When you’re finished browsing the first of the new depth charts, here are six articles worth reading about referees, the state of French rugby, the Lions, and North American dreams.

Kaplan Prepares To Bring Down The Curtain – by Stephen Nell

The world’s most experienced referee has decided to call it quits. Jonathan Kaplan is stepping down from the professional game at the end of the season. The Waratahs certainly won’t miss him…

Coaches Must Quit Carping And Accept The Blame – by Brian Moore

The pugnacious Moore is tired of Richard Cockerill’s bellyaching about the referees. Can you blame him?

Adieu To All That – by Wayne Smith

The former All Blacks assistant coach laments the decline of flair in the French side. Is he right to point the finger at the coaches, or is he being overly romantic?

France Will Have No Excuses If They Fail – by Mick Cleary

Philippe Saint-Andre was a member of some of those classic French sides, and he admits to a lack of inspiration, but his assessment of the problems seems a bit more grounded.

Nation’s Role In Lions Squad – by Richard Bath

A Scottish-eye view of what Warren Gatland might be pondering as we reach the mid-way point of the Six Nations.

Pro Dream Still A Big Climb For North Americans – by Jeff Hull

The struggles of making it in the pro game are spelled out by a fellow Canadian writer.