Round two of the inaugural Rugby Nations Championship delivered another thrilling weekend of international action, with six entertaining fixtures producing 37 tries and plenty of standout performances.

New Zealand 47-17 Italy

The All Blacks underlined their title credentials with a commanding victory over Italy in Wellington. New Zealand’s clinical attack overwhelmed the visitors, who showed flashes of promise but struggled to contain the hosts’ relentless pace and power. The bonus-point win keeps the All Blacks firmly in the race for top spot.

France 42-26 Australia

France continued their impressive start by defeating Australia in Brisbane. Les Bleus produced another slick attacking display, capitalising on Wallaby errors while maintaining their composure during Australia’s second-half fightback. The French now boast two wins from two and look among the tournament favourites.

Ireland 36-20 Japan

Ireland overcame a spirited Japanese challenge in Newcastle, Australia. Japan kept the contest alive until the closing stages, but Andy Farrell’s side finished strongly with two late tries to secure a valuable bonus-point victory and remain unbeaten after two rounds.

England 73-8 Fiji

England produced the performance of the weekend by demolishing Fiji in Liverpool. Steve Borthwick’s side crossed for 11 tries, with Henry Pollock grabbing a second-half hat-trick as England snapped a five-match losing streak in emphatic fashion. Fiji had no answer after being reduced to 14 men in the second half.

South Africa 42-28 Scotland

The Springboks made it two wins from two after overcoming a brave Scotland at Loftus Versfeld. South Africa raced into an early lead before Scotland mounted a spirited comeback to narrow the gap. Jesse Kriel’s late try ultimately sealed a deserved six-try victory for the world champions, who remain top of their pool.

Argentina 35-21 Wales

Argentina rounded off the weekend with a convincing victory over Wales in San Juan. The Pumas recovered from an early deficit to score five tries and punish a porous Welsh defence. The result keeps Argentina firmly in contention heading into a mouth-watering final-round clash against England, while Wales remain without a win in the competition.

After two rounds, South Africa, France, Ireland, New Zealand, England and Argentina all emerged victorious, setting up a decisive final weekend in the Southern Hemisphere phase of the inaugural Nations Championship.