Contributors

Nathaniel Cope

Dublin based journalist.

Ireland suffer double injury blow

Ireland have been hit with injury blows over two of their most experienced backs. Conor Murray was already ruled out until Dece…

Nathaniel Cope

30 Oct 2018, 7:17

Ireland name 26-man squad for Italy Test

Ireland have decided to rest several front-line players for their first Test of the November window. Joe Schmidt has selected a…

Nathaniel Cope

29 Oct 2018, 4:02

The 4 uncapped Georgians to watch out for this November

Georgia have announced their 34-man squad for their upcoming November internationals as they look to take some scalps ahead of the…

Nathaniel Cope

28 Oct 2018, 3:46

'Sometimes a two week break is perhaps not the right thing' - Erasmus highlights tour concerns

Rassie Erasmus has expressed concerns that preparations for their November tour have not been ideal. The Springboks head coach …

Nathaniel Cope

26 Oct 2018, 5:32

IRFU chief gives update on Schmidt future as Ireland set out ambitious World Cup targets

With Joe Schmidt's Ireland contract set to run out at the end of the 2019 World Cup, there has been much speculation over his futu…

Nathaniel Cope

23 Oct 2018, 2:11

'This ones cut me through' - Billy Vunipola reacts to latest injury setback

Nathaniel Cope

16 Oct 2018, 2:49

Leinster player ratings versus Wasps

Leinster handed Wasps a record defeat in Europe as the Heineken Champions Cup holders thrashed the Gallagher Premiership side 52-3…

Nathaniel Cope

13 Oct 2018, 0:56

'I’m in better nick than when I was playing' - Schalk Brits on his continued comeback

Schalk Brits has had one of rugby's shortest retirements and his comeback continues. Although still without a club, he has been…

Nathaniel Cope

09 Oct 2018, 7:38

‘You’ll get the blame whether it is your decision or someone else’s’ - Cockerill fires warnings to Murphy over Leicester job

Richard Cockerill has painted a pretty damning picture of the leadership at Leicester Tigers in an exclusive interview with RugbyP…

Nathaniel Cope

02 Oct 2018, 9:47

Video: Kiwi Rennie picks holes in England's World Cup challenge and discusses next career move

Glasgow Warriors head coach Dave Rennie has questioned England's World Cup credentials, discussed the lessons the All Blacks can l…

Nathaniel Cope

27 Sep 2018, 10:22

Video: 'It is going to be difficult to play 30 games a year' - O'Mahony voices alarming player welfare concerns

Munster captain Peter O'Mahony has made an alarming assessment of the toll the game is taking on the players.

Nathaniel Cope

27 Sep 2018, 0:50

Exclusive: Sexton gives Murray advice over his next contract move

Johnny Sexton has given his Ireland halfback partner Conor Murray some advice when it comes to his next career move.

Nathaniel Cope

26 Sep 2018, 9:43

Amid Nathan Hughes' Wasps contract standoff is it time to look at the Premiership salary cap?

Nathan Hughes' contract with Wasps is running out and with huge pressure on clubs to meet the Premiership salary cap how much more…

Nathaniel Cope

23 Sep 2018, 11:51

Jones explains why he's left out Cipriani

Eddie Jones has defended the decision to leave Danny Cipriani out of his 36-man England training squad which will gather in Bristo…

Nathaniel Cope

20 Sep 2018, 3:47

Toulon bizarrely name Bastareuad in squad despite being suspended

Toulon have named Mathieu Bastareaud in their extended squad to face Stade Francais this weekend despite the France international …

Nathaniel Cope

14 Sep 2018, 4:04

Jordan Larmour compared to All Black by Stuart Lancaster

Stuart Lancaster has been working at Leinster for two years now and has witnessed first-hand the amount of talent churning through…

Nathaniel Cope

12 Sep 2018, 5:05

Lancaster responds to Leicester Tigers rumours

Former England head coach Stuart Lancaster has spoken for the first time about rumours linking him to the Leicester Tigers.

Nathaniel Cope

10 Sep 2018, 21:08

Dragons beware - Leinster to unleash big guns

The Dragons could face an unenviable task against European and PRO14 champions Leinster on Saturday, with a host of Ireland intern…

Nathaniel Cope

10 Sep 2018, 6:50

Ford's crunch season as Eddie Jones faces first genuine 10 selection headache

George Ford headed into the 2018/19 Gallagher Premiership with something to prove somewhat and with Danny Cipriani's scintillating…

Nathaniel Cope

09 Sep 2018, 5:29

Shields picks up heavy head knock as Wasps downed by Exeter

Wasps' medical room piled up once again in their 42-31 Premiership defeat to Exeter with Brad Shields and Nathan Hughes both going…

Nathaniel Cope

08 Sep 2018, 8:21

Why Billy Vunipola's return should come with a pinch of caution

Billy Vunipola is back in the Saracens squad for this weekend's match against Bristol Bears, but he's had so many returns from inj…

Nathaniel Cope

08 Sep 2018, 1:29

Video: McCall sends stark warning to rugby's power brokers over player burnout

Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall has expressed major concerns over the workload that international players are subject to an…

Nathaniel Cope

25 Aug 2018, 4:39

George Smith gives verdict on Wallabies and hints over his future

Former Wallabies captain George Smith has given his thoughts on Michael Cheika's under-fire side. The 38-year-old has joined Brist…

Nathaniel Cope

24 Aug 2018, 13:59

Highly-rated Springbok Warrick Gelant makes announcement on club future

One of the Springboks hottest prospects Warrick Gelant has finally made a decision on his club future.

Nathaniel Cope

22 Aug 2018, 3:31

Billy Burns is hoping his newly coined nickname at Ulster won't stick

Billy Burns has opened up about the circumstances of his exit from Gloucester as he starts a new chapter with Ulster.

Nathaniel Cope

16 Aug 2018, 10:04

'Rugby is no longer about the pride of playing for your jersey' - explosive Copeland admission

Former Munster and Cardiff Blues forward Robin Copeland has given a candid assessment of what really motivates professional player…

Nathaniel Cope

15 Aug 2018, 13:14

All Blacks team to face Wallabies named

The All Blacks team has been named to play Australia in the opening Bledisloe Cup Test with lock Sam Whitelock to win his 100th ca…

Nathaniel Cope

15 Aug 2018, 10:07

VIDEO: Cheika gives his verdict on Barrett v Mo'unga debate and Hansen's favourites tag

Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika has got involved in the Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo'unga debate ahead of the first Bledisloe…

Nathaniel Cope

10 Aug 2018, 3:20

Leicester Tigers sign pair of international props

After Ellis Genge's injury and several front row departures Leicester Tigers have bolstered their options by signing two internati…

Nathaniel Cope

07 Aug 2018, 2:52

Crusaders fire back as tetchy war of words with Lions escalates ahead of Super XV final

There appears to be no love lost between the Crusaders and the Lions ahead of this weekend's Super XV final with Crusaders assista…

Nathaniel Cope

03 Aug 2018, 4:24

Vermeulen steps in after White says Erasmus 'not worried about keeping his job'

Duane Vermeulen has stepped in to defend Rassie Erasmus after 2007 World Cup winning coach Jake White said the current Springbok h…

Nathaniel Cope

24 Jul 2018, 14:12

PRO14 opening fixtures announced

The PRO14 champions Leinster will travel to Cardiff to take on the Blues on the opening day of the season on Friday August 31st as…

Nathaniel Cope

24 Jul 2018, 6:32

The top 10 PRO14 signings for 2018/19

PRO14 champions Leinster have seen some key men depart over the summer, while there has been plenty of rebuilding at the Ospreys, …

Nathaniel Cope

15 Jul 2018, 11:36

Freddie Burns' stunted career acts as warning sign for brother Billy

Freddie Burns’ career has stalled somewhat, despite being just 28. He’s struggling to oust Rhys Priestland at Bath and has slu…

Nathaniel Cope

10 Jul 2018, 4:14

Goosen opens up about 'madness' of his controversial retirement and Racing 92 departure

Johan Goosen has revealed the reasons behind his controversial departure from Racing 92, when he decided to retire from the game, …

Nathaniel Cope

09 Jul 2018, 6:24

The top 10 Premiership signings for the new season

Following Sale's blockbuster signing of Chris Ashton and with most clubs starting pre-season already RugbyPass looks at the top-10…

Nathaniel Cope

08 Jul 2018, 1:47

Struggling Ulster forced to call in Ireland coach

With Dan McFarland not due to take over at Ulster until January, the Belfast-based club have been given a helping hand by the IRFU…

Nathaniel Cope

03 Jul 2018, 2:43

Exclusive: 125kg hulking Georgian Zhvania's new Premiership club revealed

Georgian international front rower Zurabi Zhvania is moving to the Premiership after six seasons at Stade Francais.

Nathaniel Cope

02 Jul 2018, 3:00

Israel Folau's wife sparks Twitter storm as she hits out at World Rugby over ban

Israel Folau is not the only one to cause a stir on social media, his wife has taken to Twitter to slam World Rugby's decision to …

Nathaniel Cope

29 Jun 2018, 1:13

40-year-old Stringer abandons club search

Former Ireland and Munster scrum half Peter Stringer has finally decided to retire, despite the 40-year-old telling RugbyPass in M…

Nathaniel Cope

26 Jun 2018, 6:11

Australia v Ireland - Ireland player ratings

Ireland have won their first series in Australia since 1979. The Six Nations champions edged the Wallabies 20-16 in the third Test…

Nathaniel Cope

23 Jun 2018, 6:46

The alarming slide of Argentina - why has it gone so wrong

Head coach Daniel Hourcade is on his way out after Saturday’s match with Scotland. With the Rugby Championship just months away …

Nathaniel Cope

22 Jun 2018, 11:43

Holders Leinster handed crunch Champions Cup pool

Holders Leinster will be given a stern test of their credentials after being drawn Pool 1, with the four teams having 11 Champions…

Nathaniel Cope

20 Jun 2018, 7:30

Wasps' new forward coach Wilson abandons club for international job

Wasps preparations for the new Gallagher Premiership season have been dealt a massive blow with new forwards coach Danny Wilson de…

Nathaniel Cope

18 Jun 2018, 2:17

Australia vs Ireland – Ireland player ratings

Ireland picked up their first away win over Australia for 39 years with a 26-21 victory in Melbourne to leave their three-Test ser…

Nathaniel Cope

16 Jun 2018, 6:48

Are Australia’s scrum issues over thanks to some Fijian input?

Scrummaging prowess is not something you’d necessarily associate with Australia, but progress appears to be happening under new …

Nathaniel Cope

15 Jun 2018, 9:36

'Don't panic' - Farrell comes out fighting in wake of criticism

England have lost their last four Test matches but there's no reason to panic according to captain Owen Farrell, who has outlined …

Nathaniel Cope

15 Jun 2018, 6:45

Ruthless Schmidt to take axe to team for second Aussie Test - reports

Joe Schmidt has decided to make a raft of changes after Ireland's defeat to Australia in the first Test.

Nathaniel Cope

13 Jun 2018, 8:04

Huge backlash as World Rugby issue 'warning' to Tu’ungafasi over Grosso tackle

World Rugby has come in for some stinging criticism over independent Citing Commissioner Freek Burger's decision to issue All Blac…

Nathaniel Cope

12 Jun 2018, 13:15

Frustrated Sexton warns of 'relentless' Cheika and Farrell plots how to beat Aussies

Johnny Sexton thinks the second Test against Australia in Melbourne will be just as physical as last week's 18-9 defeat in Brisban…

Nathaniel Cope

12 Jun 2018, 2:35

England bring in new hooker Singleton for Boks tour

After Schalk Brits' surprise call-up to the Springboks squad, England themselves have made an addition to their squad at hooker - …

Nathaniel Cope

11 Jun 2018, 5:44

What’s happened to the ‘next Jason Robinson’ Kyle Eastmond and where to now?

Kyle Eastmond is just 28 years old and is without a club after being released by Wasps at the end of the season, it's a vast downt…

Nathaniel Cope

01 Jun 2018, 12:47

'Fried' Carbery explains reasons for Leinster departure and why he chose Munster

Ireland's New Zealand-born playmaker Joey Carbery has explained why he's leaving Leinster and given his reasons for choosing Munst…

Nathaniel Cope

01 Jun 2018, 6:31

Video: Rookie Wallabies hooker Uelese vows to put on the "old man's pants" against Ireland

Australia will go into their three-Test tour against Ireland with a pair of rookie hookers, one of whom vowed to put on the "old m…

Nathaniel Cope

29 May 2018, 9:05

McCall and backroom team sign new deals at Saracens and it may not be good news for England

Premiership champions Saracens have agreed a contract extensions for Mark McCall and six of his backroom staff including one perso…

Nathaniel Cope

29 May 2018, 2:00

Former Ireland and Ulster centre Stuart Olding's new club confirmed

Former Ireland and Ulster centre Stuart Olding has finally found a new club after a reported move to Sale Sharks collapsed.

Nathaniel Cope

28 May 2018, 8:54

Jared Payne makes announcement on his future

Ireland and Ulster player Jared Payne has spoken about his future after suffering a head injury while on tour with the British & I…

Nathaniel Cope

28 May 2018, 2:49

Connacht call Aussie Friend, as ex-Harlequins head coach takes over

Connacht have appointed Andy Friend as their new head coach and his CV is certainly impressive.

Nathaniel Cope

24 May 2018, 6:05

Cheika gives his verdict on Folau and has word of warning for Grand Slam champions

Michael Cheika has spoken about Israel Folau's controversial social media comments, while also detailing how he plans to defeat Ir…

Nathaniel Cope

23 May 2018, 4:09

New DOR Kidney lays out his plans for London Irish as they plot swift Premiership return

London Irish have confirmed that Declan Kidney will be their new director of rugby, replacing Nick Kennedy who stepped down from t…

Nathaniel Cope

22 May 2018, 13:15

Video: Cipriani explains why he chose Gloucester

Danny Cipriani has given his reasons for why he's chosen Gloucester, with a host of clubs in the running to sign the flyhalf.

Nathaniel Cope

15 May 2018, 13:28

Ireland to return to play at Soldier Field in Chicago

Ireland will return to Soldier Field in Chicago, the scene of their historic win over the All Blacks.

Nathaniel Cope

15 May 2018, 11:01

Fans divided as Gloucester unveil new crest and it's very similar to a Premiership rival

Gloucester Rugby have re-branded and some fans have highlighted its similarity with a Premiership rival.

Nathaniel Cope

15 May 2018, 7:57

Leinster player ratings - how the Champions Cup winners fared

Leinster claimed their fourth Champions Cup title with a narrow 15-12 win over Racing at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao - here's how …

Nathaniel Cope

13 May 2018, 2:05

Video: The news that Springbok fans won't want to hear

Patrick Lambie has revealed the extent of his injury after limping off in Racing 92's 15-12 Champions Cup final defeat to Leinster…

Nathaniel Cope

12 May 2018, 16:28

Video: World Cup winner Afoa gives frank advice to Northern Hemisphere players

World Cup winning All Black John Afoa feels that Northern Hemisphere players are not fulfilling their potential and has a solution…

Nathaniel Cope

12 May 2018, 3:48

Video: Angry Ackermann doesn't hold back ref criticism after Gloucester defeat

Gloucester head coach Johan Ackermann launched an attack on officials after some controversial calls in their narrow 31-30 Challen…

Nathaniel Cope

11 May 2018, 18:28

VIDEO: The 'octopus hands' that are out to stop Leinster

Racing 92 flanker Donnacha Ryan has given a fascinating insight into his Fijian teammate Leone Nakarawa as they try to stop Leinst…

Nathaniel Cope

11 May 2018, 12:00

VIDEO: Candid Sexton reveals how he deals with big-match nerves

Jonathan Sexton has a vast medal haul, but Ireland's 2018 Six Nations Grand Slam winning outhalf admits he still struggles with ne…

Nathaniel Cope

11 May 2018, 7:38

Fed up Connacht lose patience with ex-Chiefs and Highlanders assistant Keane - reports

Connacht have lost patience with Kieran Keane and the New Zealander's short stint at the Sportsground is nearing an end.

Nathaniel Cope

01 May 2018, 4:52

EXCLUSIVE - Carbery and Schmidt met over the weekend in Dublin

It appears that Joey Carbery's move to Ulster took a step closer after a meeting with Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt.

Nathaniel Cope

30 Apr 2018, 5:42

Emotions run high in Connacht as John Muldoon makes final bow

Connacht will bid farewell to one of their all-time greats when John Muldoon plays his final game on Saturday, after a 17-year ass…

Nathaniel Cope

28 Apr 2018, 2:56

Munster be warned - the frightening stats that make Leone Nakarawa a man apart

Racing 92 second row Leone Nakarawa has been one of the standout players in this season's Champions Cup and the Fijian's statistic…

Nathaniel Cope

21 Apr 2018, 1:09

Cullen gives update on O'Brien as concern mounts over Ireland flanker's shoulder injury

Leo Cullen gave an update on Sean O'Brien's injured shoulder and it doesn't look good for the Ireland and Leinster flanker.

Nathaniel Cope

20 Apr 2018, 9:36

Big calls as Leinster and Munster name teams for Champions Cup semi-finals

Leinster and Munster have named their teams for their Champions Cup semi-finals.

Nathaniel Cope

20 Apr 2018, 4:37

Scarlets prop Evans on Pivac to Wales rumours, facing Tadhg Furlong and playing through a broken finger

The Scarlets are on the verge of a Champions Cup final and their success is turning heads at the WRU, with a replacement for Warre…

Nathaniel Cope

19 Apr 2018, 3:11

Rugby Europe issues hefty bans to Spanish players over controversial Belgium match

Rugby Europe has handed out bans of 121 weeks to five Spanish players who were involved in a bust-up with a Romanian referee over…

Nathaniel Cope

17 Apr 2018, 9:47

Chiefs scrum half puts boot into Folau over comments

Chiefs scrum half Brad Weber has lashed out at Israel Folau over his controversial social media posts, saying playing against the …

Nathaniel Cope

17 Apr 2018, 5:51

Ex-Springbok coach De Villiers faces major challenges as Zimbabwe seek spot at 2019 World Cup

Nathaniel Cope

14 Apr 2018, 2:36

Cave signs new deal with Ulster

Darren Cave has signed a contract extension with Ulster Rugby which will keep him at the club until summer 2019.

Nathaniel Cope

12 Apr 2018, 3:24

Lancaster eyes redemption but don't count on it being in the Premiership

Stuart Lancaster has been a huge success since he's joined Irish side Leinster and it's little surprise that the former England he…

Nathaniel Cope

11 Apr 2018, 1:31

Blommetjie becomes second South African to join Scarlets in a matter of weeks

The Scarlets have raided Pro14 rivals Cheetahs for a second time in a matter of weeks, with the signing of Clayton Blommetjie. …

Nathaniel Cope

10 Apr 2018, 1:34

Two favourites for Wales job collide in PRO14 - but which Kiwi is the best candidate to succeed Gatland

Dave Rennie and Wayne Pivac are the leading candidates to replace Warren Gatland after the 2019 World Cup. The two face each ot…

Nathaniel Cope

06 Apr 2018, 9:33

Video - From Helmand Province to coaching the Estonian National team - a 130kg prop's tale

Corporal Chris Budgen has served in the New Zealand Army and the British Army, he's also played top level rugby for Northampton Sa…

Nathaniel Cope

03 Apr 2018, 2:35

Romania player eligibility threatens country's 2019 World Cup participation

Romania's participation at the 2019 Rugby World Cup is in jeopardy, after a complaint from the Russian Rugby Federation over an al…

Nathaniel Cope

27 Mar 2018, 6:44

Wales international Parkes signs fresh deal with Scarlets

Scarlets and Wales centre Hadleigh Parkes has signed a new contract. New Zealand-born Parkes joined the Scarlets in December 20…

Nathaniel Cope

27 Mar 2018, 1:42

Northampton Saints sign hulking centre Symons

Andy Symons has become the latest player to join Northampton Saints, with the club announcing the centre’s switch from Glouceste…

Nathaniel Cope

26 Mar 2018, 5:12

Romania rugby chief issues Woodward with verbal smackdown over ref controversy

The head of the Romanian Rugby Alin Petrache has lashed out at Sir Clive Woodward, after England's 2003 World Cup winning head coa…

Nathaniel Cope

23 Mar 2018, 10:00

Connacht sign second Australian in a week

Connacht Rugby have followed their signing of Australian international Kyle Godwin by picking up a former Australia Under 20 inte…

Nathaniel Cope

23 Mar 2018, 8:53

After 4 years away a familiar face is returning to Welford Road

Leicester Tigers will welcome back one of their former stalwarts for next season after four years away.

Nathaniel Cope

23 Mar 2018, 8:01

Natwest 6 Nations Player of the Tournament revealed

Ireland winger Jacob Stockdale has been named the Natwest 6 Nations Player of the Championship.

Nathaniel Cope

23 Mar 2018, 4:41

Forget the Six Nations... Ireland's real test is coming this summer

Grand Slam winners Ireland still have plenty to do to demonstrate they can be genuine World Cup contenders in 2019.

Nathaniel Cope

22 Mar 2018, 13:43

Kennedy resigns from London Irish with immediate effect

London Irish director of rugby Nick Kennedy is leaving the club with immediate effect.

Nathaniel Cope

22 Mar 2018, 6:00

Leinster boss Cullen gives verdict on Itoje

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen is the latest person to weigh into the debate over the form of Maro Itoje, as his side prepare to f…

Nathaniel Cope

21 Mar 2018, 14:08

With England debrief due RFU bosses come out in defence of Eddie Jones

RFU bosses have come out and launched a staunch defence of Eddie Jones, after a dismal Six Nations saw England finish fifth.

Nathaniel Cope

21 Mar 2018, 8:44

Henderson becomes third player in a day to sign Ireland extension

Ireland and Ulster forward Iain Henderson became the third player in a day to announce he'd signed a contract extension with the I…

Nathaniel Cope

20 Mar 2018, 7:53

Kearney signs new Ireland deal

Ireland and Leinster fullback Rob Kearney has become the latest player to sign a contract extension with the IRFU.

Nathaniel Cope

20 Mar 2018, 5:10

Ireland captain Best signs new contract

Ulster Rugby has announced that Ulster and Ireland captain Rory Best has signed an IRFU contract extension.

Nathaniel Cope

20 Mar 2018, 3:12

Ireland Player Ratings vs England

Ireland won a third Grand Slam in their history with a 24-15 win over England on St. Patrick’s Day. It was their first victory a…

Nathaniel Cope

18 Mar 2018, 7:57

Best says Ireland need to be 'close to perfection' to beat England

Ireland captain Rory Best admits there is a lot of "nervous energy" in the camp ahead of their match against England. The Irish…

Nathaniel Cope

16 Mar 2018, 7:34

"We can't change a whole lot in four days" - Hartley speaks to RugbyPass

England captain Dylan Hartley is back in the England side to face Ireland in their final Natwest 6 Nations at Twickenham on Saturd…

Nathaniel Cope

16 Mar 2018, 4:06

"Are you questioning his integrity?" Jones on assistant ref controversy

World Rugby have made the decision to withdraw an assistant referee from the England Ireland game at Twickenham after it was revea…

Nathaniel Cope

15 Mar 2018, 10:52

Ireland have just taken a significant step up the World Rugby rankings

Six Nations champions Ireland have moved up to second in the World Rugby rankings, ahead of their Grand Slam match with England.

Nathaniel Cope

12 Mar 2018, 8:33

Video: Gatland reopens North debate at Northampton

Warren Gatland has reopened the debate over George North's club future at Northampton. Northampton's Director of Rugby Alan Gaf…

Nathaniel Cope

12 Mar 2018, 6:59

Sexton fires word of warning ahead of England Grand Slam match

Johnny Sexton has delivered a stern word of warning to his Ireland teammates. He's urged them to not get carried away by Six Na…

Nathaniel Cope

10 Mar 2018, 11:51

Ireland player ratings - how they fared against Scotland

Ireland won their 14th Championship after a four-try 28-8 win over Scotland in Dublin on Saturday. Nathaniel Cope rates how t…

Nathaniel Cope

10 Mar 2018, 10:49

Ireland v Scotland - a title on the line for both sides

Ireland can win the Six Nations this weekend, however Scotland can keep their Championship hopes alive with a victory in Dublin.

Nathaniel Cope

10 Mar 2018, 5:01

Ireland name team for Scotland game

Ireland have named their team for their Natwest 6 Nations game with Scotland on Saturday.

Nathaniel Cope

08 Mar 2018, 5:49

Declan Kidney being lined up by London Irish

Former Ireland coaching duo Declan Kidney and Les Kiss are being lined up to take over at London Irish according to reports.

Nathaniel Cope

08 Mar 2018, 3:10

Townsend reacts to Eddie Jones abuse

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has criticised the abuse hurled at England head coach Eddie Jones by Scotland rugby fans.

Nathaniel Cope

07 Mar 2018, 11:06

Scotland name team for Ireland clash

Scotland have named their team for Saturday's Natwest 6 Nations game against Ireland in Dublin.

Nathaniel Cope

07 Mar 2018, 3:03

Video: "How do you eat an elephant?" - Furlong tries to quash Grand Slam hype

'Grand Slam' - the two words that are not being uttered around Ireland's training base at Carton House - among the players and coa…

Nathaniel Cope

06 Mar 2018, 13:29

Injuries hit the England team ahead of the France clash

England have picked up three injuries ahead of their Natwest 6 Nations game with France in Paris on Saturday.

Nathaniel Cope

06 Mar 2018, 6:15

Tom Vardell in shock move to Wales

Bristol winger Tom Varndell is expected to complete a shock move to Wales for the rest of the season.

Nathaniel Cope

06 Mar 2018, 4:19

Video: Leinster on how close Ringrose and O'Brien are to an Ireland return

Leinster backs coach Girvan Dempsey revealed the latest on the fitness of Garry Ringrose and Sean O'Brien, with Ireland's Natwest …

Nathaniel Cope

26 Feb 2018, 8:27

Video: Schmidt gets defensive over Sexton performance

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt launched a staunch defence of Johnny Sexton after an uncharacteristically poor performance with the…

Nathaniel Cope

24 Feb 2018, 12:17

Ireland vs Wales: Ireland player ratings

After Ireland's 37-27 win over Wales, Nathaniel Cope gave his verdict on the players who have kept Joe Schmidt's side on track for…

Nathaniel Cope

24 Feb 2018, 11:09

Video: Gatland gives rare post-match apology

Warren Gatland was in sombre mood as he conceded that Wales have no chance of the winning the Natwest Six Nations after their defe…

Nathaniel Cope

24 Feb 2018, 10:58

Video -'The collision rate is really, really high' - O'Callaghan calls for rule changes

Former Ireland international Donnacha O'Callaghan wants rugby rule changes to stem the increase in injuries.

Nathaniel Cope

23 Feb 2018, 2:14

Ireland name team for Wales game

Ireland have been forced into changes for their Natwest 6 Nations match with Wales.

Nathaniel Cope

22 Feb 2018, 5:45

Video: Kearney starts mind games with Biggar ahead of Wales test

Ireland fullback Rob Kearney has given an interesting insight into how Dan Biggar operates and hopes to take advantage this weeken…

Nathaniel Cope

20 Feb 2018, 7:41

Video: Andy Farrell hits out at young players in Ireland squad

Ireland's defensive coach Andy Farrell has fired a word of warning for some of the younger players in the Ireland squad.

Nathaniel Cope

20 Feb 2018, 6:31

Gatland makes big calls for Ireland clash

Warren Gatland has brought back some of his frontline players for this weekend’s Natwest 6 Nations clash with Ireland at the Avi…

Nathaniel Cope

20 Feb 2018, 4:04

Video: Shane Williams gives verdict on which club North should join next

George North is leaving Northampton at the end of the season and Shane Williams has given him some words of advice when it comes t…

Nathaniel Cope

19 Feb 2018, 7:32

Ireland bring in reinforcements as injuries pile up for Wales game

Ireland have brought in several players to their squad for their upcoming Natwest 6 Nations match with Wales as the injuries conti…

Nathaniel Cope

19 Feb 2018, 5:32

Ex-England international Waldrom reveals new club

Former England number eight Thomas Waldrom has announced his new club after deciding to quit the Aviva Premiership at the end of t…

Nathaniel Cope

18 Feb 2018, 14:49

Video: Nick Kennedy's blunt assessment of London Irish's season

Things are not looking good for London Irish at the moment, they are stuck at the foot of the Aviva Premiership table, 12 points a…

Nathaniel Cope

16 Feb 2018, 4:30

Ireland international Conway signs contract extension at Munster

Andrew Conway has signed a contract extension with Munster Rugby and the IRFU.

Nathaniel Cope

16 Feb 2018, 2:33

Denton to leave for Premiership rival, while Du Preez joins Worcester

Warriors have confirmed that their Scotland international David Denton will be leaving the club at the end of the season.

Nathaniel Cope

13 Feb 2018, 6:32

Bristol-bound Charles Piutau suffers injury blow for Ulster

Ulster suffered a blow with the news that fullback Charles Piutau has been struck down with injury.

Nathaniel Cope

13 Feb 2018, 5:36

Worcester Warriors sign Wales international

Worcester Warriors continued their preparations for the 2018/19 season by signing adding another Wales international to their squa…

Nathaniel Cope

13 Feb 2018, 4:38

Video: Laidlaw has a pop at Eddie Jones ahead of Calcutta Cup

Scotland scrum half Greig Laidlaw has upped the tension ahead of the Calcutta Cup with a pop at England head coach Eddie Jones. …

Nathaniel Cope

12 Feb 2018, 7:06

Confirmed - Danny Cipriani to leave Wasps

Wasps have confirmed that Danny Cipriani will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Nathaniel Cope

12 Feb 2018, 3:05

Video: Parisse gives his verdict on Ireland and England

Italy captain Sergio Parisse is well placed to compare the two leading contenders for the Natwest 6 Nations - Ireland and England.…

Nathaniel Cope

10 Feb 2018, 12:09

Ireland player ratings versus Italy

Ireland picked up their second win of the Natwest 6 Nations with a comprehensive 56-19 win over Italy. RugbyPass looks at how t…

Nathaniel Cope

10 Feb 2018, 10:30

Video: O'Shea hints over Parisse future and speaks about under achieving Harlequins

Italy head coach Conor O'Shea made fans of Sergio Parisse sit up and take notice on Thursday, as he gave a hint over the number 8'…

Nathaniel Cope

08 Feb 2018, 13:02

Video: Tough-talking Townsend takes media bashing, but tries to ease talk of disaster

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend was given a grilling by the Scottish media on Thursday, as they once again sought answers to h…

Nathaniel Cope

08 Feb 2018, 12:34

Video: Gatland trolls England in presser but backs Jones for his previous gig

Warren Gatland knows all about British and Irish Lions tours, a 2-1 success over Australia in 2013, was followed by a drawn series…

Nathaniel Cope

06 Feb 2018, 13:03

Van Graan on defensive over South African teenagers arrival at Munster

Munster head coach Johann van Graan has denied that bringing in two South Africa teenagers is detrimental to the development of lo…

Nathaniel Cope

06 Feb 2018, 8:21

Carbery in awe of 'perfectionist' Sexton after that kick

Joey Carbery believes that Johnny Sexton's drive for perfection "makes everybody play better". The 22-year-old is hoping to fea…

Nathaniel Cope

06 Feb 2018, 6:28

Gatland names Wales team for Twickenham

Wales have named their team to face England in the Natwest 6 Nations at Twickenham on Saturday. Warren Gatland's side surprised…

Nathaniel Cope

06 Feb 2018, 4:00

More bad news for Scotland - trio out for France game

Things aren't getting any easier for Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend. His side were humbled 34-7 by Wales at the Principali…

Nathaniel Cope

06 Feb 2018, 3:25

Video: Bring on England - Gatland targeting Twickenham after 50th Wales win

Warren Gatland picked up his 50th win as Wales head coach with a bonus point 34-7 victory over Scotland in the Natwest 6 Nations o…

Nathaniel Cope

03 Feb 2018, 11:13

Video - Furlong hails impact of ‘big cheese’

Tadhg Furlong will be making his 20th cap for Ireland when they line up against France in the Natwest 6 Nations on Saturday. Th…

Nathaniel Cope

02 Feb 2018, 2:13

Video: Schmidt sends clear message to referee on targeting of Sexton

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has called for more protection for Johnny Sexton. The flyhalf was targeted by the French on Irel…

Nathaniel Cope

01 Feb 2018, 6:56

Toner loses out to Leinster teammate as Ireland team named

Ireland have selected James Ryan at second row for their Natwest 6 Nations opener against France in Paris on Saturday. Ryan, wh…

Nathaniel Cope

01 Feb 2018, 5:20

Guirado has a warning of sorts for France's Natwest Six Nations rivals

France go into the 2018 Natwest 6 Nations looking to forget a painful 2017. They registered just three wins in eleven Tests, all o…

Nathaniel Cope

31 Jan 2018, 5:38

Scotland team for Natwest 6 Nations opener with Wales named

Head Coach Gregor Townsend has named six changes to the Scotland team that started against Australia in November for this Saturday…

Nathaniel Cope

31 Jan 2018, 4:06

Wales team for Natwest 6 Nations opener against Scotland announced

Wales have named their team for their Natwest 6 Nations opener against Scotland on Saturday with Josh Adams set to make his debut …

Nathaniel Cope

30 Jan 2018, 4:16

Six Nations preview - Scotland

Scotland's impressive autumn performances have ignited optimism ahead of the 2018 Six Nations. Gregor Townsend has continued the p…

Nathaniel Cope

28 Jan 2018, 10:25

Six Nations preview - Ireland

Ireland had a disappointing Six Nations last year by their lofty standards, rescued by a final day win over England. Joe Schmid…

Nathaniel Cope

28 Jan 2018, 6:25

Steve Tandy's replacement at Ospreys announced

Pro 14 side Ospreys have announced Steve Tandy’s replacement. Tandy, who led the Welsh club to Pro 12 success in his first se…

Nathaniel Cope

26 Jan 2018, 5:20

Video - Zach Mercer's 'pop singer' body transformation impresses Jones

Eddie Jones has been impressed with the progress of Zach Mercer but feels there are still plenty of elements of his game to improv…

Nathaniel Cope

25 Jan 2018, 5:54

Video - Pep talk from Guardiola gives Scotland a Six Nations boost

Gregor Townsend hopes a visit to English Premier League club Manchester City will help give Scotland an edge in the Six Nations. …

Nathaniel Cope

24 Jan 2018, 13:49

Video - Joe Schmidt on exactly why Simon Zebo hasn't been selected

Munster's Simon Zebo and Scarlets second row Tadgh Beirne could still feature for Ireland in this season's Six Nations. Beirne …

Nathaniel Cope

24 Jan 2018, 8:07

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