Almost all of the NH looks like they've improved loads and the SH look the opposite. England have improved the most of any team over the last 12 months and its not even close,easily the 2nd best side in the world.

Ireland have improved a lot too, France seem to have remembered they're supposed to be good at this rugby lark and Scotland look much more ccompetitive than they have in years. Its really only Wales still sitting in the corner eating paste while everyone else has developed.

Meanwhile all 3 of the SH big boys have regressed, some hugely. South Africa in particular have gone from formidable opponent to utterly inept. Wales were mediocre yesterday and still beat them comfortably.

Australia look a shadow of the team who tore up the RWC. Apart from 40 minutes against Wales this autumn they've been not all that convincing and losing 3 at home to England is pretty unforgivable by their standards.

Even the Kiwis don't look as untouchable as they did 12 months ago. Imo they've struggled to replace the brilliant Nonu/Smith midfield, albeit not helped by injuries, and several other positions don't look as completely dominant as before. Barrett has single handedly won them games at times.

What will be interesting to see is whether this continues next season, or whether its an extended WC hangover. NZ have had to transition a number of players, as have Oz to an extent, whereas England and Ireland are actually pretty settled sides compared to 12 months ago.