Alex Sanderson: ‘The game could die unless something dramatically changes’
The Gallagher Premiership has been riddled with financial concerns since its inception, a shortfall exacerbated by the pandemic an…
Liam Heagney
07 Jan 2024, 4:00
Contributors
Liam Heagney
@heagneyl
A seasoned rugby journalist, Liam hails from Limerick and has covered World Cups, Lions tours, Six Nations Championships and European Cup campaigns since 2000. He became a content editor at RugbyPass in 2019 after joining from the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday in Ireland.
Leicester make bold England claim about Ollie Chessum, George Martin
Saturday’s win over Saracens was only the second time that the youthful pair had started together as a lock partnership in the T…
Liam Heagney
07 Jan 2024, 4:30
Saracens explain 'glass half-full' reaction to loss at Leicester
Saturday’s 10-19 reverse at Leicester was the London club’s fifth loss in 11 outings, a record that contrasts sharply with las…
Liam Heagney
07 Jan 2024, 5:00
Nottingham statement: The 'total flooding' of Lady Bay
The club, which is located near the River Trent, are set to host the British Army in a January 26 friendly and ahead of that game,…
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2024, 3:36
Jonny Hill the latest England player poised for Top 14 move – report
It was just last Friday when the Test sabbatical-taking Owen Farrell was said to be “very close” to taking up a two-year deal …
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2024, 4:12
Ireland's Joe McCarthy: 'I was subbing for the junior fourths team'
The 22-year-old attended Blackrock College and his enthusiasm for rugby wasn’t matched by his on-field exploits until his final …
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2024, 4:54
Shaun Edwards' 'sense of injustice' about French World Cup exit
The French were hotly tipped as a favourite to win the tournament, but they were eliminated by eventual winners South Africa follo…
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2024, 3:05
Clive Woodward wades into debate over 'ludicrous passage of play'
Some fans, including England loosehead Joe Marler, branded the sequence of 12 kicks in a row at The Rec as the dullest 60-plus sec…
Liam Heagney
10 Jan 2024, 3:10
Toby Flood: The Top 14 tactic that would allow Owen Farrell to thrive
It emerged last Friday that the 32-year-old, who is currently on a Test rugby sabbatical after skippering Steve Borthwick’s side…
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2024, 7:11
Sale confirm England's George Ford hasn’t travelled to South Africa
The England out-half suffered a bang to his knee near the end of the Sharks’ 17-21 Gallagher Premiership defeat at Northampton o…
Liam Heagney
10 Jan 2024, 9:13
Bristol statement: The immediate effect signing of Benjamin Grondona
Having featured for the Pampas XV last term in a season that culminated in playing for his country at the Junior World Championshi…
Liam Heagney
10 Jan 2024, 3:33
RFU issue 73-word reply to the latest Championship Rugby statement
The 11 Championship clubs called on the RFU board to set an urgent date to hear in full their amended proposals and it quickly pro…
Liam Heagney
10 Jan 2024, 10:49
Sale verdict on George Ford with the Six Nations just four weeks away
Ford has started seven games back at Sale since England’s bronze medal finish in Paris and ahead of Friday’s game at home to B…
Liam Heagney
04 Jan 2024, 4:22
England statement: Recruitment of Strawbridge, new Sinfield role
Incoming assistant coach Felix Jones, who joins the coaching set-up having helped South Africa to back-to-back Rugby World Cup tri…
Liam Heagney
04 Jan 2024, 6:01
Leicester confirm immediate exit of two players, including Joe Powell
It was last July, shortly after the financial collapse of London Irish, when the 29-year-old Powell, who won four caps for Austral…
Liam Heagney
04 Jan 2024, 5:19
Tommy Freeman: 'Hopefully I'll get a shot in the Six Nations'
Just as well then that he spoke as quickly as he runs, gliding through a pile of queries with the same sort of panache that has hi…
Interview
Liam Heagney
03 Jan 2024, 12:19
'Ultimate speed bump': The John Cooney reaction to TV pundit praise
The effort of the 33-year-old scrum-half was pivotal in his province’s New Year’s Day URC win at Leinster and he has now react…
Liam Heagney
03 Jan 2024, 6:39
Toulon statement: The €70,000 Cheslin Kolbe salary cap fine
Kolbe's departure to Japan was followed by the Ligue Nationale de Rugby salary cap disciplinary committee being asked last Septemb…
Liam Heagney
03 Jan 2024, 4:08
Ex-Portugal boss Patrice Lagisquet: What Os Lobos must do next
The ex-France player was in charge of Os Lobos for four years, a tenure that culminated in a memorable 2023 Rugby World Cup appear…
Liam Heagney
03 Jan 2024, 3:30
‘Absolutely, why wouldn’t you back Fin Smith at 21?’
Potential England pick Smith has been at the heart of this Northampton consistency, starting all nine Premiership games so far.
Liam Heagney
03 Jan 2024, 2:05
Bristol statement: The signing of Viliame Mata
The Pacific Islander is currently playing his eighth season with Edinburgh in the URC, but he is now a confirmed signing for the G…
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2024, 12:23
Ulster rate Nick Timoney's Ireland chances, tease positional switch
The back-rower was excellent in his team’s URC win over Leinster on New Year’s Day, scoring two tries as a No8 in a contest wh…
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2024, 5:09
The Ulster verdict on exploiting the Jacques Nienaber defence
Trips to Dublin usually end in failure for the northern province, but they managed to get one over on the league leaders at the RD…
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2024, 4:04
Sale player ratings vs Leinster | Champions Cup 2023/24
Their determined effort got them 13-3 ahead midway through the opening half before a loaded Leinster finally strutted their stuff …
Analysis
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2023, 14:00
Where are they now? The last London Irish team before its collapse
Despite fifth place being their highest finish in the league since reaching the 2009 final, administration confirmed that the fina…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
17 Dec 2023, 4:00
Alex Sanderson: 'Judge us on competitiveness, great resilience'
The Sharks were rumbustiously competitive in an opening period that they led 13-3 for a stretch; then came the second wave where t…
Interview
Liam Heagney
17 Dec 2023, 3:45
Second-half Leinster power surge proves too much for Sale
The Irish province took over pole position in the group with a hard-fought 37-27 win over Sale in Dublin.
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2023, 13:39
England duo Tuilagi, Lawes named in magazine's Top 12 Hitters list
England duo Manu Tuilagi and Courtney Lawes, Argentina’s Marcos Kremer and Pieter-Steph du Toit, the Springboks back-rower who w…
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2023, 5:59
The England prediction Lee Blackett has made about Alfie Barbeary
Test head coach Borthwick and Richard Hill were at The Rec last Saturday to scout the Bath No8, the RPA’s U23 player of the mont…
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2023, 4:09
Barbarians statement: Killik Cup fixture confirmed versus Fiji
The Pacific Islanders reached the last eight at France 2023, bowing out to England in Marseille.
Liam Heagney
14 Dec 2023, 15:56
Lancaster: The Russell-like threat Racing face versus Marcus Smith
Smith’s Harlequins are in Paris nine days after they smashed Gallagher Premiership leaders Sale in London.
Liam Heagney
10 Dec 2023, 4:30
The turned-down offer Jono Ross made to come out of retirement
The Gallagher Premiership leaders learned in mid-November that they had lost Tom Curry for the season due to his need to have a hi…
Liam Heagney
10 Dec 2023, 3:58
Johann van Graan: The pitch 'stitching' story behind bossy Bath scrum
What’s the point in Bath having international standard piano shifters such as Beno Obano, Will Stuart and Thomas du Toit on the …
Liam Heagney
10 Dec 2023, 2:57
Gus Warr: 'It's trying to be a bit gobby to annoy someone ever so slightly'
That little vignette suggested how the scrum-half Gus Warr is a little bit of a Jack the lad around Carrington, something his boss…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
10 Dec 2023, 2:00
Bath excellent value for first Champions Cup win since January 2018
With the hosts on a 10-game losing streak in this tournament stretching back to January 2018, this victory will be seen as massive…
Liam Heagney
09 Dec 2023, 11:16
Bath player ratings vs Ulster | Champions Cup 2023/24
We left Bath believing this could be the first season since 2014/15 that the once giants of the English game are potentially a rea…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
09 Dec 2023, 12:18
Clermont bring a fresh twist to the Springboks' bomb squad tactic
The Rugby World Cup-winning South Africa raised eyebrows on a number of occasions throughout 2023 by naming replacements that had …
Liam Heagney
09 Dec 2023, 7:03
Sale explain the 'great bit' about this week's Steve Borthwick visit
The English head coach met an eight-strong Sharks contingent consisting of Jonny Hill, Manu Tuilagi, Ben Curry, Tom Curry, Beva…
Liam Heagney
08 Dec 2023, 5:33
Kevin Sinfield back at England work on Sunday after marathon success
Steve Borthwick’s defence coach completed each of his marathons in Leeds, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Dublin, Brighton and L…
Liam Heagney
08 Dec 2023, 4:44
Kevin Sinfield: 'The team are a little bit tired, a little bit busted'
The former Leeds rugby league player is running seven marathons in seven days around the UK and Ireland to raise awareness and fun…
Liam Heagney
05 Dec 2023, 8:01
The club rookie Sam Warburton is backing for Six Nations selection
The Welsh begin their 2024 schedule with a February 3 trip to Scotland with experienced duo Leigh Halfpenny and Liam Williams no l…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
06 Dec 2023, 8:11
Sam Warburton: The 'brute force' recruitment needed by Leinster
Money talks in professional rugby, sadly. It talks. Even Leinster, they have got one of the best academies and have a good player …
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
08 Dec 2023, 2:14
'I've found the players keen on new ideas, not felt any push back'
Lancaster has got off to an encouraging start, Racing leading the Top 14 heading into its short pause to accommodate two rounds of…
Interview
Liam Heagney
07 Dec 2023, 8:40
British and Irish Lions statement: 2025 tour starts with Dublin match
It will be the first time they have played the Pumas since a 2005 pre-tour game in Cardiff – and the first time they have ever p…
Liam Heagney
07 Dec 2023, 5:28
Ronan O'Gara cops a ban at his latest French disciplinary hearing
The former Ireland out-half was called to account for his alleged behaviour towards the match officials in Paris during a Top 14 d…
Liam Heagney
06 Dec 2023, 11:39
The Stuart Lancaster verdict on his England winger Henry Arundell
The 21-year-old was signed by Racing 92 in the summer following the collapse of London Irish.
Liam Heagney
06 Dec 2023, 11:50
Sale give a 2024/25 contract update on George Ford, Manu Tuilagi
Out-half Ford signed a deal to move to the Sharks from Leicester in the summer of 2022... Tuilagi, meanwhile, is on a one-year ext…
Liam Heagney
06 Dec 2023, 11:18
Saracens statement: The signing of Logovi’i Mulipola
It was last week, when hosting a virtual media briefing to discuss the decision by Owen Farrell to take a Test rugby sabbatical fr…
Liam Heagney
06 Dec 2023, 12:26
The message on the Leinster wall Nienaber has already taken to heart
Leinster were left reliant on an 81st-minute try from Ciaran Frawley to snatch a 24-22 victory in Galway from the jaws of defeat.
Liam Heagney
06 Dec 2023, 4:59
Jacques Nienaber at Leinster: 'I don’t think they will buy me pints!'
It was October 28 in Paris when Nienaber led South Africa to back-to-back world titles, his team defeating the All Blacks in the f…
Liam Heagney
05 Dec 2023, 12:11
Six Nations debuts for three referees; Davidson to also make history
World Rugby confirmed on Tuesday their Emirates World Rugby match official appointments for the upcoming tournament, which begins …
Liam Heagney
05 Dec 2023, 10:24
Ex-Wallabies centre Tevita Kuridrani has named his new club
The 31-year-old last played for Biarritz in their 2021/22 Top 14 season which ended in relegation.
Liam Heagney
05 Dec 2023, 4:02
Out until 2024: Another World Cup winner is ruled out at Munster
Named Munster player of the year for 2022/23, Jean Kleyn made his 2023/24 seasonal debut in the November 25 URC derby away to Lein…
Liam Heagney
05 Dec 2023, 2:37
Getting to know: Wales U20s full-back Cameron Winnett
Good news in Welsh rugby is hard to come by in 2023. Even their U20s were mired by negativity, finishing with the wooden spoon in …
Interview
Liam Heagney
01 Jul 2023, 4:28
Getting to know: England U20s No8 Chandler Cunningham-South
Chandler Cunningham-South had a vibrant spring in his step when RugbyPass caught up with him on Thursday evening in Cape Town.
Interview
Liam Heagney
24 Jun 2023, 2:35
Will Evans: 'The stats don’t back it up when they say it is dangerous'
Intriguing is the candid admission to RugbyPass by the London club’s Will Evans that he used to beat himself up about seeing his…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
03 Dec 2023, 2:15
The massive compliment Joe Marler paid to a teenage Sale tighthead
Harlequins loosehead Joe Marler gave a wonderful compliment to a teenage opposition prop when conducting a flash TV interview near…
Liam Heagney
02 Dec 2023, 6:39
Ronan O’Gara hits back over his latest Top 14 disciplinary summons
The La Rochelle boss is due to appear before a committee next Wednesday, four days before his club hosts Irish rivals Leinster in …
Liam Heagney
02 Dec 2023, 5:44
Legal claim: Joint statement on behalf of World Rugby, WRU and RFU
World Rugby and the game’s governing bodies in Wales and England have issued a joint statement after more than 200 retired playe…
Liam Heagney
01 Dec 2023, 16:06
RFU statement: 2022/23 annual report, operating profit of £4m
The RFU have praised robust financial management for delivering an operating profit of £4m for 2022/23, even though that figure i…
Liam Heagney
01 Dec 2023, 12:15
Owen Farrell left out as Saracens name team to take on Northampton
Owen Farrell has been given this weekend off by Saracens just days after the England skipper revealed he was taking a sabbatical f…
Liam Heagney
01 Dec 2023, 6:20
Transcript: The Mark McCall 20-minute media briefing on Owen Farrell
Saracens boss Mark McCall provided a fascinating media briefing on Thursday to a virtual audience of 20 journalists on why England…
Liam Heagney
01 Dec 2023, 5:29
'Some interest from Edinburgh who don’t mind poaching our players'
Sale boss Alex Sanderson has delivered a mid-winter update about the Gallagher Premiership club’s contracting for the 2024/25 se…
Liam Heagney
01 Dec 2023, 3:20
Mark McCall slams 'shameful' negative narrative about Owen Farrell
Saracens boss Mark McCall conducted a near 20-minute media briefing on Thursday to shed some light on why Owen Farrell has decided…
Liam Heagney
30 Nov 2023, 9:17
Henry Arundell: Borthwick visit, next season, the winger he most fears
Henry Arundell has spoken about his meeting with England boss Steve Borthwick last week in Paris and given an update on where he m…
Liam Heagney
30 Nov 2023, 12:38
Cornish Pirates statement: Financial outlook after Truro FC sale
English Championship club Cornish Pirates have provided fans with a financial update following the sale of partner football club T…
Liam Heagney
30 Nov 2023, 7:06
Sale's verdict on Jonny Hill's form ahead of his Borthwick meet-up
Sale have shared their thoughts on the prospects of Jonny Hill potentially getting back in Steve Borthwick’s England squad for t…
Liam Heagney
30 Nov 2023, 1:19
Toulon statement: The immediate effect signing of Jack Singleton
French title chasers Toulon have snapped up the services of Jack Singleton, the England and Gloucester hooker, for the remainder o…
Liam Heagney
30 Nov 2023, 1:17
What Clive Woodward makes of the shock Owen Farrell England sabbatical
Former England boss Clive Woodward has given his verdict on the midweek revelation that Owen Farrell has made himself unavailable …
Liam Heagney
30 Nov 2023, 1:12
Sale reach decision on recruitment after latest Tom Curry injury
Alex Sanderson has come to a decision on whether or not Sale will dip into the short-term recruitment market to replace Tom Curry,…
Liam Heagney
29 Nov 2023, 3:07
Coventry statement: The immediate-effect signing of a Fijian tighthead
Mid-table Championship side Coventry have confirmed the signing of a Fijian tighthead who arrives with a reputation for explosive …
Liam Heagney
29 Nov 2023, 11:10
Courtney Lawes wants Lions call but won't do England U-turn – report
Courtney Lawes has issued a come-and-get-me call to Andy Farrell, the likely head coach of the 2025 British and Irish Lions.
Liam Heagney
29 Nov 2023, 10:36
Oyonnax's Kiwi full-back Tony Ensor has retired with immediate effect
Former Highlanders full-back Tony Ensor has retired with immediate effect following an injury picked up in a Top 14 match in Augus…
Liam Heagney
29 Nov 2023, 8:47
The two changes Raynal wants, and his view now of Foley Bledisloe call
Seasoned French referee Mathieu Raynal has named the two changes he would make in rugby – one a law alteration and the other to …
Liam Heagney
29 Nov 2023, 6:15
O'Gara facing disciplinary hearing before La Rochelle host Leinster
Ronan O’Gara is set for another disciplinary hearing in France after match officials again took exception to his alleged bad beh…
Liam Heagney
29 Nov 2023, 3:47
Rodd becomes latest England player at Sale to suffer injury setback
Another England international at Sale is set to for a spell on the sidelines, Bevan Rodd the latest to get ruled out of selection …
Liam Heagney
28 Nov 2023, 12:36
Breaking: Former Fiji boss Simon Raiwalui confirms his next move
Ex-Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui has revealed his new post-Rugby World Cup role.
Liam Heagney
28 Nov 2023, 9:50
Jack Singleton set for immediate effect switch to the Top 14 – report
Jack Singleton is reportedly set to become the latest England international to play his club rugby across the Channel.
Liam Heagney
28 Nov 2023, 6:44
'Look, it’s a unique job, unbelievable... I’ll miss it when it goes'
Jack Kelly is living the rugby dream, jetting into Dubai this week with James Topping’s Ireland sevens team for the start of an …
Interview
Liam Heagney
28 Nov 2023, 5:08
The World Cup elimination messages Galthie got from Henry, Woodward
France boss Fabien Galthie has revealed he was contacted by both Graham Henry and Clive Woodward the day after Les Bleus were elim…
Liam Heagney
28 Nov 2023, 4:02
'Our vision is to grow around the rugby a full festival element'
Sam Pinder can’t wait to see sevens go next level from next weekend. For 13 years the ex-Scotland scrum-half was involved in the…
Interview
Liam Heagney
26 Nov 2023, 5:30
Leinster verdict on beating Munster, 'glaring' Ringrose incident
Saturday night’s 21-16 victory over Irish rivals Munster wasn’t enough to edge Leinster to the top of the URC table after six …
Liam Heagney
26 Nov 2023, 2:37
‘We can’t play like Fiji, we haven’t got that sort of personnel'
James Topping laughed heartily the other day when RugbyPass suggested to him that Johnny Sexton was at a loose end and could perha…
Interview
Liam Heagney
26 Nov 2023, 3:00
Munster player ratings vs Leinster | 2023/24 URC round six
Munster player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: Twenty-seven weeks after Munster ambushed Leinster in Dublin, surprisingly winning…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
25 Nov 2023, 14:43
The long-term hope that Leinster have for the retired Johnny Sexton
Leinster boss Leo Cullen has outlined his hope that the recently retired Johnny Sexton won’t be lost to the game.
Liam Heagney
25 Nov 2023, 11:43
Hendre Stassen has made his comeback after a four-year doping ban
Hendre Stassen has become the latest South African rugby player to make his return to the professional game following a four-year …
Liam Heagney
25 Nov 2023, 6:34
The 'give it a crack' Terry Kennedy warning for Ireland's SVNS rivals
Watch out Dubai. Terry Kennedy is back and in mischievous form after a short break from the sevens circuit where he was so clinica…
Interview
Liam Heagney
25 Nov 2023, 3:21
Cobus Reinach has opened up on last month's World Cup death threat
Springboks scrum-half Cobus Reinach has opened up about the death threat he received last month after South Africa knocked host na…
Liam Heagney
24 Nov 2023, 5:26
Virimi Vakatawa breaks silence on his return to play in England
Former France midfielder Virimi Vakatawa has spoken out for the first time about his career lifeline in England at the age of 31.
Liam Heagney
24 Nov 2023, 4:59
Fiji name interim head coach following the exit of Simon Raiwalui
The Fiji Rugby Union have appointed assistant Senirusi Seruvakula as interim head coach of the Fiji national team following the po…
Liam Heagney
24 Nov 2023, 2:52
URC statement: Coetzee, Protheroe banned after their red cards
Bulls’ Marcell Coetzee and Ospreys’ Mathew Protheroe have received the same length of suspension following their URC red cards…
Liam Heagney
24 Nov 2023, 2:29
Toulouse statement: The signing of Scotland's Blair Kinghorn
Top 14 champions Toulouse have confirmed the signing of Scotland international Blair Kinghorn from Edinburgh.
Liam Heagney
23 Nov 2023, 12:30
Premiership club secures a March friendly versus URC's Stormers
Next month’s trip to Mattioli Woods Welford Road won’t be the only time that the Stormers will play in England during the 2023…
Liam Heagney
23 Nov 2023, 10:27
Steve Borthwick back in Paris less than four weeks after World Cup
Steve Borthwick was reportedly back in Paris on Wednesday, 26 days after England defeated Argentina in the French capital to clinc…
Liam Heagney
23 Nov 2023, 9:31
Martin Johnson explains his lack of desire to ever return to rugby
England World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson has revealed that he has no interest in returning to rugby.
Liam Heagney
23 Nov 2023, 8:46
Ex-Ireland player criticises return of 'proven doper' Aphiwe Dyantyi
Former Ireland midfielder Gordon D’Arcy has heavily criticised the recent return of Aphiwe Dyantyi with the Sharks after the exp…
Liam Heagney
23 Nov 2023, 7:23
The critical Agustin Creevy pep talk appreciated by Alex Sanderson
Alex Sanderson has revealed his delight that veteran Agustin Creevy outlined this week to him some situations that could derail th…
Liam Heagney
23 Nov 2023, 6:07
Munster statement: Peter O'Mahony steps down as captain
Long-serving Munster skipper Peter O’Mahony has relinquished the captaincy after more than a decade in the role at the Irish pro…
Liam Heagney
22 Nov 2023, 12:21
Stooke back in Premiership just days after Montpellier sack Cockerill
The sudden exit of Richard Cockerill as Montpellier boss last Sunday has had a ripple effect in the Gallagher Premiership.
Liam Heagney
22 Nov 2023, 11:34
Sam Matavesi on his late dad's passing in World Cup quarter-final week
Sam Matavesi has spoken about last month’s remarkable week where he flew from France to England to be with his father Sireli bef…
Liam Heagney
22 Nov 2023, 7:04
Blair Kinghorn poised for an immediate switch to the Top 14 – report
Scotland international Blair Kinghorn is reportedly poised to seal a high-profile switch to the Top 14.
Liam Heagney
22 Nov 2023, 3:26
Sacked on Sunday, Richard Cockerill could have a new job by Thursday
Former England assistant Richard Cockerill is reportedly set for a swift return to Test-level rugby after dramatically losing his …
Liam Heagney
22 Nov 2023, 4:04
Richard Cockerill is sacked by Montpellier after just seven games
Former England assistant Richard Cockerill has been sacked by Montpellier just seven games into the Top 14 season.
Liam Heagney
21 Nov 2023, 3:34
Sale deliver a devastating injury update on England back row Tom Curry
Sale have delivered a deflating update on Tom Curry, confirming that the England back row will require surgery to mend a hip probl…
Liam Heagney
21 Nov 2023, 11:04
Saracens statement: Ben Earl, Alex Lozowski, Elliot Daly injury update
Ben Earl will be available for the start of England’s Guinness Six Nations campaign after Saracens received a positive update on…
Liam Heagney
21 Nov 2023, 9:45
French age-grade star Oscar Jegou sanctioned for failed doping test
France U20s World Cup winner Oscar Jegou has reportedly learned his fate after recently testing positive for cocaine following a T…
Liam Heagney
21 Nov 2023, 7:57
Why Dallaglio believes 'ominously good' Saracens are the team to fear
Former England and Wasps talisman Lawrence Dallaglio believes Saracens are the team for everyone to fear in this season’s Gallag…
Liam Heagney
18 Nov 2023, 6:48
Rugby Pod verdict on rumoured hefty Maro Itoje pay cut at Saracens
Former Scotland lock Jim Hamilton and England out-half Andy Goode have weighed in on the speculation surrounding the future of Mar…
Liam Heagney
21 Nov 2023, 5:12
Exeter boss Rob Baxter explains last month's 10-hour payroll delay
Exeter boss Rob Baxter has insisted there was nothing sinister behind the club’s players getting paid 10 hours late last month, …
Liam Heagney
21 Nov 2023, 4:09
The 'scary, scary thing' Stuart Hogg has noticed about Finn Russell
Life is now very different for Stuart Hogg, the ex-rugby player. It was July 9 when he brought forward his planned retirement, scr…
Interview
Liam Heagney
15 Nov 2023, 8:19
Dallaglio: 'Biggest disappointment is we never built on that legacy'
Lawrence Dallaglio will be dressed up to the nines next Wednesday evening in London 20 years to the very day when England clinched…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
19 Nov 2023, 2:23
Hogg: 'I absolutely hated it... but there was method in the madness'
Stuart Hogg had just finished up an interview with his old mucker Finn Russell on Wednesday in Bath when he popped up on the Rugby…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
19 Nov 2023, 2:48
Campese: 'Too many league people in our game has destroyed our game'
David Campese is still trying to get his head around the Wallabies failing to make the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals for the firs…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
18 Nov 2023, 14:05
Bernard Laporte offered a role at Cockerill's Montpellier – report
Bernard Laporte is reportedly poised for a return to rugby at Montpellier, the club that fell to bottom place in the Top 14 with S…
Liam Heagney
18 Nov 2023, 13:15
SRU statement: Apology to the family of the late Siobhan Cattigan
The Scottish Rugby Union have issued an apology to the family of the late Siobhan Cattigan, the back-rower who won 19 caps for the…
Liam Heagney
18 Nov 2023, 10:04
The Jake White complaint after Bulls end four-week trip with a loss
Bulls boss Jake White has called on URC officials to review its fixtures scheduling after the toll being away from home for a mont…
Liam Heagney
18 Nov 2023, 4:35
'Beyond a joke' issue tackled in Nigel Owens' clean-up rugby plan
Retired referee Nigel Owens has outlined the changes he believes needs to happen before the next Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2…
Liam Heagney
18 Nov 2023, 3:55
Pro D2 club makes signing George North its top priority – report
Wales’ George North reportedly visited a French tier-two team in midweek with a view to signing for the 2024/25 season.
Liam Heagney
17 Nov 2023, 10:43
Championship Rugby statement: Unanimous opposition to Premiership 2
Championship Rugby clubs have quashed RFU hopes that a Premiership 2 franchise model might be set up in the future in England to u…
Liam Heagney
17 Nov 2023, 10:14
Ireland name their 2023/24 men’s and women’s sevens squads
James Topping and Allan Temple-Jones have named their respective men’s and women’s sevens squads for the 2023/24 season which …
Liam Heagney
17 Nov 2023, 6:13
The bold Sale prediction after England’s limited use of Bevan Rodd
Sale have ambitiously backed Bevan Rodd to benefit in the long term from his limited role with England at the recent Rugby World C…
Liam Heagney
17 Nov 2023, 1:30
Munster confirm three new signings, including Crusaders' Oli Jager
Graham Rowntree’s Munster have confirmed the signing of three players, including the December arrival of Crusaders’ Irish-qual…
Liam Heagney
16 Nov 2023, 9:05
Rassie Erasmus: 2021 resignation letter, Lions tour cancellation row
Rassie Erasmus has explained why he wrote a letter of resignation to SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux in July 2021 before the Test series v…
Liam Heagney
16 Nov 2023, 4:30
Sale hail ‘superhuman’ impact of tackle king South African signing
Less than two months into the Gallagher Premiership season, Sale are feeling massively chuffed with their recruitment of the unher…
Liam Heagney
16 Nov 2023, 2:41
France poised to confirm Antoine Dupont will miss 2024 Six Nations
France skipper Antoine Dupont will miss the 2024 Guinness Six Nations in order to prepare to represent his country at the Olympic …
Liam Heagney
15 Nov 2023, 12:26
Rugby Australia statement: Michael Hooper and the 2024 Olympics
Michael Hooper is on course to potentially clash with Antoine Dupont at next year’s Olympic Games after Rugby Australia confirme…
Liam Heagney
15 Nov 2023, 13:58
Jonny May banned after 'highly reckless' tackle on Ollie Lawrence
Jonny May, the Gloucester winger who recently announced his Test rugby retirement, has copped a three-game ban after getting cited…
Liam Heagney
15 Nov 2023, 9:51
The Sale verdict on England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie’s club debut
Sale have given their verdict on last weekend’s club debut by England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie.
Liam Heagney
15 Nov 2023, 4:35
‘Sleepless' Andrew Porter breaks silence on 'blood boiling' scrums
Ireland prop Andrew Porter has broken his silence on his country’s agonising exit last month from the Rugby World Cup.
Liam Heagney
15 Nov 2023, 2:45
World Rugby statement: Rugby World Cup final
World Rugby have issued a statement in light of a media report in New Zealand alleging that the governing body privately acknowled…
Liam Heagney
14 Nov 2023, 12:25
Tom Curry awaiting Harley Street verdict after latest injury setback
Sale boss Alex Sanderson has revealed he is awaiting a specialist opinion from London on the severity of the latest injury setback…
Liam Heagney
14 Nov 2023, 9:56
Rassie Erasmus names his biggest achievement in rugby
Rassie Erasmus has named his biggest achievement in rugby – and it isn’t winning the Rugby World Cup with South Africa.
Liam Heagney
14 Nov 2023, 5:48
Springboks, All Blacks dominate Rugby World magazine's World Cup XV
Rugby World magazine have named a Rugby World Cup team of the tournament dominated by last month’s finalists South Africa and Ne…
Liam Heagney
14 Nov 2023, 4:48
Johann van Graan reveals his ‘unthinkable’ number one rugby memory
Current Bath boss Johann van Graan has revealed his number one rugby memory from a career that has taken him from coaching at club…
Liam Heagney
14 Nov 2023, 7:34
Ampthill club statement: Paul Turner and Dragons
English Championship club Ampthill have issued a statement in the wake of the announcement in Wales that head coach Paul Turner is…
Liam Heagney
14 Nov 2023, 4:02
England player ratings | The 34 players capped at Rugby World Cup 2023
France 2023 ended in a bronze medal finish last weekend for England, a conclusion that few thought possible coming into the tourna…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
05 Nov 2023, 3:00
England player bike crash revealed in Joe Marler's World Cup review
England prop Joe Marler has delivered a brilliantly entertaining Rugby World Cup review on his eponymously named podcast, The Joe …
Liam Heagney
05 Nov 2023, 3:30
Api Ratuniyarawa misses Barbarians game after Cardiff court appearance
The Barbarians have been forced to make a change to their line-up for Saturday’s match in Cardiff versus Wales after Api Ratuniy…
Liam Heagney
04 Nov 2023, 8:19
Ireland dominate poll asking fans to pick Lions team to play today
British and Irish Lions fans reckon nine Ireland players would get in the Test team if they were playing today.
Liam Heagney
04 Nov 2023, 7:46
Watch: 5-minute video of Pieter-Steph du Toit tackling All Blacks
A five-minute compilation video showing all of the tackles made by Pieter-Steph du Toit for the Springboks in their Rugby World Cu…
Liam Heagney
04 Nov 2023, 6:36
Ronan O'Gara reveals interest in dream team Lions coaching ticket
Ronan O’Gara has thrown his hat into the ring to help coach the British and Irish Lions on their 2025 tour to Australia.
Liam Heagney
03 Nov 2023, 10:10
Dan McKellar addresses speculation that he could succeed Eddie Jones
Former Wallabies assistant Dan McKellar has responded to speculation that he could be the next coach of Australia after the resign…
Liam Heagney
03 Nov 2023, 8:38
The ‘hugely significant' BUCS Super Rugby milestone players list
BUCS Super Rugby have released a list celebrating the milestone of 102 of its university league players playing professionally in …
Liam Heagney
03 Nov 2023, 6:49
World Rugby statement: Wayne Barnes steps down from refereeing
Wayne Barnes has called time on his refereeing career, confirming on Thursday that last Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final between…
Liam Heagney
02 Nov 2023, 7:32
Sonny Bill Williams' verdict on Kolisi inspiring youths in poverty
Former All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams has outlined what pictures of Siya Kolisi holding the Webb Ellis Cup can potentia…
Liam Heagney
02 Nov 2023, 8:42
Eddie Jones: Lack of Farrell appreciation, media overhype Smith
Former England head coach Eddie Jones has told William Hill’s podcast, Up Front with Simon Jordan, that Owen Farrell remains u…
Liam Heagney
01 Nov 2023, 5:21
Kubota Spears have named an All Black as Malcolm Marx's replacement
Monday’s confirmation that Malcolm Marx has withdrawn from the Kubota Spears team for the 2023/24 Japanese Rugby League One seas…
Liam Heagney
01 Nov 2023, 4:58
Deon Fourie explains ‘dark place’ pains he battled in World Cup final
Veteran Springboks forward Deon Fourie has revealed he found himself in a “dark place” trying to make the finish of Saturday n…
Liam Heagney
30 Oct 2023, 9:55
Japan League's 'amazing 40 per cent' World Cup final player claim
Japan Rugby’s League One has a dozen Rugby World Cup final starters enrolled to play in the 2023/24 season – more starters in …
Liam Heagney
28 Oct 2023, 12:14
The 'such a rush' addiction that Theo Dan just can't get enough of
Theo Dan has claimed he is addicted to Test match rugby after rounding off his maiden Rugby World Cup with a try-scoring appearanc…
Liam Heagney
28 Oct 2023, 2:41
Borthwick: 'Playing for England should be the time of your life'
Steve Borthwick has hailed the rapid progress of his England team, turning around a difficult run of form in 2023 to produce six w…
Liam Heagney
28 Oct 2023, 2:10
The Owen Farrell reaction to the Parisian crowd regularly booing him
England skipper Owen Farrell has given his take on having numerous fans barracking him at every opportunity on Friday night.
Liam Heagney
28 Oct 2023, 1:54
The 'no idea' Michael Cheika reaction when asked about his future
Michael Cheika has claimed he has no idea if he will be coaching Argentina in 2024 after their Rugby World Cup campaign ended with…
Liam Heagney
27 Oct 2023, 17:14
England player ratings vs Argentina | Rugby World Cup 2023
England player ratings live from Stade de France: Forty-eight days after a 14-man England comprehensively defeated Argentina 27-10…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
27 Oct 2023, 16:12
Retiring Ben Youngs names the proudest moment of his England career
Ben Youngs has named his proudest moment in the England shirt. First capped in March 2010, the 34-year-old is set to win his 127th…
Liam Heagney
27 Oct 2023, 6:32
RFU statement: Tom Curry and Bongi Mbonambi
The RFU have given its full support to England back row Tom Curry for raising the racially abusive behaviour he allegedly experien…
Liam Heagney
26 Oct 2023, 2:47
World Rugby statement: The Bongi Mbonambi investigation has ended
Bongi Mbonambi is free to play for the Springboks in this Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final.
Liam Heagney
26 Oct 2023, 2:25
Felix Jones: From rooming with Howlett to coaching with Rassie
It was very apt where Felix Jones was seated on Wednesday afternoon, conducting his final media briefing as a Springboks assistant…
Interview
Liam Heagney
25 Oct 2023, 11:42
England explain picking Tom Curry despite his online abuse ordeal
England boss Steve Borthwick has explained why he has picked Tom Curry to start Friday night’s bronze medal final versus Argenti…
Liam Heagney
25 Oct 2023, 10:29
'Their heart rate is 200; emotion is very high all over the world'
Seasoned Springboks utility Willie le Roux can’t wait for Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final versus the All Blacks,
Liam Heagney
25 Oct 2023, 8:39
Springboks' Mbonambi update, le Roux explains his England bust-up
The Springboks have delivered the latest update regarding the ongoing Bongi Mbonambi investigation by World Rugby, while Willie le…
Liam Heagney
25 Oct 2023, 7:30
England make eight changes for Argentina, but Curry chosen to start
Steve Borthwick has made eight changes to his England team for Friday’s Rugby World Cup bronze medal final versus Argentina in P…
Liam Heagney
25 Oct 2023, 6:30
Sale Sharks statement: ‘Disgusting abuse directed at Tom Curry’
Sake Sharks have issued a statement in support of Tom Curry after the England back-rower and his family were subjected to “disgu…
Liam Heagney
25 Oct 2023, 5:42
Jason Ryan: Rassie Erasmus in three words, the Ox Nche 'wow' factor
All Blacks forwards coach Jason Ryan was put on the spot in Paris on Tuesday when asked to describe SA Rugby director Rassie Erasm…
Liam Heagney
24 Oct 2023, 19:23
The tongue-in-cheek name the All Blacks have given their 'bomb squad'
Replacement back-rower Dalton Papali'i has revealed the tongue-in-cheek name he has come up with for the All Blacks subs bench hea…
Liam Heagney
24 Oct 2023, 18:48
England issue Tom Curry allegation update, address Sinfield's future
Richard Wigglesworth has insisted that the allegation of discriminatory language against Tom Curry in last Saturday’s Rugby Worl…
Liam Heagney
24 Oct 2023, 11:32
'We call him the Ferrari for a reason, I hope he breaks that eight'
New Zealand purred their way into the Rugby World Cup final last weekend, dismissing Argentina 44-6 in Paris but not only could th…
Liam Heagney
24 Oct 2023, 3:11
Borthwick's verdict: Scrums, O'Keeffe, Curry claim, Boks at full-time
England boss Steve Borthwick has revisited Saturday night’s agonising one-point Rugby World Cup semi-final loss in Paris.
Liam Heagney
23 Oct 2023, 11:55
Repeat set-piece woe and three other beaten England talking points
Saturday night was gut-wrenching for England. Steve Borthwick’s brisk transformation of his team from no-hopers to Rugby World C…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
22 Oct 2023, 9:09
'I know they watch everything and hear everything we say'
England haven’t been just preparing themselves for the physicality of the Springboks this Saturday night in Paris...
Liam Heagney
20 Oct 2023, 6:29
'Three or four guys screaming and shouting at me, it was brilliant'
Gentle giant RG Snyman got all emotional when reflecting on the dark times he endured before stepping off the bench on Saturday ni…
Interview
Liam Heagney
22 Oct 2023, 6:21
Lawes, Itoje outline where it agonisingly went wrong for England
Neither Courtney Lawes nor Maro Itoje were shy in Saturday night’s post-game mixed zone when it came to identifying what they fe…
Liam Heagney
22 Oct 2023, 3:27
What Danny Care said when sat in a post-game bath with Maro Itoje
Danny Care has reflected on the crushing sense of disappointment at seeing England agonisingly lose their Rugby World Cup semi-fin…
Liam Heagney
22 Oct 2023, 2:52
Owen Farrell explains his final whistle clash with Willie le Roux
Owen Farrell has shrugged off his post-final whistle altercation with South Africa’s Willie le Roux.
Liam Heagney
22 Oct 2023, 2:22
‘Now is not the time to be talking about things like that’
Steve Borthwick has steered clear of sharing his thoughts on the officiating of the scrum by referee Ben O’Keeffe in Saturday ni…
Liam Heagney
22 Oct 2023, 2:11
England player ratings vs South Africa | Rugby World Cup 2023
England player ratings live from Stade de France: This was the moment of real truth for Steve Borthwick's England.
Analysis
Liam Heagney
21 Oct 2023, 16:20
Tinkerman Borthwick and three other England semi-final talking points
Friday night’s action at Stade de France was a timely reminder that England need to bring their A-game against the Springboks or…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
21 Oct 2023, 5:36
The 'don't get hit off your feet' Tom Curry message for England
It’s been this week’s lazy Rugby World Cup narrative, that somehow England playing the Springboks in this Saturday’s semi-fi…
Interview
Liam Heagney
21 Oct 2023, 4:15
The 'five or six minutes' warning that has Elliot Daly clued in
Think painful memories of the 2019 Rugby World Cup final have England focused for this Saturday’s semi-final rematch with the Sp…
Liam Heagney
21 Oct 2023, 2:50
'This generation's different, gone is the big Churchillian leader'
It’s 20 years now since Martin Johnson was centre stage, inspiring England to Rugby World Cup glory with a belter of a rev-up sp…
Interview
Liam Heagney
21 Oct 2023, 1:31
Ben Earl: 'Sink or swim at this point, isn’t it? Let’s hope I swim'
Weights are a tricky business. For whatever reason, a scattergun of different numbers can exist for a player. Take Ben Earl...
Interview
Liam Heagney
20 Oct 2023, 1:09
Borthwick explains Smith's absence, why Marler, Martin are starting
Steve Borthwick has explained making three changes to his England Rugby World Cup semi-final team.
Liam Heagney
19 Oct 2023, 9:12
Three semi-final changes for England, including two in the pack
Steve Borthwick has made three changes to his England team for Saturday’s Rugby World Cup semi-final versus the Springboks in Pa…
Liam Heagney
19 Oct 2023, 6:00
'We’re growing as a team and that’s a scary thing for any team'
It’s curious the negative narrative that can be built up about England when facing the more bruising international teams.
Interview
Liam Heagney
19 Oct 2023, 1:47
Pedestrian ruck and three other England versus Fiji talking points
It’s been quite the week in the south of France, the repeated mantra from the England camp in Aix-en-Provence being how they hav…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
15 Oct 2023, 5:24
'World-class 15' despite getting 'face smashed all over the place'
Rugby World Cup 2023 has been quite a transformative journey for Marcus Smith.
Liam Heagney
18 Oct 2023, 2:04
England's 'in awe of the physicality they brought' Springboks verdict
Kevin Sinfield has warned England not to be too fixated on the threat posed by star Springboks players in next Saturday’s Rugby …
Liam Heagney
17 Oct 2023, 11:29
The Parisian housewarming Joe Marchant never imagined happening
How incredibly ironic. Joe Marchant jumped on board a train from Marseille to Paris on Monday afternoon, not to embrace his new li…
Interview
Liam Heagney
17 Oct 2023, 2:44
'They score two and you’re like, Oh no, please don’t be my fault’
The energy in the Marseille mixed zone on Sunday evening was infectious. There were Hollywood-type England smiles everywhere. Dann…
Interview
Liam Heagney
16 Oct 2023, 9:30
Spicy Curry and three other England versus Fiji talking points
Seven weeks ago, you would have been subjected to a bruising pile-on if you dared to suggest that England would be the last northe…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
16 Oct 2023, 5:44
England player ratings vs Fiji | Rugby World Cup 2023
England player ratings live from Stade Velodrome: Steve Borthwick and co insisted in the lead-up to this Rugby World Cup quarter-f…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
15 Oct 2023, 12:29
Borthwick hails smart England for surviving 'couple of thunderbolts'
Steve Borthwick has hailed the growing ability of his England team to roll with the punches after they dramatically won their way …
Liam Heagney
15 Oct 2023, 14:01
Paul Lasike: 'Definitely, you can call not qualifying a silver lining'
Paul Lasike will be up early on Sunday in Salt Lake City, a curious appointment to view where he will be cheering on both teams in…
Interview
Liam Heagney
15 Oct 2023, 3:10
Referee Jaco Peyper's World Cup quarter-final ends in the 16th minute
Referee Jaco Peyper had his Rugby World Cup quarter-final appearance ended in the 16th minute in Marseille on Saturday.
Liam Heagney
14 Oct 2023, 10:37
Why Marler warmed to 'jumped-up, entitled, little private school kid'
England prop Joe Marler has revealed his first impression of club and country colleague Marcus Smith – and it wasn’t very flat…
Liam Heagney
14 Oct 2023, 8:23
England boss Borthwick concerned by a curious Fijian penalty stat
Steve Borthwick has raised concerns about the number of penalties Fiji have won in recent matches, but the England coach won’t b…
Liam Heagney
13 Oct 2023, 11:00
Borthwick explains why Marcus Smith is starting for England at No15
Steve Borthwick has explained his gamble to start Marcus Smith at full-back for only the second time ever in his England career fo…
Liam Heagney
13 Oct 2023, 9:13
'No, it’s not terrifying': England's Elliot Daly on Fijian physicality
It was curious how the drumbeat about Elliot Daly supposedly being in a very serious race for Rugby World Cup fitness suddenly fel…
Interview
Liam Heagney
13 Oct 2023, 1:49
Smith a winner as England confirm two backline changes versus Fiji
Steve Borthwick has made two changes to his England team for this Sunday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final versus Fiji, promoting …
Liam Heagney
13 Oct 2023, 6:00
Speculation growing about big England selection calls versus Fiji
Speculation is growing that Steve Borthwick is set to transform the England backline by naming Marcus Smith to start at full-back …
Liam Heagney
12 Oct 2023, 15:45
Wales explain logic of picking both Reffell and Morgan to start
Warren Gatland has explained why he has opted to pick two specialist opensides to start this Saturday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-…
Liam Heagney
12 Oct 2023, 8:53
Nigel Owens explains why Fiji's Levani Botia wasn't red-carded
Nigel Owens has given his verdict on the yellow card shown last Sunday night to Fiji back-rower Levani Botia and explained why it …
Liam Heagney
12 Oct 2023, 7:23
Ex-France great sticks the boot in on uninspired England
Former France back-rower Serge Betsen has delivered a withering assessment of England ahead of their Rugby World Cup quarter-final…
Liam Heagney
12 Oct 2023, 4:50
'Family's everything': Sam Matavesi is a doubt for Fiji quarter-final
Fiji have issued an update on the situation surrounding hooker Sam Matavesi, who left the squad earlier this week to return to Eng…
Liam Heagney
12 Oct 2023, 4:04
'I think it will be a one-week holiday in Fiji, it will be crazy'
Fiji kicking coach Seremaia Bai has allowed himself to imagine what the reaction would be back in the Pacific Islands if they beat…
Liam Heagney
12 Oct 2023, 3:39
An ‘inexcusable’ England shortcoming has wound up Jamie George
Seasoned hooker Jamie George believes England are poised for a much-improved performance this weekend at the Rugby World Cup after…
Liam Heagney
12 Oct 2023, 2:59
Why 'complete lineout pigs’ have Jamie George feeling confident
A couple of Fijian lineouts stolen by Portugal last Sunday night in the final match of the 40-game pool section of the Rugby World…
Liam Heagney
11 Oct 2023, 10:25
England laugh off suggestion Owen Farrell has picked up an injury
England have laughed off the suggestion that Owen Farrell is carrying a knee injury heading into this Sunday’s Rugby World Cup q…
Liam Heagney
11 Oct 2023, 9:38
'Unique, to say the least': The Tom Curry verdict on his World Cup
It’s been a weird existence this year for Tom Curry. He’s openly viewed as one of England’s most pivotal players, yet he has…
Interview
Liam Heagney
11 Oct 2023, 5:50
The England verdict on Levani Botia and a Fiji 'super strength'
England have given their verdict on the threat posed by Levani Botia, the Fijian breakdown menace who will be on a mission next Su…
Liam Heagney
10 Oct 2023, 12:14
The 'massive impact' promise England have made about Owen Farrell
Richard Wigglesworth has come out in defence of England skipper Owen Farrell after the suggestion that he should be dropped for th…
Liam Heagney
10 Oct 2023, 10:20
Vunipola queries top 4 rankings; agrees England are 'public enemy No1'
Billy Vunipola has hit back at the suggestion that there is a top four in international rugby and that England are grouped amongst…
Liam Heagney
10 Oct 2023, 11:12
Piutau: 'Very different experience to any other team I've been part of'
Salesi ‘Charles’ Piutau was beaming on Sunday when he emerged from the Tonga dressing room in Lille.
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
09 Oct 2023, 11:18
Toutai Kefu: 'Two simple things' must happen for Tonga to improve
Toutai Kefu has signed off on his seven-year stint in charge of Tonga with a two-fold plea to the powers that be for the future: t…
Liam Heagney
08 Oct 2023, 14:38
England statement: The Rugby World Cup call-up of Sam Underhill
Sam Underhill has been called up to the England Rugby World Cup squad in place of the injured Jack Willis.
Liam Heagney
08 Oct 2023, 6:26
Borthwick's verbal blast and three other England talking points
RugbyPass steered clear of all the very busy temporary beer outlets in and around Stade Mauroy on Saturday evening, yet waking up …
Analysis
Liam Heagney
08 Oct 2023, 7:13
The 'just what we needed' England reaction to winning ugly in Lille
England No8 Ben Earl has shaken off his team’s scratchy display versus Samoa, claiming it was exactly what they needed heading i…
Liam Heagney
08 Oct 2023, 3:00
Super sub Danny Care on his England try and win-saving tackle
Veteran scrum-half Danny Care has reflected on his pivotal 14-minute Rugby World Cup cameo off the England bench on Saturday.
Liam Heagney
08 Oct 2023, 1:35
Owen Farrell on his shot clock fiasco; breaking England points record
New all-time England record points scorer Owen Farrell has reacted to his 64th-minute shot clock gaffe in Lille.
Liam Heagney
07 Oct 2023, 14:48
Borthwick come out swinging for England's critics after comeback win
Steve Borthwick has come out swinging at his England team’s critics after their dramatic comeback victory versus Samoa in Lille …
Liam Heagney
07 Oct 2023, 16:15
England player ratings vs Samoa | Rugby World Cup 2023
England player ratings live from Lille: This was supposed to be a Rugby World Cup luxury for Steve Borthwick’s team, who were th…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
07 Oct 2023, 13:16
'We still can do something special and upset a team like England'
Michael Alaalatoa looked quite the picture strolling through the mixed zone in Toulouse on Thursday night.
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
29 Sep 2023, 2:20
Regathered kicks and three other England talking points versus Samoa
No one could have confidently predicted it would work out so swimmingly for England so far at this Rugby World Cup, quarter-final …
Analysis
Liam Heagney
07 Oct 2023, 6:05
'A Tuilagi name on the teamsheet strikes fear into a lot of people'
Ollie Chessum arrived straight off the training ground the other day in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, another 9/10 session in the bank a…
Interview
Liam Heagney
07 Oct 2023, 2:34
'Just go on YouTube and enjoy hours of those guys hitting people'
Dan Cole has led the plaudits ahead of a big weekend for the famed Tuilagi family, with youngest brother Manu set to play for Engl…
Liam Heagney
06 Oct 2023, 9:33
'Unapologetically Samoan' message issued to England's Manu Tuilagi
Samoa are braced to tackle the physicality of Manu Tuilagi for the first time when they take on England at the Rugby World Cup.
Liam Heagney
06 Oct 2023, 8:23
How Owen Farrell feels being on cusp of beating Wilkinson record
England skipper Owen Farrell has played down the hype about him surpassing Jonny Wilkinson this Saturday to become his country’s…
Liam Heagney
06 Oct 2023, 5:22
The Ford, Farrell verdict on England reviving their old 10/12 combo
George Ford and Owen Farrell have spoken about being reunited in the same starting England team for the first time since March 202…
Liam Heagney
05 Oct 2023, 15:15
Blow for England as Jack Willis is ruled out of the Rugby World Cup
Jack Willis has left Steve Borthwick's squad at the Rugby World Cup, with a replacement expected to be in camp by the time England…
Liam Heagney
05 Oct 2023, 11:51
England change 14, revive their 10/12/13 2019 World Cup combination
England boss Steve Borthwick has retained just a single starter – skipper Owen Farrell – from the Rugby World Cup win over Chi…
Liam Heagney
05 Oct 2023, 10:30
Samoa make nine changes to their team to take on England
Samoa have made nine changes to their team to play England this Saturday in Lille following last week’s Rugby World Cup pool los…
Liam Heagney
05 Oct 2023, 9:51
Ben Earl: 'I probably wasn’t fit enough to play international rugby'
It’s mad to think that a bit-part player unceremoniously dumped by Steve Borthwick from the England squad during this year’s G…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Oct 2023, 0:58
'He's just trying to have a quiet pint; I’m chewing his ear off'
Kyle Sinckler has recalled the moment eight years ago when he over-exuberantly told a former Wales international that he would bec…
Liam Heagney
04 Oct 2023, 13:30
Kudos for No9 Mitchell, but England coy on wing selection vs Samoa
Richard Wigglesworth has paid tribute to Alex Mitchell for coming into the England squad as an emergency Rugby World Cup call-up a…
Liam Heagney
04 Oct 2023, 12:55
'We want to put shots in': England set to fight Samoan fire with fire
Richard Wigglesworth has explained that England are set to fight fire with fire and won’t shy away from the physicality battle t…
Liam Heagney
04 Oct 2023, 7:14
Kyle Sinckler issues 'chilled-out demeanour' warning about Samoa
Kyle Sinckler has warned England not to be fooled by the laid-back off-field nature of Samoa, this Saturday’s Pool D Rugby World…
Liam Heagney
04 Oct 2023, 5:21
'I can't say': The England question Danny Care refused to answer
Danny Care was full of chat on Tuesday at Le Touquet-Paris-Plage. Hybrid club/country contracts, the physicality of Samoa, even wa…
Liam Heagney
03 Oct 2023, 13:40
Shambolic no more: Kevin Sinfield explains improved England defence
Defence coach Kevin Sinfield has delivered his verdict on the rapidly improved England rearguard.
Liam Heagney
03 Oct 2023, 13:05
The Danny Care verdict on 'hybrid' contracts for England players
England veteran Danny Care has shared his thoughts on the mooted hybrid contracts that would change the way Steve Borthwick is abl…
Liam Heagney
03 Oct 2023, 9:35
The England player singled out by Lawes as a 'brilliant example'
Courtney Lawes has arguably given the most insightful interview of any England player or coach at France 2023.
Liam Heagney
03 Oct 2023, 1:50
Courtney Lawes: 'It wasn't nice... but it paid off in the end'
Courtney Lawes was like a boxer post-training on Monday at the England training facility in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, a rolled towel…
Interview
Liam Heagney
03 Oct 2023, 1:05
The 'brutal at times' Jamie George England verdict on Samoa
Jamie George has described Theo McFarland as one of the best players in the world in any position ahead of next Saturday’s Pool …
Liam Heagney
02 Oct 2023, 8:17
The message Jamie George has for Will Skelton and Australia
England hooker Jamie George has sent a message to Will Skelton and his devastated Wallabies who are facing Rugby World Cup pool st…
Liam Heagney
02 Oct 2023, 10:29
The ‘match-fixing’ question put to Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber
Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber was left bemused by a post-match question on Sunday night in Marseille about the potential for Ir…
Liam Heagney
02 Oct 2023, 3:46
The parts of his game four-try Darcy Graham wasn't thrilled about
Time was practically up when RugbyPass finally fleetingly caught up alone with Darcy Graham in the Saturday night mixed zone in Li…
Interview
Liam Heagney
01 Oct 2023, 3:44
Monty Ioane: 'The good thing is teams are starting to respect us'
The tunnel had all but emptied out at Parc Olympique Lyonnais when Monty Ioane turned the corner and started making his way toward…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
30 Sep 2023, 3:09
The Leali'ifano verdict on Samoa ahead of final match versus England
Christian Leali'ifano has delivered a message for England ahead of next weekend’s Pool D finale in Lille.
Liam Heagney
29 Sep 2023, 4:52
The Namibia verdict on Deysel ban, latest World Cup red card
Namibia boss Allister Coetzee has given his verdict on the five-game ban handed down to Johan Deysel, their Rugby World Cup skippe…
Liam Heagney
28 Sep 2023, 9:19
Matt Proudfoot: 'Good grief, it scares the hell out of me'
It was a Rugby World Cup ending with a difference on Wednesday night for Matt Proudfoot compared to 2019.
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
28 Sep 2023, 1:57
England player ratings | The 33 players capped at Rugby World Cup 2023
When Jack Walker entered the fray on Saturday in Lille with 26 minutes remaining, it was a squad rotation job fully done by Englan…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
26 Sep 2023, 3:21
'Players are allowed to leave Touquet, they don’t go back to England'
Saturday night in the Stade Mauroy tunnel with police outriders on their bikes waiting for the England bus to fully load so they c…
Liam Heagney
25 Sep 2023, 6:40
The Jean de Villiers verdict: 'I'm not feeling confident at all'
Former Springboks midfielder Jean de Villiers has outlined his fears ahead of South Africa’s clash with Ireland on Saturday nigh…
Liam Heagney
23 Sep 2023, 2:16
Game-changing Smith and three other England talking points post-Chile
It was a job soundly done for a change by England in Lille on Saturday... RugbyPass sifts through some talking points from their g…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
24 Sep 2023, 4:52
What England made of having three 10s on the pitch at the same time
England boss Steve Borthwick has declared that the presence of three No10s in his backline at the same time brought another dimens…
Liam Heagney
24 Sep 2023, 4:20
England won 71-0 but admit to 'danger of panicking a little bit'
England skipper Owen Farrell has praised for team for not panicking during the opening part of Saturday’s Rugby World Cup Pool D…
Liam Heagney
24 Sep 2023, 2:20
The England verdict on the record-tying five-try Henry Arundell
England have reacted to the record-tying five-try performance from Henry Arundell in their 71-0, 11-try thumping of Rugby World Cu…
Liam Heagney
24 Sep 2023, 1:40
'Some Fijians I'd never seen in my life are just absolute freak athletes'
George Bridge would have hoped some years ago to have been in France for the 2023 Rugby World Cup wearing an Altrad-sponsored jers…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
23 Sep 2023, 18:05
England player ratings vs Chile | Rugby World Cup 2023
England player ratings live from Lille: We came in search of a coachload of tries materialising for England against the tourname…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
23 Sep 2023, 12:57
The Jake White verdict on 'power vs skill' Springboks-Ireland clash
Jake White has shared his thoughts on Saturday night’s Rugby World Cup blockbuster in Paris between the Springboks and Ireland.
Liam Heagney
23 Sep 2023, 6:16
Antoine Dupont posts short social media message following operation
Antoine Dupont has posted a short message on social media less than 12 hours after his late Friday night operation in Toulouse.
Liam Heagney
23 Sep 2023, 5:02
FFR statement: Antoine Dupont's Friday night surgery in Toulouse
Antoine Dupont’s race to get back fit in time for the closing stages of the Rugby World Cup with France got underway late on Fri…
Liam Heagney
23 Sep 2023, 2:51
Marcus Smith at 15 and other England talking points versus Chile
It’s very much a case of catching England on Saturday while you can as you can bet the house that it’s an XV that won’t see …
Analysis
Liam Heagney
23 Sep 2023, 1:57
'They're just hard b******s! They don't pick soft players'
Former Ireland back-rower Alan Quinlan has described the Springboks as “hard b******s” and tipped them to beat Andy Farrell’…
Liam Heagney
22 Sep 2023, 10:15
What Billy Vunipola made of his 'sucking eggs' tackle school stint
Billy Vunipola has explained what his recent enrollment at tackle school did for his game. The England No8 was red-carded on Augus…
Liam Heagney
22 Sep 2023, 8:11
The 'kid can play anywhere' England verdict on new full-back Smith
Kevin Sinfield can’t wait to see what unfolds on Saturday at the Rugby World Cup with Marcus Smith wearing the England No15 shir…
Liam Heagney
22 Sep 2023, 7:27
The classy message England have sent to the injured Antoine Dupont
England sent their regards to the injured Antoine Dupont shortly after it was confirmed on Friday morning that the France skipper …
Liam Heagney
22 Sep 2023, 6:02
Owen Farrell: 'I wouldn’t describe myself as the best in the stands'
If there has been an upside to the four-game ban handed down last month to Owen Farrell, it’s that in his two England media appe…
Interview
Liam Heagney
22 Sep 2023, 1:56
Borthwick, Farrell react to much-changed England XV to take on Chile
Steve Borthwick has described himself as tremendously excited to name an England team to take on Chile with Owen Farrell reinstate…
Liam Heagney
21 Sep 2023, 12:46
England change 12 for Chile; Marcus Smith given a brand new role
Steve Borthwick has made a dozen changes to his England Rugby World Cup team to face Chile on Saturday in Lille.
Liam Heagney
21 Sep 2023, 10:30
Eddie Jones talks Wazza-ball Wales, affection he still has for England
Eddie Jones has admitted his Australia team face a big challenge to stay in the Rugby World Cup when they take on a Wales team ins…
Liam Heagney
19 Sep 2023, 13:17
England explain how they have turned around their wobbling scrum
England scrum coach Tom Harrison has expressed his delight that there has been positive progress at the set-piece two games into t…
Liam Heagney
19 Sep 2023, 11:10
England's 'very average red zone return', attack 'still very limited'
The England attack under Steve Borthwick has been labelled as “still very limited” with a “very average red zone return”.
Liam Heagney
19 Sep 2023, 3:32
Joe Marler uncut: A mixed-zone interview as bizarre as headed assist
Mixed zone interviews are regularly dull and stilted. The exhausted player who has been stopped for a few quick words usually just…
Interview
Liam Heagney
19 Sep 2023, 1:45
The post-game 'joking' George Ford was doing with Owen Farrell
It’s been quite an unexpected month’s exposure for George Ford, getting to start four straight matches as the England No10 two…
Liam Heagney
19 Sep 2023, 2:50
Lewis Ludlam issues a message to the booing England supporters
Back-rower Lewis Ludlam has issued a message to frustrated England supporters, appealing for them to stick with Steve Borthwick’…
Liam Heagney
18 Sep 2023, 10:44
Borthwick ignores boos, claims growth visible in the England attack
Steve Borthwick has defended his England team following their unimpressive 34-12 Rugby World Cup win over Japan in Nice.
Liam Heagney
18 Sep 2023, 3:09
The Courtney Lawes verdict on bizarre try in sluggish England win
England skipper Courtney Lawes retains faith that his team’s bumbling attack will be at its best when it most matters at the Rug…
Liam Heagney
18 Sep 2023, 3:45
The boos in Nice and three other post-Japan England talking points
England chalked up back-to-back wins for only the second time in the Steve Borthwick era when they eventually got the better of Ja…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
18 Sep 2023, 3:17
England player ratings vs Japan | Rugby World Cup 2023
England player ratings live from Stade de Nice: First, the good news on a balmy night on the French Riviera; England eventually wo…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
17 Sep 2023, 16:26
Repeated card trouble and three other England talking points
It’s been quite the transformative week for Steve Borthwick and England. The build-up to their Rugby World Cup opener was surrou…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
17 Sep 2023, 5:50
Borthwick's 'up the mountains outside Tokyo' induction with Japan
Steve Borthwick has retained vivid memories of his unusual mountainside introduction to Japanese rugby.
Liam Heagney
17 Sep 2023, 4:20
'Steve Borthwick is the right choice, give him some bloody time'
Ben Cohen won’t bluff. Despite all the hype about the start of the Rugby World Cup last weekend, he got his wires crossed and mi…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
17 Sep 2023, 2:41
England hope their 'incredible 15th man' has a new role in Nice
Steve Borthwick has lauded England fans for being their 15th man at the Rugby World Cup in France, but he hopes that role will cha…
Liam Heagney
17 Sep 2023, 2:19
A startling World Cup stat has Borthwick believing in blunt England
Steve Borthwick has delved into England Rugby World Cup history to illustrate how a team with limited try-scoring prowess can stil…
Liam Heagney
16 Sep 2023, 4:55
Borthwick explains prop changes; picking Ludlam ahead of Vunipola
Steve Borthwick has explained the logic behind the three changes he has made to his starting England team for this Sunday’s Rugb…
Liam Heagney
15 Sep 2023, 13:04
England make three changes to their starting team to face Japan
England have made three changes to their starting team following last weekend’s opening round Rugby World Cup win over Argentina…
Liam Heagney
15 Sep 2023, 11:00
Nigel Owens gives his verdict on Tom Curry red, Jesse Kriel play-on
Nigel Owens has shared his views on the two of the biggest talking points of Rugby World Cup opening weekend – the red card sanc…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
15 Sep 2023, 3:57
Dallaglio credits Clive Woodward with 'reinventing the game'
Ex-England back-rower Lawrence Dallaglio has hailed his former boss, Clive Woodward, for being the disruptor who revolutionised th…
Liam Heagney
14 Sep 2023, 5:53
Springboks statement: Malcolm Marx ruled out of Rugby World Cup
SA Rugby have confirmed that Malcolm Marx will play no further part in the Rugby World Cup.
Liam Heagney
14 Sep 2023, 4:31
Scotland statement: Hotel accident ends David Cherry's World Cup
Scotland’s David Cherry became the second Pool B hooker on Thursday morning to forfeit his place for the remainder of the Rugby …
Liam Heagney
14 Sep 2023, 4:57
'I’m here to be really horrible, nasty to you... in the politest way'
Joe Marler arrived upstairs on Wednesday afternoon at England base camp in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage with an ice pack curiously wrapp…
Interview
Liam Heagney
14 Sep 2023, 1:20
Joe Marler's brutal 'fiction or non-fiction' Danny Cipriani quip
Joe Marler has taken issue with Danny Cipriani’s claim that there is no room for individuals in the modern game.
Liam Heagney
13 Sep 2023, 16:00
The very good reason why England won’t copy Boks’ traffic lights
South Africa insisted last Sunday that their use of a traffic lights system from the coaches' box in Marseille was purely to do wi…
Liam Heagney
13 Sep 2023, 11:00
The first public England reaction to the Tom Curry suspension
England have given their first public reaction to the three-game ban – reducible to two via tackle school – handed down on Tue…
Liam Heagney
13 Sep 2023, 8:35
Opening weekend stats put spotlight on the try-less England attack
England have been cock-a-hoop since Saturday’s reputation-restoring Rugby World Cup win over Argentina – but some stats from t…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
13 Sep 2023, 3:40
Ex-England international: 'Would be a massive call to drop Ford'
Ex-England international James Simpson-Daniel believes Steve Borthwick can’t drop George Ford at the Rugby World Cup following h…
Liam Heagney
13 Sep 2023, 2:23
Body language expert shares verdict on hand-over-mouth Owen Farrell
A leading UK body language expert has run the rule over the weekend Rugby World Cup behaviours of Owen Farrell and Dan Biggar.
Liam Heagney
12 Sep 2023, 3:57
Billy Vunipola's recent 'not a pleasant experience' England ordeal
England have laid bare what suspension has painfully meant for Billy Vunipola on the training ground in recent weeks.
Liam Heagney
12 Sep 2023, 10:20
No Lawes, Curry at England training but son of ex-Test prop helps out
Skipper Courtney Lawes was missing from Tuesday’s England pitch session in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage.
Liam Heagney
12 Sep 2023, 6:27
England back-rower Tom Curry banned after last Saturday's red card
Back-rower Tom Curry must attend tackle school if he is to feature in another England pool game prior to his team’s likely progr…
Liam Heagney
12 Sep 2023, 10:58
England explain why George Kruis was at England training on Tuesday
Richard Wigglesworth has shed light on the surprise presence of George Kruis at England training on Tuesday in Le Touquet-Paris-Pl…
Liam Heagney
12 Sep 2023, 8:21
World Rugby statement: England versus Argentina World Cup fan delays
An investigation has been started by World Rugby after Saturday night’s Rugby World Cup match in Marseille began with a number o…
Liam Heagney
10 Sep 2023, 1:21
Manu Tuilagi explains 'sort of smiling and laughing' red card reaction
Manu Tuilagi has revealed his light-hearted reaction to Saturday night's third-minute banishment of Tom Curry.
Liam Heagney
10 Sep 2023, 6:03
Tuilagi the scrummager and three other England win talking points
Saturday night was special for England in Marseille. Few people had backed them to deliver, so desperate were the optics of their …
Analysis
Liam Heagney
10 Sep 2023, 4:54
The Borthwick verdict on George Ford masterclass, Tom Curry red card
Steve Borthwick has hailed the performance of George Ford, the out-half who scored all 27 of 14-man England’s points in their re…
Liam Heagney
09 Sep 2023, 18:19
The Danny Care stat that fuelled George Ford's drop goal burst
George Ford revealed on Saturday night how a Danny Care statistic ignited his imagination about kicking Rugby World Cup drop goals…
Liam Heagney
10 Sep 2023, 2:31
'It's very easy when you lose a man to hit the panic button'
Freddie Steward has shared his delight in Marseille about how England reacted so brilliantly to having to play with 14 men for the…
Liam Heagney
10 Sep 2023, 1:56
England player ratings vs Argentina | Rugby World Cup 2023
England player ratings from Liam Heagney live in Marseille: This was the moment of truth, the night when it all supposed to become…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
09 Sep 2023, 16:23
The resurrection of Dan Cole and three other England talking points
It’s now or never on Saturday night for Steve Borthwick and struggling England. For nine months, the repeated rhetoric from the …
Analysis
Liam Heagney
09 Sep 2023, 5:00
The 2011 tackle clip that came up in this week's England prep
England’s preparations this week for Saturday’s Rugby World Cup opener versus Argentina in Marseille included watching a clip …
Liam Heagney
08 Sep 2023, 7:01
'Bit weird': Alex Mitchell on going from England axe to World Cup No9
England No9 Alex Mitchell has described the last two and a half months as a rollercoaster, going from getting axed by Steve Borthw…
Liam Heagney
08 Sep 2023, 6:16
'It will be really cagey; England by five points' – Joe Launchbury
With the Rugby World Cup set to start on Friday night in Paris, there are exciting weeks ahead and it’s just what rugby needs.
Opinion
Liam Heagney
08 Sep 2023, 2:06
Four changes for England, including the return of a fit Tom Curry
Steve Borthwick has named an England team to play Argentina in the Rugby World Cup on Saturday that has four changes from the XV a…
Liam Heagney
07 Sep 2023, 9:00
Steve Borthwick hits back, claiming England 'written off too early'
Steve Borthwick has claimed people have written off his England team too early ahead of their Rugby World Cup campaign which start…
Liam Heagney
07 Sep 2023, 11:41
'England break down after three phases and run out of ideas'
Former Test winger James Simpson-Daniel has delivered a withering assessment of the England attack under Steve Borthwick ahead of …
Liam Heagney
07 Sep 2023, 4:52
'I was getting dialogue from Steve the whole time… then the injury happened'
Joe Launchbury wasn’t beating himself up the other day when talking about his latest cruel rugby misfortune - missing the Rugby …
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
07 Sep 2023, 2:40
'It's frightening; you’d love to have all three on the pitch'
England veteran Danny Care has claimed the potential that Marcus Smith has is frightening.
Liam Heagney
06 Sep 2023, 6:50
England prop Dan Cole opens up on his 2019 World Cup final scar
Dan Cole has spoken about his surprise return to the Rugby World Cup four years after the England scrum dramatically collapsed in …
Liam Heagney
06 Sep 2023, 3:46
The 'really nice message' Michael Cheika sent to Kevin Sinfield
Kevin Sinfield can’t wait to bump into rival coach Micheal Cheika on Saturday night in Marseille to thank him for a message he s…
Liam Heagney
06 Sep 2023, 2:15
Incredible Danny Care claim about what this England week means to him
Danny Care has been on the go with England since making a 2008 Test debut away to New Zealand.
Liam Heagney
05 Sep 2023, 12:21
'That got my monkey out': The moment Jonny May lost it with Borthwick
Jonny May remains one of the nicest guys in rugby. Not because he said a bright and breezy ‘Hello, how are you?” when he walke…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Sep 2023, 16:07
Marcus Smith’s six-word reply when England asked him to play full-back
Kevin Sinfield has shed light on the revelatory tactical change that England have decided to deploy regarding Marcus Smith followi…
Liam Heagney
05 Sep 2023, 16:00
The warning Phil Larder has given to England's Kevin Sinfield
Kevin Sinfield has revealed the pep talks he has received from fellow rugby league greats who have coached rugby union defence at …
Liam Heagney
05 Sep 2023, 11:07
England issue Tom Curry update; explain why defence has been so leaky
Kevin Sinfield has hinted that Tom Curry is ready to play for England at the Rugby World Cup after an absence that affected their …
Liam Heagney
05 Sep 2023, 8:38
The Ribbans view on 'old role of enforcer' that refs are now hot on
David Ribbans is enjoying his last hurrah with England. Set to join Toulon at the end of the Rugby World Cup, his club switch from…
Liam Heagney
05 Sep 2023, 3:55
The Joe Marchant reason why Lewis Ludlam has confidence in England
England arrived in France last Thursday with a sense of foreboding ahead of the Rugby World Cup. However, the closer it gets to th…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Sep 2023, 2:45
Borthwick gives England injury update, praises suspended Owen Farrell
Steve Borthwick has suggested injuries shouldn’t impact team selection when he names his England XV on Thursday to play Argentin…
Liam Heagney
04 Sep 2023, 9:04
Owen Farrell breaks silence on suspension, admits he made 'mistake'
England captain Owen Farrell has broken his silence on his four-game suspension which followed his red card versus Wales on August…
Interview
Liam Heagney
04 Sep 2023, 9:43
The 34-word Owen Farrell reply about Danny Cipriani's 'mafia' claim
Owen Farrell was put on the spot on Monday in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage when asked what he made about Danny Cipriani’s headline-gra…
Liam Heagney
04 Sep 2023, 12:49
The reason Julian Montoya has ‘faith’ in his Pumas for England date
Argentina skipper Julian Montoya has spoken about what is giving him great confidence about his team ahead of their Rugby World Cu…
Liam Heagney
04 Sep 2023, 3:52
The 'not an honest evaluation' that left Danny Cipriani fuming
Danny Cipriani has opened up on his first start for England in 10 years, an appearance that ultimately proved to be the last time …
Liam Heagney
04 Sep 2023, 3:22
Le Touquet postcard: England settle into most British French resort
This time next week we will have a far better sense of the direction of travel for England at Rugby World Cup 2023 as by then the …
Opinion
Liam Heagney
03 Sep 2023, 3:00
'The World Cup is all about the stash and the wedge'
Mickey Skinner had a message for the England class of 2023 delivered second-hand this weekend by Jonathan Webb, his former 1991 Ru…
Liam Heagney
03 Sep 2023, 3:21
England explain Lawes' absence from Saturday's RWC capping ceremony
Richard Wigglesworth has suggested that Steve Borthwick will have a full squad to choose from – bar the suspended Owen Farrell a…
Liam Heagney
02 Sep 2023, 12:45
500 school children watch as England stage first training in France
Steve Borthwick’s England got down to business at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France when they held their first pitch session in…
Liam Heagney
01 Sep 2023, 10:23
‘Important’ Michalak advice 16 years after France flunked home RWC
Former France out-half Freddy Michalak has given his verdict on what Les Bleus must do to win the 2023 Rugby World Cup, unlike wha…
Liam Heagney
01 Sep 2023, 4:13
David Kirk's 'embarrassing' All Blacks verdict and his RWC 2023 tip
David Kirk has branded last weekend’s record defeat for the All Blacks as embarrassing – but he can still see them winning Rug…
Liam Heagney
01 Sep 2023, 2:02
19/14 the dominant split as all 20 Rugby World Cup squads confirmed
With the August 28 deadline now passed for the final submission by all 20 teams of their 33-strong squads travelling to France, th…
Liam Heagney
29 Aug 2023, 11:54
The 20 base camps that are ready to host the Rugby World Cup teams
Nine regions in France are set to host the 20 Rugby World Cup teams from this weekend.
Liam Heagney
30 Aug 2023, 5:45
Out-of-depth Borthwick and 3 other miserable England talking points
Like a gambler clutching his last dime at a one-arm bandit in Reno, Steve Borthwick is firmly clinging to his coin – the Septemb…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
27 Aug 2023, 2:28
Romain Ntamack opens up on 'twist of fate' World Cup-ending injury
Romain Ntamack should have been assembling later this week at Rueil-Malmaison, the Ile-de-France base camp for Fabien Galthie’s …
Liam Heagney
30 Aug 2023, 5:02
World Rugby launches Rugby World Cup 2023 Fantasy game
World Rugby have launched RWC 2023 Fantasy just nine days before the Rugby World Cup kicks off with host nation France taking on t…
Liam Heagney
30 Aug 2023, 2:49
Barbarians name an Australian-dominated squad to play Northampton
The Barbarians have confirmed the 25-strong squad they have assembled in England for a tour that starts at Northampton on Saturday…
Liam Heagney
29 Aug 2023, 6:18
'Is this the greatest All Blacks v Springboks XV of all time?'
Last Friday night’s All Blacks versus Springboks clash at Twickenham was one of the most atmospheric occasions at English rugby …
Liam Heagney
29 Aug 2023, 3:12
England player ratings | The 42 players capped in Summer Nations 2023
It was a month to forget for England with suspension, injuries, lack of form and some terribly damaging results shattering optimis…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
28 Aug 2023, 3:00
Steve Borthwick updates his England Rugby World Cup squad
England boss Steve Borthwick has updated his Rugby World Cup squad, confirming on Sunday that Jonny May will travel to France on T…
Liam Heagney
27 Aug 2023, 11:00
Andy Farrell confirms his 33-man Ireland squad for Rugby World Cup
Head coach Andy Farrell has confirmed Ireland's 33-man Rugby World Cup squad at a press conference at thr Shelbourne Hotel in Dubl…
Liam Heagney
27 Aug 2023, 10:30
England player ratings vs Fiji | 2023 Summer Nations Series
England player ratings live from Twickenham: It was Friday when Steve Borthwick’s assistant, Kevin Sinfield, calmly vouched that…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
26 Aug 2023, 11:50
What Borthwick said when asked if England will add more coaches
Steve Borthwick has insisted that everything is still on track for England to get the much-desired Rugby World Cup opening round w…
Liam Heagney
26 Aug 2023, 16:09
The post-game reaction to unpunished Marler incident with Tuisue
Steve Borthwick was asked to comment on speculation that Joe Marler could be cited in the coming days following an unpunished head…
Liam Heagney
26 Aug 2023, 13:53
Red-carded Scott Barrett faces missing the start of the World Cup
Ian Foster’s All Blacks became the latest country to become embroiled in red card trouble ahead of the upcoming Rugby World Cup …
Liam Heagney
25 Aug 2023, 14:42
'There's none of that... there is nobody blaming anybody'
Assistant coach Kevin Sinfield has explained how the togetherness of the England squad at meal times in recent weeks is firm evide…
Liam Heagney
25 Aug 2023, 8:31
England clarify the wait-and-see Joe Cokanasiga situation
Kevin Sinfield has explained the England situation regarding Joe Cokanasiga, the winger who was deemed surplus to requirement in e…
Liam Heagney
25 Aug 2023, 7:51
World Rugby statement: The launch of 'world-class' RugbyPass TV
World Rugby have launched RugbyPass TV a fortnight before Rugby World Cup 2023 starts with the September 8 blockbuster meeting of …
Liam Heagney
25 Aug 2023, 2:58
Eight England changes, including a curious start for Jonny May
Steve Borthwick has confirmed an England team to play Fiji on Saturday in their final Summer Nations Series outing that has eight …
Liam Heagney
24 Aug 2023, 6:45
The inclusion of Jonny May and other key England team talking points
It’s been another arduous week for Steve Borthwick as the England boss, last Saturday’s abject loss to Ireland in Dublin being…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
24 Aug 2023, 7:51
World Rugby statement: Tonga's George Moala has his appeal dismissed
Tonga midfielder George Moala will miss three of his country’s Rugby World Cup pool matches after having his appeal against his …
Liam Heagney
24 Aug 2023, 15:44
'Action's always illegal': Owens' Whistle Watch review of Farrell red
Retired Test centurion referee Nigel Owens has addressed the recent Owen Farrell red card on the latest edition of Whistle Watch.
Liam Heagney
24 Aug 2023, 12:55
Seven changes for Fiji whose midfield combo is one not to be missed
Fiji have made seven changes to their starting line-up to face England at Twickenham this Saturday.
Liam Heagney
24 Aug 2023, 9:51
The 'rip it up' England team Woodward wants Borthwick to pick
Ex-England coach Clive Woodward has remarkably called on current boss Steve Borthwick to radically alter his Rugby World Cup squad…
Liam Heagney
24 Aug 2023, 2:36
Ireland confirm a dozen changes to their team to play Samoa
Ireland boss Andy Farrell has confirmed an XV for Saturday’s Summer Nations Series clash with Samoa in Bayonne that has 12 chang…
Liam Heagney
24 Aug 2023, 8:00
Eddie Jones gives 'mate over a beer' reason for Steve Hansen invite
Eddie Jones has likened the presence of New Zealand's Rugby World Cup-winning coach Steve Hansen in the Wallabies camp as more lik…
Liam Heagney
22 Aug 2023, 12:53
Six Nations statement: England's Owen Farrell banned after appeal
England skipper Owen Farrell will miss two of his country’s games at next month’s Rugby World Cup in France.
Liam Heagney
22 Aug 2023, 14:34
Sam Underhill breaks silence on his England World Cup rejection
Sam Underhill, one of the stars at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, has broken his silence over last month’s rejection by England.
Liam Heagney
23 Aug 2023, 3:40
Six Nations statement: England's Billy Vunipola banned after hearing
England No8 Billy Vunipola will miss his country’s opening two matches of their Rugby World Cup campaign following the outcome o…
Liam Heagney
23 Aug 2023, 3:06
Woodward verdict on what ban means for Farrell's England captaincy
Former England coach Clive Woodward has assessed what the four-game ban for Owen Farrell means for his captaincy of Steve Borthwic…
Liam Heagney
23 Aug 2023, 2:30
Your country-by-country Rugby World Cup pool match referee list
World Rugby have appointed the referees for the 40 pool matches at the upcoming Rugby World Cup in France.
Liam Heagney
22 Aug 2023, 7:52
World Rugby confirms its World Cup pool match referee schedule
Jaco Peyper has been appointed referee for the blockbuster 2023 Rugby World Cup opener between host nation France and New Zealand …
Liam Heagney
22 Aug 2023, 7:49
10 match official highlights for Rugby World Cup in France
World Rugby have confirmed the match official appointments for the 40 pool games at the upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Liam Heagney
22 Aug 2023, 7:58
Kieran Crowley confirms his Italy squad for Rugby World Cup
Italy have named their Rugby World Cup squad, including exciting wingers Monty Ioane and Paolo Odogwu for their first appearances …
Liam Heagney
22 Aug 2023, 5:44
'Unpleasant emotions': The 12-strong reserves list named by France
France boss Fabien Galthie didn’t just name his official squad of 33 on Monday for the upcoming Rugby World Cup – he also name…
Liam Heagney
22 Aug 2023, 3:47
Six Nations statement: Committee, date named for Billy Vunipola hearing
England face a very busy Tuesday on the independent disciplinary hearing front with the Billy Vunipola and Owen Farrell cases bein…
Liam Heagney
21 Aug 2023, 4:40
'Deal with the facts': Borthwick defends England's card trouble
Embattled England boss Steve Borthwick has hit out at the perception that his team have a discipline problem heading into the Rugb…
Liam Heagney
20 Aug 2023, 12:00
The curious ‘lot of positives’ Lawes verdict on latest England loss
Stand-in England skipper Courtney Lawes has played down his team’s latest defeat, suggesting there were a lot of positives in th…
Liam Heagney
20 Aug 2023, 3:48
The failed Vunipola ploy and three other abject England talking points
It’s not getting any easier for England with less than three weeks to go now before their Rugby World Cup opener versus Argentin…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
20 Aug 2023, 3:32
England player ratings vs Ireland | 2023 Summer Nations Series
England player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: This was another performance to forget from Steve Borthwick's side, losing 10-29 a…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
19 Aug 2023, 13:37
The Borthwick reaction to Vunipola red, latest England defeat
Steve Borthwick claimed post-game in Dublin that he had yet to take a second look at the Billy Vunipola red card against Ireland, …
Liam Heagney
19 Aug 2023, 15:35
Lancaster era at Racing begins with 'nasty' fourth-minute red card
The Stuart Lancaster era at Racing got off to a dubious start on Saturday when his new team suffered a fourth-minute red card for …
Liam Heagney
19 Aug 2023, 7:50
The Rassie Erasmus reaction to Andy Farrell's defence of son Owen
South African rugby director Rassie Erasmus has shared his thoughts on Thursday’s outburst by Ireland coach Andy Farrell regardi…
Liam Heagney
19 Aug 2023, 5:48
The Vakatawa verdict on first game back after ending his retirement
Virimi Vakatawa has given his reaction after playing his first match on Friday night since coming out of retirement.
Liam Heagney
19 Aug 2023, 5:14
'Nice side of sport': The England pick who has beaten the odds
It has been quite the 21 weeks for Ollie Chessum in between visits by England to Dublin.
Liam Heagney
19 Aug 2023, 4:07
Vakatawa retirement is over as Barbarians pick him to face Samoa
It’s official: The premature retirement of former France midfielder Virimi Vakatawa is over as he has been named to start in the…
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 4:38
Six Nations statement: Committee, date named for Owen Farrell appeal
The date for the Owen Farrell appeal hearing has been confirmed, as has the identity of the three-person independent judicial comm…
Liam Heagney
18 Aug 2023, 15:54
England explain first-ever selection of Ford/Tuilagi as their 10/12
Steve Borthwick has paid tribute to the talents of George Ford ahead of his first England start in two and a half years.
Liam Heagney
18 Aug 2023, 3:04
England: Owen Farrell's non-playing role, the latest on Tom Curry
Richard Wigglesworth has shed light on the influence of Owen Farrell heading into this Saturday’s Summer Nations Series clash wi…
Liam Heagney
18 Aug 2023, 10:40
Woodward demands Borthwick stamps out 'rubbish' England antics
It’s a carry-on that was debated on social media and ex-England coach Clive Woodward has now waded into the fuss, demanding that…
Liam Heagney
18 Aug 2023, 5:05
The area where Courtney Lawes believes England most need to improve
Stand-in skipper Courtney Lawes has named the area where England most need to improve.
Liam Heagney
18 Aug 2023, 3:47
Revealed: The evidence Owen Farrell gave at his disciplinary hearing
Thursday's decision by World Rugby to appeal Tuesday’s Owen Farrell independent disciplinary hearing verdict was accompanied by …
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 6:36
England change six, opt to take Farrell out of the firing line
Steve Borthwick has opted to keep Owen Farrell out of this Saturday’s England team to face Ireland, even though the skipper was …
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 10:00
The exclusion of Farrell and other key England team talking points
It has been a busy Thursday for England, finishing off their preparations before flying to Dublin this afternoon for this Saturday…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 11:01
Borthwick talks Owen Farrell appeal, hits out at personal abuse
England boss Steve Borthwick has spoken for the first time about the outcome of the Owen Farrell independent disciplinary hearing.
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 14:02
Ireland name 11 of their Grand Slam starters to take on England
Andy Farrell has named an entirely changed Ireland team from last time out to take on England in Dublin this Saturday in the Summe…
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 8:14
Habosi back in the mix as Fiji name team to take on France
Unbeaten Fiji have continued their build-up to the Rugby World Cup by naming their team to take on tournament hosts France this Sa…
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 8:34
13 changes for France as they adjust to World Cup life without Ntamack
France have made 13 changes to their team to face Fiji this Saturday in Nantes, Jonathan Danty and Gregory Alldritt their only two…
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 7:15
Fit-again Ange Capuozzo one of eight Italy changes versus Romania
Italy boss Kieran Crowley has made eight changes to his team for this Saturday’s clash with Romania in San Benedetto del Tronto,…
Liam Heagney
17 Aug 2023, 5:19
Ox Nche reveals that a gym mistake nearly cost him World Cup place
Springboks prop Ox Nche has revealed that a foolish mistake in the gym last month nearly cost him Rugby World Cup selection.
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 13:35
Ireland cut five players ahead of August 28 RWC squad announcement
Andy Farrell has trimmed his Ireland squad ahead of the upcoming August 28 confirmation of the 33 he will take with him to the Rug…
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 12:35
Leicester bolster scrum and Ospreys defence with new coach signings
Leicester Tigers and Ospreys have bolstered their respective coaching teams ahead of the 2023/24 season, the Gallagher Premiership…
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 11:58
'Nothing about England frightens me as an Irishman'
Former Ireland flanker Alan Quinlan has branded preparations by England for the upcoming Rugby World Cup as a disaster since last …
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 11:30
How eye-watering Ntamack stats compare with Jalibert's numbers
France fans hoping for a home Rugby World Cup victory in the coming months would have been devastated by the confirmation on Monda…
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 9:26
The new wheels aiming to take Mack Hansen to the next level
Ireland winger Mack Hansen is hoping that the latest iteration of the Canterbury Speed Infinite Elite boot can give him a crucial …
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 8:00
13 changes to latest Wales team; two new caps also named on bench
Warren Gatland has opted to make 13 changes to his Wales team for this Saturday’s Summer Nations Series match with the Springbok…
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 4:12
The Woodward recruit who was instrumental in Farrell red card case
Clive Woodward has recalled that he was ridiculed when he first brought lawyer Richard Smith into the England set-up.
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 3:04
Townsend cuts four, confirms official Scotland World Cup squad
Gregor Townsend has confirmed his official Scotland squad of 33 for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, omitting Josh Bayliss, Stuart Mc…
Liam Heagney
16 Aug 2023, 2:13
Springboks make 11 changes, including recall for fit-again Kolisi
Jacques Nienaber has unveiled a Springboks team to play Wales this Saturday that has 11 alterations from their last outing against…
Liam Heagney
15 Aug 2023, 7:00
SRU statement: 56 players awarded retrospective Scotland caps
The SRU have followed their Irish counterparts in retrospectively awarding caps to Scotland players who played in international ma…
Liam Heagney
15 Aug 2023, 13:57
Latest Springboks update on the Pollard, Am injury rehab situation
Jacques Nienaber has delivered an injury update on two of the star names excluded last week from the squad of 33 named by the Spri…
Liam Heagney
15 Aug 2023, 11:53
'Awesome' Springboks reaction to having Kolisi back in their team
Jacques Nienaber has hailed the advance in medical science that has resulted in Siya Kolisi being ready to take the pitch on Satur…
Liam Heagney
15 Aug 2023, 8:28
Six Nations statement: Why the Owen Farrell red card was rescinded
The Six Nations have issued a statement explaining the decision by an independent disciplinary hearing to free the red-carded Owen…
Liam Heagney
15 Aug 2023, 8:51
Campese takes issue with Danny Cipriani tweet about Owen Farrell
Legendary Wallabies winger David Campese has taken issue with a tweet from Danny Cipriani, the ex-England international, in suppor…
Liam Heagney
15 Aug 2023, 4:23
Joseph makes bold claim after confirming his Japan World Cup squad
Head coach Jamie Joseph has insisted that Japan are heading to France to win the Rugby World Cup. His bold statement came after he…
Liam Heagney
15 Aug 2023, 3:46
England name replacement as van Poortvliet will miss World Cup
England have been forced to alter their official squad of 33 for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, the RFU confirming on Monday that J…
Liam Heagney
14 Aug 2023, 5:45
The hefty ban Farrell faces and three other England talking points
England finally snapped their three-game losing streak under Steve Borthwick, their 19-17 comeback win over Wales at Twickenham gi…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
13 Aug 2023, 3:11
England claim Wales was 'perfect' preparation for Pumas RWC opener
Steve Borthwick has claimed that the back-to-back Summer Nations Series matches versus Wales were the perfect preparation for Engl…
Liam Heagney
13 Aug 2023, 3:10
England player ratings vs Wales | 2023 Summer Nations Series
England player ratings live from Twickenham: What a crazy, crazy game. There we ready, ready to pen the obituary to another dreary…
Liam Heagney
12 Aug 2023, 13:30
Borthwick on Farrell's red, three yellows, van Poortvliet's injury
England boss Steve Borthwick has reacted to the red card suffered by skipper Owen Farrell in Saturday’s dramatic 19-17 Summer Na…
Liam Heagney
12 Aug 2023, 16:01
The changes Borthwick has noticed in England skipper Owen Farrell
Steve Borthwick has outlined the leadership difference he has noticed in Owen Farrell this year compared to when he previously wor…
Liam Heagney
12 Aug 2023, 3:04
How Ollie Lawrence overcame job loss and injuries to make World Cup
Ollie Lawrence has explained the motivation that saw him overcome three massive setbacks in less than a year.
Liam Heagney
12 Aug 2023, 2:39
Henry Slade posts a classy message about his England World Cup axe
Henry Slade has broken his silence following his headline-grabbing Rugby World Cup rejection by England.
Liam Heagney
11 Aug 2023, 9:27
Jack Nowell posts three-word reaction to his La Rochelle debut
Jack Nowell got his club career in France underway on Thursday evening, debuting for La Rochelle in a pre-season friendly versus B…
Liam Heagney
11 Aug 2023, 8:43
The England verdict on fifth different midfield combo in seven games
England are hopeful their latest midfield combination in the struggling Steve Borthwick era won’t fluff its lines next Saturday …
Liam Heagney
10 Aug 2023, 11:43
Three major talking points about latest England team to play Wales
Steve Borthwick has unveiled his England team for the second of their four Rugby World Cup warm-up matches. It’s a selection tha…
Liam Heagney
10 Aug 2023, 7:08
The Borthwick reaction to very public apology from Billy Vunipola
England boss Steve Borthwick has reacted to the public apology issued earlier this week to him in the media by Billy Vunipola.
Liam Heagney
10 Aug 2023, 10:49
'Atrocious... the players are all carbon copy versions of Borthwick'
George Robson has criticised the England approach heading into the Rugby World Cup, claiming that too much time has been dedicated…
Liam Heagney
10 Aug 2023, 9:15
England change 11 starters and include non-RWC pick on their bench
Steve Borthwick has made 11 changes to his England XV for this Saturday’s Summer Nations Series rematch with Wales in London.
Liam Heagney
10 Aug 2023, 6:00
Half-dozen changes for Scotland as they look for repeat French win
Gregor Townsend has made six changes to his Scotland team as they look to go and do the warm-up double over Rugby World Cup hosts …
Liam Heagney
10 Aug 2023, 3:22
France react to defeat by making 13 changes for Scotland rematch
Fabien Galthie has reacted to last weekend’s second-half collapse in Scotland by naming a France team showing 13 changes to the …
Liam Heagney
10 Aug 2023, 2:57
Eddie Jones, Scott Robertson agree to coach the Barbarians together
The post-Rugby World Cup era of Eddie Jones coaching the Wallabies against a Scott Roberston-led All Blacks will get off to a cord…
Liam Heagney
09 Aug 2023, 10:25
The England verdict on inexperience behind Jamie George at hooker
Steve Borthwick was at pains on Monday in getting the message out that he had chosen what he believed was a vastly experienced Eng…
Liam Heagney
09 Aug 2023, 6:38
One new cap as Wales name entirely changed XV for England rematch
Warren Gatland has announced a Wales XV to play England this Saturday at Twickenham that is entirely changed from last weekend’s…
Liam Heagney
09 Aug 2023, 4:16
Short-lived retirement for Rory Kockott as he signs for Top 14 club
Former France international Rory Kockott has ended his short-lived retirement to take up a short-term contract at Stade Francais.
Liam Heagney
09 Aug 2023, 3:11
The point of difference that convinced England to pick Ben Earl
England boss Steve Borthwick has explained the reason why Ben Earl was included in the 33-strong Rugby World Cup squad and not one…
Liam Heagney
09 Aug 2023, 2:26
Banned Fagerson must attend tackle school or miss World Cup opener
Zander Fagerson must successfully come through tackle school if he is to become available for selection to play for Scotland in th…
Liam Heagney
09 Aug 2023, 2:09
England considering a brand-new midfield combination for Tuilagi
Steve Borthwick has hinted that a brand-new midfield combination could be unleashed by England.
Liam Heagney
08 Aug 2023, 12:15
3 players axed from World Cup squad trained with England on Tuesday
Jonny May, Guy Porter and Jonny Hill were among the group of 10 players omitted from the England Rugby World Cup squad named on Mo…
Liam Heagney
08 Aug 2023, 11:09
Position-by-position guide to the 10 England cuts made by Borthwick
Steve Borthwick had the task on Saturday night of sitting down with his assistants in Cardiff to reduce the England squad of 43 pl…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
07 Aug 2023, 4:04
The 20-year-old rejection that Steve Borthwick hasn't forgotten
A rejection from 20 years ago weighed on the mind of Steve Borthwick when he held individual talks on Sunday morning with the 10 p…
Liam Heagney
08 Aug 2023, 3:25
Farrell's warning to World Cup first-timers Earl, Lawrence and JVP
Skipper Owen Farrell was quite the contrast experience-wise to World Cup newcomers Ben Earl, Jack van Poortvliet and Ollie Lawrenc…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug 2023, 13:37
The England reason why No8 Billy Vunipola is suddenly back in favour
Billy Vunipola, someone whose 2022/23 club season was cut short in April through a knee injury that needed an operation after he h…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug 2023, 9:52
The Borthwick explanation for surprise England axing of Henry Slade
Henry Slade was the headline-grabbing omission from the England squad of 33 named on Monday by Steve Borthwick for the upcoming Ru…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug 2023, 9:17
Slade, Dombrandt are casualties as England confirm World Cup squad
Steve Borthwick has named his 33-strong England squad for the Rugby World Cup, excluding Jonny May and Henry Slade along with Alex…
Liam Heagney
07 Aug 2023, 3:59
'A big name will miss out; I hope it’s not Ben Earl' – Austin Healey
Monday is D-day for Steve Borthwick’s wannabe England players. Having auditioned 61 options over the course of the summer and wh…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
06 Aug 2023, 4:00
Four England talking points after their latest defeat to Wales
Losing Rugby World Cup warm-up matches isn’t the be-all and end-all. Four years ago, England stank in Cardiff, were held try-les…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
06 Aug 2023, 3:02
England player ratings vs Wales | 2023 Summer Nations Series
Steve Borthwick was in Cardiff on Saturday seeking out the final evidence to be considered ahead of this Monday’s confirmation o…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
05 Aug 2023, 13:55
The Borthwick reaction to latest worrying loss for struggling England
Wounded England boss Steve Borthwick looked to put a positive spin on his team’s second-half capitulation to Wales on Saturday e…
Liam Heagney
05 Aug 2023, 15:47
Bulls boss Jake White names four new assistant coaches for 2023/24
Bulls director of rugby Jake White has shaken up his club’s coaching ticket, recruiting four new assistants for the 2023/24 seas…
Liam Heagney
04 Aug 2023, 8:05
Three new caps included by France who change 14 from last outing
Fabien Galthie has named a France team to play Scotland this Saturday that contains 14 changes from their last outing in March.
Liam Heagney
03 Aug 2023, 5:23
Three major talking points about the England team to play Wales
Twenty weeks on from the last time he selected an England match day 23, Steve Borthwick has shaken things up with his choices to f…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
03 Aug 2023, 7:36
Ireland make 12 changes and also name three new caps on bench
Andy Farrell has revealed an Ireland team to take on Italy that has 12 changes from the starting XV in their Grand Slam-clinching …
Liam Heagney
03 Aug 2023, 8:05
One new cap named to start in England team showing 10 changes
Steve Borthwick has confirmed his England team to face Wales this Saturday, a Summer Nations Series selection that shows 10 change…
Liam Heagney
03 Aug 2023, 6:07
Scotland change 13 and name Finn Russell as skipper versus France
Gregor Townsend has shaken up his Scotland team, making 13 changes for this Saturday’s Summer Nations Series clash with France f…
Liam Heagney
02 Aug 2023, 5:31
Wales name three new caps versus England, with two more on bench
Warren Gatland has named a Wales team to take on England this Saturday that includes three uncapped players in the starting XV and…
Liam Heagney
02 Aug 2023, 4:40
Galthie’s France suffer another injury setback in the forwards
Less than a week after it emerged that Francois Cros has been sidelined from training at Marcoussis, it has been confirmed that Fr…
Liam Heagney
02 Aug 2023, 9:47
Springboks make 13 changes for Saturday's rematch with Argentina
Jacques Nienaber has named a Springboks side to face Argentina this Saturday in Buenos Aires that shows 13 changes from the XV tha…
Liam Heagney
01 Aug 2023, 10:04
From 61 to 33… Last chance saloon in England RWC selection process
The wait is nearly all over, England fans. Whereas the likes of reigning Grand Slam champions Ireland simply announced a squad of …
Analysis
Liam Heagney
01 Aug 2023, 3:25
Tom Collins names his new club after leaving Northampton
Seasoned Gallagher Premiership player Tom Collins has signed for Championship club Ealing Trailfinders following his release from …
Liam Heagney
01 Aug 2023, 10:43
Stuart Hogg: 'I was the slowest back... I couldn’t do it anymore'
Stuart Hogg has revealed how the agony of pre-season training with Scotland convinced him to bring forward his planned retirement …
Liam Heagney
01 Aug 2023, 6:21
Grant Williams' first Springboks Test start lasts just 10 seconds
Grant Williams’ first start as the Springboks No9 was dramatically ended on Saturday by a collision just 10 seconds into his tea…
Liam Heagney
29 Jul 2023, 10:56
Zach Mercer has broken silence on his England World Cup rejection
Unwanted England hopeful Zach Mercer has broken his silence on his Rugby World Cup rejection by Steve Borthwick.
Liam Heagney
29 Jul 2023, 8:18
Japan change six and confirm Leitch ban, while Tonga alter seven
Japan have made six changes as they look to bounce back from last weekend’s home loss to Samoa with this Saturday’s clash agai…
Liam Heagney
27 Jul 2023, 4:03
The 'wickedly sharp' first impression made by new Sale signings
Alex Sanderson has given his first impressions of his new arrivals at Sale, injured England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, South Africa…
Liam Heagney
28 Jul 2023, 7:02
Bristol sign one of Cheika's 'outstanding' Argentina back-rowers
Having reportedly missed out on signing Argentina back row Juan Martin Gonzalez Samso, who joined Saracens earlier this week, Bris…
Liam Heagney
27 Jul 2023, 13:07
France issue 'surprised' Atonio warning six weeks before World Cup
Host nation France have warned that their pre-Rugby World Cup preparation is transformed compared to four years ago when their fru…
Liam Heagney
28 Jul 2023, 4:11
Cheika makes five changes as Argentina look to upset the Springboks
Michael Cheika has announced an Argentina side to take on South Africa in Johannesburg on Saturday that shows five changes to the …
Liam Heagney
27 Jul 2023, 10:20
IRFU statement: Ireland recruit new women’s coach from England
Ireland have turned to England to try and improve the flagging fortunes of their women’s national team, recruiting Scott Bemand …
Liam Heagney
27 Jul 2023, 6:36
World Rugby statement: Japan's Michael Leitch banned after red card
Red-carded Japan back row Michael Leitch will be available for the start of the upcoming Rugby World Cup in France after only gett…
Liam Heagney
27 Jul 2023, 4:52
Two new caps in Italy team that shows 11 changes from last outing
Kieran Crowley has named an Italy team to play Scotland this Saturday in Edinburgh that shows 11 changes from the meeting 19 weeks…
Liam Heagney
27 Jul 2023, 4:26
One new cap to start as Scotland make 11 changes for Italy rematch
Gregor Townsend has named a team to face Italy this Saturday that shows 11 changes from the XV that defeated the Azzurri 19 weeks …
Liam Heagney
26 Jul 2023, 5:34
The Care, Youngs verdict on new England assistant Wigglesworth
Danny Care and Ben Youngs have given their verdict on having their old rival for the England No9 shirt, Richard Wigglesworth, now …
Liam Heagney
26 Jul 2023, 11:59
Toulon pull the plug on their short-term deal with Jake Gordon
Out-of-favour Wallabies scrum-half Jake Gordon won’t play for Toulon in the Top 14 as World Cup cover after he failed a medical …
Liam Heagney
26 Jul 2023, 3:48
Shock Scotland U20s loss sees Uruguay clinch final date with Spain
Rugby in Scotland hit a new low on Tuesday when their promotion-chasing U20s team lost to Uruguay at the Junior World Trophy in Ke…
Liam Heagney
25 Jul 2023, 11:31
'Missed out on £100k insurance payout by 43 seconds'
Former Harlequins and Worcester winger Sam Smith has mentioned how a 43-second appearance for the Warriors cost him £100,000 in 2…
Liam Heagney
25 Jul 2023, 4:57
Saracens statement: The signing of another ex-London Irish player
Mark McCall has bolstered his title-winning Saracens squad with the recruitment of yet another player from the financially collaps…
Liam Heagney
25 Jul 2023, 7:44
Cardiff chairman pens open letter to fans after exit of Dai Young
Chairman Alun Jones has penned an open letter to Cardiff supporters less than 24 hours after it was confirmed that Dai Young had l…
Liam Heagney
25 Jul 2023, 6:41
First Test start for Grant Williams as Springboks make nine changes
Jacques Nienaber has named a Springboks side to face Argentina this Saturday in Johannesburg that shows nine changes from the XV t…
Liam Heagney
25 Jul 2023, 6:20
Kiwi fly-half Ihaia West has named his new Top 14 club
Former Maori All Blacks fly-half Ihaia West has taken up an offer to rejoin La Rochelle following a one-season stint at Top 14 riv…
Liam Heagney
22 Jul 2023, 11:01
Peceli Yato has quit Fiji and won't feature at Rugby World Cup 2023
Fiji got their match preparations for Rugby World Cup 2023 underway with a 36-20 home win over Tonga in Lautoka on Saturday, but t…
Liam Heagney
22 Jul 2023, 9:09
Namibia name a 35-man squad and recruit ex-Springboks/England coach
Namibia have named a 35-man squad to travel to South America to continue Rugby World Cup preparations that are now being assisted …
Liam Heagney
22 Jul 2023, 8:22
Why a Joe Cokanasiga skin fold measurement has left England 'stoked'
England have claimed that Joe Cokanasiga is now in the best shape of his life after Steve Borthwick didn’t pick him for the Guin…
Liam Heagney
22 Jul 2023, 7:41
The jerseys that the teams will wear at Rugby World Cup 2023
With 50 days to go before the start of the 2023 Rugby World Cup on September 8, Wales became the 16th team to reveal their Rugby W…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul 2023, 7:00
'Hopefully he won’t be cursing me': Jones’ first Toulon interview
Alun Wyn Jones has given his first interview as a Toulon player, outlining what he hopes to achieve during his short-term contract…
Liam Heagney
21 Jul 2023, 9:25
Ex-Exeter No9 Jack Maunder has signed a Super Rugby Pacific deal
Released Exeter scrum-half Jack Maunder has secured a Super Rugby Pacific deal to give his career a new lease of life.
Liam Heagney
21 Jul 2023, 6:26
Carl Fearns secures third-tier deal in France to prolong his career
One-time England prospect Carl Fearns has secured a deal to prolong his career back in France following his end-of-season release …
Liam Heagney
21 Jul 2023, 3:54
Anscombe reveals how Eddie Jones' pep talk influenced Japanese move
Gareth Anscombe has spoken about his excitement over a new rugby challenge in Japan but insists he aims to continue his internatio…
Liam Heagney
21 Jul 2023, 4:17
Edinburgh bring in senior coach from South Africa to succeed Blair
The coaching role left vacant at Edinburgh by Mike Blair has been filled by ex-Sharks boss Sean Everitt, the South African who wil…
Liam Heagney
20 Jul 2023, 7:32
The Bath verdict on the France-bound Jonathan Joseph
Bath have finally acknowledged the departure of Jonathan Joseph 15 days after the ex-England midfielder was confirmed as a signing…
Liam Heagney
19 Jul 2023, 10:35
The Henry Arundell idea for attracting next generation of rugby fans
England youngster Henry Arundell has shared his thoughts on how rugby should jazz up its approach to social media if the sport is …
Liam Heagney
19 Jul 2023, 7:52
Springboks issue squad update ahead of final home match of 2023
Jacques Nienaber has issued a squad update ahead of South Africa’s July 29 match versus Argentina in Johannesburg, the Springbok…
Liam Heagney
19 Jul 2023, 6:17
No Faletau as Gatland names squad of 43 for Wales' trip to Turkey
Warren Gatland has named a 43-strong squad for Wales’ next warm-weather camp in Turkey ahead of their upcoming Rugby World Cup w…
Liam Heagney
19 Jul 2023, 5:25
Harlequins statement: Marcus Smith contract extension
Speculation linking Marcus Smith with a possible move to the Top 14 after the end of the 2023/24 Gallagher Premiership season has …
Liam Heagney
19 Jul 2023, 4:26
British and Irish Lions: Nine fixtures confirmed for 2025 tour
A nine-match schedule has been confirmed by the British and Irish Lions for their 2025 tour in Australia.
Liam Heagney
18 Jul 2023, 23:40
Stuart Hogg secures a new role just nine days into his retirement
Stuart Hogg has secured a new role just nine days after announcing his shock retirement from playing with immediate effect.
Liam Heagney
18 Jul 2023, 4:25
What Stuart Lancaster said when asked if he would coach England again
Eight years after getting unceremoniously sacked as England boss following the Rugby World Cup, Stuart Lancaster has suggested tha…
Liam Heagney
18 Jul 2023, 6:13
'That was a scary process... knowing you could be cut at any point'
Hand on heart, the future of international rugby is in a good place just now judging by the array of entertaining personalities th…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
09 Jul 2023, 4:15
'Your body's sore all the time having small gaps between games'
It’s quite the Everest having young men play five matches in the space of 20 days at the Junior World Championship in South Afri…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
09 Jul 2023, 3:45
'We looked in the mirror and had some pretty honest conversations'
It wasn’t meant to turn out like this for the Baby Blacks at this first Junior World Championship since 2019. The tournament’s…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
07 Jul 2023, 11:13
'You want a car crash collision; that's the sexy part of it'
It’s the little things that stand out when it comes to leadership. Junior Wallabies skipper Teddy Wilson arrived for an intervie…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
07 Jul 2023, 11:16
‘We were the better side but the scoreboard doesn’t show that’
The regrets were plenty when Nathan Grey provided his hot take on his Junior Wallabies’ pool campaign at the Junior World Champi…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Jul 2023, 11:08
‘It’s not right for me to talk about previous games’
One endearing thing that you have to like about Mark Jones is that he doesn’t do bluff.
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Jul 2023, 11:00
The Posolo Tuilagi verdict on becoming an U20s viral sensation
Gentle giants is the description for the phalanx of Tuilagi brothers whose physicality and subtle ball skills have lit up professi…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
05 Jul 2023, 7:03
'How could we not qualify for the semi-finals when we hadn’t lost?'
The tunnel area at Athlone Stadium on Tuesday afternoon was quite an awkward place for England to be. They had just been pegged to…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Jul 2023, 3:54
'Amazing': The post-match message from Junior Springboks to Ireland
Bafana Nhleko found time in the aftermath of his biggest win as the Junior Springboks head coach to send his condolences to the gr…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Jul 2023, 3:12
Live blog: Junior World Championship in South Africa – day three
It’s day three at what has so far proven to be a thrilling 2023 Junior World Championship in South Africa.
Liam Heagney
04 Jul 2023, 3:14
Leicester statement: 4 more signings, including two from London Irish
New Leicester boss Dan McKellar has added four more signings to his squad for the upcoming 2023/24 season, including two additions…
Liam Heagney
04 Jul 2023, 2:23
