rugby history, while there were wins for the Crusaders and the Rebels.
A try against the Blues was Israel Folau's 60th in Super Rugby, giving him the outright record for five-pointers in the competition.
Brian O'Driscoll knows Ireland need Johnny Sexton to be fit and firing if they are to make an impact at the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
With little free-flowing rugby on show, Sale Sharks were grateful to AJ MacGinty's boot as they defeated Harlequins.
The top two teams in Conference A in the Pro14 were in fine form on Friday as they enjoyed comprehensive victories.
The Lions' three-match winning run in Super Rugby was ended in incredible fashion as the Sharks ran riot in Johannesburg.
Wales international Rhys Priestland has committed to Bath through to the end of the 2020-21 season having initially appeared set to leave.
The Hurricanes withstood huge late pressure to beat the Highlanders, while the Stormers were beaten by the Reds.
Ben Ryan says the finances a Nations Championship could bring to Fiji would be vital in taking rugby union in the country to another level.
Known for his ball-carrying skills as a player, Sebastien Chabal demonstrated his singing abilities at the Hong Kong Sevens on Friday.