Liam Heagney

Garbisi back as Italy name team with three changes to play Ireland

Italy have made three changes to their starting team to face Ireland on Saturday in the Guinness Six Nations, including the recall…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 5:16

9 changes as Gatland finally names his Wales team to host England

Warren Gatland has unveiled the Wales team to host England this Saturday in Guinness Six Nations round three, the head coach picki…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 6:19

Six changes for the Italy-bound Ireland, including new half-backs

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland team to play Italy on Saturday that shows six changes - including a new half-back partnership - …

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 7:03

England explain why Watson is getting his first start in 23 months

Steve Borthwick has explained why he felt compelled to give Anthony Watson his first England start since March 2021.

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 7:45

One change as Steve Borthwick names his England team to play Wales

Steve Borthwick has confirmed an England team to take on Wales on Saturday in the Guinness Six Nations that contains just one chan…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 6:36

The Borthwick verdict on naming Courtney Lawes as an England sub

England boss Steve Borthwick has shared his thoughts on his decision to recall the fit-again Courtney Lawes to the match day squad…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 9:09

What England really made of this week's Wales strike threat

England coach Steve Borthwick has revealed he always planned that this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match versus Wales in Car…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 10:31

3 hot takes as Steve Borthwick names England team to visit Wales

Thursday was like old times with new England boss Steve Borthwick. His opening two team selection conferences had been very lively…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 13:02

'Shaking my head' Eddie Jones pens open letter about the Wallabies

New Wallabies boss Eddie Jones has penned a lengthy open letter to Australian rugby fans on the opening weekend of the 2023 Super …

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 3:26

Fiji name a new head coach three weeks after Cotter's sudden exit

Fiji have named Simon Raiwalui as their new head coach just over three weeks after Vern Cotter surprisingly stepped away from the …

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 4:07

One change for Scotland as Townsend names his team to play France

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland team to take on France away this Sunday that has just one change - Hamish Watson for Luke Cro…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 3:11

One change for France as Galthie names his team to host Scotland

Fabien Galthie has announced a France team to host Scotland on Sunday that contains just one starting XV alteration from the round…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 5:18

The 10am call an upset Sale gave referee Ian Tempest last Sunday

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has revealed he was on the phone venting to referee Ian Tempest the morning after last weekend’s dramat…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 6:15

Head coach Mike Blair surprisingly reveals he's quitting Edinburgh

Edinburgh have revealed that head coach Mike Blair is to quit at the end of the current season after opting not to renew his contr…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 6:36

Ex-England boss Lancaster snaps up French legend to assist Racing

Ex-England boss Stuart Lancaster has made a bold statement about his future plans for Racing 92, the Parisians announcing that Fre…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 7:41

Former Wasps lock set for Premiership return after short URC stint

Ex-Wasps lock Kiran McDonald is primed for a return to the Gallagher Premiership in 2023/24 after he agreed on a deal to join Newc…

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 5:23

Leicester statement: New coach named after list of 40 whittled down

Leicester have named Australian-based coach Dan McKellar as their new head coach for the 2023/24 season.

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 3:20

George Ford and Tom Curry out as Borthwick cuts England squad to 26

Steve Borthwick has cut his England squad from 36 to 26 players ahead of Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match away to Wales, re…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 10:10

Connacht statement: New boss named to succeed Andy Friend

Connacht have decided who will succeed the homeward-bound Andy Friend, naming Pete Wilkins to take over on a three-year deal when …

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 12:24

Out-of-favour England midfielder Manu Tuilagi banned for red card

Manu Tuilagi has learned his fate following last Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership red card for Sale at Northampton, the out-of-f…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 11:59

Clive Woodward curiously changes tune on 2000 England player strike

Clive Woodward has curiously changed his tune on the England rugby player strike that took place in November 2000.

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 3:09

Wales call off their planned Tuesday Six Nations team announcement

Warren Gatland has been unable to name as planned his Wales team to face England in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations.

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 5:50

The legendary Jonathan Davies slams 'scandalous position' in Wales

Welsh rugby legend Jonathan Davies has slammed the situation in Wales that has led to the threatened players' strike for next week…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 6:54

Jeremy Davidson secures new Top 14 job 18 weeks after Brive exit

Former British and Irish Lions lock Jeremy Davidson has landed himself a new Top 14 head coaching role 18 weeks after he was dismi…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 5:17

'Extremely dangerous': Red card ruins Manu Tuilagi's England hopes

England hopes that Manu Tuilagi could show top form this weekend for Sale and force his way back into the selection debate for the…

Liam Heagney

18 Feb 2023, 9:51

'It's something I just grew up with, I've no idea where it comes from'

Benhard Janse van Rensburg will have enjoyed the Saturday night bus ride home with London Irish. The deserved win over Bath gave t…

Interview

Liam Heagney

19 Feb 2023, 2:51

The Scotland message Matt Scott recently received from Townsend

Matt Scott hasn’t given up all hope of receiving a Scotland call-up, revealing that Gregor Townsend was in touch last month to k…

Liam Heagney

18 Feb 2023, 3:12

Richard Wigglesworth on England job, Mike Brown's Leicester debut

Interim Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has spoken for the first time about being a new addition to the Steve Borthwick coachi…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2023, 9:52

Ex-Lions forward suggests it's 'time to look at a British League'

Former England lock Martin Bayfield, a 1993 tourist with the British and Irish Lions, has called on the rugby authorities to shake…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2023, 4:02

RFU statement: Wasps and Worcester in 2023/24

The RFU have updated the status of Wasps and Worcester regarding their respective situations for the 2023/24 after both clubs fina…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 11:45

Hugo Keenan becomes first 7s graduate to sign IRFU central contract

Ireland full-back Hugo Keenan has seen his stellar form rewarded with a three-year IRFU deal. The Leinster No15 was one of the pla…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 10:13

RFU statement: England women's team coaching staff update

Backs coach Scott Bemand is to leave his role with the England women’s rugby team after the 2023 Six Nations, but forwards coach…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 5:01

Atonio banned after accepting tackle should have been a red card

France prop Uini Atonio has been banned following his citing for foul play during last Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match in …

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 6:25

Sonny Bill Williams has waded into the Wales players' strike threat

Ex-All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams had waded into the debate over the threatened players’ strike ahead of Wales hostin…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 5:43

How Wales fans have reacted online to players' strike threat

Former Wales back-rower Sam Cross believes the online reaction to the player strike threat ahead of the Guinness Six Nations match…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 4:37

The 'real change' that Brian O'Driscoll has seen in Garry Ringrose

Topping the chart for missed tackles is an accolade no Guinness Six Nations player wants to have, but legendary Ireland midfielder…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 3:09

Munster statement: World Cup winner Malakai Fekitoa is leaving

Former All Blacks midfielder Malakai Fekitoa will exit Munster after just a single season at the club. The 30-year-old was a high-…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 11:35

Ealing silent on decision that they are ineligible for promotion

Ealing Trailfinders have yet to issue a public response to Monday’s confirmation by the RFU that the Championship leaders will n…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 5:16

'It was like two buses hitting each other, a full-on car crash'

The gruesome moment when Lawrence Dallaglio and Paul Volley clashed heads and awkwardly played on in a 2004 Heineken Cup quarter-f…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 4:01

'It was proper animalistic behaviour, the English were in town'

Tom Voyce has recalled the intimidating cauldron Wasps found themselves in when playing Munster in the famed 2004 Heineken Cup sem…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 3:18

The Wayne Barnes tweet that hasn't aged well

Referee Wayne Barnes commendably hasn’t shied away from using social media despite the massive amount of abuse received in Novem…

Liam Heagney

13 Feb 2023, 3:31

Five takeaways from the Ireland win over France in the Six Nations

Hype is a word seemingly not in the vocabulary of Andy Farrell, which is a pity as it would be great for the sport if he started p…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2023, 3:26

Ireland player ratings vs France | 2023 Guinness Six Nations

Ireland player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: The arrival of France in Dublin two years on from their last visit was the perfect…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 10:47

The French tactic that was 'little bit surprising' to Andy Farrell

Andy Farrell strode into his Aviva Stadium media briefing full of the joys of spring after his Ireland team had defeated France 32…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 13:38

The Ireland verdict on Atonio yellow and Beirne's worrying injury

Ireland boss Andy Farrell has given his verdict on the yellow-carded tackle from French prop Uini Atonio that left Rob Herring una…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 12:59

'Can't talk s***': Rassie Erasmus' audio rant attacks Nick Mallett

South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has gone on a rant about Nick Mallett, his former Springboks coach. Mallett was hea…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 4:32

Steve Borthwick reveals how Ben Youngs reacted to his England axe

England boss Steve Borthwick has finally addressed his midweek decision to scratch men’s record caps holder Ben Youngs from the …

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 3:32

Borthwick explains dropping Smith and naming Farrell as England No10

England boss Steve Borthwick has explained his reason for shelving the 10/12 combination of Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 10:14

Ex-Worcester boss Steve Diamond tweets 'shafted' 37-word RIP message

Former Worcester director of rugby Steve Diamond has tweeted a negative 37-word verdict about the decision on Thursday to rebrand …

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 11:40

3 hot takes as England talk up a bench with Marcus Smith on it

England have yet to convince on the field under new head coach Steve Borthwick but no one can accuse him of staging dull team sele…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 13:31

Confirmed: Semi Radradra has named his new French club

The exit of Semi Radradra from Bristol was officially confirmed on Friday evening, the in-demand Fijian powerhouse getting unveile…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 11:57

The verdict from England on naming Slade and Lawrence at midfield

Steve Borthwick has outlined why he felt compelled to name Henry Slade in an England midfield partnership with Ollie Lawrence.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 11:36

Marcus Smith set to be dropped by England - reports

Media reports in England have claimed that Marcus Smith will be dropped by Steve Borthwick for this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nation…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 2:14

Marcus Smith dropped as England name team to host Italy

Steve Borthwick has named an England team to play Italy this Sunday in the Guinness Six Nations that shows three changes - includi…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 9:06

Two changes as Italy name team to play England in the Six Nations

Kieran Crowley has named an Italy team to play England this Sunday in the Guinness Six Nations that shows two changes from the XV …

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 7:58

Gloucester lock Andrew Davidson has exited with immediate effect

Gloucester forward Andrew Davidson has left the Gallagher Premiership club with immediate effect. The Scottish second row was sign…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 8:13

Conor Murray set to start for Ireland despite family emergency

Seasoned Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray is set to start for Ireland in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match versus France…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 3:00

Furious Steve Diamond blasts the Atlas plan for Worcester

Steve Diamond has slammed the plan by new owners Jim O’Toole and James Sandford to rebrand Worcester Warriors as Sixways Rugby a…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 6:48

Northampton statement: David Ribbans' exit to Top 14 is confirmed

Northampton have confirmed that England lock David Ribbans will quit at the end of the current season for a move to the Top 14.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 4:16

3 hot takes as Andy Farrell names Ireland team to host France

Having produced the most impressive performance out of all the teams in Guinness Six Nations round one, Ireland will be looking to…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 10:00

England lock David Ribbans set to quit Northampton for the Top 14

David Ribbans has become the latest England player linked with a move to the Top 14 for the 2023/24 season.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 3:43

Ireland name team to host France in Six Nations round two

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland team to play France this Saturday in Dublin that contains one change from last Saturday’s Guin…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 8:07

3 hot takes as Fabien Galthie names France team to visit Ireland

When you are in charge of a team that has won 14 matches on the bounce, panic isn’t the sensible reaction following a single und…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 6:30

3 hot takes as Gregor Townsend names Scotland team to host Wales

Scotland were exceptional in attack last weekend, beating England with a heartwarming zest to register yet another Calcutta Cup vi…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 11:12

3 hot takes as Warren Gatland names Wales team to visit Scotland,

Desperate times call for desperate measures and the damaging downturn in Wales has now resulted in Warren Gatland taking a sledgeh…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 8:16

Gatland axes 3 Lions as Wales name team for Scotland

Warren Gatland has named a Wales team to play Scotland this Saturday in Edinburgh that shows five changes from last Saturday’s G…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 6:05

France name team to visit Ireland in Six Nations round two

Fabien Gatlthie has named a France team to play Ireland this Saturday in Dublin that shows no changes from last Sunday’s Guinnes…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 5:07

Scotland name team to host Wales in Six Nations round two

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland team to play Wales this Saturday in Edinburgh that shows just one change from last Saturday�…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 7:05

Ex-New Zealand 7s player cops ban for 'brutal' Morgan Parra gesture

Former New Zealand 7s player George Tilsley has copped a hefty suspension for what a French disciplinary committee described as a …

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 4:44

NZR statement: The retirement of All Blacks hooker Dane Coles

All Blacks hooker Dane Coles has confirmed that he will retire from playing at the end of the 2023 season.

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 12:11

Youngs and Curry axed as England cut their squad from 36 to 29

Steve Borthwick has cut his England squad from 36 to 29 ahead of this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations round two match at home to I…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 10:01

Declan Danaher explains raw emotions of Ollie Hassell-Collins' hug

If there was a post-game picture to tug at the heartstrings last Saturday from an England perspective, the sight of Declan Danaher…

Interview

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 11:43

Clive Woodward's damning 'world's biggest pub' Twickenham verdict

Former England coach Clive Woodward had damningly described Twickenham as the world’s biggest pub, alleging there would be a rio…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 5:54

What Finn Russell would do with Smith/Farrell for England vs Italy

Scotland out-half Finn Russell has waded into the debate over England continuing to select Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell as a 10/1…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 5:09

Bristol name the Fijian who will replace the France-bound Radradra

Pat Lam has confirmed he has secured a replacement for the France-bound Semi Radradra, Bristol unveiling the signing of Fijian Dru…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 3:34

NZR statement: Brodie Retallick names his club in Japan for 2024

It’s official: All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick will play his club rugby overseas after the end of the 2023 season after confirm…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 3:07

Fijian Drua statement: Vinaya Habosi sacked with immediate effect

New Racing 92 signing Vinaya Habosi won’t play any part in this year’s Super Rugby Pacific tournament as the Fijian Drua have …

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 4:56

'I want the most expensive rugby player, that's how fantasy it was'

Ex-RFU boss Rob Andrew has recalled being at the forefront of the unprecedented recruitment drive that resulted in Newcastle signi…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 12:17

RFU statement: More staff changes as England raid Leicester again

Steve Borthwick’s overhaul of the England setup he inherited in December had another major development on Tuesday when the Leice…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 8:15

'Pure box office': Adam Radwan agrees lengthy Newcastle extension

Out-of-favour England winger Adam Radwan has agreed on a deal to stay with Newcastle rather than look to get the attention of nati…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 9:32

Leicester statement: The loss of Wigglesworth, Walters to England

Leicester have given their reaction to the latest destruction of their 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership title-winning staff, the RFU …

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 8:41

Watch: When 18 Ireland and France players piled into the same ruck

Ahead of this weekend’s Guinness Six Nations clash in Dublin between the World Rugby No1 ranked Ireland and defending champions …

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 7:25

Ex-Scotland lock Hamilton: 'We're 12 points better than Wales'

Jim Hamilton has claimed that Scotland are poised to make it two wins from two next Saturday in this 2023 Guinness Six Nations, su…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 6:24

The 'absolute b*ll*cks!!!!' match day message posted by Will Carling

Ex-England skipper Will Carling took a pop last Saturday at the new BT Sport Film recalling the 1990 Calcutta Cup match.

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 4:08

RFU statement: Richard Cockerill to quit his England forwards role

Richard Cockerill, the last remaining assistant coach that Steve Borthwick inherited from the Eddie Jones era, is to quit his role…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 3:18

The strong-man fitness circuit incident at Saracens that wounded Itoje

England lock Maro Itoje has recalled his formative years coming through the ranks at Saracens, including how his teenage failure i…

Liam Heagney

06 Feb 2023, 3:00

The making of Capuozzo: 'That's where his intelligence comes from'

Ten seconds was all it took last March for Ange Capuozzo to magnificently create the memory of a lifetime with Italy.

Interview

Liam Heagney

05 Feb 2023, 3:30

Five takeaways from latest England Six Nations loss to Scotland

Saturday’s Six Nations match programme had new England boss Steve Borthwick pictured on its cover with a revealing interview ins…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

05 Feb 2023, 4:42

England player ratings vs Scotland | 2023 Guinness Six Nations

England player ratings live from Twickenham: The plain-speaking new boss Steve Borthwick said this was never going to be about per…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 13:18

Beaten Borthwick claims 'great resolve' gives him hope for England

Doom and gloom was the expected narrative when Steve Borthwick came in to conduct his first post-game media briefing as England he…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 15:09

A chilling 15-minute video of the missing Levi Davis has emerged

A chilling social media video of Levi Davis has emerged more than three months after the former Bath and Ealing player went missin…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 6:03

Clive Woodward has predicted 2023 will see 'best-ever' Six Nations

Ex-England boss Clive Woodward has predicted that the best-ever Six Nations is about to unfold despite months of negativity surrou…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 5:16

The demand from a 'frustrated' Georgia as the Six Nations kicks off

Inspirational Georgia boss Levan Maisashvili doesn’t have a minute to lose these days. It’s not that he didn’t live life to …

Exclusive

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 3:10

SA Rugby statement: Withdrawal of invitation to a team from Israel

An invitation for Tel Aviv Heat, the Israel-based Super Rugby Cup franchise, to participate in a provincial tournament in South Af…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 10:28

The round one Six Nations Injured XV

The 2023 Guinness Six Nations kicks off this weekend, but spare a thought for this stellar list of Injured XV players who won't be…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 7:08

Six Nations: Kieran Crowley has named the Italy team to host France

Italy boss Kieran Crowley has named his team for this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations opener at home to France, an XV that shows t…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 6:24

Six Nations: Fabien Galthie has named the France team to play Italy

Fabien Galthie has named his France team to take on Italy in this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations in Rome, an XV that shows five c…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 5:56

Ex-Ireland player makes 'good sign' Six Nations red card prediction

Former Ireland back-rower Alan Quinlan believes it would be a good sign to see red cards shown in the upcoming Guinness Six Nation…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 3:44

3 hot takes as Steve Borthwick names England team to play Scotland

After 45 days in the England hot seat, Steve Borthwick named the first team of his tenure on Thursday afternoon and it was a selec…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 11:29

The Hassell-Collins 'attributes' that excite England boss Borthwick

Steve Borthwick has explained why he decided to give Ollie Hassell-Collins his England debut in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nat…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 10:20

Steve Borthwick reveals how Manu Tuilagi reacted to England axe

New England boss Steve Borthwick has explained how Manu Tuilagi reacted when he told the Sale midfielder that he was not picked to…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 9:32

Steve Borthwick has named his England team to play Scotland

Steve Borthwick has named his England team to face Scotland this Saturday at Twickenham in the opening round of the Six Nations.

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 8:41

3 hot takes as Andy Farrell names Ireland team to play Wales

For the major headline in the Ireland team selection to face Wales in Guinness Six Nations round one, look no further than the abs…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 8:16

Six Nations: Andy Farrell has named his Ireland team to play Wales

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland side to play Wales in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations showing three changes from the team…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 6:55

3 hot takes as Gregor Townsend names Scotland team to play England

England won a football World Cup with Alf Ramsey sticking by the philosophy to ‘never change a winning team’, but that approac…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 4:57

Gregor Townsend has named his Scotland team to face England

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland side to play England in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations showing seven changes from the…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 3:05

Worcester officially have new owners after four months in limbo

Worcester finally have new owners after the administrators struck a deal with the Atlas group headed up James Sandford and Jim O�…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 10:10

RFU statement: Championship deadline set for Wasps and Worcester

The RFU have set the new owners of Wasps and Worcester a mid-February deadline to have their respective takeovers fully completed …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 11:52

WRU bans Tom Jones' song from Wales versus Ireland match playlist

Tom Jones’ song Delilah has been axed by the Principality Stadium ahead of this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations Wales versus I…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 9:25

Wales' Louis Rees-Zammit posts a salty 12-word tweet about the WRU

Louis Rees-Zammit has suggested he has been left speechless by the latest WRU reaction to allegations of a toxic culture existing …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 10:42

Jonny Hill is one of seven players cut as England trim squad to 29

Sale second row Jonny Hill and Toulouse back-rower Jack Willis are the two big-name casualties after Steve Borthwick trimmed his E…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 12:23

Eben Etzebeth one of four Sharks players up for European POTY award

That collective prominence has now been recognised on an individual basis as four Cell C Sharks players - including Eben Etzebeth …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 7:06

Erasmus explains why Springboks wanted pre-RWC trip to Argentina

South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has explained why he has arranged for the Springboks to play a pre-Rugby World Cup …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 6:24

How 'a dumb play or two' could have hurt Jonny Hill with England

Jonny Hill was the big-name casualty on Tuesday evening when Steve Borthwick trimmed his England squad from 36 to 29 ahead of this…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 5:23

The 'vulnerability' that has Alan Quinlan concerned about Ireland

Former back-rower Alan Quinlan has explained the one concern he has about the hotly fancied Ireland as they head into a 2023 World…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 4:21

Sam Warburton explains the standards that 'Wales can't go beneath'

Sam Warburton has set out the targets for Wales in a World Cup year with Warren Gatland suddenly back at the helm in place of Wayn…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 3:49

The 21-question 'beat the drum' Eddie Jones Aussie media unveiling

It’s incredible how quickly the rugby world can change. Just over nine weeks ago, Eddie Jones sounded deluded. England had just …

Analysis

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 4:58

Why Hastings would always pick Russell ahead of his son Adam

Legendary Scotland full-back Gavin Hastings has admitted he would never have any qualms about picking Finn Russell ahead of his ow…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 10:49

3 hot takes as Warren Gatland names Wales team to play Ireland

Look away now, Wayne Pivac. It was January 17, the day when Warren Gatland named his 37-strong Wales Guinness Six Nations squad, w…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 13:13

New Zealand stay will be brief for Ryan as Munster agree new deal

The plan to play Super Rugby Pacific by ex-Ireland prop John Ryan will be short-lived as he has decided he will come home to Munst…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 10:19

What Eddie Jones said about England at first Wallabies media briefing

Eddie Jones opted at his first official media briefing as the Wallabies coach in Australia not to talk about England and the RFU�…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 2:53

Leicester statement: Mike Brown has joined with immediate effect

Defending Gallagher Premiership champions Leicester have confirmed the signing of ex-England full-back Mike Brown on a short-term …

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 9:25

Warren Gatland names his Wales Six Nations team to play Ireland

New Wales boss Warren Gatland has named a team to face Ireland in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations opener in Cardiff that sh…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 6:07

Eddie Jones couldn't resist 'still recovering' dig at referee Raynal

Eddie Jones was in his element at his introductory media briefing as the new Wallabies coach on Tuesday, speaking about a myriad o…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 6:50

Eddie Jones shares his thoughts on 'the hierarchy of Wallabies 10s'

New Wallabies boss Eddie Jones has given his assessment of the battle for the No10 Australia shirt in a World Cup year where his f…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 7:28

England legend: Curbing Finn Russell, and why Irish are title tip

Former England prop Jason Leonard has explained what Steve Borthwick’s team must do to curb the influence of Scotland No10 Finn …

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 8:23

Exeter revisit 'very powerful emotions' of Saracens' salary scandal

Rob Baxter has revisited how the fallout over the Saracens salary cap saga helped to fuel Exeter to win their 2019/20 Gallagher Pr…

Liam Heagney

30 Jan 2023, 3:49

Steve Borthwick and the spelling gaffe that keeps inspiring him

Past conversations with Steve Borthwick used to be like getting blood from a stone, but the 43-year-old has undergone a public spe…

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 4:30

The Townsend verdict on call to ditch Flower of Scotland anthem

Gregor Townsend has explained why he doesn’t back a call from former Scotland coach Jim Telfer for Flower of Scotland to be ditc…

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 4:00

The 'little bit of concern' Gatland has with Six Nations Netflix series

New Wales boss Warren Gatland has revealed he isn’t 100 per cent supportive of Netflix filming its behind-the-scenes documentary…

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 3:00

Even Tyson Fury got a mention in Freddie Burns' Leicester send-off

Freddie Burns has revealed he shared a Tyson Fury quote with the Leicester squad when he last addressed them on the Welford Road p…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2023, 10:46

Video: Farewell message leaves 'blown away' Freddie Burns in tears

Freddie Burns was left in tears reading out emotional messages from Leicester fans ahead of his final match for the club this Satu…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2023, 5:19

'Deeply sorry' Italian prop cops big ban for Traore banana 'gift'

Italy prop Ivan Nemer has copped a hefty ban following an investigation into his racist secret Santa gift to Benetton and Azzurri …

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 10:52

World Rugby statement: 'No immediate plan to implement blanket elite game tackle height reduction'

World Rugby have insisted there are no immediate plans to lower the legal tackle height in elite rugby around the globe.

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 4:53

RFU statement: Apology issued to community game over tackle law

The RFU have issued an apology for the anger and concern it has created amongst the rugby community in England following last week…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 8:37

Jannes Kirsten the latest to quit as major Exeter exodus continues

Jannes Kirsten has become the latest Exeter Chiefs double-winner to quit Sandy Park. The Gallagher Premiership club has been swamp…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 10:02

FFR boss Bernard Laporte resigns with immediate effect - report

Bernard Laporte has reportedly resigned as French rugby federation president with immediate effect following the ‘no’ outcome …

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 3:41

URC chief's verdict on 15 of its 16 teams progressing in Europe

It’s been a pretty eventful eight years since Martin Anayi took over as chief executive of what is now the BKT URC. “It’s ei…

Interview

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 7:28

'Crushed': World Cup winner criticises lack of real England leaders

World Cup winner Neil Back has claimed there are at best just three players in the England squad who can be classed as real leader…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 7:44

Premiership statement: Shot clock trial to start this weekend

Friday night’s Gallagher Premiership match at the AJ Bell between Sale and Bath will see the introduction of the shot clock for …

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 7:29

Exeter explain the Patrick Schickerling England eligibility gaffe

Rob Baxter believes that last year’s gaffe regarding the England eligibility of tighthead Patrick Schickerling can work in the 2…

Interview

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 6:05

RFU statement: The 'significant feedback' over tackle law change

The RFU have issued a statement following the fallout from last week’s controversial decision to reduce the community game tackl…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 4:21

'Addiction to tinkering': Two Premiership bosses on RFU tackle law

Two Gallagher Premiership directors of rugby - Sale boss Alex Sanderson and Rob Baxter of Exeter - have shared their thoughts on t…

Interview

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 3:04

Exeter issue timely update on fitness of Stuart Hogg for Scotland

Rob Baxter has given an update on the current fitness of Stuart Hogg, the Exeter full-back who is away for the first half of this …

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 5:27

Plan for George Ford to debut on Friday for Sale has been scrapped

This Friday’s much-anticipated Sale debut for George Ford has been scrapped. The England out-half has been sidelined since his f…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 11:43

The 21-word Sale answer to latest Manu Tuilagi 'leaving' rumour

Alex Sanderson has addressed the latest speculation that England pick Manu Tuilagi will exit Sale at the end of this season when h…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 10:57

EPCR statement: Three bans, dismissed citing, two citing warnings

EPCR have handed out bans worth a total of ten weeks to three red-carded Heineken Champions Cup players - Northampton duo Fraser D…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 6:11

New Harlequins deal for potential new England cap Jack Walker

Jack Walker has inked a contract extension with Harlequins in the same week that he dramatically jumped up the selection pecking o…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 4:28

Mike Brown currently on trial at a Premiership club - report

Ex-England full-back Mike Brown is reportedly on trial at a Gallagher Premiership club ten months after playing his last game in t…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 3:45

RFU statement: Borthwick's England lose two more players to injury

England have now lost a total of four players from their original 36-strong Guinness Six Nations squad, Elliot Daly and Jamie Geor…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 5:57

Wales statement: Scott Baldwin called up for Six Nations

Veteran hooker Scott Baldwin is looking to win his first Test cap in six years after he was called into the Wales Guinness Six Nat…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 8:26

Glasgow statement: McLean contract terminated with immediate effect

Scotland winger Rufus McLean has had his contract terminated with immediate effect by Glasgow Warriors following a disciplinary he…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 8:04

Offer made to Semi Radradra after his weekend Top 14 trip - report

Semi Radradra reportedly spent time in France last weekend visiting a Top 14 club after playing for Bristol in their Friday night …

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 11:13

Frustrated Finn Russell explains Racing's Champions Cup elimination

Finn Russell has shed light on how frustrated and disappointed Racing are following their pool stage elimination from the Heineken…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 12:51

Andy Farrell leaning on one thing Ireland 'have got pretty decent at'

World Cup years haven’t been kind to Andy Farrell as a Test level assistant... but the Ireland head coach is optimistic that his…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 6:38

The Finn Russell aspect that 'doesn't get talked about enough'

With the countdown on to facing England at Twickenham on February 4 in the Guinness Six Nations, Gregor Townsend is now very much …

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 4:15

Borthwick has his say on controversial RFU waist high tackle limit

Steve Borthwick has had his say on the controversial RFU law change that has split the grassroots game in England.

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 12:42

'It's back, baby': 2023 Six Nations media launch whets the appetite

Three years after its last in-person media launch, the Six Nations was keen to turn on the glitz at Monday's London launch of the …

Opinion

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 9:39

The 'sitting duck' Ireland reaction to RFU waist high tackling

Ireland skipper Johnny Sexton has strongly disagreed with the RFU decision to limit the community game in England to waist-high ta…

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 7:51

Owen Farrell explains biggest lesson he learned at tackle school

England skipper Owen Farrell has explained the biggest thing he has learned from his recent enrolment in the World Rugby tackle sc…

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 6:59

O'Shea's middle-of-the-night police station calls about Danny Care

Veteran scrum-half Danny Care had recalled the middle-of-the-night police station calls that Conor O’Shea received about him dur…

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 3:00

'If I played now the way I did when I was 20, I wouldn't survive'

Daddy daycare duty didn’t go quite to plan last weekend for Will Skelton in La Rochelle with his fit-again wife Kate playing her…

Interview

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2023, 3:30

Big-spending Racing bomb out after late Leinster flourish in Dublin

A penny for the thoughts of Jacky Lorenzetti, the billionaire owner of Racing who saw his club eliminated from the Heineken Champi…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 11:23

England assistant Cockerill linked with French club move - report

Steve Borthwick’s revamp of the England coaching team he inherited from Eddie Jones could be completed by the potential departur…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 6:35

'Stuart's vital but it's very unfair to elevate one over the other'

It’s been quite the seven-year marriage, ex-England boss Stuart Lancaster popping across the Irish Sea to pair up with Leo Culle…

Interview

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 3:20

The Clive Woodward verdict on Borthwick's first England squad

It has been such a busy rugby week that we have only finally gotten around now to what Clive Woodward made of the first England sq…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 3:05

The 'sweet spot' that Sale and England have found for Manu Tuilagi

Sale have confirmed that their S&C dealings with England regarding the fitness and well-being of Manu Tuilagi haven’t changed de…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2023, 7:33

Rugby Australia statement: The arrest of Kurtley Beale

Rugby Australia have issued a statement following the arrest of Kurtley Beale, suspending the Test-level veteran from all rugby ac…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2023, 5:39

'Interestingly, I'd been told that Pat was a bit of a dictator'

Former England lock Dave Attwood has revealed his negative-sounding impression of Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam, but it didn�…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2023, 4:51

O'Driscoll's tackle school verdict and what he makes of Owen Farrell

Ireland legend Brian O’Driscoll has given his verdict on the tackle school that enables red-carded or cited offenders to get a m…

Interview

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 10:37

EPCR statement: Bans for five players, including Springbok Mapimpi

Tournament organisers EPCR have confirmed that five players have copped a total suspension of 13 weeks for red cards and a citing …

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 6:14

The 'Oh, wow' Saracens reaction to Ben Earl getting England recall

Saracens have explained the very different Ben Earl that will head into England camp next week compared to the back-rower that was…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 5:45

'There was a mob of supporters waiting to beat Chris Ashton up'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has this week recalled the trouble Chris Ashton encountered on his 2014 visit to Belfast with Saracens to…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 8:36

Williams takes swipe at 'multi-million $ deals' for Jones and co

Former All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams has taken a swipe at the big money recently splashed out on Test-level coaches, i…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 3:56

Leicester sign ex-Wasps prop West and a South African youngster

New Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has strengthened his squad with immediate effect, signing England prospect Tom West and Ca…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 4:19

Ireland name 37-strong Six Nations squad with one uncapped player

Andy Farrell has named a 37-strong Ireland squad for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations, including only 27 of the 34 players capped…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 3:09

EPCR statements: Bristol docked match points, get suspended fine

Pat Lam’s Bristol have tumbled down the prospective European Challenge Cup round of 16 seedings after the Gallagher Premiership …

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 6:38

Call for a designated away fan area has whipped up fans on Twitter

Harlequins’ Will Evans has called for the introduction of designated away fan areas at rugby stadiums to help improve the atmosp…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 7:45

Joe Simmonds to become the latest big name to quit Exeter - report

Double-winning skipper Joe Simmonds is poised to become the latest big name to exit Exeter at the end of the current season.

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 13:23

Saracens give update on the Owen Farrell 'tackle school' progress

Saracens are waiting to hear whether England skipper Owen Farrell has successfully come through tackle school after he undertook t…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 9:09

'That's bananas': Irish legend gobsmacked by Stormers' travel plan

Brian O’Driscoll couldn’t quite believe what he was hearing last Sunday when listening in from the BT Sport studio to what mat…

Interview

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 11:35

'Tackling's a tough one to call, I don't like the game to go soft'

Harlequins midfielder Andre Esterhuizen has admitted that his sights are very much on securing World Cup selection later this year…

Interview

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 4:55

Six Nations boost for England as Henry Slade red card dismissed

Henry Slade has been cleared for England Six Nations duty and he can also play for Exeter in their Heineken Champions Cup game ver…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 4:34

'He came back at me in that meeting... so he challenges me'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson will send Bevan Rodd off on England Six Nations duty next week with the earnest hope that the loosehead c…

Interview

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 5:46

Ex-Wasps coach Neil Fowkes has secured a new role

Former Wasps scrum coach Neil Fowkes has become the latest staff member from the fallen Gallagher Premiership club to secure his f…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 3:42

Exeter statement: The exit of Dave Ewers

Dave Ewers has become the latest big name to quit Exeter for the 2023/24 season, the back-rower following Sam Simmonds and Luke Co…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 7:40

The Will Skelton reaction to Eddie Jones becoming Wallabies boss

France-based second row Will Skelton has given his reaction to this week’s shock development of Eddie Jones being named Wallabie…

Exclusive

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 13:47

France name eight uncapped players in Six Nations squad of 42

France boss Fabien Galthie has included eight uncapped players in his squad of 42 for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations.

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 13:39

Ex-England wing Ruaridh McConnochie named in Scotland squad of 40

Gregor Townsend has named four new players in his 40-strong Scotland squad for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations, a campaign that …

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 7:28

World Rugby promises fans 'largest-ever consultation on the sport'

World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont believes rugby has the ability to become the world’s most progressive sport regarding player …

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 9:30

'I had that Barbarians commitment written into my new contract'

Eddie Jones has confirmed he will still definitely coach the Barbarians in May at Twickenham - even though he was unveiled as the …

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 9:03

The Cameron Woki tweet that confirms he will miss the Six Nations

France talisman Cameron Woki has confirmed that an injury sustained last Sunday with Racing 92 has ruled him out of the upcoming G…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 8:02

'Bizarre from the RFU, bizarre from Bill Sweeney...'

Former England international Andy Goode had taken a pop at Bill Sweeney, accusing the RFU CEO of being asleep at the wheel in allo…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 6:52

Harlequins statement: The signing of scrum-half Will Porter

Harlequins’ preparations for the 2023/24 season continued on Tuesday with the confirmation that Will Porter has been signed.

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 6:29

Watch: Epic video of Eddie Jones' first Wallabies training in 2001

With Eddie Jones confirmed on Monday as the new Wallabies coach for a second stint through to 2027, a video has emerged of the 62-…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 4:33

The 'significant' thing Guscott wants from Monday's England squad

Former England midfielder Jeremy Guscott has identified the one thing he believes will be significant when new head coach Steve Bo…

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2023, 10:20

'No matter what anyone thinks, the English team were not arrogant'

A slew of former England players, including Jeremy Guscott, had no qualms revisiting the painful 1990 Murrayfield ordeal they endu…

Exclusive

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2023, 3:10

Red card casts doubt over Slade's England Six Nations availability

Henry Slade is poised to miss the start of the upcoming Guinness Six Nations with England after he was red-carded in the second ha…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 13:39

'Dumb tackle choice': RFU chief's blunt verdict on Munster red card

The clampdown on shoulder-to-head tackles in the Heineken Champions Cup continued on Saturday with Jack O’Donoghue of Munster re…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 10:36

Watch: 'A serious act of foul play here, we are on a red card'

Saturday’s massive Heineken Champions Cup battle in Manchester between Sale and Toulouse was marred by an early red card after S…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 7:59

Statement: Bath vs Toulon rescheduled for Sunday but not at The Rec

Saturday’s postponed European Challenge Cup match between Bath and Toulon has been rescheduled for Sunday but it won’t be play…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 8:45

Bath statement: Challenge Cup match versus Toulon is off

Bath have confirmed that Saturday’s European Challenge Cup game at home to Toulon is off due to flooding. The round three match …

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 5:13

A fresh theory has emerged in the case of the missing Levi Davis

Levi Davis, the ex-Bath and Ealing player, could have been kidnapped, according to the latest information received by his family. …

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 5:54

RFU statement: Gleeson exits England role with immediate effect

Seven days after the RFU confirmed that a deal was struck with Harlequins to allow their assistant Nick Evans to coach the England…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2023, 12:24

The tackle technique warnings Nigel Owens issued to Owen Farrell

Former Test referee Nigel Owens has revealed that he previously had a number of conversations with Owen Farrell where he warned th…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 4:55

McCallum takes up deal in Scotland after 10-day French trial ends

Ex-Worcester prop Murray McCallum has ended a ten-day trial in France… by taking up a contract back home in Scotland with Edinbu…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2023, 3:07

Fit-again Smith named for Six Nations dress rehearsal versus Russell

England out-half Marcus Smith is set to play his first rugby in seven weeks after being chosen to start for Harlequins this Sunday…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2023, 6:58

Championship player banned for 15 matches for a 'deliberate bite'

A massive 15-match ban for biting an opponent has been handed down to a 27-year-old Championship-level lock. Seasoned Bedford play…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2023, 13:44

Watch: Classy trailer drops for new 1990 Scotland Grand Slam film

Rugby fans eagerly awaiting the upcoming Calcutta Cup fixture in the opening round of the 2023 Guinness Six Nations have had their…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2023, 9:27

'Still bitter about it now': The setback that bugs Simpson-Daniel

Retired England international James Simpson-Daniel has revealed one aspect of his stellar club career with Gloucester that he is s…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2023, 6:24

The 30-something South African prop tipped for a Wales call up

Ospreys boss Tony Booth has suggested that seasoned South African tighthead Tom Botha can be a 2023 Rugby World Cup selection bolt…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2023, 4:27

How a Joe Worsley chat has Sale braced for their Toulouse rematch

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has explained how a chat with Joe Worsley, his fellow ex-England international back-rower, has helped to …

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 10:15

Netflix statement: Behind-the-scenes Six Nations series confirmed

Netflix have confirmed they are to film a behind-the-scenes documentary series on the upcoming 2023 Guinness Six Nations.

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 13:38

Saracens statement: The signing of ex-Wasps back-rower Tom Willis

England prospect Tom Willis will return to the Gallagher Premiership next season after securing a deal with Saracens for the 2023/…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 13:14

Harlequins statement: The signing of ex-Glasgow boss Danny Wilson

Former Glasgow boss Danny Wilson is back in rugby after securing a deal to join Harlequins as an assistant for the 2023/24 season.…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 6:19

Wales statement: Warren Gatland's recruitment of King and Forshaw

Warren Gatland has confirmed the latest changes to his Wales backroom staff, announcing that Alex King and Mike Forshaw have respe…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 5:30

Top 14 move confirmed for Japan back-rower Tevita Tatafu

Japan back-rower Tevita Tatafu will stay on in France after the 2023 Rugby World Cup as Suntory Sungoliath have confirmed he will …

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 8:50

Pollard one of five changes as Leicester look to cure away day blues

Richard Wigglesworth has made five changes to his starting XV, including a recall for Springboks World Cup winner Handre Pollard, …

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 6:53

Ex-prop Alexander posts powerful thread on beating 'deep depression'

Former Wallabies prop Ben Alexander has written a powerful twelve-tweet thread revealing that he became deeply depressed during th…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2023, 3:45

What Owen Farrell said at his hearing and how the judiciary reacted

England talisman Owen Farrell has revealed that it was only on the Saracens team bus trip home from Gloucester last Friday night t…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2023, 7:23

Tom Curry is ruled out for the start of England's Six Nations

Alex Sanderson has confirmed that back-rower Tom Curry will be absent for the start of next month’s Guinness Six Nations campaig…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2023, 6:48

Owen Farrell cops a bans but tackle school can free him for England

Owen Farrell has been banned following his citing for foul play with Saracens - but he won’t miss the start of the upcoming Guin…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2023, 6:02

'Too much negative': Sale hit back over Tuilagi clash with Allan

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has taken umbrage with the level of negative commentary that has accompanied last Sunday’s much-talked-…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2023, 11:21

Brutal 'hit with head' on Danty results in a hefty ban for Acebes

Seasoned Perpignan skipper Mathieu Acebes has received a hefty ban following his horror red-carded Top 14 diving headbutt on Franc…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2023, 10:19

'That's what rugby should be about and I'm a big believer in that'

Rob Baxter has defended his decision to bring as strong an Exeter squad as possible to South Africa for this weekend’s Heineken …

Interview

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2023, 3:35

David Duckham, the famed England and Lions player, has died

Championship club Coventry have paid tribute to David Duckham, their former England and British and Irish Lions player, who has di…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 10:55

England Six Nations blow as 'very annoyed' Cowan-Dickie ruled out

Exeter have confirmed that Luke Cowan-Dickie will be sidelined for the start of the upcoming Guinness Six Nations with England as …

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 6:56

Dougie Dyers, the pioneering 1971 Proteas skipper, has died

SA Rugby president Mark Alexander has paid tribute to Douglas Martin ‘Dougie’ Dyers, one of the most important pioneers in the…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 10:14

Graham Rowntree has bolstered his Munster staff with Connacht raid

Graham Rowntree has bolstered his Munster backroom staff for next season, the head coach securing the services of Connacht assista…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 10:30

Four uncapped players named in the 34-man Italy Six Nations squad

Kieran Crowley has named four uncapped front row players in his Italy squad of 34 for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations, while als…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 9:12

Scotland statement: Townsend confirms four-game World Cup warm-up

Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has confirmed a four-Test build-up for his team before the start of the Rugby World Cup, including t…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 8:36

Northampton statement: The signing of ex-Wasps back Burger Odendaal

Former Wasps midfielder Burger Odendaal will return to the Gallagher Premiership next season, joining Northampton once his stop-ga…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 7:28

Ex-England out-half makes a 'controversial' Farrell ban prediction

Former England No10 Andy Goode has given his prediction on the outcome of the disciplinary hearing that current talisman Owen Farr…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 5:47

'Absolutely kidding me': Sharks owner Masotti has got the hump

South African Sharks owner Marco Masotti has tweeted his dissatisfaction that a new Major League Rugby club is set to also call th…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 4:15

The modern-day opinion that 'quite mystifies' Shaun Edwards

France assistant coach Shaun Edwards has revealed that a particular modern-day opinion he hears from older players leaves him myst…

Liam Heagney

10 Jan 2023, 3:30

'He loved to grab people by the throat and just be a pain'

England World Cup winner Jason Robinson has recalled his transformative time at Sale playing alongside the enigmatic Sebastien Cha…

Liam Heagney

09 Jan 2023, 3:00

'It's actually true, I've run my quickest top speeds this year'

New Sale signing Tom O’Flaherty is thrilled he is defying the supposed logic that the older a winger gets, the slower you are se…

Interview

Liam Heagney

08 Jan 2023, 3:30

Saracens have reacted to speculation linking coach Peel to England

Gallagher Premiership leaders Saracens have given their reaction to speculation that long-serving assistant Ian Peel is in line to…

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2023, 4:08

'It will now be trial by jury on social media... and it's wrong'

Friday night’s controversy about Saracens No10 Owen Farrell made for riveting live TV viewing on BT Sport as former England inte…

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2023, 2:50

Former All Black Nick Evans joins England for 2023 Six Nations

Harlequins have confirmed that Nick Evans, the former All Blacks out-half, will join Steve Borthwick’s England as an assistant c…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2023, 8:06

'Even Henry would admit he was out of sorts earlier in the season'

Exeter boss Rob Baxter believes Henry Slade is poised to enjoy a rewarding 2023 back in the thick of it with England. The midfield…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2023, 3:46

'I didn't need to walk in that changing room and flip over a table'

Rookie Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has revealed he didn't lose the rag with his Tigers players when he entered the AJ Bell…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2023, 6:24

The 'one thing' Northampton want after Wasps and Worcester collapse

Northampton CEO Mark Darbon has penned an open letter to supporters, informing them of the governance changes that are being negot…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2023, 4:22

'He went Monday': The Leicester verdict on Cole's England recall

New Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has confirmed that Dan Cole is back in the England mix, the seasoned tighthead attending a…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2023, 10:34

Nathan Earle has left Newcastle with immediate effect

One-time England prospect Nathan Earle has left Newcastle after agreeing to a Championship club deal with Ealing that will see him…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2023, 8:45

American football commentary has Baxter still believing in Exeter

Rob Baxter is hoping that the form of his Exeter for the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign can resemble the NFL Dallas Cowboys.

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2023, 7:49

The 'kick in the gut' that has sharpened Gloucester boss Skivington

Gloucester boss George Skivington has revealed how deeply his team’s disappointing Christmas Eve loss at Leicester affected him,…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2023, 6:48

'No mitigation can be applied': Albert Tuisue cops yet another ban

Albert Tuisue has been banned for the second time in recent months, the Fijian back-rower following up his Test duty red card in N…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2023, 4:38

Elliott Stooke has exited Bristol for a spell in the Top 14

Elliott Stooke has become the latest ex-Wasps player to move to the Top 14, the lock bringing to an end his short-term injury cove…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2023, 3:26

'Fascinating' Skivington view ahead of his first Borthwick meeting

Gloucester boss George Skivington is hoping that his first meeting this week with Steve Borthwick as the England coach can enhance…

Liam Heagney

04 Jan 2023, 2:48

Edinburgh statement: The signing of Ben Healy from Munster

Edinburgh boss Mike Blair has secured the signature of the Scottish-qualified out-half Ben Healy from Munster on a two-year deal. …

Liam Heagney

04 Jan 2023, 7:24

Ex-Worcester prop Murray McCallum secures a 10-day trial in France

Former Worcester prop Murray McCallum has landed himself a ten-day Pro D2 trial at Montabaun. The Scottish front-rower has been le…

Liam Heagney

04 Jan 2023, 5:41

Long-awaited RG Snyman comeback has encountered yet another delay

The long-awaited return of RG Snyman to action with Munster has again been put on the long finger following their latest squad upd…

Liam Heagney

04 Jan 2023, 3:31

'It was nasty, very hostile... a shameful second half'

Former Test referee Owen Doyle has recalled in his new book the infamous 1992 Five Nations Parc des Princes encounter between Fran…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 5:11

Racing 92 statement: Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi

The new Stuart Lancaster era at Racing 92 has launched with a signing coup, the Parisian club confirming on Tuesday that the 2019 …

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 3:11

'That's really up to Wales': Gloucester update Rees-Zammit injury

Gloucester boss George Skivington remains in the dark as to when exactly Wales’ Louis Rees-Zammit will be available to play agai…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 9:58

Leinster statement: Johnny Sexton injury update

Leinster have issued a worrying update about Johnny Sexton, the veteran Ireland skipper who failed to finish last Sunday night’s…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 8:35

Dragons' 38-word statement officially confirms Dean Ryan's exit

Dragons, the Newport-based URC franchise, have finally officially confirmed the departure of Dean Ryan nearly four months after th…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 15:05

Bristol versus Top 14 isn't the only tug of war for Semi Radradra

The club-level future isn’t the only tug of war that Fiji’s Semi Radradra is embroiled in as the services of the Bristol midfi…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 12:00

France suffer a massive Jonathan Danty Six Nations injury blow

Jonathan Danty will miss the entire 2023 Guinness Six Nations with defending champions France following a knee injury sustained in…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 11:33

Clive Woodward names his 2023 World Cup winner and explains why

Former England boss Clive Woodward has made his prediction for the 2023 World Cup, tipping France to ultimately lift the trophy on…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 7:51

'Contentious' scrum-half selection in Murphy's Ireland dream team

Former Ireland full-back Geordan Murphy, the ex-Leicester director of rugby, popped his head back above the parapet in November wh…

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 7:11

'He's proved himself at a good level': Irish sign a Sydney centre

London Irish have bolstered their squad for the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign by signing midfielder Eddie Poolman from Sydney …

Liam Heagney

03 Jan 2023, 5:39

Ex-England winger Marland Yarde has signed for a Top 14 club

Former England winger Marland Yarde is back in rugby after securing a Top 14 contract with Bayonne until the end of the 2022/23 se…

Liam Heagney

24 Dec 2022, 12:49

'I'm really proud of Joe, it's a tough challenge being authentic'

Out-of-favour England loosehead Joe Marler has played his part in recent times in encouraging publicity for English club rugby.

Interview

Liam Heagney

23 Dec 2022, 4:00

Where are they now? The last Wasps team before the collapse

It’s still hard to believe that Wasps went out of business just over two months ago, an October 17 training ground meeting confi…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 3:22

Benetton suspend player, federal prosecutor opens Traore race case

The racism storm surrounding Benetton Rugby was elevated to a legal matter on Thursday when the Federation of Italian Rugby confir…

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 11:20

Hansen's 'pretty surprising' verdict on Jones' England dismissal

Former All Blacks boss Steve Hansen has shared his thoughts on the decision by England to dismiss Eddie Jones as boss nine months …

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 10:14

URC statement: The Cherif Traore racism incident at Benetton

URC officials have issued a 96-word statement confirming they are investigating the racist incident that took place against Cherif…

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 8:51

Latest World Rugby law directives include shot clock from January 1

World Rugby have announced a package of directives for implementation from January 1, including the use of a shot clock to hurry u…

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 8:00

Bath statement: Tom Dunn and Will Stuart contract extensions

Preparations for the 2023/24 season have continued at Bath with England internationals Tom Dunn and Will Stuart agreeing to contra…

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 4:33

Leinster's James Tracy has retired with immediate effect

Leinster hooker James Tracy has retired with immediate effect after failing to recover from a neck injury suffered in April 2022.

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 5:17

Fit-again Nick Isiekwe returns for Saracens ahead of schedule

Nick Isiekwe has made it back into the Saracens starting line-up ahead of projection after Mark McCall suggested in September that…

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 6:30

'I'd lose my s**t': Ashton Hewitt wades into the Traore racism row

Dragons wing Ashton Hewitt has waded into the Cherif Traore racism row, claiming there would be scenes at Rodney Parade if any of …

Liam Heagney

22 Dec 2022, 4:12

Cherif Traore posts follow-up message on racist secret Santa row

Out-of-favour Ireland international Simon Zebo has waded into the Cherif Traore racism row, calling on Benetton to name and sack t…

Liam Heagney

21 Dec 2022, 16:30

Thomas Ramos cops concurrent bans for striking and eye contact

France full-back Thomas Ramos will be available for the start of the Six Nations after a disciplinary hearing committee decided th…

Liam Heagney

21 Dec 2022, 14:06

Harlequins statement: Danny Care contract extension

England scrum-half Danny Care has signed a contract extension at Harlequins, the club he first played for in 2006.

Liam Heagney

21 Dec 2022, 6:17

Where are they now? The last Worcester team before the collapse

Tuesday morning was a sharp reminder of the pitfalls of Gallagher Premiership rugby, Bath announcing an hour before they unveiled …

Analysis

Liam Heagney

21 Dec 2022, 7:55

Three Kiwi refs get England games in the 2023 Guinness Six Nations

New England boss Steve Borthwick will kick off the upcoming 2023 Guinness Six Nations with New Zealander Paul Williams in charge o…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2022, 4:51

Sale statement: Joint bid to buy the AJ Bell stadium is declined

Sale Sharks have issued a statement after their joint bid with Salford City FC to purchase the AJ Bell was rejected by Salford Cit…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2022, 11:59

'Grenoble away was the most violent game I have ever played in'

Former Scotland prop Mattie Stewart has named a November 1999 Heineken Cup defeat with Northampton away to Grenoble as the most vi…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2022, 11:20

Wallaby shirt-wearing son reminded Borthwick of 'power rugby has'

Steve Borthwick has revealed how a welcome home last week from his Wallaby jersey-wearing son reminded the new England boss about …

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2022, 7:19

Woodward's first day Borthwick verdict aims a final dig at Jones

Former England boss Clive Woodward has used his verdict on Steve Borthwick’s first day in the job to take a final few digs at th…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2022, 6:37

Saracens duo Clarey and Lozowski both banned after battle of Lyon

Saracens have paid a disciplinary hearing price for last Saturday’s battling Heineken Champions Cup win in Lyon as the red-carde…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2022, 5:23

The 'type of person' Steve Borthwick wants in England environment

New England boss Steve Borthwick has identified the type of person he wants in his national team’s environment as he looks to pi…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2022, 5:30

Video: Explosive Leicester versus Bristol touchline bust-up leaves sour post-match taste

Saturday's intense Gallagher Premiership clash at Welford Road between Leicester and Bristol had an incredible finish with tempers…

Liam Heagney

05 Jun 2021, 12:07

'I don't speak to anyone at Saracens… they didn't make the effort'

The rugby life can be amazingly rewarding and unexpected. Take Joel Kpoku.

Interview

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2022, 2:19

The 'bossed' impression a 14-year-old Owen Farrell made at Saracens

Owen Farrell has carved a reputation for himself in rugby as one of the sport’s most influential figures, but this wasn’t some…

Liam Heagney

12 Dec 2022, 5:00

48 hours in France: Leinster, Christian Wade and Racing by the sea

The One To Win is the glitzy sound bite accompanying the 28th edition of the Heineken Champions Cup, but is that an excessively sc…

Interview

Liam Heagney

11 Dec 2022, 4:55

'Flip-flops and ripped t-shirts - Bath were the boy band of rugby'

A BT Sport podcast has recalled how the Bath amateur-era supremacy struggled in the professional era before their 1998 European Cu…

Liam Heagney

05 Dec 2022, 4:00

'I sit on the couch as a fan, I'm very patriotic about Australia'

Aged just 33, Rob Simmons is still thought of as a potential Australia call-up - a recent shortage of available locks even ignited…

Interview

Liam Heagney

04 Dec 2022, 3:00

'I don't want to be safe and in this squad, I can't play safe'

Former Springboks winger Courtnall Skosan is the rugby equivalent of Ronseal, having very much done as it said on the tin a year a…

Interview

Liam Heagney

04 Dec 2022, 2:30

Nick Easter has taken on a job in the third tier of English rugby

Ex-England No8 Nick Easter has dropped down two divisions to start working again in rugby after losing his job two months ago when…

Liam Heagney

03 Dec 2022, 9:10

Watch: The awkward 'this is just a fraud' Joe Marler TV interview

Joe Marler was mischievously awkward in his post-match live TV interview on Friday night after he was awarded player of the match …

Liam Heagney

03 Dec 2022, 10:17

Danny Care's lie detector test: Saracens, Matson and Man Utd

Out-of-favour England scrum-half Danny Care has revealed to BT Sport that he wishes every day he was a professional footballer, wh…

Liam Heagney

01 Dec 2022, 6:11

John Cooney's potential Scotland switch fires up a Twitter debate

Ex-Scotland scrum-half Chris Cusiter has questioned the idea that John Cooney, the out-of-favour Ireland No9, is considering a cha…

Liam Heagney

01 Dec 2022, 7:04

Nigel Owens explains why referee was wrong to award Etzebeth try

Retired referee Nigel Owens has explained why Angus Gardner was wrong to award the Eben Etzebeth try to the Springboks last Saturd…

Liam Heagney

01 Dec 2022, 2:52

Eddie Jones' media advisor apologises for dig at 'slippery' RFU CEO

RFU CEO Bill Sweeney has reportedly received an apology from Eddie Jones’ media advisor after a serious allegation attacking the…

Liam Heagney

01 Dec 2022, 5:10

'Brutal' Chris Ashton reason for ending England career under Jones

A former England international has revealed that Chris Ashton didn’t want to play for the national team under Eddie Jones after …

Liam Heagney

01 Dec 2022, 3:09

Rassie Erasmus films 20-minute video explaining social media use

Controversial Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus has filmed a 20-minute video explaining his use of social media. The South African di…

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 14:03

Erasmus tweets seven-word reaction to his meeting with World Rugby

Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus has broken his recent social media silence to tweet his reaction to his clear-the-air meeting on Th…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2022, 7:03

Antoine Dupont has beaten appeal odds and got his ban reduced

France scrum-half Antoine Dupont has beaten the disciplinary hearing odds after appealing the four-match ban he received for his A…

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 8:58

Watch: Welsh pundits claim 'faceless' WRU isn't fit for purpose

A hard-hitting TV conversation featuring an ex-Wales international and a former Celtic League title-winning coach has claimed that…

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 11:05

Ronan O'Gara will not be replacing Eddie Jones as England coach

Ronan O’Gara has been ruled out of the race to succeed Eddie Jones as England coach as he is poised to sign a lengthy contract e…

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 6:44

Springboks sub Thomas du Toit banned for his 'reckless' red card

Springboks sub Thomas du Toit has been banned following his red-carded collision with England’s Luke Cowan-Dickie last Saturday.…

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 9:24

The stat that shows World Rugby tackle school is actually working

A World Rugby review has highlighted that its tackle school initiative for suspended players is working. There had been criticism …

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 4:01

A World Cup final referee has slammed 'dangerous' social media use

Test rugby referee Joy Neville has attacked people who use social media as a weapon to have a go at match officials.

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 4:17

'Horrible, vicious person' query has shown Erasmus in a good light

Former Springboks skipper Bobby Skinstad has backed the trenchant way Rassie Erasmus defended South Africa during their recent Aut…

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 4:45

Lawrence Dallaglio demands an apology from England

Ex-England skipper Lawerence Dallaglio has lashed last Saturday’s loss to the Springboks, demanding that the players should apol…

Liam Heagney

30 Nov 2022, 3:32

'We thought Quins were arrogant, thought they were above themselves'

It was just four weeks ago when rugby fans feasted on the latest dramatic installment in the London Irish versus Harlequins rivalr…

Liam Heagney

28 Nov 2022, 5:00

How the 27 England players capped in the 2022 Autumn Nations rated

England player ratings - Autumn Nations Series: Leaving Twickenham on Saturday night, the dominant takeaway was that Eddie Jones i…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2022, 5:00

Four England takeaways, including case for a Smith/Farrell break up

Saturday was grim for England as the curtain fell on the Autumn Nations Series with a damaging thud, the comprehensive defeat to t…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2022, 5:27

Nienaber's 10-word answer when quizzed post-game on Erasmus

Rassie Erasmus was banned from attending Saturday’s match at Twickenham but the Springboks director of rugby still cast a shadow…

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2022, 2:40

The 'great call' that convinced Kolisi 14-man Springboks would win

Thrilled Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi has saluted the ability of his team to suck up the anxiety of their latest red card and no…

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2022, 3:20

Springboks' 'most enjoyable' tour verdict is warning to the world

Watch out world was the reading between the lines takeaway after Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber described the past four we…

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2022, 2:53

Jones' bizarre 'right direction' and 'not far away' England claim

Eddie Jones has remarkably claimed that his England team are not far away even though Saturday evening’s 13-27 hammering brought…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2022, 15:36

England player ratings vs South Africa | Autumn Nations Series

England player ratings live from Twickenham: A deja vu scenario, but with quite a damaging outcome for England on this occasion.

Opinion

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2022, 13:50

RFU bin half-time Barnes salute due to recent Springboks fallout

The recent Springboks' criticism of record-breaking referee Wayne Barnes had an unfortunate sequel at Twickenham on Saturday.

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2022, 10:43

How the 'disillusioned' Mike Brown fell back in love with rugby

Ex-England full-back Mike Brown has taken to Linkedin to reveal the rejuvenating effect that his recent week of rugby with the Bar…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2022, 3:14

How 'quite stressed and nervous' advice paid off for van der Flier

Last Sunday’s announcement of Josh van der Flier as the 2022 World Rugby player of the year provided his club Leinster with the …

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2022, 8:18

Seven changes to Wallabies team, including a first Donaldson start

Wallabies boss Dave Rennie has unveiled a starting XV to play Wales this Saturday with seven alterations from the team that was be…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2022, 5:45

Huge ban, fine for O'Gara after 'attack on best interests of rugby'

Title-winning La Rochelle coach Ronan O’Gara has been heavily sanctioned by officials in France following his latest Top 14 disc…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 11:27

What Ronan O'Gara feels about pecking order to succeed Eddie Jones

Ronan O’Gara has admitted he has spoken to a few people about the possibility of succeeding Eddie Jones as England coach.

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2022, 3:55

England back-rower Jack Willis confirms his move to the Top 14

England back-rower Jack Willis has confirmed on social media that he is now officially a Toulouse player until the end of the 2022…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2022, 14:03

Watch: A 17-year-old Manu Tuilagi scoring his first Twickenham try

The official England Rugby Twitter account has whetted the appetite for this Saturday’s Autumn Nations Series finale by posting …

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2022, 3:10

Premiership club signs Pumas forward who helped to beat England

Rookie Argentina international Ignacio Ruiz has been unveiled as a new London Irish signing less than three weeks after he came of…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2022, 10:04

Nigel Owens: Why Barrett yellow didn't lead to England penalty try

Nigel Owens has reviewed the yellow card brandished last Saturday at Twickenham to All Blacks full-back Beauden Barrett and explai…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2022, 8:13

Rookie named in midfield as Pivac's Wales make six team changes

Wayne Pivac has named a Wales team to take on the Wallabies that has six changes - including a midfield Test debut for Joe Hawkins…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2022, 6:36

Four changes in latest England team, including two in front row

England boss Eddie Jones has named a team to face the Springboks this Saturday in London that has four changes from the starting X…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2022, 5:21

Ex-Wasps out-half Haydon-Wood makes switch to France his next move

Former Wasps out-half Will Haydon-Wood has secured his short-term future, putting his October 17 redundancy behind him with a deal…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2022, 7:14

Report: Cheslin Kolbe set to quit Top 14 after six years in France

Springboks winger Cheslin Kolbe is set to quit the Top 14 in France before the start of the next World Cup. The 29-year-old is cur…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 12:09

The 'haven't adjusted' All Blacks aspect that has Marshall worried

Justin Marshall has given his verdict on how the All Blacks finished out their season under Ian Foster, suggesting they still have…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 10:53

Kremer banned for 'recklessly making forceful, direct contact'

Argentina back-rower Marcos Kremer has been banned following his red card during last Saturday’s defeat away to Scotland.

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 7:53

Wallabies tweet: Hooper to head home Thursday, misses Wales game

Former Australia captain Michael Hooper has been ruled out of the Wallabies’ Autumn Nations Series clash against Wales on Saturd…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 7:14

'They're f**ked, basically': Ex-England player slams Pivac's Wales

Former England out-half Andy Goode has stuck the boot in on Wales after their latest horror show under Wayne Pivac, losing last Sa…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 5:20

The 'quite honest' warning the Springboks have issued to the world

It doesn’t look polished on paper for Jacques Nienaber, his Springboks only winning seven of their twelve matches this calendar …

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 4:03

'Quite sad': Jacques Nienaber breaks silence on Rassie Erasmus ban

Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber has broken his silence on the latest match day ban preventing South African director of rug…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 6:58

Springboks explain keeping Willemse at No10, not promoting Libbok

Springboks coach Jacques Nienaber has explained why he ignored the temptation to give rookie Manie Libbok his first Test career st…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2022, 3:24

Bath open up on the Joe Cokanasiga England injury mystery

Bath boss Johann van Graan has explained why Joe Cokanasiga was able to play for his club last Sunday versus the Barbarians just d…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 9:24

Springboks change four for England and also add a third sub back

Jacques Nienaber has named a Springboks team to play England this Saturday that shows four changes from the XV that defeated Italy…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 5:55

Jack Willis cut loose by England as Jones reduces his squad to 26

Free agent Jack Willis was the highest-profile casualty on Tuesday evening when Eddie Jones cut his England squad to 26 ahead of S…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 10:48

Argentina back follows Matera in joining an NZ Super Rugby team

Martin Bogado has followed the precedent set by Pablo Matera and become the second Argentina player to sign for a New Zealand-base…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 11:36

Ex-EPCR Halliday's 'crisis' message on joining a Championship club

Ex-European rugby boss Simon Halliday has secured his next gig in the sport, stepping down into the Championship in England.

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 11:42

The Springboks verdict on regulation nine and the threat of England

Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has spoken about the impact that World Rugby regulation nine on this week’s team selection and …

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 8:15

John Smit takes swipe at Erasmus; Gilpin explains latest Rassie ban

Former Springboks skipper John Smit believes Rassie Erasmus and his frequent criticism of referees is the reason why South Africa …

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 5:23

Tom Cruse the latest ex-Wasps player to secure short-term future

Free agent Tom Cruse has secured his short-term future following his October 17 redundancy at Wasps, the 33-year-old revealing on …

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 4:52

Late change for England as Jack Nowell drops out

England have been forced into a late change for their Autumn Nations Series game versus Japan as winger Jack Nowell has been withd…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2022, 8:32

Springboks confirm Esterhuizen and others absent versus England

Next week is going to be a weird one for Andre Esterhuizen, the midfielder who is starting at inside centre for the Springboks whe…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 10:48

A breakdancing cage and the Worcester player who 'just fell apart'

Former England international Pat Sanderson has recalled some of the social fun that helped Worcester to beat the odds in their fir…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2022, 3:19

Kyran Bracken wades into the Nic White HIA 'at its worst' row

Former England scrum-half Kyran Bracken has added to the chorus of criticism that erupted over Nic White being allowed to play on …

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 11:44

Springboks add six as Koch and co return to French, English clubs

Jacques Nienaber has confirmed that six players have been called up to his South Africa squad ahead as next Saturday's clash with …

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 10:16

Alfie Barbery has become latest ex-Wasps player to find a new club

England prospect Alfie Barbeary has become the latest ex-Wasps player to sort out his future, agreeing to a long-term deal with Ba…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 9:50

Four England takeaways: From brazen Eddie to 'missing' fans riddle

Saturday at Twickenham was bonkers. England looked set for a demoralising, depressing margin of defeat against a better, more alig…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 6:39

Eddie Jones takes tongue-in-cheek swipe at Will Stuart's finishing

England boss Eddie Jones has quipped that he will conduct a special training session on Monday for Will Stuart after the unorthodo…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 5:05

'We have a job for him in Chile for sure... he is a hero'

It was Thursday afternoon in Dublin when Martín Sigren picked up the phone to RugbyPass and sounded as fresh as a daisy with the …

Interview

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 4:00

Owen Farrell reveals the 100th cap moment that was 'a bit awkward'

Inspiring England captain Owen Farrell has revealed the one moment about his milestone 100th Test cap that felt awkward this weeke…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 3:29

Jones' expectation from the 'don't like getting beaten' Springboks

Eddie Jones has outlined precisely what he expects his England team to be confronted by next Saturday in London when the curtain f…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2022, 3:03

The 'bend us' Ian Foster explanation for late All Blacks collapse

Ian Foster has offered up an explanation for the extraordinary late-game Twickenham collapse that resulted in his All Blacks stunn…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2022, 17:19

Jones' verdict on Smith kicking the ball dead rather than playing on

Eddie Jones has defended the decision by Marcus Smith to kick the ball dead rather than launch a last-gasp England counterattack t…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2022, 15:37

England player ratings vs New Zealand | Autumn Nations Series

England player ratings live from Twickenham: Another November Saturday, another intriguing England versus New Zealand collision, o…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2022, 14:00

South Africa storm to victory in Italy with seven second-half tries

Kurt-Lee Arendse scored twice as a dominant second-half performance saw South Africa register their first Autumn Nations series wi…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2022, 9:53

Clubless England lock Joe Launchbury has named his new team

Clubless England second row Joe Launchbury is set to relaunch his career in the 2023 Japanese Top League after he was confirmed as…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2022, 4:02

Nigel Owens on the 'dangerous outcome' red card for Antoine Dupont

Nigel Owens has given his verdict on the red card shown to Antoine Dupont in last weekend’s win for France in the Autumn Nations…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2022, 6:27

Watch: Joe Marler converts his 'worldie' try versus the Barbarians

Joe Marler scored what the Barbarians described as a worldie of a try for Harlequins on Thursday, just four days after playing an …

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2022, 6:08

Dupont-less France limit changes to three for final game with Japan

France boss Fabien Galthie has opted to change just three of his starting XV for this Sunday’s Autumn Nations Series finale with…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2022, 5:21

The Nigel Owens review of 'double movement' Sipili Falatea try

Nigel Owens has shared his thoughts on the much-debated Sipili Falatea try that clinched victory for France last Saturday night ov…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2022, 2:51

England react to referee Raynal's emergency All Blacks appointment

England have reacted to the development on Tuesday that Mathieu Raynal, not Nic Berry, will be the referee in charge of this Satur…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 10:47

Sale follow Exeter's lead and bring in ex-Wasps academy signings

Sale have taken a leaf out of the Exeter recruitment book by signing two ex-Wasps academy players on long-term deals.

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 10:39

Tom Parton quits London Irish for Saracens

Saracens have confirmed the signing of Tom Parton from London Irish for the 2023/24 season.

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 10:29

Latest Erasmus tweet cautions Springboks fans abusing Wayne Barnes

Rassie Erasmus has called on Springboks fans to stop abusing Wayne Barnes after the referee was threatened and abused following hi…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 9:25

Scotland change two starters and overhaul their bench

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland team that will host Argentina this Saturday at BT Murrayfield that shows just two changes fro…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 8:39

Eight XV changes for Ireland and uncapped forward named on bench

Andy Farrell has unveiled an Ireland team to host Australia this Saturday in Dublin that shows eight changes from the XV that secu…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 8:18

Nigel Owens has taken issue with Kennedy Simon yellow card call

Test centurion referee Nigel Owens has called into question the decision to only yellow card Kennedy Simon for her tackle on Engla…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 7:51

The Nigel Owens verdict on the du Toit 'dangerous play' red card

Nigel Owens has given his verdict on the red card that resulted in Springboks back-rower Pieter-Steph du Toit getting banned for t…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 6:46

England change three and also switch Itoje, plus keep faith in JVP

Eddie Jones has named an England team to face the All Blacks this Saturday at Twickenham that contains three changes from the XV t…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 5:23

All Blacks change six, including a recall for ban-served Retallick

Ian Foster has confirmed an All Blacks team to take on England this Saturday in London that has six changes from the XV that beat …

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2022, 5:42

Tuisue banned after tackle he claimed was 'at most a yellow card'

Fiji back-rower Albert Tuisue has paid a heavy price for the tackle he claimed merited no more than a yellow card versus Ireland l…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 16:13

Ban has ended Richie Gray's Autumn Nations Series with Scotland

Hopes in Scotland that Richie Gray would escape a ban following the citing that arose from last Sunday’s defeat to the All Black…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 15:41

Freddie Burns names the Leicester No9 he wants England to start

Freddie Burns has put his head on the chopping block ahead of Thursday’s latest England team announcement and named the Leiceste…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 13:58

Elton Jantjies exclusive: 'Believe me, it's nothing like that'

Elton Jantjies has broken his silence on his recent exclusion from the Springboks, explaining that it was the suggestion of SA dir…

Exclusive

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 12:26

England pick seaside town as Rugby World Cup base camps revealed

England have chosen a coastal base camp that looks across the Channel to Hastings for the duration of their pool games at next yea…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 3:50

Bordeaux statement: Termination of Christophe Urios' contract

Struggling Bordeaux have sacked Christophe Urios just ten games into the Top 14 season after victory in just four matches left the…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 8:45

Ex-England pick Kvesic leaves Worcester collapse behind for the URC

Former England back-rower Matt Kvesic has moved to the URC following the early-season collapse of Worcester in the Gallagher Premi…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 6:38

Springboks explain Etzebeth benching after 18 straight Tests starts

One constant of the Jacques Nienaber era in charge of the Springboks has been the selection of Eben Etzebeth to start in the secon…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 6:05

Erasmus' unforgettable 'tackies' introduction to Lukhanyo Am

Rassie Erasmus has paid tribute to the determination of Springboks talisman Lukhanyo Am to succeed in rugby, emerging from humble …

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2022, 5:23

Erasmus responds to fears he could be in trouble with World Rugby

Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus has given his answer after being asked on Tuesday at an unscheduled media briefing appearance if he…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 6:24

World Rugby statement: Nic Berry replaced as England-All Blacks ref

French referee Mathieu Raynal is suddenly enjoying an unscheduled very busy November as he has followed his late appointment for l…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 6:56

Cokanasiga missing as Jones reduces England squad from 36 to 25

Two Joes who featured in last weekend’s England win over Japan - Joe Cokanasiga and Joe Heyes - have been omitted after Eddie Jo…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 11:49

England explain the Schmidt All Blacks influence they want to curb

England have highlighted the Joe Schmidt influence on the All Blacks that they will look to curb when the teams meet this Saturday…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 15:52

The England union player Seibold would love to see in the NRL

Incoming NRL head coach Anthony Seibold has named the one player from Eddie Jones’ England rugby union team he would love to see…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 15:10

Dan Robson becomes the latest ex-Wasps player to land in the Top 14

Out-of-favour England scrum-half Dan Robson has drawn a line under last month’s Wasps redundancy by sourcing himself a new club …

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 13:36

Another ex-Worcester player gets sorted as Neild moves to the URC

Cameron Neild has become the latest free agent ex-Worcester player to source a new club as the back-rower was confirmed as a new G…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 13:15

Anthony Seibold has broken silence on why he had to quit England

Soon-to-exit assistant coach Anthony Seibold has broken his silence on his decision to quit England for the NRL back home in Austr…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 8:07

Barbarians name team for Harlequins with Brown chosen as captain

Ex-England full-back Mike Brown has been named Barbarians captain for Thursday night’s tour game has Harlequins, the London club…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 11:22

Springboks make four XV changes, bench Eben, go for six/two split

Jacques Nienaber has reacted to the latest defeat for his Springboks side by naming a team to take on Italy this Saturday in Genoa…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 5:03

Six changes for Wales including a new cap No8 and two bench rookies

Wayne Pivac has named a Wales team showing six changes to play Georgia this Saturday, including a debut at No8 for Josh Macleod fo…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 5:24

'Don't be a parasite' warns Erasmus in his latest Twitter message

Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus has posted his latest tweet, defending his use of social media in recent days to highlight his rugb…

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 2:40

'Richard Cockerill, in a game of touch, punched me in the face'

Austin Healey had recalled getting punched by Richard Cockerill at his first-ever Leicester training session, a distinctive style …

Liam Heagney

15 Nov 2022, 3:45

'I'm in a different headspace from looking to retire a few weeks ago'

John Ryan can’t believe the bucket moments he is suddenly ticking off his list. Just a few weeks ago, when Wasps went to the wal…

Interview

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2022, 4:00

Barbarians name a Whitelock-skippered team to face All Blacks XV

Co-coaches Scott Robertson and Ronan O’Gara have named their Barbarians team for Sunday’s match versus an All Blacks XV in Lon…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 7:55

'I'll be giving them a bit of lip, a little niggle at the rucks'

Surplus All Blacks winger George Bridge didn’t imagine life would pan out like this, packing his life into a couple of bags and …

Interview

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2022, 4:30

Five England takeaways: Backing Jack, samurai Faz and 'elbows down'

England got their autumn show back on the road with Saturday’s 52-13 win over Japan six days after the excruciating 29-30 loss t…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2022, 4:45

The 'ridiculous' Freddie Steward 'flashiness' Jones wants to curb

Eddie Jones led the chorus of praise for man of the match Freddie Steward after Saturday’s comprehensive England win over Japan,…

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2022, 3:00

England player ratings vs Japan | Autumn Nations Series

England player ratings live from Twickenham: Eddie Jones’ England tuned up for next weekend’s showdown with the All Blacks wit…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2022, 11:40

Jones' 'they are there for the taking' warning for the All Blacks

Eddie Jones has issued a warning to the All Blacks after declaring himself impressed with Saturday’s seven-try, 52-13 win for En…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2022, 12:44

Jones backtracks on TV Smith/Farrell quip and has pop at Woodward

Eddie Jones has backtracked on his live TV comment that Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell is a strategy now seemingly set in stone for…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2022, 14:10

'Screams have agitated some older men saying, 'Can you be quiet?'

There’s perhaps no one better placed than Gill Burns, the ex-England No8, to colourfully contrast the then and now in women’s …

Interview

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 3:00

Argentina forced into late change as skipper Montoya is ruled out

The best-laid Argentina plan to start the same XV against Wales that defeated England last Sunday at Twickenham came unstuck at Fr…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 14:19

Premiership Rugby statement: The revised 11-team fixtures list

Premiership Rugby have revealed the revised 11-team top-flight fixtures list that will take the 2022/23 season from the start of J…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 11:54

Harlequins statement: Joe Marchant exit confirmed

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 10:56

The Nigel Owens verdict on controversial Cheslin Kolbe yellow card

Former Test referee Nigel Owens has shared his thoughts on one of last weekend’s hottest Autumn Nations Series topics, the yello…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 6:25

Seven changes for the All Blacks, including a debut for Mark Telea

Ian Foster has named an All Blacks side to face Scotland on Sunday that has seven changes from the comprehensive 55-23 win over Wa…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 5:41

Barbarians name Damian McKenzie in Wasps-flavour week two squad

Damian McKenzie will swap sides next week when he lines out for Scott Robertson’s Barbarians after playing against them this Sun…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2022, 5:05

O'Gara has revisited his comments on coaching England post-Jones

Ronan O’Gara has reiterated his ambition to coach England once Eddie Jones finishes up in the position following the end of the …

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 4:47

France name the same XV, only changing two subs to face Springboks

France have named an unchanged team to take on the world champion Springboks this Saturday in Marseille, naming the same XV that d…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 6:03

Uncapped Loughman to start as Ireland make nine changes for Fiji

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland team to face Fiji on Saturday that has nine changes from the XV that defeated South Africa, with…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 7:10

Wales change three and hand Louis Rees-Zammit an exciting new role

Wayne Pivac has named a Wales team to take on Argentina on Saturday in Cardiff that shows three changes from last Saturday’s bas…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 6:44

Argentina team unchanged for Wales after shock defeat of England

Michael Cheika has given a huge vote of confidence to Argentina, naming the same starting 15 that defeated England last Sunday in …

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 6:20

WRU statement: Anti-social behaviour at Wales vs All Blacks game

WRU officials have joined a police appeal for further information following an alleged anti-social behavior incident at last Satur…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 7:57

11 changes for Wallabies, including first Skelton start since 2016

Dave Rennie has named a Wallabies team to take on Italy on Saturday that shows eleven changes from last Saturday’s agonising one…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 7:31

England make five changes for Japan and hand debut to Dave Ribbans

England will take the field at Twickenham on Saturday to play Japan with a starting XV showing five changes from the team beaten 2…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 5:24

Black Ferns make one change to their team for the World Cup final

Wayne Smith has made one injury-enforced change to his Black Ferns team for Saturday’s sold-out World Cup final versus England, …

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 14:17

England name team with three backline changes for World Cup final

Simon Middleton has named an England team to play the Black Ferns in Saturday’s World Cup final that shows three changes from th…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 15:46

The Exeter 'problem' every time they bring over an Australian

Exeter boss Rob Baxter had given his verdict on Scott Sio, their new signing who has started twice in recent weeks after a dozen s…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 3:56

Top 14 club snaps up ex-Wasps back three Ali Crossdale

One-time England prospect Ali Crossdale is the latest free agent Wasps player to get fixed up after getting made redundant last mo…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2022, 3:24

Jamie George retained by England as Jones cuts squad to 25

England boss Eddie Jones has trimmed his 36-strong squad down to 25, including the fit-again Jamie George and excluding the likes …

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 12:47

Cold-shouldered Raynal has been handed an Autumn Nations reprieve

French referee Mathieu Raynal has been handed a reprieve following the fallout from his controversial time-wasting penalty in the …

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 5:25

Rob Baxter breaks silence on the Exeter 'asset sale' statement

Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter has explained the reason why the Chiefs felt compelled to issue a statement that its members w…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 4:48

Exeter sign three more players from Wasps

Rob Baxter has snapped up three more Wasps players for Exeter just weeks after picking up hooker Dan Frost from the collapsed Gall…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 13:44

Saracens confirm replacement fixtures against non-English teams

Saracens have arranged replacement fixtures against non-English teams after their Gallagher Premiership home games with Wasps and …

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 11:28

Warren Gatland teases his next move, takes pop at Jones' England

Warren Gatland has opened up about his potential future beyond the expiry of his current deal with the Chiefs, while he also criti…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 7:54

Deal confirmed for Springboks prop Kitshoff to join Irish province

Springboks loosehead Steven Kitshoff has confirmed his next move, agreeing to join the Irish province Ulster on a three-year deal …

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 7:28

First start for Frisch as Munster name team to play South Africa A

Graham Rowntree has named his Munster team to take on South Africa A in Cork on Thursday, changing seven of the XV beaten by Ulste…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 6:33

Springboks name 'the thing I would like to see' from rookie Libbok

Saturday night in Marseille is set to be the biggest rugby experience so far in the career of Manie Libbok, the uncapped fly-half …

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 3:14

The one thing Ardie Savea would 'love to see change' about rugby

All Blacks back-rower Ardie Savea has revealed the one thing he would love to change about rugby, predicting that the popularity o…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2022, 2:38

'They're just freaks of nature, it was better being on their side'

Robert du Preez was full of breezy chat the other night when RugbyPass eventually managed to track the Sale talisman down over the…

Interview

Liam Heagney

30 Oct 2022, 5:30

Ex-England wing Yarde set to play first match since January arrest

Ex-England winger Marland Yarde is poised to play his first match in ten months following his exit from Sale earlier this year as …

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 8:52

RFU statement: Replacement named as Seibold exit is confirmed

Last month’s speculation that Anthony Seibold will quit as the England defence coach after just a year in that job has been conf…

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 2:04

The 'big talking point' Springboks took time explaining on Tuesday

Jacques Nienaber has given a lengthy response regarding the current standard of Springboks' goalkicking after it became a major ta…

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 10:30

Wounded Springboks make five starting team changes to face France

Jacques Nienaber has reacted to last Saturday’s defeat to Ireland by naming a Springboks side to face France in Marseille next w…

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 5:04

Maro Itoje names the law change that robbed him of 'secret weapon'

England forward Maro Itoje has bemoaned the law change that has robbed him of what he called his secret weapon.

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 9:10

Jantjies breaks silence on his affair and drug rehab clinic claim

Out-of-favour Springboks fly-half Elton Jantjies has broken his recent silence, reportedly owning up to having an affair with nati…

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 2:44

Springboks explain 'new' position Mapimpi is filling for first time

Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has shed light on why he has rejigged his entire back three at the expense of the benched Makazol…

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 6:27

Ex-Springboks prop Adriaanse retires following cancer diagnosis

Former Springboks tighthead Lourens Adriaanse has revealed he has played his last rugby match after explaining on Facebook TV that…

Liam Heagney

08 Nov 2022, 4:05

'We thought he wasn't fazed but he told us he was s****ing it'

Playing 53 minutes in the midfield against the world champion Springboks and finishing up on the winning side with Ireland wasn’…

Liam Heagney

06 Nov 2022, 4:00

'I was linked to teams as ridiculous as Saracens... none of it was true'

Mike Brown is meticulously applying the finishing touches to his preparations as he gets ready to finally get back to doing what h…

Interview

Liam Heagney

06 Nov 2022, 3:30

Real deal Farrell and the prop that 'never looked like budging'

Andy Farrell has certainly become the real deal as the Ireland head coach in recent times. Whereas initially he was shackled by th…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

06 Nov 2022, 3:12

The 'bad thing' Nienaber has accepted about latest Springboks loss

You’d imagine that yet another Springboks defeat, the ninth in the 23-match reign of Jacques Nienaber, would be the cause for gr…

Liam Heagney

06 Nov 2022, 3:04

Ireland player ratings vs Springboks | Autumn Nations Series

Ireland player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: This was a humdinger to warm the Irish hearts, Andy Farrell's team deservedly winn…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2022, 14:54

'We not going to get into that, we're miles off it'

Andy Farrell has spoken at length in the wake of the Ireland win over the Springboks but there was one topic he refused to enterta…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2022, 16:44

The 'outdated' notion an England rugby columnist wants to bin

Names of the back of rugby shirts will be a talking point this weekend following the recent headlines generated by England confirm…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2022, 7:49

Ireland A player ratings vs All Blacks XV | Autumn Nations Series

Ireland A player ratings live from the RDS: This was billed as a lovely niche fixture for the IRFU, an opportunity to give some of…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 16:48

The 'bit of a statement' that left Leon MacDonald proud in Dublin

Leon MacDonald was like the cat that got the Irish cream on Friday night as he purred his way through a brisk six-minute media deb…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 20:41

Exeter statement: EGM arranged to address funding shortfall

Exeter Chiefs have issued a statement clarifying their financial situation amid concerns regarding the loans they took to get the …

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 12:24

Record turnover still results in a hefty pre-tax loss for Bristol

Bristol have revealed their financial results for the 2021/22 financial year and despite reporting a record turnover from their la…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 8:31

Toulon statement: The signing of Dan Biggar from Northampton

Toulon have officially confirmed their capture of Wales skipper Dan Biggar until the end of the season, the French club and Northa…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 4:41

Late disruption for Ireland as Robbie Henshaw ruled out versus Boks

Andy Farrell’s best-laid plans ahead of Saturday’s Ireland match with the Springboks in Dublin have encountered a bump in the …

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 7:37

England name team with eight changes, including a new cap at lock

Eddie Jones has named an England team to host Argentina on Sunday that shows eight changes - five in the pack - from the XV that s…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 6:22

Ryan Mills has bagged new Premiership deal after Wasps redundancy

Out-of-work midfielder Ryan Mills has secured his short-term future through to the end of the current Gallagher Premiership season…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 8:58

All three Pacific Island Test teams are lit this weekend

Tonga, who are giving debut caps to ex-All-Blacks Vaea Fifita and George Moala, Samoa and Fiji have all announced eye-catching XVs…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 5:22

Premiership flyer included as Argentina change three for England

The double jobbing Michael Cheika has named an Argentina team to take on England on Sunday that shows three changes - including th…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2022, 7:09

All Blacks make 11 changes to their team to take on Wales

Ian Foster has made eleven changes to his All Blacks side to take on Wales this Saturday a week after their hectic 38-31 win over …

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 6:37

Three backline changes as Ireland team named to face Springboks

Andy Farrell has announced an Ireland team to host the Springboks this Saturday in Dublin that has three changes - all in the back…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 9:08

'Delighted' Blackett names his new club 17 days after Wasps' demise

Ex-Wasps boss Lee Blackett has secured a new role 17 days after his Gallagher Premiership club fell into administration with the l…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 10:19

Nigel Owens' 'clear message' after controversial Glen Young yellow

Retired referee Nigel Owens has weighed in on last Saturday’s controversial decision by Luke Pearce to only yellow card Scotland…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 2:32

Four Premiership players named as Scotland make six XV changes

Gregor Townsend has unveiled a Scotland team showing six changes to take on Fiji this Saturday at BT Murrayfield a week after thei…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 9:36

Eight changes for Wales, including a debut for winger Rio Dyer

Wayne Pivac has named a Wales team to play the All Blacks on Saturday in Cardiff that sees eight changes and a debut for winger Ri…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 7:40

Nigel Owens' 'no debate whatsoever' advice to red-carded Retallick

Test centurion referee Nigel Owens has delivered his verdict on the red card given to seasoned All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick la…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 2:24

France make 11 changes to their team to face the Wallabies

France boss Fabien Galthie has named his team to host Australia this Saturday in Paris, the first outing for the 2022 Grand Slam c…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 6:15

Ex-Wasps CEO Stephen Vaughan has landed himself a new sports job

Ex-Wasps CEO Stephen Vaughan has quickly sourced a new job following the October 17 administration decision that resulted in 167 p…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2022, 5:50

'The second time, I think I was swearing at myself...'

Soon-to-be centurion Test-level referee Wayne Barnes has criticised his performance in last Sunday’s Saracens versus Sale Gallag…

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 13:36

Matteo Minozzi becomes the latest Wasps player to find a new club

Matteo Minozzi has become the latest player to find new employment following last month’s dramatic financial collapse of Wasps.

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 4:44

The 'exactly what you need' Springboks approach to facing Ireland

Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has explained the logic behind his six/two ‘bomb squad’ split to face Ireland this weekend, a…

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 10:24

Springboks explain naming Kolbe at No15, why he also covers No10

Saturday in Dublin will see a strange sight for Springboks fans - Cheslin Kolbe running out wearing the No15 jersey for the first …

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 8:16

World Rugby statement: Retallick cops ban after his red card

All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick has copped a ban following his red card in the 66th minute of his country’s win last Saturday o…

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 6:47

Kolbe recalled as Springboks make three changes to play Ireland

Jacques Nienaber has named a Springboks team to face Ireland this Saturday in Dublin that shows three changes - including a recall…

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 7:08

Cockerill's Matera verdict nine years after his Leicester stint

England's Richard Cockerill has given his verdict on Argentina forward Pablo Matera nine years after their paths first crossed at …

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 4:14

Ex-Wasps back-rower Nizaam Carr has named his new URC club

Former Springboks back-rower Nizaam Carr has found a new club after his contract at Wasps was shredded when he became one of the 1…

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 6:17

Sale CEO Sutton claims 'cancer diagnosis was a welcome relief'

Sale Sharks CEO Sid Sutton had made an extraordinary claim - that a cancer diagnosis ten years ago was the best thing to ever happ…

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 9:02

Noah Heward has found himself a new team after Worcester collapse

Noah Heward has become the latest Worcester player to source new employment following the recent financial implosion of the Warrio…

Liam Heagney

01 Nov 2022, 5:05

'It's a good story, a good one for Michael to bring him back in'

London Irish have paid tribute to Agustin Creevy for forcing his way back on the Test rugby scene with Argentina, who open their A…

Liam Heagney

30 Oct 2022, 5:00

'I am staggered that he only has that number of England caps'

Saracens boss Mark McCall has claimed he is staggered that the long-serving Alex Goode has only won 21 England caps during his ste…

Liam Heagney

30 Oct 2022, 3:45

'Heartbroken' player's emotional video pays for £10k medical bill

Exeter lock Charlie Willett has successfully raised enough funds to pay the hefty medical bill she was left with after suffering a…

Liam Heagney

29 Oct 2022, 3:58

'You need to get the big decisions right, they have got that wrong'

Ex-England international Ugo Monye has slammed the standard of officiating in the Gallagher Premiership after London Irish were ro…

Liam Heagney

29 Oct 2022, 13:06

'That's a high degree of danger with no mitigation... red card'

Ian Foster has jumped to the defence of red-carded All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick following his dismissal in the close-run win o…

Liam Heagney

29 Oct 2022, 9:26

'Charismatic, intelligent' reason why Saracens still treasure Alex

It’s now 22 months since Alex Sanderson flew the coop and quit his assistant’s role at Saracens to become a first-time directo…

Liam Heagney

29 Oct 2022, 7:32

Sale name 'X-factor and superpower' of new England rookie Roebuck

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has revealed the X-factor and superpower that has brought Tom Roebuck, the new England call-up, to the at…

Liam Heagney

29 Oct 2022, 7:02

The Irish verdict on rookie Pearson's latest England involvement

London Irish are hopeful that Tom Pearson has returned from Jersey another step closer to making his England Test debut.

Liam Heagney

29 Oct 2022, 5:38

Springboks explain recall of Jason Jenkins, last capped in 2018

Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber has explained the sudden inclusion of Jason Jenkins in their tour squad four years after th…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 3:06

RFU statement: Wasps' relegation confirmed

Wasps’ relegation from the Gallagher Premiership has been confirmed by the RFU eleven days after they fell into administration w…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 12:28

Paul O'Connell's 18-year-old nephew primed to make Munster debut

Evan O’Connell, the 18-year-old nephew of legendary Ireland and Lions skipper Paul, is set to become the youngest player to play…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 9:22

Erasmus explains decision to axe Vermeulen for Springboks tour

Duane Vermeulen was the big-name casualty when the Springboks confirmed their European tour squad on Friday, the veteran No8 being…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 8:27

35-strong Springboks squad includes Libbok, Mngomezulu and Jenkins

South African boss Jacques Nienaber has named a 35-strong Springboks squad for their upcoming European tour that includes a first …

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 2:09

RFU statement: England player names on shirts versus Argentina

England are set to break the mould at Test level next month after deciding to put the names of players on the back of shirts for t…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 4:47

Out-of-work Worcester prop Jay Tyack is back in the Premiership

Tighthead Jay Tyack has become the latest out-of-work Worcester player to find himself a new club and he will be thrown straight b…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 7:50

The England verdict on the return of Kyle Sinckler

England forwards coach Richard Cockerill has given his verdict on how Kyle Sinckler is faring in his first involvement with the sq…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 6:38

Kiran McDonald secures a temporary URC deal after Wasps redundancy

Second row Kiran McDonald has become the latest ex-Wasps player to find work after he was made redundant by the club on October 17…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 6:07

Stuart Hogg has described Rob Baxter as 'a very, very scary man'

Scotland and Lions full-back Stuart Hogg has admitted that he is scared of Rob Baxter, the Exeter Chiefs director of rugby who sig…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 5:35

Diamond makes bolshy 'USP' claim about his Worcester takeover bid

Steve Diamond has made an eye-catching claim about the unique selling point in his consortium bidding to take over the financially…

Liam Heagney

28 Oct 2022, 4:25

Scotland name team for Australia that shows six XV changes

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland XV to face Australia this Saturday at BT Murrayfield that has six changes from the team that …

Liam Heagney

27 Oct 2022, 8:43

Koch and Odogwu become the latest Wasps players to get a new club

Springboks prop Vincent Koch and one-time England prospect Paolo Odogwu have found a new club ten days after they were among the 1…

Liam Heagney

27 Oct 2022, 4:17

Steve Diamond announces his consortium bid to take over Worcester

Steve Diamond has unveiled his ambitious bid to take over the financial-stricken Worcester, who were suspended by the RFU from pla…

Liam Heagney

27 Oct 2022, 7:07

Shock mid-season exit to France on cards for Dan Biggar - report

Just weeks after he confirmed that he would leave Northampton at the end of the 2022/23 season, injured Wales out-half Dan Biggar …

Liam Heagney

27 Oct 2022, 9:32

Wasps' Dan Frost has found himself a new Premiership club

Another out-of-work Wasps player has quickly found himself a new club as Exeter have snapped up Dan Frost, who will go with them t…

Liam Heagney

27 Oct 2022, 10:06