Building the perfect rugby player: Fly-half
In the latest section of our feature series, we identify the five key skills any No10 needs to excel and five current players who …
Alex Shaw
18 Apr 2020, 9:00
Contributors
Alex Shaw
@alexshawsport
Alex went from reporting on rugby and scouting out the best young talent in the game to heading up the player recruitment at Ealing Trailfinders. He still turns his hand to the odd article here and there whilst trying to help push the London club to the Premiership.
The Future of Rugby: Ireland U23
The latest in the 'Future of Rugby' series takes a look at the fourth-ranked side in the world, Ireland, and their current U23 opt…
Alex Shaw
19 Apr 2020, 7:07
Building the perfect rugby player: Inside Centre
Our series attempting to build the perfect rugby player moves on to inside centre, where a contrast of styles make it hard to lock…
Alex Shaw
20 Apr 2020, 9:05
The Future of Rugby: England U23
The latest in the Future of Rugby series takes a look at beaten RWC finalists England, who have a mouth-watering array of young ta…
Alex Shaw
22 Apr 2020, 6:50
Building the perfect rugby player: Outside Centre
Our series looking at building the perfect rugby player moves on to the outside centre position, with examples ranging from Manu T…
Alex Shaw
23 Apr 2020, 8:16
Building the perfect rugby player: Wing
The penultimate article in our series building the perfect rugby player is focused on the wing position where there is now much mo…
Alex Shaw
24 Apr 2020, 10:09
The Future of Rugby: New Zealand U23
The penultimate "Future of Rugby" article sees us look over New Zealand and the U23 options at their disposal, with a rich vein of…
Alex Shaw
25 Apr 2020, 13:31
Building the perfect rugby player: Full-back
What makes for the perfect rugby player? We finish our series on the prototype players with a look at the full-back position.
Alex Shaw
27 Apr 2020, 6:54
The Future of Rugby: South Africa U23
The final piece in the RugbyPass Future of Rugby series takes a look at the Springboks, the reigning World Cup champions, and what…
Alex Shaw
28 Apr 2020, 7:18
The promising Australia U20 vintage we may never get to see
The first Australia U20 side of the year has been named by head coach Jason Gilmore and it's an exciting group of returning player…
Alex Shaw
05 Apr 2020, 13:08
Building the perfect rugby player: Props
A new series from RugbyPass takes a look at what attributes make up the perfect player in a particular position and the series sta…
Alex Shaw
05 Apr 2020, 3:29
Postion-by-position academy productivity: Premiership and PRO14
We take a look at the academy systems in the Gallagher Premiership and Guinness PRO14 and decide which side is the most productive…
Alex Shaw
03 Apr 2020, 6:53
Is this Britain's most comprehensive university rugby programme?
A major route into the game back in the amateur era, university rugby is going through a renaissance in England and Ealing Trailfi…
Alex Shaw
01 Apr 2020, 11:00
The Springboks were top of the world in 2019. How do they stay there in 2020?
After lifting the Rugby World Cup in 2019, can the Springboks stay at the top of the world in 2020? We take a look at their squad …
Alex Shaw
01 Apr 2020, 7:50
Problem position? Time to solve it for Premiership clubs
If the COVID-19 outbreak brings any positives to the Gallagher Premiership, it's that it gives the clubs the time to address their…
Alex Shaw
30 Mar 2020, 7:55
Rebuilding the Bulls? Jake White has work to do
Can Jake White turn the Bulls around? It's an unenviable task but the coach has some solid foundations in place already, despite t…
Alex Shaw
25 Mar 2020, 12:11
Alex Shaw's top 25 all-time U20 rugby players
Our writer Alex Shaw gives us his all-time top 25 U20 rugby players, including the likes of Maro Itoje, Malcolm Marx and Charles P…
Alex Shaw
23 Mar 2020, 9:25
The RugbyPass Premiership - potential - end of 2019/20 season report
Although not officially concluded yet, Covid-19 has wrought havoc with the Premiership season. Check out our potential end of seas…
Alex Shaw
21 Mar 2020, 8:51
Canned season or not, Bristol Bears are smiling
An early end to the season would be frustrating for Bristol Bears, but there's plenty more for their fans to be excited about movi…
Alex Shaw
19 Mar 2020, 3:15
The top 50 U20 rugby players in the world
With the World Rugby U20 Championship potentially postponed or cancelled, RugbyPass take a look at the top 50 U20 players in the w…
Alex Shaw
15 Mar 2020, 4:00
Is this the England XV at the 2023 Rugby World Cup?
With no rugby currently on due to the Coronavirus outbreak, we have taken a look at what the England XV might look like at the Rug…
Alex Shaw
15 Mar 2020, 9:28
Premiership 'if season ends today' review amid COVID-19 fears
The final third of the 2019/20 Gallagher Premiership season has been thrown into chaos in the northern hemisphere, as the COVID-19…
Alex Shaw
14 Mar 2020, 3:45
Six Nations XV of Round 4
The pick of performers in the Six Nations as we select our XV of Round 4 in the competition, with England & Scotland picking up va…
Alex Shaw
08 Mar 2020, 14:31
France player ratings vs Scotland
France player ratings from their 28-17 loss to Scotland at Murrayfield, a result which rules them out from winning a rare Grand Sl…
Alex Shaw
08 Mar 2020, 12:28
Weird Six Nations sees England enter era of the 5.5 and the 6-2 split
Over after just four games due to the Coronavirus outbreak, England still have plenty of Six Nations takeaways to consider before …
Alex Shaw
08 Mar 2020, 4:10
England player ratings vs Wales
Eddie Jones' side beat Wales 33-30 at Twickenham to clinch the Guinness Six Nations Triple Crown.
Alex Shaw
07 Mar 2020, 13:15
Ben Earl and Max Malins to Bristol Bears is a rare sporting 'win/win'
With Ben Earl and Max Malins set to move on loan to Bristol Bears next season, is it a good move for the players and clubs involve…
Alex Shaw
06 Mar 2020, 12:09
The law firm of Earl, Smith and Lawrence is open for business, England
Following further stellar performances from Ben Earl, Marcus Smith and Ollie Lawrence, Eddie Jones' England spider-senses must be …
Alex Shaw
01 Mar 2020, 6:24
SLAR can be a 'gold rush' for forward-thinking rugby clubs
The Superliga de Americana de Rugby - or SLAR - could become the next hotbed of rugby recruitment for the clubs forward-thinking e…
Alex Shaw
26 Feb 2020, 9:36
Rugby prodigy tipped for England duty a target for Exeter
Could Josh Hodge be the next man in at Exeter Chiefs? The England U20 prospect could soon be learning his trade alongside Stuart H…
Alex Shaw
26 Feb 2020, 5:20
Will Bath's £100,000-plus signing of Redpath spark a contract buy-out trend in recruitment?
Having signed a five-year deal with Sale Sharks fresh out of Sedbergh school in 2018, there was still three-and-a-half years of hi…
Alex Shaw
25 Feb 2020, 12:30
The man who laid the foundation for England's RWC destruction left his fingerprints all over Ireland win
England and their forwards excelled against Ireland under the tutelage of coach Matt Proudfoot. Is the South African's influence a…
Alex Shaw
23 Feb 2020, 14:46
Six Nations XV of the Week - Round 3
The latest Six Nations XV of the week sees a number of French and English players involved, as both nations picked up impressive w…
Alex Shaw
23 Feb 2020, 12:41
England player ratings vs Ireland
England player ratings from their 24-12 victory over Ireland, as they breathe fresh life into their Guinness Six Nations title asp…
Alex Shaw
23 Feb 2020, 11:28
Boom or bust for Jones' bold England selection against Ireland in the Six Nations
There is an opportunity for England against Ireland in the Six Nations to re-establish themselves post-RWC, and Jones' unique sele…
Alex Shaw
21 Feb 2020, 6:38
Six Nations charity case? Hold fire and judge Italy in 2023
Italy haven't had the smoothest of journeys in the Guinness Six Nations, though there is growing evidence that they can turn it ar…
Alex Shaw
20 Feb 2020, 9:38
Premiership U18 exit rankings 2020 - top three players per position
RugbyPass rounds up and ranks the top Premiership U18 players from the 2019/20 season as they prepare to leave school and take up …
Alex Shaw
18 Feb 2020, 7:40
Why Eroni Mawi and Saracens is a tidy bit of business
The arrival of Eroni Mawi at Saracens is a win-win move for the player and the club and an endorsement of Fiji's developing age-gr…
Alex Shaw
15 Feb 2020, 2:39
Premiership U18 Finals Day a respite for controversy-hit English rugby
Premiership U18 Finals Day is a hotbed of emerging rugby talent and with a number of new faces this season, there is plenty for fa…
Alex Shaw
12 Feb 2020, 9:08
It is Europe where Six Nations should be looking for growth... not South Africa
Rumours are rife that the Six Nations is close to securing the addition of the Springboks to the tournament, but it is to Europe t…
Alex Shaw
11 Feb 2020, 14:19
Six Nations XV of the Week - Round 2
RugbyPass' Six Nations XV of the Week for Round 2 of the tournament, as Ireland and France moved into commanding positions atop th…
Alex Shaw
09 Feb 2020, 11:47
New England 2023 core begins to show itself in the Edinburgh deluge
The 13-6 win for England over Scotland in the Guinness Six Nations on Saturday was an insightful indicator of the core of this new…
Alex Shaw
09 Feb 2020, 2:47
England player ratings vs Scotland
England player ratings from their 13-6 win over Scotland, as torrential conditions at Murrayfield made it a slog for the Calcutta …
Alex Shaw
08 Feb 2020, 12:40
Sharks ready for a first Super Rugby title?
The Sharks have made an excellent start to the Super Rugby season with two wins from two, and their rebuild has been orchestrated …
Alex Shaw
07 Feb 2020, 15:07
Eddie Jones' England selection no nearer to addressing wider issues with squad
Eddie Jones and England have made a number of changes to counter the threat of Scotland in the Six Nations, though are they just p…
Alex Shaw
06 Feb 2020, 6:51
Toothless England look a shadow of former selves
The 24-17 loss for England away to France in the Six Nations highlighted plenty of issues, few of which are likely to be fixed in …
Alex Shaw
03 Feb 2020, 11:48
Six Nations XV of the Week - Round 1
We have picked out our standout XV from the opening weekend of the 2020 Guinness Six Nations, with Ireland and Wales featuring pro…
Alex Shaw
02 Feb 2020, 12:45
England player ratings vs France
Player ratings for all 23 of England's contingent in their 24-17 loss to France in Paris on Sunday afternoon, as Fabien Galthie's …
Alex Shaw
02 Feb 2020, 10:56
Le Crunch: Three match-ups and one prediction
France and England are set to battle it out in the Six Nations on Sunday in what is an intriguing match-up of two teams at differe…
Alex Shaw
01 Feb 2020, 2:36
RugbyPass Player of the Month January - Daniel du Preez
The latest RugbyPass Player of the Month award goes to Dan du Preez, with the South African forward having been in blisteringly go…
Alex Shaw
31 Jan 2020, 3:59
Before criticising Farrell, look to the evolving spine of Ireland
Andy Farrell may have come in for criticism for his first Ireland selection, though the glimpse to the future comes in the form of…
Alex Shaw
29 Jan 2020, 3:00
No side faces a 'boom or bust' Six Nations as much as France
With the Six Nations nearly upon us, it's shaping up to be a defining tournament for France, who have committed heavily to a rebui…
Alex Shaw
26 Jan 2020, 2:59
The most obvious call to replace Vunipola at No.8
With England set to lose Billy Vunipola for the Six Nations with a broken arm, who are the other options that Eddie Jones can turn…
Alex Shaw
24 Jan 2020, 7:52
U20 Six Nations - Ones to Watch
We have picked out six of the brightest talents to watch over the next two months in the U20 Six Nations, with the age-grade tourn…
Alex Shaw
23 Jan 2020, 2:20
Shelve the animosity, Saracens' rebuild is going to be box office
Whether you deem the punishment too severe or just right, the rebuild that Saracens are about to embark upon is going to be enthra…
Alex Shaw
20 Jan 2020, 7:01
The huge name players you probably didn't know played in the Japanese Top League
The Top League has been in ascendancy over the last few years, attracting star names away from Super Rugby with financial leverage…
Alex Shaw
14 Oct 2017, 6:28
Super Rugby's loss is very much the Japan Top League's gain
Super Rugby's annual exodus is set to increase in severity following the Rugby World Cup, something which will make the Top League…
Alex Shaw
13 Jun 2019, 6:10
The three apprentices Eddie Jones must name in his Six Nations squad
England's head coach has a penchant for including apprentices in his senior squad and RugbyPass has identified a trio who would be…
Alex Shaw
17 Jan 2020, 11:30
How big a loss to English rugby is new Wales capture Nick Tompkins?
The 24-year-old is a versatile centre who has very good attacking skills, has been honed in Saracens’ impressive defensive syste…
Alex Shaw
15 Jan 2020, 13:45
Cuts, bolters and momentum versus renewal: Picking a 33-man England Six Nations squad
With the Six Nations rapidly approaching, we take a look at England's potential squad as Eddie Jones balances momentum and fresh i…
Alex Shaw
13 Jan 2020, 5:14
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 5
The penultimate round of the group stage of the Heineken Champions Cup played out this weekend, with Leinster, Exeter Chiefs and t…
Alex Shaw
12 Jan 2020, 12:52
The silver lining to English club struggles in the Champions Cup
With a considerable number of English clubs struggling to be competitive in the Champions Cup, they have turned to the young guns …
Alex Shaw
10 Jan 2020, 8:33
Are Saracens harshly treated for retaining their own or too cavalier in their recruitment?
The London club's salary cap scandal continues to divide rugby fans, but which side of the argument holds the more weight?
Alex Shaw
07 Jan 2020, 11:20
Simmering relegation battle again proves to be most compelling element of the Premiership
The Premiership relegation battle is heating up perfectly ahead of the Six Nations, as a three-horse race that is incredibly hard …
Alex Shaw
06 Jan 2020, 4:12
England Under-20s: Strengths, weaknesses and question marks
RugbyPass takes an in-depth look at the latest England Under-20s elite player squad which had plenty of noteworthy omissions when …
Alex Shaw
04 Jan 2020, 3:10
Dickens names 32-man England U20 EPS
Alan Dickens has named his first England Under-20 EPS as the age-grade side's head coach and there are some noteworthy omissions i…
Alex Shaw
03 Jan 2020, 4:00
15 for 10: Worcester Warriors - an all-decade XV
The final 15 for 10 takes a look at Worcester Warriors, the Gallagher Premiership club who have faced a challenging decade on and …
Alex Shaw
02 Jan 2020, 4:55
The future stars of rugby set to dominate in the 2020s
Check out our take on the future stars of rugby as we look ahead to the new decade and the players that are ready to burst on to t…
Alex Shaw
02 Jan 2020, 2:50
RugbyPass December Player of the Month - Caelan Doris
The Leinster back row is our latest Player of the Month after three bullocking performances in December... a $100 donation will no…
Alex Shaw
31 Dec 2019, 4:50
15 for 10: Wasps - an all-decade XV
The penultimate Premiership 15 for 10 brings you a look at Wasps, a club that has undergone a major transformaiton - on and off th…
Alex Shaw
30 Dec 2019, 4:45
Home or Holm? The impending Louis Rees-Zammit contract flashpoint
Will a senior Wales cap in the Six Nations lure Louis Rees-Zammit home or can Gloucester swoop early and keep him at Kingsholm for…
Alex Shaw
29 Dec 2019, 9:12
15 for 10: Saracens - an all-decade XV
The latest in the 15 for 10 series takes a look at perennial domestic and European champions Saracens, who have amassed an extraor…
Alex Shaw
29 Dec 2019, 3:54
15 for 10: Sale Sharks - an all-decade XV
The latest 15 for 10 selection takes a look at the past decade for Sale Sharks, the northern club that has struggled to replicate …
Alex Shaw
27 Dec 2019, 11:00
Alex Shaw's Top 30 Players of 2019
The annual edition of RugbyPass' Top 30 Players returns for 2019, as South Africa and England both feature strongly in a year both…
Alex Shaw
26 Dec 2019, 11:19
Revealed - Premiership club letters to Santa Claus leaked
RugbyPass has obtained leaked letters from all 12 Premiership clubs to Santa Claus this Christmas and there are some interesting t…
Alex Shaw
23 Dec 2019, 4:35
Carwyn Tuipulotu - the 125kg U18 that's the talk of Welsh rugby
Wales U18 Carwyn Tuipulotu has a pretty famous rugby family, but the young back rower is set to make a name for himself in the spo…
Alex Shaw
22 Dec 2019, 10:46
15 for 10: Northampton Saints - an all-decade XV
The latest in the RugbyPass 15 for 10 series takes a look at Northampton Saints who lay claim to plenty of talent even though thei…
Alex Shaw
20 Dec 2019, 7:00
Fleck pitches sweeping behind-the-scenes change for South African rugby
Is it time for more private ownership in South African rugby? Former Stormers head coach Robbie Fleck certainly thinks so.
Alex Shaw
19 Dec 2019, 3:33
15 for 10: Newcastle Falcons - an all-decade XV
The latest 15 for 10 takes a look at recently relegated Newcastle Falcons, with the side from the north-east having enjoyed mixed …
Alex Shaw
18 Dec 2019, 6:30
15 for 10: London Irish - an all-decade XV
The latest in the 15 for 10 series takes a look at recently promoted London Irish, with the Exiles having had a particularly tough…
Alex Shaw
16 Dec 2019, 6:21
Valid excuses or justified critcism? English clubs struggle in the Franco-Irish Champions Cup
As English clubs continue to struggle in European competition, the Heineken European Champions Cup is beginning to look like the F…
Alex Shaw
16 Dec 2019, 3:07
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 4
The pick of the players from Round 4 of the Heineken Champions Cup, as Leinster, Exeter Chiefs, Toulouse, Ulster and Racing 92 all…
Alex Shaw
15 Dec 2019, 11:24
15 for 10: Leicester Tigers - an all-decade XV
The latest in the RugbyPass 15 for 10 all-decade series looks at Leicester Tigers, a giant of English and European rugby that have…
Alex Shaw
13 Dec 2019, 3:40
Bristol Bears outbid for former academy star Genge - reports
The popular Leicester Tigers loosehead has long been touted for a switch back to his hometown club but that move is now unlikely t…
Alex Shaw
12 Dec 2019, 4:00
15 for 10: Harlequins - an all-decade XV
The latest in RugbyPass 15 for 10 series brings you a look at an all-decade team for Harlequins with club stalwarts such as Nick E…
Alex Shaw
12 Dec 2019, 5:18
Thirteen hotshots to watch in the 2019/20 Premiership U18 League
A look at 13 of the top talents in the 2019/20 Premiership U18 League, many of whom could go on to star at the senior level for cl…
Alex Shaw
09 Dec 2019, 3:19
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 3
Round 3 of the 2019/20 Heineken Champions Cup saw a number of teams move closer to the coveted quarter-finals and we have selected…
Alex Shaw
08 Dec 2019, 11:31
England line up Proudfoot, the man who destroyed their RWC Final scrum - reports
England have reportedly moved to the fill their scrum coach vacancy by hiring the man that orchestrated their Rugby World Cup down…
Alex Shaw
08 Dec 2019, 2:03
15 for 10: Gloucester Rugby - an all-decade XV
The latest 15 for 10 retrospective takes a look at Gloucester and attempts to compile the standout Cherry and White XV over the co…
Alex Shaw
05 Dec 2019, 9:35
Northampton Saints to swoop for Fiji's Mawi
Gallagher Premiership side Northampton Saints are set to sign Fiji loosehead Eroni Mawi, as they bolster their squad to compete on…
Alex Shaw
04 Dec 2019, 2:10
Tackling Leinster's defence is fitting test for Vesty and his England attack coach aspirations
With Scott Wisemantel having departed the Eddie Jones set-up, an opportunity exists for a homegrown English coach to step forward.…
Alex Shaw
03 Dec 2019, 4:29
15 for 10: Exeter Chiefs - an all-decade team
In the latest 15 for 10, we take a look at the most iconic Exeter Chiefs XV of the past 10 years, with the Devon side having enjoy…
Alex Shaw
02 Dec 2019, 6:34
RugbyPass November Player of the Month - Marcell Coetzee
The latest RugbyPass Player of the Month award goes to Ulster and Springbok forward Marcell Coetzee, who has lit up European rugby…
Alex Shaw
01 Dec 2019, 4:10
15 for 10: Bristol Bears - an all-decade team
In the second of the 15 for 10 series, we take a look at the all-decade team of Bristol Bears who have re-established themselves a…
Alex Shaw
30 Nov 2019, 1:57
Jay-Z's sports management company have recruited World Cup-winning skipper Kolisi
US-based agency Roc Nation Sports has reportedly landed RWC-winning captain Siya Kolisi in what would be their first foray into ru…
Alex Shaw
29 Nov 2019, 4:40
England U20s announce 45-man training squad for 2020 season
England U20s head coach Alan Dickens has announced his first selection in the role, with a 45-man training squad set for a three-d…
Alex Shaw
27 Nov 2019, 4:00
15 for 10: Bath Rugby - an all decade XV
In a new series entitled 15 for 10, RugbyPass looks at the team of the decade for each of the Premiership Rugby clubs, starting wi…
Alex Shaw
27 Nov 2019, 7:17
RFU hire Alan Dickens as new England U20 head coach
The RFU have snapped up their second age-grade coaching hire of the month, confirming former Saints defence coach Alan Dickens as …
Alex Shaw
25 Nov 2019, 10:04
Tom Curry may just have found a true England rival in Ben Earl
Saracens back rower Ben Earl continues to flourish in the 2019/20 season and the loose forward is putting down serious England mar…
Alex Shaw
25 Nov 2019, 5:56
SAHRC dismiss reports they do not have the evidence to charge Etzebeth
SAHRC have insisted that they have enough evidence to go to the Equality Court over accusations that Eben Etzebeth assaulted and r…
Alex Shaw
25 Nov 2019, 3:14
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 2
Toulouse, Exeter and Leinster were among the teams to prosper in Round 2 of the Heineken Champions Cup and we select our XV of mos…
Alex Shaw
24 Nov 2019, 11:08
Injury crisis swamps Bath as three internationals ruled out
In addition to a poor start to the season domestically and in Europe, Bath have now been dealt the blow of significant injuries to…
Alex Shaw
22 Nov 2019, 9:30
Exeter Chiefs simply must put Glasgow to the sword
The win in La Rochelle will count for nothing if Exeter Chiefs can't consolidate at home against Glasgow Warriors in the Heineken …
Alex Shaw
21 Nov 2019, 14:20
Northampton Saints: No room at the inn
After signing Owen Franks and Matt Proctor this year and blooding youngsters, Northampton and Boyd are set to be quiet on the recr…
Alex Shaw
21 Nov 2019, 2:06
Why Saracens players missing the Six Nations could be positive for England
The prospect of Saracens players skipping the Six Nations due to their Premiership relegation battle has caused concern, but it co…
Alex Shaw
19 Nov 2019, 8:30
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 1
XV of the week from Round 1 of the 2019/20 Heineken Champions Cup, which saw a clean sweep of wins for the four Irish provinces an…
Alex Shaw
17 Nov 2019, 12:41
It's put up or shut up time for Premiership clubs in Champions Cup
It's a crunch season for Premiership clubs in the Champions Cup as - Saracens aside - they look to bounce back from years of below…
Alex Shaw
15 Nov 2019, 3:31
'The foundations for sustained Fijian performance are now in place'
Fiji general manager Geoff Webster is set to leave his role at the FRU this month, leaving quite the impressive legacy for his suc…
Alex Shaw
14 Nov 2019, 4:05
RFU swoop for Pendlebury as England U18s head coach
The RFU have moved to fill the vacant England U18s head coach position, replacing the departed Jim Mallinder with Wasps academy ma…
Alex Shaw
13 Nov 2019, 3:59
Heyneke Meyer and his assistants ousted at Stade Francais - reports
Heyneke Meyer and his staff may have coached their last game at Stade Francais after reports from France claim the club is set to …
Alex Shaw
12 Nov 2019, 11:00
Two less-heralded Fijian players ready to light up Twickenham versus the Barbarians
Fiji will lack their usual star power against the Barbarians at Twickenham next Saturday, but there are two particularly gifted ta…
Alex Shaw
12 Nov 2019, 4:50
Bath evolution under Hooper places stake on the heavyweights
The Bath front row are beginning to look like a solid foundation piece for Stuart Hooper as he continues to put his stamp on the c…
Alex Shaw
11 Nov 2019, 4:23
Marchant move to the Blues could be just the beginning
Quins centre Joe Marchant is set for a loan move to the Blues for the 2020 Super Rugby season and the unprecedented move could pro…
Alex Shaw
10 Nov 2019, 2:29
Harlequins' Danny Care latest to blast Saracens - 'Stick them in the Championship'
Saracens have come in for plenty of flak following the outcome of the salary cap investigation and Quins scrum-half Danny Care is …
Alex Shaw
07 Nov 2019, 6:56
The extradordinary roll of the dice Mark McCall must make with his Saracens academy
The academy at Saracens has been synonymous with excellence, but can it save the club from the salary cap sanctions that threaten …
Alex Shaw
06 Nov 2019, 1:49
Who are the likely salary cap casualties if Saracens are forced to trim the fat?
The salary cap investigation into Saracens has caused reverberations around the rugby world and the club may now have to make toug…
Alex Shaw
05 Nov 2019, 7:40
World Cup winner Reinach on Montpellier's radar - reports
Cobus Reinach is the latest South African to catch the eye of Montpellier, with the French club reportedly prepared to make the No…
Alex Shaw
05 Nov 2019, 1:46
Transition plans for the 'big eight' at the Rugby World Cup
All eight of the nations to make the knockout rounds of the 2019 Rugby World Cup will already be beginning to look at their transi…
Alex Shaw
04 Nov 2019, 4:56
Alex Shaw's RWC 2019: XV of the tournament
We have selected a standout XV from the 2019 Rugby World Cup, where South Africa triumphed over England to lift their third title …
Alex Shaw
03 Nov 2019, 2:31
England player ratings vs South Africa - RWC final
England player ratings from the 32-12 loss to South Africa in the World Cup final, a result that takes their tally to a win and th…
Alex Shaw
02 Nov 2019, 6:13
RWC Final: England vs South Africa - who has the advantage?
England and South Africa are set to contest the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday in Yokohama, but which of the two nations has th…
Alex Shaw
31 Oct 2019, 5:06
Ntamack the obvious candidate for Breakthrough Player of the Year as Wainwright misses out
World Rugby have announced the three-man shortlist for the Breakthrough Player of the Year award and French talent Romain Ntamack …
Alex Shaw
30 Oct 2019, 10:03
Mtawarira: Unlike other Springbok coaches, Rassie is 'honest'
Springbok loosehead Tendai Mtawarira opens up on race, Siya Kolisi and Rassie Erasmus ahead of the Rugby World Cup final against E…
Alex Shaw
30 Oct 2019, 3:55
World Cup finalists England dominate potential British and Irish Lions XV for 2021
Who is currently impressing and who will be in good shape to compete for a spot on the British and Irish Lions tour of South Afric…
Alex Shaw
29 Oct 2019, 8:45
England facing a kicking? South Africa ready to put boot to ball again
Both South Africa and England have excelled with their kicking games so far at the Rugby World Cup and it's likely to prove decisi…
Alex Shaw
28 Oct 2019, 5:08
Sam Underhill cementing himself as All Blacks' budding bogeyman
England were dominant in their 19-7 win over New Zealand on Saturday and one man, Sam Underhill, is rapidly developing into the Al…
Alex Shaw
26 Oct 2019, 10:17
England player ratings vs New Zealand
England player ratings from their 19-7 win over New Zealand in the semi-final of the Rugby World Cup. They will play Wales or Sout…
Alex Shaw
26 Oct 2019, 5:13
Ford and Tuilagi switches show Eddie's hand ahead of All Blacks
The reintroduction of George Ford and positional switch for Manu Tuilagi promises a much more attacking England side than the team…
Alex Shaw
24 Oct 2019, 6:37
Three key areas for England to beat New Zealand
England will be up against it when they take on New Zealand in the semi-finals, but if they win these three key areas, they will g…
Alex Shaw
23 Oct 2019, 8:00
Joey Carbery can lead the Ireland rejuvenation... but not at No10
Ireland have been left to rebuild following another disappointing World Cup exit and Joey Carbery can be at the heart of it, just …
Alex Shaw
22 Oct 2019, 11:54
England versus New Zealand: Composite XV
A composite XV of the England and New Zealand Rugby World Cup squads, before the sides meet in the semi-final in Yokohama on Satur…
Alex Shaw
21 Oct 2019, 10:56
Love him or loathe him, Jones played the perfect hand against Australia
Whatever your opinion of England head coach Eddie Jones, his selections and game plan was perfectly suited to downing Australia at…
Alex Shaw
20 Oct 2019, 11:00
Japan player ratings vs South Africa
RugbyPass rates the Japan players after the World Cup hosts fell to a 26-3 quarter-final defeat to a powerful South Africa team in…
Alex Shaw
20 Oct 2019, 7:36
England player ratings vs Australia
England player ratings from their 40-16 win vs Australia in the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals. England will now play Ireland or N…
Alex Shaw
19 Oct 2019, 4:11
Japan have captured the world's hearts... and a host of future stars are primed to keep the ball rolling after 2019
Japan have won over the hearts and minds of the rugby world with their displays at the RWC and here are the future stars who can s…
Alex Shaw
18 Oct 2019, 10:15
Weaponised Japan scrum on revenge mission after previous Bok humbling
Four years ago, the Bok scrum had no answer for what Japan threw at them. Under different guidance now, can the Brave Blossoms rep…
Alex Shaw
16 Oct 2019, 11:18
The USA would be a fine host for the 2027 RWC - but don't expect a replica of Japan 2019
With the Rugby World Cup in Japan proving to be a major success as the first non-T1-hosted tournament, would taking the 2027 RWC t…
Alex Shaw
16 Oct 2019, 4:56
Analysis: How European clubs are managing wage inflation, increased revenue and squad growth
The latest European Rugby by Numbers review from Esportif Intelligence is out and the comparisons between the Gallagher Premiershi…
Alex Shaw
15 Oct 2019, 9:39
The England 23 to play Australia at the RWC: Twist or stick?
England are set to play Australia in the quarter-finals of the RWC on Saturday and we have taken a look at the possible 23 that Ed…
Alex Shaw
14 Oct 2019, 5:52
Rugby World Cup 2019: State of tier two rugby
A review of the tier two rugby nations' performances at the Rugby World Cup and what the future holds for them, as they head towar…
Alex Shaw
13 Oct 2019, 9:20
Tyrese Johnson-Fisher set for Bristol debut after American football sojourn
New Bristol Bears signing Tyrese Johnson-Fisher is set for his club debut after spending a season playing American football at Coa…
Alex Shaw
11 Oct 2019, 8:09
Australia player ratings vs Georgia
Australia player ratings from their 27-8 win over Georgia in Shizuoka, a result which will likely see them line up against England…
Alex Shaw
11 Oct 2019, 7:43
Rugby World Cup power rankings: Week three's movers and shakers
RugbyPass' Rugby World Cup power rankings from week three of the tournament in Japan, where a number of teams secured their places…
Alex Shaw
09 Oct 2019, 11:18
Former England international Steffon Armitage to join Biarritz
Former London Irish and Toulon standout Steffon Armitage, who was found guilty of sexual assault in September, has joined Biarritz…
Alex Shaw
09 Oct 2019, 10:23
Wales player ratings versus Fiji
Wales player ratings from their 29-17 win over Fiji in Oita, a result that secures them a place in the quarter-finals and keeps th…
Alex Shaw
09 Oct 2019, 7:12
Waratahs CEO Andrew Hore leaves for rivals days after appointing new head coach
Waratahs CEO Andrew Hore has handed in his resignation just five days after the arrival of new head coach Rob Penney was confirmed…
Alex Shaw
07 Oct 2019, 1:22
Flat France need something special to upset England
The Rugby World Cup game between France and England will decide who wins Pool C and gains the best seeding, though Les Bleus look …
Alex Shaw
07 Oct 2019, 6:13
Rugby needs Japan more than Japan needs rugby
Japan have won their first three games at the Rugby World Cup and are building as a Test side. Don't make them beg for tier one in…
Alex Shaw
05 Oct 2019, 9:38
England player ratings vs Argentina
England player ratings from their 39-10 win over a 14-man Argentina side in Tokyo, as Eddie Jones' side wrap up their spot in the …
Alex Shaw
05 Oct 2019, 5:16
Petaia has opportunity to put down Wallabies marker
Jordan Petaia is set to become the youngest Wallabies player at a Rugby World Cup and can put down a marker in a back line that wi…
Alex Shaw
02 Oct 2019, 3:45
Japan seek to tie up Jamie Joseph extension - reports
The Japan Rugby Football Union are reportedly keen to sign coach Jamie Joseph to a contract extension post his side's historic win…
Alex Shaw
30 Sep 2019, 8:55
Untested England need to be battle-hardened by Argentina
England have enjoyed a fairly straightforward Rugby World Cup so far but they could do with being tested by Argentina if they're t…
Alex Shaw
30 Sep 2019, 6:52
Refereeing blunder blights another World Cup game
Tonga impressed against Argentina, although their chances of springing an unlikely upset were hamstrung by another Rugby World Cup…
Alex Shaw
28 Sep 2019, 2:49
Historic upset win sees Kazuki Himeno establish himself as Japan's beating heart
Japanese back row Kazuki Himeno singled himself out as one of the most influential loose forwards in world rugby with a fine displ…
Alex Shaw
28 Sep 2019, 4:57
Rugby World Cup power rankings: Week One's movers and shakers in Japan
Here are the updated Rugby World Cup power rankings where the likes of Ireland, Italy and Uruguay have made significant moves up t…
Alex Shaw
26 Sep 2019, 12:18
England player ratings vs USA
England's 45-7 win over the USA in Kobe on Thursday puts them in command of Pool C after two group games... here's how Eddie Jones…
Alex Shaw
26 Sep 2019, 8:11
Former England international Steffon Armitage faces sexual assault suspended sentence
Five-times capped England back rower Steffon Armitage has been found guilty of sexual assault in France and faces a six-month susp…
Alex Shaw
23 Sep 2019, 10:53
England's short turnaround and a team to face the USA
England triumphed versus Tonga but they now face plenty of dilemmas before they face the USA in Kobe in the second match of their …
Alex Shaw
23 Sep 2019, 6:19
Leicester Tigers' brutal season hasn't left their bank balance unscathed
Leicester Tigers have published their accounts for the 2018/19 financial year, with revenues having dipped and pre-tax losses havi…
Alex Shaw
23 Sep 2019, 2:12
England player ratings versus Tonga
England player ratings from the 35-3 win over Tonga in their Rugby World Cup opener in Sapporo. Check out the individual performan…
Alex Shaw
22 Sep 2019, 7:24
New Zealand player ratings versus South Africa
Here are the RugbyPass player ratings from the All Blacks' World Cup opener where they beat South Africa 23-13 in Yokohama on Satu…
Alex Shaw
21 Sep 2019, 7:17
Fiji show promise and weakness in sublime and frustrating fashion
Fiji got their World Cup up and running with a frustrating loss against Australia in Sapporo that significantly showcased both the…
Alex Shaw
21 Sep 2019, 2:30
Pre-tournament World Cup power rankings
With the tournament set to begin on Friday, RugbyPass presents its first World Cup power rankings assessing where all 20 nations c…
Alex Shaw
19 Sep 2019, 6:37
Tonga's main three threats to England in Sunday's World Cup opener
Tonga face an unappetising World Cup opener versus England in Sapporo on Sunday, but they have three players who at least give the…
Alex Shaw
18 Sep 2019, 12:21
The first 48 unmissable hours of the Rugby World Cup
The Rugby World Cup opening weekend is set to be an unmissable 48 hours of rugby, as pools could be decided in an extremely compel…
Alex Shaw
16 Sep 2019, 5:27
Sale Sharks to replace missing Faf de Klerk with yet another Bok - reports
Sale Sharks have recruited heavily from South Africa over the summer and there business is not yet done it seems, as they chase sc…
Alex Shaw
16 Sep 2019, 3:17
RFU to reunite Harlequins pair O'Shea and Mapletoft?
The RFU may attempt to solve its age-grade pathway issues by reuniting former Quins coaching tandem Conor O'Shea and Mark Mapletof…
Alex Shaw
15 Sep 2019, 8:09
RWC will see 138 players represent countries they were not born in, but Test rugby's player eligibility rules are more good than bad
Rugby's international player eligibility criteria has been the target for much recent criticism, but Alex Shaw argues that its ben…
Alex Shaw
13 Sep 2019, 3:10
Stadiums confirmed for England's under-20s home matches in the 2020 Six Nations
Look to bounce back from a disappointing campaign in 2019, the RFU have confirmed the stadiums that will host the England under-20…
Alex Shaw
13 Sep 2019, 6:01
Premiership Rugby 7s: All the teams and the players to watch
The Premiership Rugby 7s squads have been announced and the two-day event at Franklin's Gardens is an opportunity for some promisi…
Alex Shaw
12 Sep 2019, 9:39
Rugby World Cup squad analysis: Esportif Intelligence vs RugbyPass Index
With just days now left to go before the World Cup begins we take a look at how Esportif Intelligence's squad analysis compares to…
Alex Shaw
11 Sep 2019, 11:34
Sharks raid the Lions for Madosh Tambwe... and more signings expected
The Sharks have moved to bolster their squad following their exodus of players in recent months, with wing Madosh Tambwe the lates…
Alex Shaw
11 Sep 2019, 3:43
'We go into this Rugby World Cup as the best prepared Flying Fijian team ever'
Fiji won't lack for support at the upcoming Rugby World Cup and according to the team's General Manager, they're in a good place a…
Alex Shaw
09 Sep 2019, 10:31
Is this the squad that can win the World Cup for England - player-by-player analysis
England have arrived in Japan and we have a player-by-player preview of where Eddie Jones' 31-man squad are ahead of the Rugby Wor…
Alex Shaw
09 Sep 2019, 4:16
Former rugby player the 'Scottish Hammer' set to start for the Browns in the NFL
Although Christian Wade didn't make the active roster at the Bills, rugby has another representative in the NFL. Welcome, the Scot…
Alex Shaw
07 Sep 2019, 10:47
Wales player ratings vs Ireland
Wales player ratings from Warren Gatland's side's last Rugby World Cup warm-up match, as they made the trip to Dublin to take on J…
Alex Shaw
07 Sep 2019, 10:11
England player ratings vs Italy
England player ratings from their last World Cup warm-up match, the Friday night clash with Italy at St James' Park in Newcastle.
Alex Shaw
06 Sep 2019, 15:56
Ulster linked with versatile South African prop - reports
Ulster could be about to boost their front row stocks with the short-term signing of versatile Springbok prop Thomas du Toit from …
Alex Shaw
06 Sep 2019, 3:51
Eleven lesser known tier two players are poised to light up the World Cup
With the World Cup a valuable platform for emerging tier two stars to gain global recognition, RugbyPass takes a look at 11 player…
Alex Shaw
04 Sep 2019, 13:40
Investigation into Saracens' salary cap passed on to independent body - reports
An investigation into Saracens and their compliance with the Premiership Rugby salary cap has reportedly taken a new turn with an …
Alex Shaw
03 Sep 2019, 3:23
Italian fixture can provide England with key last-minute RWC learnings
Friday's final warm-up against Italy in Newcastle can provide Eddie Jones' England squad with some key last-minute learnings ahead…
Alex Shaw
03 Sep 2019, 5:28
Cheika calls up reinforcements from outside his RWC squad
The Wallabies have moved to bring in reinforcements ahead of their game against Samoa on Saturday, adding Rob Valetini and Jack Ma…
Alex Shaw
02 Sep 2019, 22:00
Gallagher Premiership 2019/20: Breakout players
The Rugby World Cup should create plenty of opportunity in the Premiership for breakout players to grab their opportunities and be…
Alex Shaw
01 Sep 2019, 4:33
Wales player ratings vs Ireland
Here is how the Wales players rated on a disappointing Saturday afternoon at Principality Stadium where they fell to a first home …
Alex Shaw
31 Aug 2019, 11:35
Damian Willemse to Saracens would be a win-win scenario for player and club
Should the Damian Willemse loan to Saracens go ahead, it would represent a win-win move for both player and club and one that Sara…
Alex Shaw
29 Aug 2019, 9:23
Outlook not great for Jack Nowell, but latest prognosis is better for Mako Vunipola
Jack Nowell's race against time to be fit for the World Cup has apparently got more difficult but there was a silver lining on Wed…
Alex Shaw
28 Aug 2019, 8:49
Springboks tie up de Bruin loose end with Irish appointment for World Cup
Swys de Bruin's decision to quit the Springboks left Rassie Erasmus with a vacancy to quickly fill for the World Cup and his exper…
Alex Shaw
28 Aug 2019, 2:44
Lions set to snap up hot prospect Junior Springbok fly-half
James Mollentze was one of the standout prospects for the South African U20 team earlier this year and the fly-half is now set to …
Alex Shaw
26 Aug 2019, 8:42
Sharks lining up Springbok and Cheetahs prop Nche - reports
The Sharks have lost their fair share of players this year, although Cheetahs prop Ox Nche could be a welcome filip for the side f…
Alex Shaw
26 Aug 2019, 4:50
Itoje and Tuilagi rise to fore in England's bid for RWC success
Few players caught the eye as much as Maro Itoje and Manu Tuilagi did in England's win over Ireland on Saturday, as the pair moved…
Alex Shaw
25 Aug 2019, 3:56
England player ratings vs Ireland
England's players rated highly in their 57-15 victory over Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday, a performance where Eddie Jones' men…
Alex Shaw
24 Aug 2019, 11:22
Ireland Test will be best barometer for England's RWC preparations
After shuffling their squad for the two games against Wales, England's Test against Ireland will be their most accurate World Cup …
Alex Shaw
22 Aug 2019, 12:49
James Haskell confirms he is set for an incredible sports career change
In a shock move, former England international James Haskell, who retired from rugby earlier this year, has announced he is to comp…
Alex Shaw
22 Aug 2019, 5:40
Ben Te'o heading to France as English rugby exit is confirmed
Ben Te'o was a surprising omission from the England World Cup squad earlier this month and the centre is now set to continue his c…
Alex Shaw
21 Aug 2019, 12:31
'He's a bit mad but he's brilliant' - Paul Gustard on Quins, recruitment, pre-season and leaving England behind
It was an impressive debut season as Harlequins head of rugby for Paul Gustard, but what does he have planned to build on that pro…
Alex Shaw
20 Aug 2019, 13:50
Mathieu Bastareaud's post MLR career may already be decided- reports
Mathieu Bastareaud is set for a new adenture in the US come December, but could he have found a long-term home for his return from…
Alex Shaw
19 Aug 2019, 5:57
The next Dombrandt? Talents taking the road less travelled
Who will be the next player to follow in Dombrandt's footsteps? We look at the best uncontracted Premiership academy players still…
Alex Shaw
19 Aug 2019, 3:49
Expectations, not the transition, are Wade's biggest enemy in the NFL
Christian Wade has been impressing in his NFL appearances to date, although expectations may be a bigger challenge than the actual…
Alex Shaw
18 Aug 2019, 3:19
England player ratings vs Wales
Player ratings for the England 23 in their 13-6 loss to Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, as the hosts bounced back fr…
Alex Shaw
17 Aug 2019, 10:32
Harlequins Women put down Toulon-esque marker
Following their rebrand to become Harlequins Women, the London club have made a number of big splashes in recruitment as they atte…
Alex Shaw
16 Aug 2019, 5:44
Guinness PRO14 2019/20: Breakout players
With the World Cup set to provide plenty of opportunities for youngsters to break through, RugbyPass takes a look at some potentia…
Alex Shaw
15 Aug 2019, 13:50
Springboks lose attack coach ahead of the Rugby World Cup
The Springboks have lost their attack coach for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, as Swys de Bruin has left the side for "personal and…
Alex Shaw
14 Aug 2019, 3:04
England's experience leap from 2015 to 2019 is evident in caps total
After a tough tournament in 2015, England are returning to the World Cup with a much more experienced squad... just look at the nu…
Alex Shaw
13 Aug 2019, 13:18
The five biggest snubs from Eddie Jones' 31-man England World Cup squad
With the England Rugby World Cup squad now named for next month's tournament, RugbyPass takes a look at the biggest snubs in Eddie…
Alex Shaw
12 Aug 2019, 7:50
England Player Ratings vs Wales
England player ratings from their 33-19 victory over Wales at Twickenham on Sunday afternoon. Eddie Jones will be pleased with wha…
Alex Shaw
11 Aug 2019, 10:14
Six areas to watch for England against Wales ahead of RWC squad being named
There is plenty to watch out for as England host Wales at Twickenham on Sunday, one day ahead of Eddie Jones naming his Rugby Worl…
Alex Shaw
11 Aug 2019, 2:53
Inaugural Global Rapid Rugby season set for 2020
After a successful Showcase Series, the inaugural season of Global Rapid Rugby, with a full slate of fixtures, has been set for 20…
Alex Shaw
09 Aug 2019, 3:13
Youthful Italy side boasts promise in RWC warm-up
Conor O'Shea has given a number of opportunities to Italy's young stars against Ireland this weekend, all of whom will have an eye…
Alex Shaw
08 Aug 2019, 10:20
Analysis: Premiership squads and homegrown percentages for 2019/20
In its third year, our Premiership academy analysis shows some interesting trends in each club's squad ahead of the 2019/20 Gallag…
Alex Shaw
07 Aug 2019, 13:05
Brumbies' youth movement continues with scrum-half signing
The Brumbies' youth movement has been boosted by the addition of highly-rated schoolboy scrum-half Lachlan Albert ahead of the 202…
Alex Shaw
06 Aug 2019, 3:18
English rugby's scrum-half problem and the hope the class of 2019 offers
English rugby has few problems producing talent, but for a number of reasons, the same can't be said at scrum-half. Can the class …
Alex Shaw
05 Aug 2019, 14:05
Bulls eyeing up Springbok star Pieter-Steph du Toit - reports
Pieter-Steph du Toit is one of the most coveted rugby players on the planet and it looks as if he is high on the Bulls' shopping l…
Alex Shaw
05 Aug 2019, 3:59
Picking an England XV to play Wales
The Rugby World Cup warm-up games give sides an opportunity to fine-tune ahead of the tournament, so what XV could England look to…
Alex Shaw
04 Aug 2019, 7:49
RugbyPass July Player of the Month - Herschel Jantjies
The latest RugbyPass Player of the Month award goes to a player who enjoyed a meteoric rise in international rugby over the last m…
Alex Shaw
04 Aug 2019, 3:44
Ireland and Scotland's Japan RWC fear factor should be escalating
Forget the talk about Argentina and Fiji, Jamie Joseph's in-form and improving Japan are the real Rugby World Cup dark horse to wa…
Alex Shaw
03 Aug 2019, 9:27
Former Bath legend Grewcock set to work with rivals Bristol Bears
Former Bath legend Danny Grewcock is set to link up with his old club's biggest rivals, as he takes on a role at Clifton College a…
Alex Shaw
02 Aug 2019, 3:13
Best back row in the Premiership? The top six contending depth charts
Budding talents and impressive summer recruitment aplenty, which Gallagher Premiership club currently boasts the best and deepest …
Alex Shaw
01 Aug 2019, 11:09
Hurricanes looking overseas for Barrett replacement - reports
The Hurricanes' search for a new fly-half is forging ahead according to CEO Avan Lee and Beauden Barrett's replacement could come …
Alex Shaw
01 Aug 2019, 3:17
Picking a Tier 2 RWC XV
Rugby's tier two nations often miss the spotlight, but with RWC looming and the Pacific Nations Cup a good showcase, this combined…
Alex Shaw
31 Jul 2019, 10:46
Counting down the top 15 signings in Europe this summer
We countdown the top 15 signings in European rugby this summer, as clubs from the Top 14, Gallagher Premiership and Guinness PRO14…
Alex Shaw
29 Jul 2019, 9:20
Sunwolves could find home in new JRFU backed Japanese rugby league
JRFU vice president Katsuyuki Kiyomiya is set to shake up Japanese rugby with his proposal for a new top flight competition in 202…
Alex Shaw
28 Jul 2019, 11:56
Springboks' RWC trajectory continues to rise ahead of Japan
Rassie Erasmus raised eyebrows with his Rugby Championship selection policy, but he now looks a vindicated man as the Springbok RW…
Alex Shaw
27 Jul 2019, 6:55
RFU just days away from issuing edict on player eligibilty and Brexit
A no-deal Brexit could bring plenty of negative consequences for English rugby, although Premiership clubs have received welcome n…
Alex Shaw
25 Jul 2019, 10:24
The 2019/20 Clermont XV - can it compete in France and Europe?
Perennial contenders for domestic and European trophies, how does the Clermont XV shape up for the 2019/20 season? Are they again …
Alex Shaw
24 Jul 2019, 6:10
Positive B sample leaves Top 14 forward facing drugs ban of up to four years
A 21-year-old South African who tested positive for steroid use in Top 14 has now had his B sample tested and is facing a suspensi…
Alex Shaw
23 Jul 2019, 5:35
An Anglo-Welsh League realistically doesn't hold much appeal for the English Premiership
Support for an Anglo-Welsh League has been reheated in Wales following reports of a potential British League, but the truth is the…
Alex Shaw
22 Jul 2019, 4:21
Trophy win allows Japan Under-20s rejoin the world's elite in 2020 age-grade championship
Japan's youngsters booked their passage back to the World Rugby Under-20 Championship on Sunday night with a narrow Trophy final w…
Alex Shaw
22 Jul 2019, 5:30
Springbok depth, not starting XV, was the winner on Saturday
Rassie Erasmus tested the Springbok depth against Australia and was rewarded with a 35-17 win at Ellis Park. Who put their hands u…
Alex Shaw
21 Jul 2019, 4:01
Nine U20 Trophy standouts that should have Tier 1 clubs salivating
The World Rugby U20 Trophy may not produce the same amount of global stars as the Championship, but these nine could go very far a…
Alex Shaw
20 Jul 2019, 2:56
Ospreys: From brink of extinction to playoff-bound in a season?
The Ospreys were on the brink of extinction earlier this year, but following that failed merger, are they on track to be contender…
Alex Shaw
18 Jul 2019, 3:32
Major upheaval at the under-performing Sharks
The Sharks have been languishing in mid-table obscurity in Super Rugby for a number of seasons now, but changes are afoot and thei…
Alex Shaw
17 Jul 2019, 9:11
Leicester Tigers' depth chart offers promise after horror season
After a horror 2018/19 Gallagher Premiership season the new-look Leicester depth chart offers hope to fans for the upcoming campai…
Alex Shaw
16 Jul 2019, 5:23
Rory Duncan told he's no longer part of Worcester's plans - reports
Worcester Warriors head coach Rory Duncan has been a sought after man this summer and latest reports suggest he could be leaving S…
Alex Shaw
15 Jul 2019, 11:13
Double joy for GB 7s as England secure qualification for Tokyo Olympics
England's men's and women's sides held the key to Team GB 7s qualification for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo on Sunday. Found out how…
Alex Shaw
14 Jul 2019, 11:34
Premiership Rookies to watch in 2019/20
With the Gallagher Premiership's tendency to blood exciting young talent having improved in recent seasons, check out who to watch…
Alex Shaw
14 Jul 2019, 2:53
Full Gallagher Premiership 2019/20 ins and outs
RugbyPass rounds up all of the 2019/20 Gallagher Premiership player ins and outs where 10 of the teams will be chasing down Sarace…
Alex Shaw
12 Jul 2019, 2:58
Rugby World Cup Depth Chart - Wales
In the latest of a Rugby World Cup series, RugbyPass looks at the Wales depth chart ahead of the tournament in Japan later this ye…
Alex Shaw
12 Jul 2019, 12:44
Rugby World Cup Depth Chart - France
The latest in our series of Rugby World Cup depth charts, with attention now focused on Jacques Brunel's France squad ahead of the…
Alex Shaw
10 Jul 2019, 6:24
Rugby World Cup Depth Chart - England
With his World Cup training squad now named, RugbyPass takes a look at what Eddie Jones' potential depth chart looks like at this …
Alex Shaw
09 Jul 2019, 12:58
England's back row and the light at the end of the tunnel
There have been plenty of highs and lows in the history of the England back row, although sustained success looks like it could be…
Alex Shaw
08 Jul 2019, 4:44
Gallagher Premiership academy intakes for 2019/20
The Gallagher Premiership academy intakes for the 2019/20 season are now all in and we have compiled all of the U18 signings from …
Alex Shaw
08 Jul 2019, 3:42
RugbyPass June Player of the Month - Fraser McReight
The latest RugbyPass Player of the Month award has been decided and it goes to budding star Fraser McReight for his excellent U20 …
Alex Shaw
07 Jul 2019, 3:19
Under-23 squads: Super Rugby vs Premiership vs PRO14 vs Top 14
Here's a RugbyPass comparison of the best composite Under-23 squads from rugby's four major club competitions, Super Rugby, the Ga…
Alex Shaw
06 Jul 2019, 10:34
Super Rugby Under-23 squads: Which franchise's future is the brightest?
Super Rugby may have diminished in fan interest in recent years, but that hasn't stopped it churning out talent... check out the R…
Alex Shaw
03 Jul 2019, 15:08
England's six big Rugby World Cup selection casualties
Eddie Jones has named his 35-man training squad for the Rugby World Cup and there are a number of notable omissions from the side,…
Alex Shaw
06 Jul 2019, 1:09
Eddie Jones rarely fails to deliver compelling narratives and his RWC training squad is another
With no lack of storylines in Eddie Jones' official World Cup training squad, RugbyPass takes a look at some of the more prominent…
Alex Shaw
05 Jul 2019, 4:49
James O'Connor to agree extra behaviour clauses in new contract - reports
A player with a past of controversies off the rugby pitch, James O'Connor will need to agree to behaviour clauses in his new contr…
Alex Shaw
03 Jul 2019, 4:13
Southern Kings administration at loggerheads over what to do with board member Bantwini Matika
Southern Kings are enduring an unsavoury off-season impasse following board member's Bantwini Matika divisive social media claims.…
Alex Shaw
02 Jul 2019, 7:07
PRO14 U23 squads: Which side's future is the brightest?
We have assembled U23 squads for all 14 of the Guinness PRO14 sides to see which of the teams has the brightest future moving forw…
Alex Shaw
01 Jul 2019, 6:03
Premiership U23 squads: Which club's future is the brightest?
The summer is a time of renewal in rugby and we have put together our Gallagher Premiership U23 squads for each club. Whose future…
Alex Shaw
30 Jun 2019, 4:26
Two clear front-runners in the chase for Mark Wilson
A number of clubs have expressed interest in Mark Wilson following Newcastle Falcons' relegation, with two now establishing themse…
Alex Shaw
29 Jun 2019, 3:30
The Jaguares have become Super Rugby's much-needed feel-good story
Amid negative perceptions and criticisms of Super Rugby over the past few years, the 2019 rise of the Jaguares is a welcome feel-g…
Alex Shaw
27 Jun 2019, 15:16
Rebels snap up Fijian replacement for Will Genia
With Will Genia set for a post-World Cup switch to Japan, the Rebels have secured the signature of a Fijian scrum-half as they pla…
Alex Shaw
28 Jun 2019, 3:46
'You cannot step foot on the rugby pitch because you're going to get broken'
England Sevens star Holly Aitchison speaks about her Olympic dream, her journey in the sport and what women's rugby needs to do to…
Alex Shaw
26 Jun 2019, 3:15
Fiji 7s eyeing up next two future stars
Fresh from winning the HSC World Rugby Sevens Series this year, Fiji are already lining up two promising youngsters to add to thei…
Alex Shaw
26 Jun 2019, 2:06
Australian Super Rugby club the latest to be linked to Ben Te'o
The future of England's Ben Te'o has been subject to much speculation and an Australian club has now entered the race for his sign…
Alex Shaw
25 Jun 2019, 4:39
Alex Shaw's team of the tournament from the 2019 Under-20 World Championship
France and Australia feature heavily in the RugbyPass World Rugby Under-20 Championship XV, the two finalists impressing throughou…
Alex Shaw
23 Jun 2019, 3:41
England U20s: 2019 Player-by-player review
The England U20s finished third in the U20 Six Nations and fifth in the World Rugby U20 Championship, but how did each individual …
Alex Shaw
24 Jun 2019, 8:13
Magical Fiji strike to relegate tier one side from Under-20s World Cup for first time since 2012
A thrilling victory for Fiji in the 11th place play-off has ensured they will be back competing at the World Rugby Under-20 Champi…
Alex Shaw
22 Jun 2019, 10:38
Australia-France final set to delight on Saturday as Under-20 Championship draws to a close
Australia are bidding to win their first World Rugby Under-20 Championship on Saturday, but they will have their work cut out to g…
Alex Shaw
19 Jun 2019, 10:33
Ex-Harlequin and England rep Luke Wallace makes switch to Championship
Luke Wallace has finally confirmed his destination for the 2019/20 season and he will be strutting his stuff in the Greene King IP…
Alex Shaw
18 Jun 2019, 11:48
Champions Cup draw: Permutations and potential 'pools of death'
The Heineken Champions Cup draw for the 2019/20 season takes place on Wednesday in Switzerland and we have rounded up all the perm…
Alex Shaw
18 Jun 2019, 7:06
Scotland U20s bid to avoid first Tier 1 relegation since 2012
Scotland U20s face their biggest test yet this season, as they square off with Fiji in the relegation playoff match of the World R…
Alex Shaw
17 Jun 2019, 13:50
'I was sick of watching finals. It felt quite hollow because I was never involved in them' - Nathan Earle
Nathan Earle made the decision to leave Saracens in early 2018 and has been rewarded with opportunity at Harlequins. The wing talk…
Alex Shaw
16 Jun 2019, 2:57
John Mitchell signs England extension - reports
England defence coach John Mitchell is only contracted until the end of the World Cup in Japan, but there appears to now be an agr…
Alex Shaw
13 Jun 2019, 4:01
Beating the Scots highlights how Georgia's age-grade evolution is in full swing
Georgia's under-20 side picked up their first win on Wednesday at the age-grade World Cup to highlight how their squad possesses m…
Alex Shaw
12 Jun 2019, 12:27
World Rugby U20 Championship: Semi-final permutations
All the permutations for the semi-finals of the World Rugby U20 Championship, as the teams prepare to play their final matches of …
Alex Shaw
11 Jun 2019, 4:57
A transfer market could hold the key to making rugby even more competitive
Transfer fees are rare in rugby, but a more regular adoption of the model used in football might potentially create a more competi…
Alex Shaw
10 Jun 2019, 12:46
Jaden Hendrikse - young scrumhalf could be long-term replacement for Cobus Reinach
Following wins over Scotland and Georgia at the World Rugby U20 Championship, South Africa scrum-half Jaden Hendrikse is separatin…
Alex Shaw
08 Jun 2019, 12:09
SA Rugby reveals its 'new model' to keep players and salary cap for pro teams
Player exoduses have been part and parcel of South African rugby in the professional era, but could this contracting model overhau…
Alex Shaw
07 Jun 2019, 7:37
Sponsor drops London Irish over Jackson signing
London Irish confirmed the signing of Paddy Jackson earlier this year and it seems as if it's not just fans that are unhappy, with…
Alex Shaw
07 Jun 2019, 6:01
Picking a British and Irish Lions XV - who's making it in 2021?
The 2021 British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa may be still be two years away but with Warren Gatland lined up to coach the…
Alex Shaw
05 Jun 2019, 5:37
Six players on Fiji radar yet to make themselves available for Rugby World Cup
Fijian rugby has been in a good place over the last few years but the decision of these six players to not yet make themselves ava…
Alex Shaw
05 Jun 2019, 2:58
Pocock heir apparent Fraser McReight shines in Argentina
Have Australia found their long-term successor to David Pocock? U20 Fraser McReight's performance against Italy suggests that they…
Alex Shaw
04 Jun 2019, 14:05
Is Vilimoni Botitu rugby's greatest diamond in the rough?
Fiji 7s star Vilimoni Botitu thrilled the world in his first season on the circuit, but could he be building to something even gre…
Alex Shaw
03 Jun 2019, 14:29
Fiji sevens dominate end of season awards
The HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series awards were held in Paris on Sunday night and Series champions Fiji, unsurprisingly, were among…
Alex Shaw
03 Jun 2019, 3:05
England player ratings vs Barbarians
England hosted the Barbarians at Twickenham on Sunday afternoon and we have run the rule over a youthful and inexperienced group t…
Alex Shaw
02 Jun 2019, 11:46
RugbyPass May Player of the Month - Alex Goode
The latest RugbyPass Player of the Month award goes to Saracens full-back Alex Goode, who helped guide his team to a domestic and …
Alex Shaw
02 Jun 2019, 5:21
Seven things we learned from the Gallagher Premiership final
If you were a neutral watching the Gallagher Premiership final, you couldn’t have asked for much more than what was displayed at…
Alex Shaw
01 Jun 2019, 11:28
Gallagher Premiership final - Exeter Chiefs vs Saracens composite XV
Exeter Chiefs and Saracens go head-to-head for the third time in four years in the Gallagher Premiership final this weekend, but w…
Alex Shaw
31 May 2019, 13:55
Twelve World Rugby U20 Championship players to watch
The World Rugby U20 Championship kicks off in Argentina next month and we have compiled a shortlist of some of the most exciting p…
Alex Shaw
29 May 2019, 3:06
Gloucester release two from squad as they battle the salary cap - reports
Gloucester are set to release two players who have played important roles for them over the last few seasons, as they begin to fee…
Alex Shaw
28 May 2019, 7:20
Kibirige the latest to leave Newcastle for Premiership switch
Newcastle Falcons are bleeding players following the confirmation of their relegation to the Greene King IPA Championship and they…
Alex Shaw
28 May 2019, 3:20
England vs Barbarians: An uncapped XV?
England are set to pick a heavily rested and rotated side for their contest with the Barbarians this week, but what would an entir…
Alex Shaw
27 May 2019, 4:42
Bridging the gap before it becomes a chasm
Gloucester and Northampton Saints are to be commended for their trips to the Premiership semi-finals this year, but it won't count…
Alex Shaw
26 May 2019, 6:52
Premiership semi-final: Exeter Chiefs vs Northampton Saints composite XV
The second Premiership semi-final of the weekend sees Northampton Saints make the visit to Sandy Park to take on Exeter Chiefs and…
Alex Shaw
24 May 2019, 13:22
Premiership semi-final: Saracens vs Gloucester composite XV
Saracens host Gloucester in the first Premiership semi-final of the weekend, but who comes out on top in our pre-match composite X…
Alex Shaw
24 May 2019, 7:12
Why a shock underdog win could rock the Premiership semi-finals - despite the odds
The Gallagher Premiership semi-finals are here with two very familiar faces hosting two considerable underdogs. What are the chanc…
Alex Shaw
22 May 2019, 13:08
Fiji name 38-man training squad ahead of RWC preparation
Fiji head coach John McKee has named a 38-man training squad for their upcoming fixtures with the Maori All Blacks and in the Paci…
Alex Shaw
22 May 2019, 2:57
Jake White responds to Cheetahs rumours
Jake White's name is often linked with high-profile vacancies but it seems as if the latest team reported to be after his services…
Alex Shaw
21 May 2019, 4:06
Alex Shaw's Gallagher Premiership XV of the season 2018/19
After 22 rounds of intense action, the Gallagher Premiership regular season is over. Check out who made our XV of the season, base…
Alex Shaw
20 May 2019, 13:16
Leicester Tigers set to bolster with 6'5, 110kg former Bok U20 captain
Leicester's recruitment for the 2019/20 season doesn't seem to be done yet, with another high-profile player linked with the side …
Alex Shaw
20 May 2019, 3:14
Gallagher Premiership XV of the week - Round 22
The final round of the 2018/19 Gallagher Premiership regular season has been played and we have picked our XV of the week from six…
Alex Shaw
19 May 2019, 3:17
Here's exactly what everyone is playing for in a tense Premiership regular season finale
The final day of the regular season can often be a bit of a damp squib, with the playoffs and European qualification already decid…
Alex Shaw
17 May 2019, 3:59
Kings and Stormers ready to bolster squads with former South Africa U20 stars
A couple of former South African U20 standouts are in high demand, as the South African franchises attempt to survive the upcoming…
Alex Shaw
16 May 2019, 2:51
Nations Championship to return to the fore but Ireland and Scotland drag their heels - reports
The Nations Championship has reared its head again and it looks as if further compromises could be about to be made by World Rugby…
Alex Shaw
15 May 2019, 14:23
Bulls confirm Pollard departure and announce surprise replacement
With Bulls set to lose Handre Pollard to Montpellier and the Top 14, the South African franchise have been quick to find his repla…
Alex Shaw
14 May 2019, 6:34
Sale Sharks are ripping off the 'Saffacens' model and it might just work
Saracens have set the benchmark in English rugby and it looks as if Sale Sharks have been paying very close attention to exactly h…
Alex Shaw
13 May 2019, 14:15
Fiji name exciting squad for first World Rugby U20 Championship in five years
Fiji have submitted their squad for the upcoming World Rugby U20 Championship in Argentina. The bad news? The competition is more …
Alex Shaw
13 May 2019, 4:05
Heineken Champions Cup XV of the 2018/19 season
The 2018/19 Heineken Champions Cup might be over but our XV of the season rakes over the standout performers from this season's co…
Alex Shaw
12 May 2019, 3:05
The top six signings in the 2018/19 Guinness PRO14
There have been plenty of impactful signings in the Guinness PRO14 this season, but which six have stood out from the pack and dis…
Alex Shaw
08 May 2019, 12:58
Gloucester eyeing up raid on Newcastle Falcons following relegation
Having been relegated by Gloucester at the weekend, Newcastle Falcons are now bracing themselves for interest from the Cherry and …
Alex Shaw
08 May 2019, 4:03
England U20s announce squad for World Rugby U20 Championship
England have announced their 28-man squad for the World Rugby U20 Championship in Argentina next month, with a number of notable a…
Alex Shaw
07 May 2019, 6:42
Global Rapid Rugby adds Fiji to the mix in its showcase season
Global Rapid Rugby's preparations for its inaugural season in 2020 took another step forward as its Fijian side, the Swire Shippin…
Alex Shaw
06 May 2019, 6:39
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 21
On a week that confirmed Newcastle Falcons as the team to be relegated from the Gallagher Premiership and the battle for the final…
Alex Shaw
05 May 2019, 12:50
What really killled Newcastle's season and the pivotal summer decisions that lie ahead
A loss to Gloucester in Round 21 confirmed Newcastle Falcons' relegation to the Greene King IPA Championship, but how well are the…
Alex Shaw
05 May 2019, 8:57
The top six most influential, impactful signings in this season's Gallagher Premiership
Recruitment isn't an exact science and there are plenty of examples of teams getting it wrong over the years, but these six additi…
Alex Shaw
02 May 2019, 13:00
Former NFL tight end becomes Major League Rugby's latest signing
Another American football player will embrace rugby next year as Old Glory DC, a team being added to MLR in 2020, have snapped up …
Alex Shaw
01 May 2019, 11:53
Fiji U20s show their teeth ahead of World Rugby U20 Championship
The Fiji U20s turned in a much-improved performance against Australia on Tuesday, something which will have made teams heading to …
Alex Shaw
30 Apr 2019, 9:58
Glasgow Warriors snap up hotshot scrum-half from under the nose of Edinburgh
One of the brightest prospects in Scottish rugby in recent years is set to sign a professional contract straight out of school and…
Alex Shaw
30 Apr 2019, 9:04
Why Ben Spencer can be the solution to England's lack of succession planning at nine
Under Eddie Jones, England have been proactive in their succession planning, something which could prove fruitful in the next cycl…
Alex Shaw
29 Apr 2019, 12:49
Kings axe more than 20 players and eye up Premiership fly-half for next season
The Kings have been making a splash in the back pages with their recent takeover and rumoured signings, and it shows no signs of a…
Alex Shaw
29 Apr 2019, 5:03
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 20
The 2018/19 Gallagher Premiership season took another step towards its culmination this past weekend, with relegation all but conf…
Alex Shaw
28 Apr 2019, 10:48
Beating South Africa at under-20s only adds to England's selection dilemma
England's under-20s beat South Africa on Friday night and some performances will give the three-time champions plenty of selection…
Alex Shaw
27 Apr 2019, 4:24
The 2019 Gallagher Premiership Academy Draft
As the NFL Draft prepares to get rolling in Nashville, we take a look at what a similar concept might look like in the Gallagher P…
Alex Shaw
25 Apr 2019, 7:27
Wasps and Coventry City in advanced talks over groundshare extension
Wasps have been locked in negotiations with Coventry City over an extension to the football club's license to continue to play at …
Alex Shaw
24 Apr 2019, 6:04
Bath and England wings nearing return as season winds down and RWC looms
Bath have been given a couple of key fillips as they attempt to finish their season strongly, with a couple of difference-makers i…
Alex Shaw
23 Apr 2019, 14:28
Envious English clubs need to copy Saracens' blueprint to emulate European adventures
After falling at the quarter-final stage last season to an imperious Leinster side, Saracens showed that they are back to their be…
Alex Shaw
22 Apr 2019, 13:47
Worcester head coach Rory Duncan being lined up for South Africa return - reports
Worcester Warriors’ bid for Gallagher Premiership survival has taken a positive turn over the last couple of weeks, but their he…
Alex Shaw
23 Apr 2019, 3:07
Six future stars from the U18 Six Nations Festival
Hartpury College, Sixways and Kingsholm have played host to the U18 Six Nations Festival over the past week, with all competing na…
Alex Shaw
22 Apr 2019, 3:08
All Blacks selector hints at RWC squad in aftermath of losing McKenzie
New Zealand selector Grant Fox has shed some further light on the thinking within the All Blacks camp following the season-ending …
Alex Shaw
22 Apr 2019, 3:01
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Semi-finals
Four became two this weekend, as Saracens, Munster, Leinster and Toulouse went to battle in the semi-finals of the Heineken Champi…
Alex Shaw
21 Apr 2019, 11:59
Saracens vs Munster - Composite XV
Saracens versus Munster at the Ricoh Arena on Saturday promises to be one of the fixtures of the season, but who comes out on top …
Alex Shaw
19 Apr 2019, 9:28
The rarest of the rare: An All Blacks bolter?
There are few things rarer in rugby than an All Blacks bolter, but could Steve Hansen be looking at one in the form of versatile a…
Alex Shaw
17 Apr 2019, 14:35
Hurricanes to partner with Japanese club as New Zealand rugby strengthens links abroad
Following the deal agreed between New Zealand Rugby and Harlequins last year, the Hurricanes are the latest to get involved in a c…
Alex Shaw
17 Apr 2019, 4:19
Premiership boss leaving for CVC and what it could mean for the league
Premiership CEO Mark McCafferty is set to leave his role with the organisation and join up with CVC Capital Partners, the private …
Alex Shaw
16 Apr 2019, 9:35
Pat Lam states aim for Bristol Bears' Premiership finishing spot and it's still mathematically possible
Despite the competitiveness at the bottom of the table, Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam insists that the West Country club…
Alex Shaw
15 Apr 2019, 8:07
RFU's annual youth festival delights and frustrates in equal measure
The Wellington Festival kicked off on Saturday, offering a glimpse into the future of English rugby, but whilst the talent on show…
Alex Shaw
15 Apr 2019, 6:06
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 19
A weekend that was nothing short of massive in the battle to avoid relegation from the Gallagher Premiership, with teams in the bo…
Alex Shaw
14 Apr 2019, 13:04
'Is the PRO14 benefiting South African rugby or is it costing us money and players?'
Given that the Guinness PRO14 offered up five of the eight quarter-finalists in this season's Heineken Champions Cup, can we call …
Alex Shaw
12 Apr 2019, 4:08
Four potential players to replace Israel Folau at 15 for the Wallabies
With the news breaking that Rugby Australia are set to fire Israel Folau following his social media outburst, where does that leav…
Alex Shaw
11 Apr 2019, 12:13
Saracens set to raid Premiership rivals for 131kg tighthead prospect
Saracens haven't been afraid to ruffle feathers with their recruitment this season and it looks as if they are about to raid local…
Alex Shaw
09 Apr 2019, 12:06
Is Leicester Tigers supremo still the best gig in English rugby? You bet it is
Things seem to be going from bad to worse at Leicester this season, but that shouldn't distract from how appetising the job to bri…
Alex Shaw
09 Apr 2019, 3:33
Christian Wade finds landing spot in a NFL team
Christian Wade has been allocated to a team in the NFL and his dream of making it in American football just took a sizeable step f…
Alex Shaw
08 Apr 2019, 10:01
Saracens write off over £45m of debt
Saracens have submitted their financial records for the last fiscal year and it looks as if they have written off well over £45m …
Alex Shaw
08 Apr 2019, 8:23
'I've not made my mind up about anything yet, to be honest' - Edwards
Speculation has been rife about Shaun Edwards' future following his admittance after the Six Nations that he had not put pen to pa…
Alex Shaw
08 Apr 2019, 6:55
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 18
The relegation battle continues to entertain in the Gallagher Premiership, as no side inside the bottom four was able to pick up a…
Alex Shaw
07 Apr 2019, 11:04
RugbyPass March Player of the Month - Rory Hutchinson
The inaugural RugbyPass Player of the Month award has been handed out and in this ding-dong battle of hemispheres, first blood has…
Alex Shaw
05 Apr 2019, 7:18
Hansen set to head north and raid the Waratahs en route - reports
Steve Hansen has been linked with a number of roles in the northern hemisphere after the Rugby World Cup, but could he be looking …
Alex Shaw
05 Apr 2019, 3:14
Sale Sharks back details harrowing back story to his assault arrest
Sale Sharks centre Mark Jennings, who announced he would be taking a sabbatical in February, has opened up on the incident surroun…
Alex Shaw
03 Apr 2019, 12:47
Bath U18 Max Ojomoh is far more than just a famous name and here's why
Max Ojomoh might have a famous name, but there is a lot more to his game than that. The young Bath prospect could be something spe…
Alex Shaw
03 Apr 2019, 13:44
Stormers to raid Super Rugby rivals for talented playmaker - reports
The Stormers already have one talented hybrid playmaker at fly-half and full-back, but it looks as if they are in the market for a…
Alex Shaw
02 Apr 2019, 4:25
No country for young scrum-halves - apart from France
There are a group of talented, experienced and skilful scrum-halves heading to the Rugby World Cup later this year, but what sort …
Alex Shaw
01 Apr 2019, 12:42
Former British and Irish Lions coach also on Leicester Tigers' radar
Leicester have bolstered their coaching staff with the addition of Mike Ford in the short-term, but there is another name to add t…
Alex Shaw
01 Apr 2019, 3:51
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Quarter-Finals
Check out our top XV of performers from a compelling weekend of knockout European rugby, where the Irish derby between Leinster an…
Alex Shaw
31 Mar 2019, 11:48
Tigers turn to former Ireland and England coach to beat the drop - reports
Things are getting desperate at the bottom of the Gallagher Premiership and it looks as if Leicester Tigers are about to bolster t…
Alex Shaw
31 Mar 2019, 3:22
Harlequins and England set to lose fight for budding star to Ireland
Ulster have swooped before for promising Irish-qualified age-grade talents at Harlequins and it looks as if they are about to go b…
Alex Shaw
29 Mar 2019, 5:35
Are Leinster and Saracens still kings of Europe? A lot has changed since the pool stage
Saracens led the way in the pool stage and Leinster looked strong as reigning champions, but in the two months that have passed si…
Alex Shaw
27 Mar 2019, 12:59
The low-key England coach inching closer to Premiership return
The band is looking like it will be broken up after the Rugby World Cup, but which of the current England coaches is eyeing up a r…
Alex Shaw
27 Mar 2019, 3:41
Five perfect fits for Fijian prospects in the Gallagher Premiership
The recent Pacific Combine provided players from Fiji with an opportunity to showcase their abilities and attempt to win contracts…
Alex Shaw
26 Mar 2019, 4:33
Excitement and expectation reign around Alfie Barbeary, but so should caution
Wasps have unearthed a diamond in the rough in Alfie Barbeary, but what is it that has everyone so excited about the hooker? We ta…
Alex Shaw
25 Mar 2019, 7:07
Springbok loosehead Kitshoff to turn down lucrative Premiership offer - reports
One South African star could be set to turn down big money in England and instead stay in South Africa, as one of the first to agr…
Alex Shaw
25 Mar 2019, 5:03
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 17
Our XV of the week from Round 17 of the Gallagher Premiership, a weekend which included the East Midlands derby, two big wins in t…
Alex Shaw
24 Mar 2019, 14:15
Premiership relegation battle reignites: Permutations and the runners and riders
With just five rounds of the season to go, the Gallagher Premiership relegation battle has taken on a new level of intensity. We l…
Alex Shaw
24 Mar 2019, 4:45
Has Japanese rugby found its next star after Ayumu Goromaru?
Ayumu Goromaru was a lightning rod for everything positive about Japanese rugby after the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Could Shota Fukui …
Alex Shaw
22 Mar 2019, 6:30
Agents Poll: The best and worst destination clubs in the Premiership
Which clubs in the Gallagher Premiership are the most desirable for players to move to and which are the least? We polled 13 leadi…
Alex Shaw
21 Mar 2019, 7:06
Post-Six Nations - which 31-players make England's plane to Japan and the Rugby World Cup?
After a relatively productive Guinness Six Nations for England, where does that leave their potential 31-man squad ahead of the Ru…
Alex Shaw
19 Mar 2019, 11:28
Pacific Combine team named as players bid for overseas contracts
The Pacific Combine gives players from the Pacific Islands the perfect showcase for their abilities and attempts to help them conn…
Alex Shaw
19 Mar 2019, 4:38
Stellar U20 crop signals the resurgence of the Munster pathway
For years, Leinster have dominated the age-grade pathway in Ireland and whilst they have offered up another good group of players,…
Alex Shaw
18 Mar 2019, 8:05
Me, myself and I: England's split personalities are their strength and their weakness
As England come to terms with a remarkable encounter with Scotland at Twickenham, they close the book on a relatively productive S…
Alex Shaw
17 Mar 2019, 11:42
Alex Shaw's 2019 Guinness Six Nations XV of the tournament
Wales picked up the Grand Slam, Ireland wilted and England offered promise, whilst Scotland licked wounds, France struggled and It…
Alex Shaw
17 Mar 2019, 6:25
England Player Ratings - vs Scotland
All the England player ratings from a spectacular 38-38 draw at Twickenham, where the hosts gave up six unanswered second half tri…
Alex Shaw
16 Mar 2019, 14:51
An U20 Six Nations XV - Grand Slam-winning Ireland dominate
Ireland wrapped up their first ever Grand Slam at the U20 Six Nations on Friday evening. We have rounded up the top performers in …
Alex Shaw
16 Mar 2019, 4:17
England vs Scotland - Pre-match analysis
We take a look at where and by whom the Calcutta Cup will be won this weekend, with England chasing the Six Nations title and Scot…
Alex Shaw
15 Mar 2019, 4:39
Picking a Wales vs Ireland 'Composite XV'
With Wales chasing their first Grand Slam since 2012 in Cardiff this weekend and Ireland bidding to keep alive their slim Six Nati…
Alex Shaw
14 Mar 2019, 10:48
Bulls set to cut over 100 contracts - reports
The Bulls have long been a prodigious hoarder of young talent in South Africa, but could financial pressures mean that all that is…
Alex Shaw
14 Mar 2019, 4:50
Academy manager Simon Sinclair set to leave Northampton Saints
Simon Sinclair becomes the latest in a growing list of academy staff moving on from Gallagher Premiership clubs this year.
Alex Shaw
11 Mar 2019, 10:04
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 16
A round-up of the top performing players in Round 16 of the Gallagher Premiership, where there were big wins for relegation-threat…
Alex Shaw
10 Mar 2019, 12:11
Three England powerhouses that rose from the debris of Italy
England and Eddie Jones came up big against Italy at Twickenham on Saturday, but scratching beneath the surface of the 57-14 victo…
Alex Shaw
10 Mar 2019, 4:05
England Player Ratings - vs Italy
Player ratings for all 23 of England's players in their 57-14 win over Italy at Twickenham on Saturday afternoon, a result which k…
Alex Shaw
09 Mar 2019, 13:07
England vs Italy: Pre-match analysis
Can England regain the momentum they lost in Cardiff or will Italy continue a week of rugby surprises by springing an upset at Twi…
Alex Shaw
07 Mar 2019, 12:22
European players need to start considering Japan if they want to extend their careers
With player welfare, longevity and financial earnings ever more important considerations within professional rugby, could Japan be…
Alex Shaw
06 Mar 2019, 5:03
The different dimension Cokanasiga offers England and why he should start against Italy
As England prepare to take on Italy at Twickenham and they consider some alternative options within their squad, Joe Cokanasiga co…
Alex Shaw
04 Mar 2019, 10:50
Saracens set to come under salary cap scrutiny from Premiership Rugby - reports
Could there be further salary cap drama in the Gallagher Premiership? The Premiership have said they are "looking closely" at this…
Alex Shaw
04 Mar 2019, 3:59
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 15
A round-up of the top performers from Round XV of the Gallagher Premiership season, where Newcastle Falcons and Bristol Bears both…
Alex Shaw
03 Mar 2019, 10:55
The impact of potential Pacific RWC 2019 boycott as tension mounts over World League
Could the 2019 Rugby World Cup be dealt the major blow of losing some of its biggest stars? That might be the end result if this W…
Alex Shaw
01 Mar 2019, 10:36
Proposed 'World League' - Pros and cons
The proposed 'World League' has received a fair amount of social media backlash from rugby fans for excluding the likes of Fiji an…
Alex Shaw
28 Feb 2019, 6:33
Danny Cipriani could potentially leave his Gloucester contract a year early
Could Danny Cipriani be plying his trade somewhere other than Kingsholm next season? It looks as though it could be a possibility,…
Alex Shaw
27 Feb 2019, 7:19
The next three games could decide Newcastle Falcons' future in the Premiership
With Newcastle Falcons sitting nine points adrift at the bottom of the Gallagher Premiership table, can they avoid relegation this…
Alex Shaw
27 Feb 2019, 5:24
Irish Lion in potential provincial switch - reports
Having already snapped up Gareth Milasinovich from Worcester Warriors on Tuesday, Ulster could be set to add another front rower t…
Alex Shaw
27 Feb 2019, 3:04
No need to rush Itoje back - a six-point manifesto for calling up 6'5, 128kg U20s star Kpoku
If there is any doubt of Maro Itoje's fitness in the build up to England's game against Italy, it is a risk not worth taking in a …
Alex Shaw
25 Feb 2019, 6:09
Bath eye up blockbuster fly-half addition - reports
Bath's search for a new starting fly-half continues, with the club now turning the eye westward, after failing to lure both Handre…
Alex Shaw
25 Feb 2019, 3:13
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 14
A round-up of the top performers from Round 14 of the Gallagher Premiership season, where Gloucester and Harlequins both solidifie…
Alex Shaw
24 Feb 2019, 14:04
England's tactical flexibility a myth or was Cardiff a one-off?
After tailormade tactics to expose Ireland and France, have Wales exposed England's as a one trick pony? Or is there more to come …
Alex Shaw
24 Feb 2019, 4:15
England Player Ratings - vs Wales
Player ratings for all 23 of England's players from their
Alex Shaw
23 Feb 2019, 13:12
Wales vs England: Five player-vs-player subplots
A preview of the highly-anticipated match between Wales and England at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, with both teams gunnin…
Alex Shaw
22 Feb 2019, 6:29
Win or lose, France need to commit to this trio moving forward
Win or lose on Saturday, France need to show faith in this young trio and build their squad around them moving forward, or else th…
Alex Shaw
20 Feb 2019, 11:52
Sonny Bill Williams linked with shock North American code switch - reports
Could one of the biggest names in rugby union be heading to rugby league? If billionaire Toronto Wolfpack owner David Argyle has h…
Alex Shaw
20 Feb 2019, 6:46
RFU announce the CEO tasked with turning around its financial plight
The RFU have appointed a new CEO following their split from Steve Brown in November, record losses in the last financial year and …
Alex Shaw
19 Feb 2019, 10:26
Premiership U18 exit rankings: Top three players per position
At the conclusion of the Premiership U18 club season, we have rated the top three prospects at every position who are leaving scho…
Alex Shaw
18 Feb 2019, 13:37
Ashton calf injury leaves England with a decision to make on the wing
With Chris Ashton ruled out through injury, England will be forced to make another change to their back three for the test against…
Alex Shaw
18 Feb 2019, 3:24
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 13
A round-up of the top performers from Round 13 of the Gallagher Premiership, a weekend which saw table-toppers Exeter defeated and…
Alex Shaw
17 Feb 2019, 2:46
Premiership U18s Finals Day preview: The players to watch out for as the top 6 sides in England collide
A preview of Sunday's Premiership U18s Finals Day, when Harlequins, Sale Sharks, Bath, Wasps, Gloucester and Leicester Tigers will…
Alex Shaw
15 Feb 2019, 11:28
Seven emerging talents to keep an eye on in Super Rugby
Seven of the brightest up and coming talents in Super Rugby to watch this season, with the looming Rugby World Cup meaning these y…
Alex Shaw
14 Feb 2019, 4:34
A good or bad move for Nathan Hughes? A Bristol Bears and Wasps composite XV
With Bristol Bears set to host Wasps on Friday evening and Nathan Hughes having agreed to make the move from the latter to the for…
Alex Shaw
14 Feb 2019, 3:14
Wales and Bath back row Faletau faces further injury setback
There has been another setback in Taulupe Faletau's injury-riddled time with Bath. He is not likely to be adding to his lone appea…
Alex Shaw
12 Feb 2019, 8:42
High Performance Manager leaves Bulls days before the start of the Super Rugby season - reports
With just a few days until the start of their 2019 Super Rugby season, the Bulls are reportedly set to lose their High Performance…
Alex Shaw
12 Feb 2019, 7:23
After one win and one loss, where are England U20s at in their bid for success?
A round-up of where the England U20s are at after suffering a disheartening opening day loss to Ireland, before bouncing back with…
Alex Shaw
11 Feb 2019, 5:55
Mitchell's 'clutch' defence key to English war machine
Whilst eyes were turned by England's clinical and flashy offensive performance at Twickenham, it's the defensive developments whic…
Alex Shaw
10 Feb 2019, 14:16
England player ratings - vs France
England player ratings from an emphatic 44-8 victory over France at Twickenham, where the home side dominated this year's 'Le Crun…
Alex Shaw
10 Feb 2019, 11:06
Pre-match analysis - England vs France
A pre-match analysis of Sunday's England vs France game at Twickenham, with a look at the coaches, players and the key contests be…
Alex Shaw
08 Feb 2019, 5:43
England name 25-man squad ahead of Le Crunch
England have trimmed their squad to 25 ahead of their game against France at Twickenham, with the matchday 23 set to be announced …
Alex Shaw
06 Feb 2019, 12:48
Leicester Tigers sign six to new deals at Welford Road
Leicester Tigers have secured the futures of six of their promising youngsters, with a number of those extending terms at the club…
Alex Shaw
05 Feb 2019, 10:22
How does Eddie Jones fill the Maro Itoje void against France?
With Maro Itoje sidelined for the next month or so, who does Eddie Jones turn to in the second row? We take a look at the potentia…
Alex Shaw
05 Feb 2019, 5:05
Legendary French back rower the latest to criticise the Les Bleus
Former French flanker Olivier Magne has pulled no punches in his assessment of the current French side and has called for a number…
Alex Shaw
04 Feb 2019, 7:43
Forget Six Nations momentum, England have found something more important eight months out from a RWC
Amidst the jubilant scenes of England players in Dublin at the final whistle, the smiling pair of Manu Tuilagi and Henry Slade may…
Alex Shaw
03 Feb 2019, 4:14
England player ratings - vs Ireland
The odds were upset at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday afternoon, as England defeated reigning Grand Slam champions Ireland, 32-20, …
Alex Shaw
02 Feb 2019, 13:01
Ireland vs England - Composite XV
An Ireland-England composite XV based on the selections both teams have made for this weekend's match in Dublin. Ireland are the r…
Alex Shaw
01 Feb 2019, 3:06
Pre-match analysis - Ireland vs England
A pre-match analysis of Ireland vs England at the Aviva this weekend, with a focus on the battles between the coaches and the play…
Alex Shaw
31 Jan 2019, 9:39
England name full-strength team as they get their U20 campaign underway in Cork
England have received a welcome boost ahead of their U20 Six Nations campaign, gaining access to the full EPS for the match agains…
Alex Shaw
30 Jan 2019, 4:40
Bristol Bears closing in on England international
Bristol Bears are closing in on another addition to their squad for the 2019/20 season and this one is an England international.
Alex Shaw
29 Jan 2019, 10:39
Springbok lock Snyman forced to have ankle surgery
The Bulls' bid for Super Rugby honours has taken an early hit, with the news that one of the stalwarts of their pack RG Snyman set…
Alex Shaw
29 Jan 2019, 7:32
Dare to Daly or back to Brown? Jones' Dublin dilemma
Has the Elliot Daly experiment worked at 15 for England or should they return to Mike Brown? A look at one of Eddie Jones' biggest…
Alex Shaw
28 Jan 2019, 6:30
Six stars of the future to watch in the U20s Six Nations
We have selected six players from the upcoming U20 Six Nations to keep an eye on, with all more than capable of not only lighting …
Alex Shaw
27 Jan 2019, 5:23
Exeter sign up three more for 2019/20
Exeter have added three more players to their 2019/20 squad, with contract extensions for three key players over the last few year…
Alex Shaw
27 Jan 2019, 3:42
Under the radar stars - 7 players to watch in 2019 Six Nations
Nothing boosts a player's reputation in the northern hemisphere like the Six Nations and we have identified seven players who we t…
Alex Shaw
25 Jan 2019, 6:33
Worcester promise 'star quality players' - reports
It's been all quiet on the recruitment front for Worcester Warriors so far this season, but that could soon be about to change, ac…
Alex Shaw
24 Jan 2019, 6:15
Bristol Bears leading the chase for out-of-favour backrow
Fresh on the heels of announcing the signing of Nathan Hughes, Bristol Bears look ready to add further competition and depth in th…
Alex Shaw
22 Jan 2019, 5:51
Six foot eight, 122kg Wallaby lock in London Irish's sights
London Irish are keen to add further summer reinforcements following the confirmation of Allan Dell's signing and they could be lo…
Alex Shaw
22 Jan 2019, 4:34
Cruden is a risk, but it's one Bath should take
One of the more eye-catching transfer rumours of the 2018/19 season has been that of Aaron Cruden to Bath, but is the former All B…
Alex Shaw
21 Jan 2019, 5:27
Heineken Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 6
A round-up of the top performers during the final weekend of the pool stage in this season's Heineken Champions Cup. Edinburgh, Sa…
Alex Shaw
20 Jan 2019, 12:09
Against all odds, Bath set for 19 stone piece of welcome injury news
Bath have had their fair share of injuries so far in the 2018/19 season and with the front row taking even more hits in the previo…
Alex Shaw
17 Jan 2019, 10:14
Three changes the Premiership needs to make for clubs to compete and why
The investment from CVC may make it seem like a good time for the Gallagher Premiership to increase its salary cap, but the long-t…
Alex Shaw
16 Jan 2019, 12:39
Newcastle Falcons bracing themselves for an alarming exodus of locks
Newcastle's lowly league position is not helping them recruit new players for the 2019/20 season and they are set to be further ha…
Alex Shaw
16 Jan 2019, 6:38
Where are they headed? Seven of the Premiership's biggest unresolved transfer sagas
A round-up of seven of the biggest unresolved transfer sagas in the Gallagher Premiership, with a number of notable players coming…
Alex Shaw
15 Jan 2019, 8:24
London Irish confirm Scotland international for 2019/20
London Irish are busy bolstering their squad for what they hope will be a return to the Gallagher Premiership at first time of ask…
Alex Shaw
15 Jan 2019, 6:48
Exeter Chiefs to raid Premiership rival for new lock
With Sam Skinner playing for Scotland, Jonny Hill on England's radar and Dave Dennis and Ollie Atkins in contract years, Exeter ar…
Alex Shaw
14 Jan 2019, 6:09
Sale Sharks eyeing up South African quintet - reports
Gallagher Premiership side Sale Sharks are reportedly keen to add a number of new faces to their squad next season, with five Sout…
Alex Shaw
14 Jan 2019, 3:09
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 5
A round-up of the top individual performers in the penultimate round of the Heineken Champions Cup pool stage, where Munster, Edin…
Alex Shaw
13 Jan 2019, 13:12
Picking a potential England Saxons XV
With the shift in regulations from World Rugby that have made all 'second' sides the capture sides for their respective nations, t…
Alex Shaw
10 Jan 2019, 8:26
London Irish avoid repeated exodus of top young talent with raft of extensions
London Irish have managed to avoid another exodus of their top young talents by handing out six new contracts to their emerging st…
Alex Shaw
10 Jan 2019, 7:35
Former French giants Biarritz ready to splash the cash on two frontrowers - reports
Pro D2 side Biarritz have struggled in recent seasons to live up to their former glories, but a couple of front rowers look to be …
Alex Shaw
10 Jan 2019, 6:01
Acid test looms for reborn Toulouse in Dublin
As nostalgic fans revel in Toulouse's resurgence this season, the former giants of French rugby face arguably their toughest chall…
Alex Shaw
09 Jan 2019, 3:29
'He can't play... so we have to play players out of position and put them at risk'
EPCR faces renewed criticism of their policy on player registration, with another injury-embattled team stymied by the organisatio…
Alex Shaw
07 Jan 2019, 3:54
Bath set to double up in tighthead recruitment
Having already wrapped up deals for Will Stuart and Lewis Boyce, Bath are hunting another English front rower and it seems like th…
Alex Shaw
07 Jan 2019, 3:40
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 12
A round-up of the top performers in Round 12 of the Gallagher Premiership, a round of action which saw Sale Sharks down the reigni…
Alex Shaw
06 Jan 2019, 11:49
Former England age-grade lock heading to France
Clermont have snapped up a former England age-grade second row, as they bid to bolster their squad ahead of the 2019/20 season and…
Alex Shaw
04 Jan 2019, 5:06
A breakdown of the upcoming crop as England U20s name squad for Six Nations
The England U20s have named their squad for the upcoming Six Nations competition and there are a few surprise exclusions.
Alex Shaw
04 Jan 2019, 3:40
Evolution, not revolution, will be key for Veitokani at Irish
New London Irish signing Alivereti Veitokani will need to adapt his game to prosper in England, but how much structure is too much…
Alex Shaw
02 Jan 2019, 10:57
Rugby should look towards American sports for its 2019 New Year resolution
Does rugby limit itself by thinking inside the box too much? A look at English rugby and how eager the sport is in the country to …
Alex Shaw
02 Jan 2019, 5:49
Nine young stars to breakout in 2019
A shortlist of the up and coming young stars to watch out for in 2019, with all nine of these talents capable of having a breakout…
Alex Shaw
02 Jan 2019, 2:49
Jaguares announce Super Rugby squad heavy with young talent
The Jaguares have confirmed their 2019 Super Rugby squad, with a host of Argentina's impressive U20 side from earlier this year wi…
Alex Shaw
31 Dec 2018, 5:17
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 11
Round 11 wrapped up Gallagher Premiership rugby for 2018 and it didn't disappoint, with Northampton Saints upsetting Exeter Chiefs…
Alex Shaw
30 Dec 2018, 13:15
RugbyPass' Top 30 Players of 2018
A look back at the standout players of 2018, with our top 30 players of the year. A year in which the All Blacks' aura of invincib…
Alex Shaw
29 Dec 2018, 3:19
Ten months out - England's potential 31-man RWC squad
At the halfway point of the season, we take a look at which players are inked into England's RWC squad, the battles between player…
Alex Shaw
27 Dec 2018, 5:40
Sale Sharks lock down homegrown talent Curry
Sale Sharks have been busy over the festive period securing the futures of some of their most prominent players and here is the la…
Alex Shaw
27 Dec 2018, 4:15
Raft of Premiership contracts handed out over festive period
Goodwill was not hard to find in the Gallagher Premiership this Christmas, as three clubs handed out new contracts to seven player…
Alex Shaw
26 Dec 2018, 4:57
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 10
A round-up of the top performers in Round 10 of the Gallagher Premiership as Exeter downed the champions and the East Midlands duo…
Alex Shaw
23 Dec 2018, 13:48
Where and how each Premiership club should spend their £15 million windfall
An overview of what each club in the Gallagher Premiership could - and should - use the investment from CVC Capital Partners on, i…
Alex Shaw
20 Dec 2018, 9:44
Cowan-Dickie transfer saga set to come to an end
Highly-sought after hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie has been the subject of much speculation this season, but the England international h…
Alex Shaw
20 Dec 2018, 3:34
Exeter Chiefs vs Saracens: Composite XV
As second hosts first in the Gallagher Premiership this weekend, we pick our composite XV from Exeter Chiefs and Saracens. Will fo…
Alex Shaw
19 Dec 2018, 4:25
Defence coach next to tick off for Leicester Tigers
With Geordan Murphy confirmed as permanent head coach at Leicester Tigers, the club now have to find assistance in the form of a d…
Alex Shaw
18 Dec 2018, 11:10
Leicester Tigers lack identity but there is a man who could give it to them
An eight-match losing streak has seen Leicester Tigers embroiled in a relegation battle in the Gallagher Premiership and all but o…
Alex Shaw
17 Dec 2018, 12:33
Former England international set to coach in Super Rugby
The Highlanders have made a new addition to their coaching staff for the 2019 season following the departure of Cory Brown and it'…
Alex Shaw
17 Dec 2018, 5:57
Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 4
A round-up of the top performers in Round 4 of the Heineken Champions Cup, as teams take a break from Europe for their busy domest…
Alex Shaw
16 Dec 2018, 12:16
'I'd like to think that over the last few years we've presented our credentials' - Time for Fiji to be elevated to Tier 1?
Do Fiji warrant inclusion in a major, annual international tournament? We sat down with Fiji Rugby's General Manager Geoff Webster…
Alex Shaw
15 Dec 2018, 3:28
The Toulon Galacticos 2.0 - why Europe should be worried again
Two new signings - with more believed to be on the way - has it looking like another Galactico era at the Stade Mayol and the pote…
Alex Shaw
14 Dec 2018, 4:54
Bath eyeing up another English-qualified prop
In addition to their reported interest in Lewis Boyce, Bath are set to swoop for another English front rower, as clubs smell blood…
Alex Shaw
13 Dec 2018, 11:58
Leicester looking to Leinster for 2019/20 reinforcements - reports
Leicester Tigers are reportedly looking at reinforcements in Dublin, with the side from the East Midlands at risk of losing severa…
Alex Shaw
12 Dec 2018, 3:23
Champions Cup quarter-final predictions as pools reach halfway mark
A brief summary of the state of play in the five Heineken Champions Cup groups at the halfway mark of the pool stage and a look at…
Alex Shaw
10 Dec 2018, 12:42
Trio of clubs ready to swoop for Ben Te'o
As Ben Te'o plays out the last season of his current deal with Worcester Warriors, a number of clubs are ready to make him another…
Alex Shaw
10 Dec 2018, 4:49
Heineken Champions Cup XV of the Week - Round 3
A round-up of the top performers from Round 3 of the Heineken Champions Cup, with heavy contributions from Glasgow Warriors, Ulste…
Alex Shaw
09 Dec 2018, 11:37
'This is a massive call that will dictate what happens for the next 25 years in English rugby'
An in-depth interview with Ealing Trailfinders director of rugby Ben Ward on the rumours of ringfencing, Ealing's ambitious academ…
Alex Shaw
08 Dec 2018, 3:40
Wasps crisis deepens - further names set to be added to the list departing club
Things are going from bad to worse at Wasps, with several more players set to depart the Coventry-based club at the end of this se…
Alex Shaw
06 Dec 2018, 14:03
Stick or twist for the Premiership's bottom seven in Europe?
A brief look at the Gallagher Premiership's bottom seven and whether they would be better served by turning their backs on Europe …
Alex Shaw
04 Dec 2018, 11:23
Club-by-club players to watch in the Premiership U18 Academy league
A club-by-club look at the top talents about to set the U18 Premiership Academy league alight, all of whom will be keen to put dow…
Alex Shaw
03 Dec 2018, 12:50
The huge implications for English rugby posed by Brexit that no one is talking about it
A look at the prospective effects of Brexit on the eligibility of players within the Gallagher Premiership, as well as a worrying …
Alex Shaw
01 Dec 2018, 3:35
Harlequins' new identity is beginning to emerge under Gustard
A brief look at Harlequins' impressive 28-26 victory over Exeter Chiefs on Friday night and the identity they are beginning to dev…
Alex Shaw
03 Dec 2018, 5:15
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 9
A round-up of the top performers in the Gallagher Premiership this past weekend, including a bundle of tries from Ollie Thorley, C…
Alex Shaw
02 Dec 2018, 11:16
Premiership and PRO 14 players who thrived domestically in November
A look at the squad players and youngsters who made the most of opportunities that came their way during the recent international …
Alex Shaw
29 Nov 2018, 8:20
'I've got a job to do and obviously that part of the job I didn't do to the best of my ability' - Malcolm Marx
RugbyPass sat down with Malcolm Marx to discuss his Player of the Year nomination, that lineout performance against England, stayi…
Alex Shaw
27 Nov 2018, 8:57
Bath set to beat Wasps to the signature of promising loosehead from Premiership rivals
Having lost Nick Auterac to Harlequins in the summer, Bath have been left short at loosehead following the injury to Beno Obano an…
Alex Shaw
27 Nov 2018, 4:08
Luke Cowan-Dickie inching closer to Exeter exit
Exeter Chiefs hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie could be on his way out the door at the Devon club, with two Gallagher Premiership rivals p…
Alex Shaw
26 Nov 2018, 4:36
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 8
A round-up of the top performing players in Round 8 of the 2018/19 Gallagher Premiership season, which included a 16-minute hat-tr…
Alex Shaw
25 Nov 2018, 11:25
England's November Stock Check: Who's rising and who's falling?
A look back at England's four November internationals and which players have seen their stock rise or fall, ahead of a Rugby World…
Alex Shaw
25 Nov 2018, 4:57
England Player Ratings vs Australia
England chalked up their sixth-straight win over Australia, in the 50th meeting of these two age-old rivals. Here's how their play…
Alex Shaw
24 Nov 2018, 11:58
Worcester hooker Singleton nearing London return and potential England calll
Worcester Warriors could be set to lose one of their top prospects in the summer, as Jack Singleton inches closer to a move to a m…
Alex Shaw
24 Nov 2018, 3:21
The RugbyPass Index 'World XV'
With the November internationals soon set to come to a close, we have taken to the RPI to discover what a World XV might look like…
Alex Shaw
22 Nov 2018, 13:34
England vs Australia: Four key match-ups
A brief preview of the 28th playing of the Cook Cup and 50th meeting of England and Australia, with a focus on the key match-ups o…
Alex Shaw
22 Nov 2018, 10:05
England's Australian test will dictate the mood heading into 2019 and improvement is needed
England's autumn series so far has failed to rise above the level of satisfactory, but a combination of the positives exhibited ve…
Alex Shaw
20 Nov 2018, 14:21
England have injury worry ahead of test against Australia
England's preparations for their upcoming game against Australia take a blow as they lose a key man from training on Tuesday.
Alex Shaw
20 Nov 2018, 5:37
Gallagher Premiership XV of the Week - Round 7
A collection of the top performing players from the seventh round of the 2018/19 Gallagher Premiership season, including a scintil…
Alex Shaw
18 Nov 2018, 11:26
England's Japanese scare: Winners and losers
A look at who profited and whose stock has been hurt by England's unconvincing win over Japan at Twickenham on Saturday, a game in…
Alex Shaw
18 Nov 2018, 5:10
England Player Ratings vs Japan
Player ratings from a surprisingly tight contest at Twickenham, where England were given all they could handle from a spirited Jap…
Alex Shaw
17 Nov 2018, 11:07
Three threats an inexperienced England will need to be wary of at Twickenham
A preview of the three key threats Japan have to offer and why England will need to be wary of them at Twickenham on Saturday.
Alex Shaw
15 Nov 2018, 12:29
New 'Global Rapid Rugby' tournament given green-light by World Rugby
Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest has been given the go-ahead from World Rugby to launch his new professional club competition…
Alex Shaw
15 Nov 2018, 3:01
Former England and British and Irish Lions lock set for Super Rugby coaching stint
The Melbourne Rebels are set to add two new coaches to their staff for 2019, including one familiar face for followers of northern…
Alex Shaw
14 Nov 2018, 5:52
Picking an England XV to provide answers to some long-standing questions against Japan
Having beaten the Springboks and taken the All Blacks all the way to the line, England now need to find the answers to long-standi…
Alex Shaw
12 Nov 2018, 12:39
Dan and Jean-Luc du Preez set for short-term Premiership stints - reports
Young Springbok back rowers Jean-Luc and Dan du Preez are set to sign short-term contracts in the Gallagher Premiership, according…
Alex Shaw
12 Nov 2018, 3:32
Why and how the frustrating loss to the All Blacks is also validation for England
England will rue mistakes in their narrow, 16-15, loss to New Zealand at Twickenham, but in their performance, they may have found…
Alex Shaw
11 Nov 2018, 5:04
England Player Ratings vs New Zealand
England player ratings from an enthralling 16-15 loss to New Zealand at a rainy Twickenham, where several of the men wearing the r…
Alex Shaw
10 Nov 2018, 11:43
Weak scrum? Poor kicking? All Blacks misconceptions quashed in data analysis
A look at three areas of misconception - and three lessons for England - around the All Blacks, using in-depth analysis from Grace…
Alex Shaw
09 Nov 2018, 12:08
Outlook is bleak for England but the RPI offers one area of hope against New Zealand
An England vs New Zealand preview using the RugbyPass Index to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of both sides. Are there any…
Alex Shaw
08 Nov 2018, 9:06
Many believe this year's England U20s squad is set to be the best ever assembled
Can England make it to their seventh straight World Rugby U20 Championship final this season? We take a look at the potential squa…
Alex Shaw
08 Nov 2018, 2:42
A 34 stone centre pairing and six other England midfield options for Eddie to ponder
A rundown of the seven most likely midfield combinations England could opt for against the All Blacks, following the Owen Farrell,…
Alex Shaw
07 Nov 2018, 7:52
Talking Point: Should rugby look to the NFL for post-match sanctions?
As World Rugby, rightly, clamps down on impacts to the head, are the current post-match sanctions still the right form of punishme…
Alex Shaw
06 Nov 2018, 6:06
England call up midfield reinforcements ahead of the All Blacks Test
If there was one area England particularly struggled in against South Africa during their 12-11 win at the weekend, it was with th…
Alex Shaw
05 Nov 2018, 3:51
Gritty England win highlights key work-ons ahead of All Blacks challenge
A look back at England's hard-fought 12-11 victory over South Africa at Twickenham and the five key steps which could help give th…
Alex Shaw
04 Nov 2018, 5:57
England Player Ratings vs South Africa
All the England players rated from their autumn opener against South Africa at Twickenham on Saturday.
Alex Shaw
03 Nov 2018, 12:19
Is Wade right that English rugby is obsessed by size?
A look at the international squads picked this weekend and whether or not they back up Christian Wade's claims that English rugby …
Alex Shaw
03 Nov 2018, 6:13
England vs South Africa: RPI gives the Springboks the advantage at Twickenham
A preview of the England vs South Africa clash this weekend at Twickenham, looking at how the two teams stack up on the RugbyPass …
Alex Shaw
02 Nov 2018, 5:57
Exclusive: Wasps pushing hard for two English front rowers to bolster their ranks
Gallagher Premiership side Wasps are looking to make additions at loosehead and hooker and have targeted two key individuals to he…
Alex Shaw
02 Nov 2018, 3:50
Why Mostert's Gloucester move gets a step closer despite opposition in South Africa
Gloucester faced a late challenge from the Lions over the signing of Franco Mostert, but some positive news for the Cherry and Whi…
Alex Shaw
30 Oct 2018, 6:12
All Blacks reign in our pre-November internationals 'World XV'
As we prepare for a full month of international rugby, we have put together a 'World XV' ahead of some spicy contests between the …
Alex Shaw
29 Oct 2018, 15:50
