Imitation is the highest form of rugby flattery and, in a sport with cyclical trends, we see plenty of tactical mimicry. The seven-one bench split, while not universally popular, is a great example.

The 31st season of Super Rugby Pacific will once again see 11 teams compete in a round-robin format, playing 14 matches each (seven home, seven away), with two byes. It features teams from Australia, ...