Prince Harry’s relationship with the Royal Family has been a rollercoaster ever since he stepped back from senior duties and set up life in California. Once close to his cousin-in-law Mike Tindall, the pair’s friendship now looks a shadow of what it used to be.
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The former England centre and 2003 World Cup winner has never been one to mince his words. At the Platinum Jubilee in 2022, Tindall reportedly told another guest that Harry was acting like a “b*****d”. For a family gathering already under a microscope, it was a line that made headlines around the world.
But this wasn’t the first time Mike had sparked debate over his royal banter. He previously joked about a young Prince Harry while recalling World Cup celebrations with teammate Iain Balshaw, saying they “pretended to punch him” — adding that the Royal Family probably wanted to “fill him in for real.” A rugby lad’s gag, but not everyone found it funny when the story resurfaced years later.
Things haven’t been helped by tensions over Harry’s pride and joy, the Invictus Games. Reports suggest the Duke was left furious when Tindall was linked to a bigger role in the event, with some critics claiming the Games were becoming “too royal.”
And while Harry’s ties with his family continue to look strained, Tindall seems closer than ever to Prince William. The pair have shared plenty of time together through rugby, charity work and family events — making it clear where Mike’s loyalties lie these days.
Adding more spice, James Haskell — Tindall’s close mate and podcast co-host — has described the monarchy as a “very dysfunctional” modern family. Hardly a surprise then that Harry, Meghan and the rest of the Windsors can’t always keep it civil behind the Palace gates.
From best mates on the rugby circuit to pointed words at Jubilee celebrations, the Tindall-Harry story sums up just how fractured the Royal Family has become. And if Mike’s blunt verdict is anything to go by, bridges won’t be built anytime soon.
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Men’s 2027 Rugby World Cup draw: England get easy group, Boks get Scotland
The 2027 Rugby World Cup, set to take place in Australia from 1 October to 13 November, will be the largest edition ever with 24 teams — a bold expansion by World Rugby to supercharge inclusivity, competitiveness, and global reach.
Thanks to sweeping reforms approved in 2022, the tournament will feature six pools of four teams, followed by a Round of 16, streamlining the knockout stages while maintaining player rest.
Crucially, the pool draw has been delayed until December 2025 and will be seeded on the most up-to-date world rankings (post-November Tests), ensuring group balance and fairness — a sharp departure from the poorly balanced draw of 2023.
The complete qualification field will also be set by the close of 2025, following a revamped, merit-driven, and regionally inclusive pathway.
Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for RWC 2027:
🏆 Group A
New Zealand 🇳🇿
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.
Argentina 🇦🇷
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.
Samoa 🇼🇸
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.
Tonga 🇹🇴
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.
🌍 Group B
South Africa 🇿🇦
The reigning world champions and four-time RWC winners, the Springboks bring a powerhouse blend of physicality, tactical brilliance, and iconic leadership.
Scotland 🏴
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.
Japan 🇯🇵
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.
Chile 🇨🇱
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.