OPINION: The word "stunning" had both positive and negative connotations in the opening weekend of the Northern Hemisphere leg of the Nations Championship.

Writing for rugby365, Wynona Louw evaluated the highs and lows from Round Four of the Nations Championship, highlighting dominant victories for South Africa and New Zealand alongside an Australian collapse. South Africa routed Italy 66-7 after building a 45-0 halftime lead, while New Zealand maintained an unbeaten streak against Scotland with a 43-21 win. Meanwhile, England delivered their biggest-ever win over Australia, defeating the Wallabies 45-22.
Louw commended South Africa's first-half precision and praised New Zealand's scrummaging improvement under pressure from Scotland's front row. Conversely, the writer criticized Australia's lackluster defense and disjointed attack under coach Les Kiss. France's playmaking adjustments were also noted following an injury to Romain Ntamack during their 54-17 victory over Fiji, while Argentina struggled with discipline in a 42-12 loss to Ireland.
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