Big names: Billy Vunipola, Mike McCarthy, Toby Faletau and Sean Lamont all feature in our new issue
THE autumn Tests may be over for another year, but the rugby keeps on coming. In the new issue of Rugby World we not only look back at the ups and downs of the November Internationals but also look ahead to the Heineken Cup double-headers, festive fixtures and the 2015 World Cup.
Four star: Rugby World’s January covers
We pick the England XV for RWC 2015 and highlight a few bolters who could breakthrough by then, debate who should play at fly-half for Scotland, get the low-down on Toby Faletau from those who know him best and meet Ireland’s Mr Modest, Mike McCarthy.
In a feature sure to provoke debate, Stephen Jones picks his World XV, while Worcester full-back Chris Pennell explains how he copes with diabetes and opens up on the loss of his famous father, and we take a look at the pressure now placed on referees.
Our nine-page Christmas Gift Guide is also sure to solve all your shopping dilemmas with plenty of ideas and our present to you is a FREE 2014 calendar featuring rugby icons. This is a list of contents – and you can find out where to buy your copy here or download our free magazine finder app here. Plus, if you have an iPad, download the digital edition here or find out about our android version here.
Sidelines
The pick of this month’s Heineken Cup double-headers, Alex King looks ahead to his return to Wasps as a Northampton coach, our new photo competition, 30 Minutes with Saracens and England No 8 Billy Vunipola, Hotshot Hallam Amos and more
Star man: Mike Brown talks England’s autumn
Columnists
Mike Brown – England’s Man of the Series looks ahead to the next challenge
Paul Wallace – What made Ireland’s attack so lethal against the All Blacks?
Andy Nicol – The former No 9 on why Scotland are lacking an edge
Spotlights
James Hook – Wales’ Mr Versatile explains why he is happy with his lot
Tom Johnson – The back-rower talks England, Exeter and Europe
Sean Lamont – The experienced Scot on his recent resurgence
Robbie Henshaw – Meet the Connacht back who has found his feet at Test level for Ireland
Features
New England – We’ve put our heads on the block! Here’s our XV for 2015 and bolters to look out for
Mike McCarthy – He’s modest about his ability, but there’s no mistaking the Ireland second-row’s desire
Toby Faletau – We ask some of the Wales No 8’s closest pals to give their verdict on the Dragon
Scotland’s fly-half debate – The race is on to be Scotland’s No 10! We analyse the contenders
Festive feast: plenty of present ideas
Christmas gift guide – Stuck for ideas this Christmas? We’ve put together the ultimate guide, including gifts, books and DVDs, calendars and our big rugby quiz of the year!
Referees – Should we be so critical of refs? We speak to the men with the hardest job on the pitch
World XV – Many players have stood out in 2013, so we challenged Stephen Jones to pick his ultimate team. What will you make of it?
Chris Pennell – The full-back is remaining positive after overcoming personal hurdles
Advice section
Pro insight – The scientific scrum machine helping Bath
Fitness – How to look after your body this winter
Pro playbook – Attacking options from the back row
Mini rugby – How to play Table Football Touch
Regulars
Rugby focus – All the news from the clubs, schools and women’s circuits
Essentials – The latest books and products
Uncovered – England hooker Dylan Hartley
Tour Tale – A prop’s try-scoring problems