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Nick Bishop

Nick Bishop was rugby analyst/advisor to Graham Henry (1999-2003) and Mike Ruddock (2004-2006) with Wales. He has worked with Stuart Lancaster for England (2012-2015), Leinster (2016-2022) and currently for Racing 92 in France’s Top 14. Three of his four rugby books have shortlisted for, or won national sports book awards.

Analysis

Six Nations half-term report: 'France lead the charge in struggle for the soul of rugby'

As France and South Africa rail against Australasian plans to revamp the laws, Les Bleus have shown the way forward in their quest…

Jamie Lyall
Jamie Lyall
27 Feb 2026, 23:00
LONG READ
Analysis

'We wanted Charlie Cale at Racing 92 - now he's a Wallaby World Cup star in waiting'

Recovered from injury, the Brumbies back-row is showcasing his unique athletic and technical skillset in Super Rugby Pacific.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
25 Feb 2026, 13:33
LONG READ
Analysis

Has Steve Borthwick reached his 'Rassie' moment as England head coach?

As the Springbok supremo did in September last year, it's time England's boss made bold and seminal change to reshape his team.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
23 Feb 2026, 1:06
LONG READ
Analysis

'Not New Zealand rugby': How would Joseph's brave new All Black world look?

The Highlanders boss looks the leading candidate for rugby's toughest gig, but his tactical strategy may jar with some.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
17 Feb 2026, 6:05
LONG READ
Analysis

'It's time for Borthwick and Farrell to pin their colours to the mast at 10'

England and Ireland should select Fin Smith and Jack Crowley respectively, and back each man to lead them to Rugby World Cup 2027.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
16 Feb 2026, 9:26
LONG READ
Analysis

The times are changing, and some Six Nations teams may be left behind

As the importance of the kicking game grows, England and France look to be ahead of the curve while Ireland may fall stagnant.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
09 Feb 2026, 5:34
LONG READ
Analysis

How new-look France trumped same old Ireland in Six Nations opener

Fabien Galthie's Bordeaux-infused attack and renewed aerial focus exposed pressing issues Andy Farrell has yet to solve.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
06 Feb 2026, 6:07
LONG READ
Analysis

How Ireland can upset the odds in Paris: Big match preview part two

The hosts are seven to one favourites to win the Six Nations opener, but there are reasons for optimism for the men in green.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
04 Feb 2026, 6:18
LONG READ
Analysis

'Expect the unexpected' - Ireland v France big match preview part one

With the loss of key personnel on either side, the set-piece battle, and the platform it creates, could look radically different o…

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
02 Feb 2026, 8:10
LONG READ
Analysis

The coaching conundrum part three: Time is running out for Australia and New Zealand

Rugby Australia has turned to league's Angus Crichton while there is no obviously earmarked candidate to become the new All Blacks…

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
26 Jan 2026, 14:08
LONG READ
Analysis

Trevor Davison's second coming: The salt of the earth is where the best props grow

Northampton's unassuming Geordie is set to play a big role for Steve Borthwick's England at the Six Nations.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
26 Jan 2026, 7:50
LONG READ
Analysis

'There may be a surprise or two, but the meat of the 2026 Six Nations will rest between France, Ireland and England’

Since RWC23, a chasm has appeared between the ‘Haves’ of France, Ireland and England, and the ‘Have Nots’ of Scotland, Wal…

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
25 Jan 2026, 0:52
LONG READ
Analysis

The tale of two 10s: Why Marcus Smith cannot live in the past

The Harlequins ace has reached a crossroads in his career after helping punt Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle out of the Champions Cup.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
20 Jan 2026, 12:50
LONG READ
Analysis

How the Top 14 has improved Toulon’s England contingent

The RFU rule on overseas-based players continues to deprive Steve Borthwick of talent starring in France.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
19 Jan 2026, 6:46
LONG READ
Analysis

Robertson's departure could herald the biggest shake-up in New Zealand rugby history

After 'Razor's stunning departure, should New Zealand Rugby bring Tony Brown home or hire their first foreign All Blacks coach?

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
15 Jan 2026, 11:43
LONG READ
Analysis

Woki's wingspan and Willis' might point the way for France and England at the Six Nations

The soon-to-be-Bordeaux team-mates were the weekend's oustanding back-row forwards. Will their nations take heed?

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
13 Jan 2026, 23:00
LONG READ
Analysis

'No scrum, no win': How Leinster v La Rochelle sounded a note of caution for Ireland

The hosts' battles at scrum time bore alarming hallmarks of Ireland's November savaging by the Springboks.

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
12 Jan 2026, 11:54
LONG READ
Analysis

Why English referees are helping raise Prem spectacle and national team soar

Younger, fitter, referees with good communication skills are improving entertainment and helping foster more multi-skilled players…

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
08 Jan 2026, 9:48
LONG READ
Analysis

Why Tommy Freeman could be England's lucky number 13

The Northampton Saint offers aerial power and attacking brilliance, whichever route Steve Borthwick chooses to take this Six Natio…

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
06 Jan 2026, 12:43
LONG READ
Analysis

The coaching conundrum part two: Have New Zealand Rugby been too insular?

Having seen Tony Brown's IP depart for South Africa, the All Blacks must broaden their horizons and attract the best possible coac…

Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop
28 Dec 2025, 22:05
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