Ruan Pienaar set for return to Ulster?
Stade Marcel-Michelin in Clermont could be veteran Springbok Ruan Pienaar’s last appearance as a player.
Jan De Koning
05 Apr 2024, 6:26
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Challenge Cup News
Discover all the latest EPCR Challenge Cup news right here at RugbyPass. Our rugby gurus keep their eyes and ears peeled for all things Challenge Cup related, so whether you’re looking for live match reports or articles about your favourite players, take a look below for unbeatable Challenge Cup news and insights.
Sanderson reveals growing list of Sale absentees ahead of Euro clash
Alex Sanderson’s bid to win the European Challenge Cup has suffered a serious blow with Sale Sharks flanker Ernst van Rhyn, the …
Chris Jones
03 Apr 2024, 12:02
Sharks likely to be without Bok giant for big Euro date
The Sharks look set to be without the services of one of their World Cup Springboks when they resume their European Challenge Cup …
Jan De Koning
31 Mar 2024, 5:21
Fledgling Ospreys offer hope with 'Gucci galacticos' long gone
They can no longer afford big-ticket imports but an emerging crop of talented youngsters gives Ospreys cause for optimism.
LONG READ
Mark Orders
26 Jan 2024, 4:53
George North injury mars Ospreys win in SA as Newcastle snatch first win
Ospreys produced a stirring late comeback to beat Lions 38-28 and wrap up their Challenge Cup group stage campaign in style in Sou…
PA
21 Jan 2024, 11:49
Dominant second half sees Gloucester ease past Castres in Challenge Cup
Gloucester made it four wins from four in EPCR Challenge Cup Pool Three with a comprehensive 35-5 victory over Castres at Kingshol…
PA
19 Jan 2024, 17:33
Jamie Ritchie's Scotland captaincy bid set back by Edinburgh's team selection
Jamie Ritchie appears to have been dealt a blow in his bid to retain the Scotland captaincy for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations …
PA
18 Jan 2024, 8:48
Exeter handed boost for Champions Cup clash after disciplinary hearing
Exeter Chiefs will be able to pick No8 Greg Fisilau this Sunday for their trip to Bayonne in the Investec Champions Cup after an i…
Josh Raisey
17 Jan 2024, 7:18
First-half double from World Cup hero Ox Nche inspires big Sharks win
Springbok Ox Nche has helped the Sharks claim a much-needed win in front of their home fans as the prop crossed for a double durin…
Finn Morton
13 Jan 2024, 22:43
Zach Mercer earns Gloucester victory in tight affair in Edinburgh
Gloucester clinched their place in the last 16 of the EPCR Challenge Cup as they held on for a narrow 21-20 win at Edinburgh on Sa…
PA
13 Jan 2024, 16:40
Dragons and Scarlets suffer Challenge Cup defeats
Welsh side Dragons fell just short as they were beaten 20-17 at Zebre Parma in the ECPR Challenge Cup on Saturday.
PA
13 Jan 2024, 14:06
Iestyn Hopkins double sees Ospreys past Perpignan to advance in Challenge Cup
Full-back Iestyn Hopkins’ two tries helped Ospreys to a 25-3 win over Perpignan to book a place in the last 16 of the European C…
PA
12 Jan 2024, 17:56
Sam Skinner's return from injury comes just in the nick of time
Scotland lock Sam Skinner will make his first appearance since the World Cup victory over Romania in September when he starts for …
PA
12 Jan 2024, 12:06
Wales' Dewi Lake poised for position switch to save injury-hit Ospreys
Wales co-captain Dewi Lake is set to switch from his usual position of hooker to openside flanker for the first time since age-gra…
Josh Raisey
11 Jan 2024, 9:01
Silver linings for Welsh teams but European struggles a sign of the times
There were consolations in defeat for the four regions but we shouldn't be surprised by their results in Europe
LONG READ
Mark Orders
20 Dec 2023, 12:29
Ospreys suffer heavy defeat at hands of Bernard Laporte's Montpellier
Morgan Morse, George North and Harri Houston all saw yellow as Ospreys slumped to a 38-5 European Rugby Challenge Cup defeat at Mo…
PA
17 Dec 2023, 10:19
Duhan van der Merwe runs riot as Edinburgh see off Castres
Duhan van der Merwe scored two tries as Edinburgh defeated European Challenge Cup opponents Castres 34-21 at the Hive Stadium.
PA
16 Dec 2023, 10:38
Argentinian flair inspires Gloucester to Challenge Cup victory over Clermont
Santiago Socino ran in two crucial tries before half-time to help Gloucester to a 28-17 Challenge Cup victory over Clermont at Kin…
PA
15 Dec 2023, 17:39
Try scoring ace returns after two months out with World Cup injury
Darcy Graham returns to the Edinburgh squad for the first time since getting injured on World Cup duty with Scotland after being n…
PA
15 Dec 2023, 9:13
Aphelele Fassi: 'I’ve got a better chance of making a difference if I start putting in consistent performances'
The Sharks flyer is aiming to change perceptions on the pitch and inspire others off it.
LONG READ
Daniel Gallan
15 Dec 2023, 8:50
Aaron Wainwright: 'It might sound weird, but I’m glad I was dropped. It ignited a fire in my belly'
The rejuvenated Wales backrow relives his journey from outcast to standout, and the World Cup hurt that still lingers
LONG READ
Owain Jones
15 Dec 2023, 6:40
George Horne returns as Glasgow prepare for historic clash
Scotland scrum-half George Horne returns from injury as Glasgow bid to revive their Investec Champions Cup campaign in a first-eve…
PA
14 Dec 2023, 15:13
Newcastle’s grim losing streak continues with defeat to Montpellier
Newcastle’s losing streak continued in the Challenge Cup as they opened their European campaign with a 24-19 defeat to Montpelli…
PA
10 Dec 2023, 13:52
Gloucester end losing run with victory over Black Lion in Georgia
George Barton ended Gloucester’s losing streak by kicking five penalties to clinch a 15-10 European Challenge Cup victory over t…
PA
09 Dec 2023, 11:05
Clermont bring a fresh twist to the Springboks' bomb squad tactic
The Rugby World Cup-winning South Africa raised eyebrows on a number of occasions throughout 2023 by naming replacements that had …
Liam Heagney
09 Dec 2023, 8:03
Clermont Auvergne outlast Edinburgh in game of runs
Edinburgh’s European Challenge Cup campaign began in losing fashion as they went down to a 31-18 defeat against Clermont Auvergn…
PA
08 Dec 2023, 18:07
Winless Newcastle hoping ill wind will foil struggling French giants
Winless Newcastle Falcons cannot compete with Montpellier’s playing budget or high-profile squad and will need to call upon the …
Chris Jones
07 Dec 2023, 13:42
The message to players as troubled Gloucester face exotic European fixture
George Skivington, the under-pressure Gloucester director of rugby, has demanded his players rediscover their famous “dog” to …
Chris Jones
07 Dec 2023, 5:48
Gloucester chief pens open letter to fans after dismal start to the season
Gloucester chief executive Alex Brown has urged supporters to “stay with us” after a dismal start to the Gallagher Premiership…
PA
04 Dec 2023, 6:39
EPCR confirms the 2 clubs given Challenge Cup invites
The EPCR have stated that Georgia's Black Lion and the Toyota Cheetahs from South Africa have accepted invitations to compete in t…
Ian Cameron
06 Jul 2023, 7:16
Leicester and Sale given fearsome Heineken Champions Cup pool
English challengers Leicester Tigers and Sale Sharks have landed a fearsome pool draw in next season’s Heineken Champions Cup.
PA
21 Jun 2023, 10:21
The post-game Richie Gray question that riled up Franco Smith
Franco Smith was in combative mode post-game on Friday night in Dublin.
Liam Heagney
20 May 2023, 6:06
The 'quick word' tribute old mentor Franco Smith gave Sergio Parisse
Life came full circle for Sergio Parisse on Friday night in Dublin.
Liam Heagney
20 May 2023, 5:04
Six-try Toulon ease to Challenge Cup final victory over Glasgow
Three second-half tries from Glasgow Warriors were not enough to stop Toulon from making it fifth time lucky with a 43-19 victory …
PA
19 May 2023, 17:29
Toulon player ratings vs Glasgow | 2023 Challenge Cup final
Toulon player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: Ten years on from their maiden Heineken Champions Cup title in their still unrivall…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
19 May 2023, 16:58
Glasgow player ratings vs Toulon | 2023 Challenge Cup
Glasgow player ratings: Franco Smith's men got run over here, looking flaccid in attack and defence in a disappointing night for t…
Ian Cameron
19 May 2023, 16:54
'Toulon must be the favourites... the players they bring into the club'
Franco Smith admits his Glasgow side will go into Friday’s Challenge Cup final against Toulon as underdogs.
PA
19 May 2023, 4:39
'Steely Franco Smith confounds critics as Glasgow stand on brink of history'
Franco Smith's appointment was met with indifference by many Glasgow fans. In his first season, his side are one match away from S…
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
18 May 2023, 11:06
Miotti given the nod to start at 10 as Glasgow and Toulon name teams
Domingo Miotti has won the race to start for Glasgow in the number 10 jersey in Friday’s EPCR Challenge Cup final against Toulon…
PA
18 May 2023, 7:54
The silver lining for Glasgow Warriors after URC quarter-final exit
Glasgow head coach Franco Smith will take a silver lining out of their first home defeat of the season.
PA
07 May 2023, 17:54
The 'breath of fresh air' that has reinvigorated Glasgow
Matt Fagerson believes Franco Smith has reinvigorated Glasgow as the Scotstoun club gears up for what could be a momentous end to …
PA
02 May 2023, 8:32
'Something growing’: The South African influence changing the Glasgow Warriors
Jack Dempsey has hailed head coach Franco Smith’s impact on Glasgow after the Warriors reached their first European final.
PA
30 Apr 2023, 17:10
Dan Biggar's Toulon set up final against Glasgow
Toulon will face Glasgow in the European Challenge Cup final after the French side saw off Benetton 23-0 at the Stade Felix Mayol …
PA
30 Apr 2023, 9:40
Glasgow see off Scarlets to reach first European final
Glasgow reached their first European final after they saw off Challenge Cup rivals Scarlets 35-17 in Llanelli.
PA
29 Apr 2023, 17:39
Josh MacLeod: 'We may come from a small town but we have big aspirations and dreams'
The Scarlets skipper has been a shining light in a Cup run that leaves Dwayne Peel's men one game away from a final in Dublin
LONG READ
Owain Jones
28 Apr 2023, 15:58
Price benched as Glasgow opt for Horne
Franco Smith has challenged in-form Glasgow to subdue the home support as they bid to pull off an away win over Scarlets and reach…
PA
28 Apr 2023, 13:01
Marcus Watson: ‘I’m glad we made the move’
Out of contract with Wasps, and looking for a new challenge with a newborn, the fleet-footed wing accepted the Italian job
LONG READ
Martyn Thomas
27 Apr 2023, 10:21
Sione Vailanu: 'I was out of shape and lazy; I had to push myself'
Sione Vailanu talks devastating tsunamis, being coached by Jonah Lomu, and losing 15KG to become Glasgow's colossus.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
26 Apr 2023, 5:27
'One of the most exciting venues in the world': EPCR name '24 Euro finals venue
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will host next season’s finals of the Heineken Champions Cup and Challenge Cup...
PA
25 Apr 2023, 11:02
Francke Horn: 'I could hardly breathe... my heart was damaged'
The Lions fulcrum nearly had his career ended by a heart condition but has become of the URC's top performing back-rows.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
21 Apr 2023, 3:37
Benetton dramatically beat Cardiff to create Italian rugby history
Benetton made history by becoming the first Italian team to reach the semi-finals of a European tournament as they came from behin…
PA
08 Apr 2023, 12:33
Dwayne Peel on how he would feel if he was 'in Clermont's shoes'
Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel praised his side’s fighting spirit after seeing them snatch victory from the jaws of defeat agai…
PA
08 Apr 2023, 6:53
Josh Adams: 'The fire has always been in me.'
The Cardiff and Wales wing is a fiery character and he will need all his competitive instincts to down Benetton in the Challenge C…
LONG READ
Owain Jones
07 Apr 2023, 17:44
Scarlets band of brothers ready to topple French aristocrats, Clermont Auvergne
After dark clouds shrouded the first half of the season, since New Year Dwayne Peel's side have been one of the best sides in Euro…
LONG READ
Ross Harries
06 Apr 2023, 12:48
'I'm not going to lure myself into any discussions regarding that'
Glasgow coach Franco Smith refused to engage in talk of his side going on to win the Challenge Cup after their record-breaking las…
PA
03 Apr 2023, 3:03
Watch: Semi Radradra runs in a try despite doing his hamstring
Semi Radrada had no hesitation in putting Bristol before his own well-being on Friday night, the Fijian international managing to …
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2023, 5:21
'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, 5:51
EPCR statement: Pau coach banned for verbally abusing Hollie Davidson
Pau assistant coach Geoffrey Lanne-Petit has been banned and his club given a suspended fine after misconduct charges for abusing …
Sam Smith
19 Jan 2023, 12:29
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, 7:38
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, 9:45
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, 6:13
Challenge Cup round-up: Scarlets beat Cheetahs, Dragons stay alive
Scarlets booked a European Challenge Cup round-of-16 place after beating South African side the Cheetahs 20-17 in Llanelli.
PA
13 Jan 2023, 19:14
Dan Biggar's Toulon struggle against Zebre as Cardiff thrash Brive
Cardiff ran in seven tries to thrash Brive on the opening weekend of the European Challenge Cup and end the winless run of Welsh c…
PA
11 Dec 2022, 4:25
Challenge Cup adjusts to compensate for English clubs demise
The Challenge Cup has been forced to readjust its fixture list to compensate for the collapse of Wasps and Worcester.
Ian Cameron
03 Nov 2022, 6:11
'Reckless from my old mate, Eben, you could see it was head loss'
RugbyPass Offload duo Ryan Wilson and Max Lahiff have become the latest to pass judgement on the massively debated Eben Etzebeth r…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 5:54
Video: The Eben Etzebeth ruck clearout that has fired-up Twitter
There was no denying that Lyon were deserving winners in Friday night’s European Challenge Cup final, defeating Toulon 30-12 at …
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 8:34
'A human being just like me': Kpoku savours Etzebeth head to head
One-time England prospect Joel Kpoku can’t wait to tackle Springboks talisman Eben Etzebeth when their paths cross in this Frida…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 8:37
Kolbe recalled to start as Toulon and Lyon name cup final teams
World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe has recovered from a broken thumb to take his place in the Toulon team for Friday’s European Chal…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 7:38
'I was kind of lost in the rugby world, my name had gone quiet'
Joel Kpoku can’t quite believe it has turned out so good so quickly for him at Lyon. His December Top 14 debut was a disaster, i…
Liam Heagney
22 May 2022, 4:22
EPCR statement: 2023 European finals moved from London to Dublin
Next year’s Heineken Champions Cup and Challenge Cup finals won’t be taking place at the Tottenham Stadium in London as origin…
Liam Heagney
19 May 2022, 5:16
Watch: Toulon fans jeer Owen Farrell during Challenge Cup semi-final
Toulon supporters clearly have a different interpretation of 'respecting the kicker' judging by their reaction to Owen Farrell at …
Ian Cameron
14 May 2022, 16:50
Duncan Taylor: 'I've spent 40% of my career injured' but Saracens star still hungry for glory
Duncan Taylor reckons he's spent 40% of his career injured, but his hunger to keep playing burns bright.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
13 May 2022, 16:41
Maro v Eben head-to-head confirmed: Saracens and Toulon name teams
England talisman Maro Itoje is set to renew his rivalry with Springboks lock Eben Etzebeth as they have been respectively named at…
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 7:37
'When Jimmy made that decision to leave his game upped actually'
Wasps boss Lee Blackett doesn’t believe rugby is witnessing the start of a trend where players regularly play on professionally …
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 3:34
'Couldn't be more impressed': Vunipola primed for Saracens return
Mako Vunipola is set to give Saracens a major European Challenge Cup boost by returning for Saturday’s semi-final against Toulon…
PA
12 May 2022, 12:45
The Wasps selection dilemma after 'right decision' to omit Fekitoa
Wasps boss Lee Blackett has admitted he has given himself a selection headache for this Saturday’s Challenge Cup semi-final at L…
Liam Heagney
12 May 2022, 3:21
Watch: Agustin Creevy banned for pulling the hair of Eben Etzebeth
London Irish hooker Agustin Creevy has been banned for pulling the hair of Eben Etzebeth, the 2019 Springboks World Cup winner, du…
Liam Heagney
11 May 2022, 11:41
Wasps hail the 'real momentum shift' that was crucial at Edinburgh
Head coach Lee Blackett praised his on-form forwards for leading Wasps into the semi-finals of the European Challenge Cup. The Gal…
PA
07 May 2022, 10:59
Barbeary strikes late to tip a see-saw match in favour of Wasps
Alfie Barbeary’s late try helped Wasps secure a dramatic 34-30 victory over Edinburgh in a rip-roaring Challenge Cup quarter-fin…
PA
07 May 2022, 9:53
Itoje, Vunipola and Farrell singled out after Saracens win
Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall hailed the improved performance of his side after they blew away Gloucester at Kingsholm to…
PA
07 May 2022, 6:33
Wasps: The Blair difference at Edinburgh compared to Cockerill
Wasps boss Lee Blackett is braced for a very different Edinburgh threat this Saturday now that the Scottish side is coached by Mik…
Liam Heagney
07 May 2022, 5:46
Owen Farrell helps Saracens bag QF spot as Cardiff go down fighting
Saracens booked their place in the European Challenge Cup quarter-finals after a thrilling 40-33 victory over Cardiff at the Stone…
PA
17 Apr 2022, 11:26
Edinburgh's strong second-half display sees off Bath to book quarter-final spot
Edinburgh produced a convincing second-half display to beat Bath 41-19 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the European …
PA
16 Apr 2022, 18:26
London Irish thrash Castres to reach Challenge Cup quarter-finals
London Irish secured their place in the European Challenge Cup quarter-finals with a 10-try demolition of French Top 14 club Castr…
PA
15 Apr 2022, 15:34
Saracens roll out the big guns for Cardiff, including Owen Farrell
Saracens have made nine changes to their starting XV to host Cardiff in this Sunday's Challenge Cup round of 16 tie in London, Owe…
Kim Ekin
15 Apr 2022, 7:45
Punishment meted out for 'head-high Challenge Cup assault'
Former Argentine sevens player Axel Muller has been banned for five matches following his ugly red-carded hit last Friday night fo…
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2022, 11:41
'Glasgow have got half the Scotland team' - Newcastle slash ticket prices
Newcastle Falcons have slashed the price of their tickets for the arrival of Glasgow Warriors to Kingston Park Stadium.
Ian Cameron
14 Apr 2022, 9:30
Scotland prop Nel is banned after foul play with Edinburgh
Scotland prop WP Nel has been banned for three matches after he was cited for foul play during last weekend's European Challenge C…
Kim Ekin
13 Apr 2022, 10:11
'Pau will be a huge test for us but it's a challenge I know our guys are up for'
Mike Blair has backed his much-changed Edinburgh side to rise to the challenge as they bid to beat Pau on Friday.
PA
07 Apr 2022, 13:56
Farrell included as Saracens make 11 changes for a must-win game
Mark McCall has made eleven changes - including the recall of Owen Farrell - to his Saracens XV for Friday's must-win Challenge Cu…
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 8:16
Ten-try Edinburgh storm to huge Challenge Cup victory over Brive
Glen Young and Freddie Owsley scored two tries each in Edinburgh’s emphatic 66-3 European Challenge Cup victory against Brive.
PA
21 Jan 2022, 17:41
'We cannot let this injustice pass' - Furious Toulouse threaten legal action
Toulouse president Didier Lacroix has blasted the EPCR after the competition organisers awarded Cardiff a 0 - 28 walkover victory …
Ian Cameron
21 Jan 2022, 10:33
Newcastle stopped from going to Toulon following trip to Biarritz
Last weekend’s trip to Biarritz has had disappointing consequences for Newcastle as this Saturday’s Challenge Cup round four m…
Liam Heagney
21 Jan 2022, 4:27
Edinburgh boss Mike Blair reveals tough selection decisions
Edinburgh boss Mike Blair has explained how his side's blistering form this season has made team selection such a difficult task.
PA
14 Jan 2022, 21:30
'The uncertainty created quite a bit of angst for a lot of people'
Dean Richards has given an insight into the anxiety that this week’s uncertainty over this Friday’s Challenge Cup match at Bia…
Liam Heagney
13 Jan 2022, 9:36
Rule change greenlights UK teams to travel to France
European tournament games involving British clubs in France this weekend look set to go ahead as planned.
PA
13 Jan 2022, 7:38
Newcastle name team after the lifting of French travel restrictions
Newcastle have named their team for Friday night’s European Challenge Cup match at Biarritz after the lifting of travel restrict…
Liam Heagney
13 Jan 2022, 7:32
'We've heard nothing from EPCR' - Prem DoR says clubs left in limbo
Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards says that clubs have been left facing 'a hugely uncertain' fortnight in Europe.
Ian Cameron
09 Jan 2022, 5:43
Toulon debut for Cheslin Kolbe 16 weeks after quitting Toulouse
Springboks winger Cheslin Kolbe is set to make his debut for new club Toulon, who forked out a fortune in August to sign him from …
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2021, 8:13
Saracens forced to concede Saturday's European game in France
Beaten by Edinburgh last Saturday in the Challenge Cup, Saracens have now suffered a second blow on their return to European compe…
Liam Heagney
15 Dec 2021, 7:42
Watch: Newcastle score the fastest ever try in European history
Newcastle midfielder Max Wright shaved four seconds off the record for the fastest ever European try with his score last weekend.
Liam Heagney
14 Dec 2021, 4:33
The 'no mean feat' that has pricked Saracens' European attention
With Saracens set to play in the Challenge Cup for the first time since 2009/10, Mark McCall has praised one old pal he will soon …
Liam Heagney
07 Dec 2021, 6:53
'As with all the clubs in the Premiership, we adhere to the salary cap'
The Tigers had six players aged 24 or younger in their squad at Twickenham.
PA
22 May 2021, 9:27
'We've we've played against Montpellier... huge budget, star-studded throughout and came very close to beating them'
Tigers let a seven-point lead slip against Montpellier to miss out on a first European title since 2002.
PA
22 May 2021, 5:06
Leicester Tigers denied as Montpellier edge to European Challenge Cup glory
The Tigers were unable to join city neighbours Leicester City in winning silverware in the capital.
PA
21 May 2021, 17:22
'Occasionally you have to go to the police and make a big fuss'
Leicester are enjoying the hype of reaching the Challenge Cup final but it wasn't that long ago when they were often abused on soc…
Liam Heagney
21 May 2021, 8:37
'I have no cruciate in my left knee... I'd an ACL reconstruction my first year in England and the graft never actually took'
Johne Murphy can't lose with an interest in both Leicester and Montpellier camps on Friday, but he will feel a pinch running the n…
Liam Heagney
21 May 2021, 5:47
Borthwick explains why he has left England No9 Ben Youngs on the Leicester bench for European final
Ben Youngs has long been England's No9 but he will play second fiddle to Richard Wigglesworth when Leicester play in the Challenge…
PA
20 May 2021, 13:12
Challenge Cup finalists Leicester and Montpellier each make two changes from their semi-final XVs
Leicester and Montpellier have named their teams for Friday night's Challenge Cup final at Twickenham which will have 10,000 fans …
Liam Heagney
20 May 2021, 7:31
'What I don't think people will ever focus on is that he is getting really, really good': The Ellis Genge improvement a blind eye is being turned to
An England World Cup winner has claimed that Leicester prop Ellis Genge isn't getting enough credit for some much-improved parts o…
Liam Heagney
19 May 2021, 8:38
'A very good team, a star-studded team and a very expensive one': What Leicester make of cup final opponents Montpellier
Leicester boss Steve Borthwick hasn't held back in describing his Tigers as firm underdogs against Montpellier in the Challenge Cu…
PA
19 May 2021, 4:39
'You can't just move on': Bath coach wants his side to feel the pain after set-piece meltdown in Challenge Cup semi-final loss
Stuart Hooper admitted to a huge amount of disappointment and frustration after Bath were beaten in their European Challenge Cup s…
PA
01 May 2021, 21:16
Springbok Pollard helps Montpellier beat Bath to reach European Challenge Cup final against Leicester
But Montpellier gatecrashed the party, with flanker Yacouba Camara scoring a try and scrum-half Benoit Paillaugue kicking a conver…
PA
01 May 2021, 19:08
What Bath make of the transfer system that this weekend sees Zach Mercer come up against his new club Montpellier
Unlike football's transfer windows, rugby's system leads to situations such as Zach Mercer playing for Bath against his new club M…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2021, 9:23
Ulster and Leicester Tigers make five changes for semi-final
Leicester and Ulster have named their sides for this Friday night's European Challenge Cup semi-final at Welford Road.
Sam Smith
29 Apr 2021, 7:20
Cited Lloyd Williams and red-carded Kyle Cooper learn fate after Challenge Cup disciplinary hearings
Recent Six Nations title winner Lloyd Williams had a case to answer following a Challenge Cup run for Cardiff as did Newcastle pro…
Sam Smith
13 Apr 2021, 7:05
Cameron Redpath finally set to play again nine weeks after Six Nations-ending injury in Scotland's Calcutta Cup win
It was February 6 when the debut-making Cameron Redpath took the Six Nations by storm but the Bath midfielder hasn't play rugby si…
Sam Smith
08 Apr 2021, 8:31
18 weeks' worth of suspensions in the Challenge Cup, including a 10-week ban for a dangerous tackling Agen winger
A whopping 18 weeks of suspensions have been handed out after last weekend's Challenge Cup round of 16, including a huge 10-week b…
Sam Smith
07 Apr 2021, 9:43
Yellow cards hamper Ospreys as Newcastle reach Challenge Cup quarter-finals along with Benetton
Boosted by the return of six Wales internationals, Ospreys made a superb start before indiscipline turned the result in favour of …
PA
03 Apr 2021, 15:41
Last-gasp Rona try sees 14-man Irish edge Cardiff to set up quarter-final versus Bath
London Irish and Bath both had to dig deep to respectively beat Cardiff and Zebre to set up a Challenge Cup quarter-final clash ne…
PA
02 Apr 2021, 15:44
46 players newly registered by 16 clubs for the Challenge Cup restart next week
With numerous Champions Cup teams dropping down to the Challenge Cup, Europe's second-tier tournament is set for a big restart nex…
Sam Smith
25 Mar 2021, 10:28
EPCR statement: 2021 Marseille finals decision
The EPCR have admitted that they are continuing the review the feasibility of staging the final of the European competition in Mar…
Sam Smith
19 Mar 2021, 9:51
Leicester secure superb win at Bayonne to continue hot Challenge Cup form
Tommy Reffell, Cameron Henderson and Kini Murimurivalu crossed for tries as Leicester claimed a fine 28-20 Challenge Cup victory o…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 17:03
Benetton's Challenge Cup game against Agen cancelled
Kieran Crowley's Benetton were due to host Top 14 side Agen on Saturday in Treviso in the Challenge Cup, but the match has been ca…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 5:46
'There has been a lot of upheaval but none of those decisions were made to deliberately get them wrong'
European rugby for Ben Kay meant winning Champions Cup with Leicester, not competing in the second-tier Challenge Cup which the cl…
Liam Heagney
17 Dec 2020, 14:14
9 weeks of suspensions handed down but alleged testicles grab merits just 2-week sanction
Stade Francais flanker Charlie Rorke was one of three players who had foul play cases to answer after last weekend's Challenge Cup…
Online Editors
16 Dec 2020, 11:26
'You've grabbed a player by the testicles' - Double red in bizarre Challenge Cup incident
A bizarre testicles grabbing incident in the Challenge Cup match between Stade Francais and Benetton saw two players sent from the…
Ian Cameron
12 Dec 2020, 9:31
The Wurzels give Bristol thumbs-up for victory rendition of The Blackbird
The re-emergence of Bristol as a force in the game has come with a victory song, the Bears adopting The Blackbird by The Wurzels. …
Online Editors
20 Oct 2020, 6:43
Ex-All Black Luatua was busy on Twitter with Bristol winning Euro Cup not long after birth of his daughter
Former All Black Steven Luatua had quite an amazing Friday with the birth of his daughter clashing with the Bristol European final…
Josh Raisey
17 Oct 2020, 6:41
Video: 15 seconds was all it took for Bristol to score Radradra-inspired try on Friday night
Toulon were made to pay dearly after they kicked the ball to Semi Radradra at the start of Friday night's Challenge Cup final whic…
Liam Heagney
17 Oct 2020, 4:08
Brave Bristol come from behind to become ninth English Challenge Cup winner
Harry Randall scored the opening try a mere 15 seconds after kick-off to give Bristol, playing their first European final, a dream…
PA
16 Oct 2020, 17:04
Bristol's Steven Luatua OUT of Friday night's Challenge Cup final in France
Bristol named a team on Thursday showing six changes from last week but they have now been forced into an 11th-hour Steven Luatua …
Online Editors
16 Oct 2020, 8:29
Bristol make 6 changes to their XV for Challenge Cup final
Wounded by their Premiership semi-final loss, Pat Lam has taken a scalpel to his Bristol Challenge Cup final XV and made 6 changes…
Online Editors
15 Oct 2020, 7:57
Piutau and Purdy to miss Challenge Cup final, injury doubts over some other Bristol players
Bouncing back from a Premiership semi-final hammering is a hurdle that has just got bigger for Bristol due to injuries affecting C…
PA
13 Oct 2020, 10:08
Defences rule: Bristol and Toulon have conceded just 1.3 tries per game this season
The ninth Anglo-French Challenge Cup final could potentially be a low scoring contest next Friday between Toulon and Bristol in Ai…
Online Editors
13 Oct 2020, 8:44
Italian legend Sergio Parisse targetting one last title in his final run with Toulon
The victory means there will be a fourth final outing in the tournament for the great Italian number eight, Sergio Parisse, who tu…
PA
27 Sep 2020, 0:57
Bristol reach first European final with extra-time win over Bordeaux
100 minutes of action were needed at Ashton Gate before Bristol got the better of Bordeaux to reach next month's Challenge Cup fin…
PA
25 Sep 2020, 17:30
Bristol include Radradra to face Bordeaux, the club he helped reach the Challenge Cup knockout stages
Semi Radradra has been unstoppable since joining Bristol during the summer and he now faces former club Bordeaux on Friday in Euro…
Online Editors
24 Sep 2020, 7:58
'We want to make sure the next time we come here, we're six points better than we were tonight'
Scarlets coach Glenn Delaney was left wondering what might have been after his side blew two great chances in the final 15 minutes…
AAP
20 Sep 2020, 3:45
Ben Earl delivers powerful statement to Eddie Jones as Bristol destroy Dragons
Semi Radradra was also too hot for the Dragons to handle, setting up both Ben Earl tries through audacious approach play and addin…
PA
18 Sep 2020, 17:12
Edinburgh can't afford a repeat in France having 's**t the bed' against Ulster
The recent defeat to Ulster was the fourth knockout stage Edinburgh defeat on Richard Cockerill’s watch, a habit that must be br…
Jamie Lyall
18 Sep 2020, 14:23
Edinburgh player tests positive for Covid
Richard Cockerill's Edinburgh are still due in France to take on Bordeaux in a Challenge Cup quarter-final despite a confirmed Cov…
Online Editors
18 Sep 2020, 6:01
Roberts and Holmes set for Dragons debuts against much-changed Bristol
PRO14 outfit Dragons face a daunting Challenge Cup task at Bristol but Wales pair Jamie Roberts and Jonah Holmes will make their c…
Online Editors
17 Sep 2020, 7:25
'Clearly, we weren't as far down the development curve as we thought'
It is taking Edinburgh a while to get over their PRO14 semi-final loss, but they can take their hurt out on Bordeaux in the Challe…
PA
15 Sep 2020, 13:07
The only certainty ahead of the knockout stages of the Challenge Cup... and 10 other stats
The only certainty ahead of the knockout stage is that 2020 will see a new Challenge Cup winner crowned as none of the clubs in th…
Online Editors
14 Sep 2020, 9:52
The Challenge Cup's David and Goliath: 'If we manage to pull it off then it will be a great story'
While Bristol have a team of superstars thriving in the Premiership, Dragons boss Dean Ryan is facing next week's European tie wit…
Chris Jones
11 Sep 2020, 13:20
Super Rugby boss Andy Marinos coy on ambitious Club World Cup proposal
SANZAAR chief executive Andy Marinos has remained coy on plans about a proposed Club World Cup which could involve Super Rugby clu…
Online Editors
08 Apr 2020, 1:21
Leicester secure home quarter-final, Cardiff out despite Calvisano rout
Tom Hardwick’s last-minute penalty earned Tigers a crucial losing bonus point in a match where Manu Tuilagi returned to action …
Online Editors
18 Jan 2020, 13:18
Worcester out of Europe after Castres fightback as Dragons earn last-eight spot
Worcester crashed out of the European Challenge Cup after squandering a 27-12 lead against Castres at Sixways.
Online Editors
17 Jan 2020, 18:12
Manu Tuilagi gives England's Six Nations hopes a timely boost
The Tigers centre has missed three games due to a groin injury but he will captain them in south-west France on Saturday in their …
Online Editors
17 Jan 2020, 10:29
Wasps get Challenge Cup campaign up and running
The Midlanders bounced back after last weekend's defeat in France, while London Irish also got back on track after an opening roun…
Online Editors
23 Nov 2019, 13:26
Bristol ease to bonus point Challenge Cup victory over Brive
Bristol secured their second-consecutive bonus-point win as they thrashed European Challenge Cup rivals Brive.
Online Editors
22 Nov 2019, 18:41
Has Jonny May's latest omission by Leicester revealed the extent of his RWC injury?
Tigers have made use of all but one of their England World Cup contingent since their return from Japan.
Josh Raisey
22 Nov 2019, 10:06
Zebre's Fijian comes off worst on a busy European disciplinary hearing day
Three players were called to account for alleged acts of foul play in last weekend's opening round of the European Challenge Cup..…
Online Editors
20 Nov 2019, 12:46
The broken leg heroics of Leicester's Sam Aspland-Robinson
The winger had an injury-plagued time at Harlequins and while that misfortune has now continued at Leicester, his selflessness las…
Josh Raisey
19 Nov 2019, 12:45
Three players cited for alleged striking in last weekend's Challenge Cup opening round
Various acts of striking caught the eye of three match citing commissioners in last weekend's round one fixtures in Europe's secon…
Online Editors
19 Nov 2019, 12:24
Jonah Holmes scores four tries as Leicester cruise past Pau
Tigers' new campaign in the Gallagher Premiership has been pretty miserable, but the European Challenge Cup proved a useful divers…
Online Editors
16 Nov 2019, 13:09
Is this the weekend that could turn Leicester Tigers' miserable season around?
Having fluffed their lines in 2018/19, it has been a miserable start to 2019/20 for the East Midlands club who hope the return of …
Josh Raisey
15 Nov 2019, 9:29
Challenge Cup pool draw 2019/20
Leicester Tigers' struggles in the English Premiership have seen them drop down into the Challenge Cup for 2019/20 and they now kn…
Online Editors
19 Jun 2019, 8:30
Challenge Cup Final Preview: Clermont v La Rochelle
The Champions Cup final may be the main course for rugby fans this weekend, but French sides Clermont and La Rochelle will first b…
Tom Vinicombe
10 May 2019, 2:31
Challenge Cup Preview: Harlequins and Sale face tough French tests
.Harlequins and Sale both face major semi-final tasks on Saturday in a bid to maintain English clubs’ impressive European Challe…
Nathaniel Cope
19 Apr 2019, 9:53
Stade Francais makes tickets for fans free in tribute to teenager
Nicolas Chauvin tragically passed away this week and Stade Francais have made tickets for their next match free as they pay their …
Ben Spratt
13 Dec 2018, 12:54
Paddy Jackson and the Galway question
Paddy Jackson is theoretically free to go whenever he wants in Ireland. Ideally he should be in Galway next Saturday, running the …
Liam Heagney
02 Dec 2018, 5:58
La Rochelle put a massive score on Ensei STM
La Rochelle have put a massive score on Russian side Yenisey-STM Krasnoyarsk, coming away from Siberia with an attacking bonus poi…
Online Editors
13 Oct 2018, 8:38
Jackson handed early Ireland return
Paddy Jackson will return to Ireland to play quicker than anticipated, just months after being sacked by the IRFU and Ulster Rugby…
Online Editors
20 Jun 2018, 11:16
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, 21:28
Gloucester Rugby delete this 'amazingly misjudged' Tweet in aftermath of Challenge Cup loss
Gloucester Rugby - nor many of their fans for that matter - are at all happy with referee Jerome Garces performance in the Challen…
Ian Cameron
11 May 2018, 17:30
Six stats to worry Cardiff Blues fans ahead of the Challenge Cup Final
Online Editors
07 May 2018, 12:02
19 of next season's 20 Champions Cup teams have been decided
After the completion of all regular season fixtures in the Aviva Premiership, Guinness PRO14 and the TOP 14, the following clubs h…
Online Editors
06 May 2018, 6:29
Cardiff Blues book Challenge Cup final berth
Jarrod Evans kicked 11 points as Cardiff Blues defeated Pau 16-10 to reach the final of the European Challenge Cup.
Rob Lancaster
21 Apr 2018, 10:48
The referees for the European Champions Cup semi-finals have been named
The referee appointments for the high-profile Champions Cup and Challenge Cup semi-finals were announced today (Wednesday, 11 Apri…
Online Editors
11 Apr 2018, 6:12
Pau send Stade Francais packing as Falcons fly into semis
Stade Francais' reign as European Challenge Cup holders is over after defeat to Pau, who joined Newcastle Falcons in the semi-fina…
Nicholas McGee
31 Mar 2018, 4:04
European Champions Cup returns to free-to-air television in UK and Ireland
Fans in the United Kingdom and Ireland will have access to live Champions Cup rugby as Europe’s elite club tournament makes its …
Online Editors
21 Mar 2018, 8:39
The Premiership's Champions Cup annus horribilis - why?
The ink was barely dry on the quarter-final match-ups of the Champions Cup this past weekend before the public dissection of the P…
Alex Shaw
24 Jan 2018, 5:36
Joy for Newcastle on a historic night for referee Neville
Friday's 27-25 win at the Dragons was a huge one for Newcastle Falcons as they chase European Challenge Cup progression.
RugbyPass
15 Dec 2017, 19:20
Zebre and Treviso face Champions Cup wilderness after rule changes
There will no longer be a guaranteed place in the European Champions Cup for one of the Pro12's Italian teams from the end of next…
Nicholas McGee
18 May 2017, 6:23
Storming Stade comeback seals Challenge Cup triumph
Stade Francais battled back from 10-0 down to break their European trophy drought with a 25-17 success over Gloucester at Murrayfi…
Russell Greaves
12 May 2017, 17:22
Stade coach Quesada wary of Gloucester threat
Stade Francais have never won a European trophy, and Gloucester will be hoping to extend that unhappy record in Friday's decider.
Peter Thompson
11 May 2017, 8:07
Nailiko banned for Hibbard punch
La Rochelle lock Jone Qovu Nailiko has been given a two-week ban for punching Richard Hibbard during Gloucester's European Challen…
Peter Thompson
26 Apr 2017, 9:25
Stade book final spot as Lions reject Ford fluffs lines
The European Challenge Cup final will see Stade Francais take on Gloucester after a thrilling win over Bath.
Russell Greaves
23 Apr 2017, 9:50
Burns night as Gloucester reach Challenge Cup final
A partisan crowd in La Rochelle were stunned by Gloucester, who will face either Stade Francais or Bath in the final.
Peter Thompson
22 Apr 2017, 17:40
Stade wing Raisuqe hit with 10-week stamping ban
Stade Francais wing Josaia Raisuqe will not play again this season after he was hit with a 10-week ban for stamping on Ospreys tee…
Peter Thompson
05 Apr 2017, 12:07
Stade Francais book Bath semi-final despite Raisuqe dismissal
Stade Francais wing Josaia Raisuqe was sent off but his side progressed to the semi-finals of the European Challenge Cup by beatin…
Jamie Smith
02 Apr 2017, 16:05
Second-half blitz sees Gloucester past Cardiff
Gloucester produced a stunning second-half display to beat Cardiff Blues 46-26 in the European Challenge Cup and avoid a repeat of…
Alex Fisher
01 Apr 2017, 17:36
La Rochelle hold off Edinburgh to reach semis
La Rochelle moved into the European Challenge Cup semi-finals with a hard-fought win over Edinburgh.
Nicholas McGee
31 Mar 2017, 17:18
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