Two-year high for Ireland in women's world rankings
Ireland's stunning 29-27 win over New Zealand in the opening round of WXV 1 has sent Scott Bemand's side up to sixth in the World …
Jon Newcombe
30 Sep 2024, 5:37
Contributors
Jon Newcombe
@rugbytimes
Once editor of Rugby Times (2002-11), the UK's first weekly newspaper devoted to Rugby Union, and now owner of Heads Up Sports Media; Not the former Aussie tennis player of the same name, nor the son of well-known former rugby writer Barry Newcombe!
Deon Fourie gives return update and casts doubt over future
World Cup winner Deon Fourie has targeted the Stormers' United Rugby Championship match away to the Sharks on 30 November, 2024 as…
Jon Newcombe
02 Oct 2024, 2:39
'Beyond amazing' - Rob Baxter's verdict on Olly Woodburn
Being able to play in a variety of positions has always been a valuable commodity for a player to have but even more so now that P…
Jon Newcombe
06 Oct 2024, 3:00
WXV 3 and the most unusual change of rugby position?
Everyone laughed when England winger Jonny May once filled in at flanker but imagine the sniggering had he tried his luck at tight…
Jon Newcombe
04 Oct 2024, 3:57
Lions reach profit-sharing agreement with players
Selection for next year's British and Irish Lions tour to Australia will come with added financial benefits for those involved fol…
Jon Newcombe
07 Oct 2024, 6:36
Rampant Red Roses on the verge of another record
England's Red Roses could break another record this weekend by achieving the highest-ever rating – in both men's and women's rug…
Analysis
Jon Newcombe
09 Oct 2024, 10:06
Dowson’s delight at re-signing 'game-breaker' Tommy Freeman
The news come hot on the heels of the announcement that back row forward Tom Pearson had put pen-to-paper on a new deal and Phil D…
Jon Newcombe
10 Oct 2024, 4:02
Pat Lam's prognosis on Max Malins as Bears win comes at a cost
Bristol Bears Director of Rugby Pat Lam has confirmed that Max Malins, the Gallagher Premiership's leading try-scorer, will be out…
Jon Newcombe
10 Oct 2024, 10:46
England camp 'massively disruptive' to derby preparations
Northampton Director of Rugby Phil Dowson has spoken about how his team's preparations for this Saturday's huge East Midlands derb…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
10 Oct 2024, 12:45
Premiership hot-shot Josh Hodge: 'I thrive under pressure’
To some, seeing Josh Hodge’s name at the top of the Premiership’s goalkickers charts may come as a surprise. His 89% success r…
Jon Newcombe
12 Oct 2024, 3:00
The impressive stat that puts Eben Etzebeth on the verge of history
The formidable lock has barely missed a beat in his pursuit of Victor Matfield's all-time Springboks record of 127 caps.
Jon Newcombe
17 Sep 2024, 9:30
Historic weekend for Scotland in Women's Rankings
As a tangible sign of the continued progress made under head coach Bryan Easson and captain Rachel Malcolm, Scotland Women are now…
Jon Newcombe
15 Sep 2024, 12:09
Must-watch ‘Chasing the Sun 2’ available on RugbyPass TV from this Friday
The highly acclaimed five-part documentary Chasing the Sun 2 is free to watch on RugbyPass TV from Friday September 13th, at 12:30…
Jon Newcombe
11 Sep 2024, 9:14
Former Wales Sevens international handed USA debut
Ex-Ospreys wing Toby Fricker has been named at full-back for the US Eagles' Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup semi-final against…
Jon Newcombe
12 Sep 2024, 9:43
Gallagher extend Premiership Rugby title sponsorship
English rugby's top division will continue to be known as the Gallagher Premiership until at least 2028.
Jon Newcombe
12 Sep 2024, 3:42
Jean de Villiers' brave verdict on future Springbok captain
The question of who should replace Siya Kolisi was raised once again on this week’s episode of Boks Office.
Jon Newcombe
11 Sep 2024, 11:51
Doncaster set to announce Telusa Veainu signing
Doncaster Knights appear to have come to an agreement with Telusa Veainu after it looked as though the deal to take the Tongan int…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
09 Sep 2024, 11:08
Tonga player ratings vs Fiji | Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup
Tonga’s search for a first win in 2024 goes on as they succumbed to a 19-50 defeat at the hands of Fiji in the third round of th…
Opinion
Jon Newcombe
06 Sep 2024, 2:30
De Haas makes comeback as USA chase history
Scrum-half Ruben de Haas returns to the USA matchday 23 for the first time in just over a year as the Men's Eagles chase a first w…
Jon Newcombe
05 Sep 2024, 10:34
One significant change for Japan for USA challenge
Japan head coach Eddie Jones has turned to Takuya Yamasawa at full-back after naming an otherwise unchanged starting XV for the vi…
Jon Newcombe
05 Sep 2024, 10:00
It’s second chance Saturday for Ireland in men's world rankings
Neutral rugby fans will be hoping for a repeat of last weekend’s thriller in Johannesburg when South Africa and New Zealand rene…
Jon Newcombe
05 Sep 2024, 10:01
Andrew Mehrtens left in the dark after being 'ghosted' by ABs coach
Former New Zealand fly-half Andrew Mehrtens has added his voice to the debate about the circumstances around Leon MacDonald’s ab…
Jon Newcombe
03 Sep 2024, 13:00
Harlequins sign World Cup winger and double Olympian Rodrigo Isgro
Reigning World Rugby Men's Sevens Player of the Year Rodrigo Isgro has been signed by Harlequins ahead of the start of the 2024/25…
Jon Newcombe
03 Sep 2024, 5:00
Ampthill unveil Premiership and Champions Cup winner as first signing
Championship side Ampthill have unveiled former Saracens prop, Richard Barrington, as their first signing ahead of the start of th…
Jon Newcombe
02 Sep 2024, 11:29
37 of last season's Premiership players still have no new contract
Of the 185 players who left their top-flight clubs at the end of last season, 70 had no contract to move on to – a total slightl…
Jon Newcombe
01 Sep 2024, 7:00
Samoa player ratings vs Tonga | Pacific Nations Cup Round 2
Samoa extended their 44-year unbeaten home record against Tonga in Apia to 20 matches with a 43-17 win that keeps their hopes of a…
Opinion
Jon Newcombe
30 Aug 2024, 2:45
Samoa ring the changes for crunch Pacific Nations Cup match vs Tonga
Head coach Mahonri Schwalger has made six personnel changes and one positional to last weekend's starting XV as Samoa look to sign…
Jon Newcombe
29 Aug 2024, 9:43
Three debutants in Tonga pack for Samoa clash
Tonga has announced its team to face Samoa in the Pacific Nations Cup on Friday as the 'Ikale Tahi prepare to make their bow in th…
Jon Newcombe
29 Aug 2024, 9:01
At the double: McMullin twins join select group
Last Sunday’s return to BC Place in Vancouver after a five-year wait was largely a day to forget for Canada’s men’s team as …
Jon Newcombe
28 Aug 2024, 13:07
World Rankings: How Ireland can become number one
Ireland could return to the top of the world rankings just under a year since they last held the position without hitting a ruck i…
Jon Newcombe
28 Aug 2024, 6:32
Percy Montgomery’s big fear ahead of the Springboks vs the All Blacks
Springbok legend Percy Montgomery joins the Boks Office panel to discuss a week that has rocked the rugby coaching world.
Jon Newcombe
27 Aug 2024, 2:47
The Top 10 ‘value for money’ Gallagher Premiership matches revealed
With quick tap penalties rather than scrum re-sets set to become the norm and the Dupont Law banned, the Gallagher Premiership 202…
Jon Newcombe
26 Aug 2024, 9:44
Phil Greening lands top Japan job
A few days after announcing his departure from USA Rugby, the former England hooker has been named as Simon Amor's replacement as …
Jon Newcombe
26 Aug 2024, 6:58
Sam Underhill touch and go for start of Premiership season
The England and Bath flanker has undergone "a small ankle procedure" and is facing a race against time to be fit for the Premiersh…
Jon Newcombe
23 Aug 2024, 13:00
Samoa player ratings vs Fiji | Pacific Nations Cup Round 1
Samoa player ratings versus Fiji in the opening match of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2024, from HFC Bank Stadium in Su…
Jon Newcombe
23 Aug 2024, 4:46
Wales handed rankings hope this weekend
Given Wales have been the victims of two huge shock results at the hands of Samoa in Rugby World Cups, their supporters are hardly…
Jon Newcombe
22 Aug 2024, 10:04
Boks Office: Thoroughbred Savea has workhorses to thank for insane figures
Speaking on the latest episode of Boks Office ahead of the crunch Rugby Championship showdown with the world champion Springboks i…
Opinion
Jon Newcombe
21 Aug 2024, 14:30
Phil Greening leaves USA Rugby after "rollercoaster 10 years"
Former England hooker Phil Greening has joined Mike Friday in quitting America to "pursue other opportunities and experiences".
Jon Newcombe
21 Aug 2024, 12:57
East Midlands derby first TV pick in streamlined Premiership Cup
The 2024/25 Premiership Rugby Cup will feature 20 teams with at least one match per round televised live by TNT Sports.
Jon Newcombe
20 Aug 2024, 3:30
Is the Rugby World Cup 2027 the summit for Switzerland?
For a country dominated by the Alps, mountainous challenges are nothing new to Switzerland, who are scaling new heights
FEATURE
Jon Newcombe
18 Aug 2024, 6:13
Promotion hopefuls Doncaster miss out on Premiership target
Ambitious RFU Championship outfit Doncaster Knights have pulled off some impressive signings this summer but they have missed out …
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
19 Aug 2024, 8:32
Emerging nations boosted by new Rugby World Cup qualification process
World Rugby has confirmed the new qualification process for Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 that will increase preparation time and o…
Jon Newcombe
13 Aug 2024, 11:00
Evan Roos: It’s time for Boks to lay Brisbane bogey to rest
It might not quite the same fortress as New Zealand’s Eden Park but whatever it is, whether it is the climate or just the lay of…
Jon Newcombe
07 Aug 2024, 7:11
Former All Blacks and Wallaby one-cap forwards linked with country switch
Inspired by Zimbabwe’s recent Africa Cup win, more ex-pat pro rugby players look set to join former Western Force captain Ian Pr…
Jon Newcombe
06 Aug 2024, 13:30
Springbok captaincy question leaves Robbie Fleck flummoxed
Former Springbok Robbie Fleck believes Rassie Erasmus has a job on his hands picking a new captain.
Interview
Jon Newcombe
06 Aug 2024, 3:49
RFU sell naming rights to Twickenham Stadium
Twickenham Stadium has been renamed Allianz Stadium as part of a new long-term partnership with the German insurance firm.
Jon Newcombe
05 Aug 2024, 12:41
Championship World Cup star transfers to Moana Pasifika
Coventry Rugby have confirmed that Tonga international Pat Pellegrini has signed for Super Rugby outfit Moana Pasifika.
Jon Newcombe
03 Aug 2024, 3:48
Paul Gustard: Owen Farrell will be Top 14 'signing of the season'
Stade Francais defence coach Paul Gustard believes his new Paris neighbour Owen Farrell will “probably be the signing of the sea…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
03 Aug 2024, 3:25
Why November's game against Fiji is huge for Gregor Townsend
As Scotland's four-match tour of the Americas came to a close with a hard-fought 31-19 win over Uruguay in Montevideo last weekend…
Jon Newcombe
01 Aug 2024, 8:33
Georgia announce the arrival of two new coaches
Richard Cockerill has added former Premiership flanker Julian Salvi and ex-Canada international Dan Baugh to his Georgia coaching …
Jon Newcombe
31 Jul 2024, 13:46
Can Hugo Reus escape the curse of the 'Golden Boot'?
The World Rugby U20 Championship has a proven pedigree as a breeding ground for Test stars of the future, with close to 1,000 play…
Jon Newcombe
31 Jul 2024, 7:00
Alan Dickens: accepting Newcastle offer was "a no-brainer"
Alan Dickens will resume his Premiership career at Newcastle, having been appointed as senior coach of the Falcons.
Jon Newcombe
26 Jul 2024, 9:58
Brother of England international Curtis Langdon signs on at Saints
Nathan Langdon has signed on with Northampton Saints ahead of the 2024/25 season, linking up with his brother Curtis, who has prov…
Jon Newcombe
25 Jul 2024, 10:33
Bristol Bears add another Connacht connection to coaching team
Pat Lam's coaching team for the 2024/25 season is set to be finalised with the arrival of Dave Ellis as skills coach.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
24 Jul 2024, 6:59
Bath handed early revenge mission in Gallagher Premiership fixtures
The 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership season begins with a rerun of last year's classic final as champions Northampton take on beaten …
Jon Newcombe
23 Jul 2024, 3:30
Championship release schedule but with a Cup caveat
The Championship Rugby fixtures for the 2024/25 season were unveiled today but with no clarity about the make-up of the Cup compet…
Jon Newcombe
22 Jul 2024, 8:06
Greig Laidlaw lands top job in Japan
Former Scotland international Greig Laidlaw has been appointed head coach of newly-promoted Japanese outfit Urayasu D-Rocks for th…
Jon Newcombe
22 Jul 2024, 5:08
Scotland win promotion back to World Rugby U20 Championship
Scotland have secured promotion back to the World Rugby U20 Championship in 2025 after winning the second-tier U20 Trophy with a 4…
Jon Newcombe
17 Jul 2024, 16:49
Rhys Patchell reunited with Wayne Pivac in latest overseas adventure
Japanese second Division outfit NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu have announced the signing of fly-half Rhys Patchell.
Jon Newcombe
17 Jul 2024, 3:58
How Wales could be humbled again without even playing
Wales are probably sick of the sight of Australia by now following their 2-0 series defeat at the hands of the Wallabies, but thin…
Jon Newcombe
16 Jul 2024, 8:12
Scotland and USA through to U20 Trophy final
Scotland will play USA in the World Rugby U20 final on Wednesday after both teams topped their respective pools with wins over Jap…
Jon Newcombe
12 Jul 2024, 16:58
Doncaster confirm signing of ex-England winger Semesa Rokoduguni
Six weeks after RugbyPass first broke the news of his impending arrival, ambitious Championship side Doncaster Knights have today …
Jon Newcombe
11 Jul 2024, 14:32
'Challenges are there, they always have been for me' - Simon Mannix
Simon Mannix’s career as an international head coach gets underway for real this Saturday when Portugal take on Namibia in Windh…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
11 Jul 2024, 11:09
Andy Farrell to reach major milestone in Springbok rematch
Ever since Murray Kidd was abruptly removed from office and replaced by Brian Ashton, who came and went just 13 months into his si…
Jon Newcombe
10 Jul 2024, 7:55
Are the Springboks the new 'wide' boys of rugby?
One thing that is up for discussion in the next episode of Boks Office, available soon on RugbyPass TV, is how much width South Af…
Analysis
Jon Newcombe
09 Jul 2024, 13:07
Rampant Scotland hit another century in World Rugby U20 Trophy
Scotland racked up another century of points at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh as they cruised to a second bonus-point win of the World…
Jon Newcombe
07 Jul 2024, 16:54
‘I haven’t been as excited for a Test since I played’ – CJ Stander
As an Afrikaner by birth and a former Ireland international, CJ Stander is one of the few people to have a foot in both camps when…
Jon Newcombe
05 Jul 2024, 10:45
Antoine Frisch among eight France debutants
Fabien Galthié has selected an inexperienced matchday 23 for Saturday's match against Argentina in Mendoza, his 50th Test in char…
Jon Newcombe
05 Jul 2024, 5:41
Son of former RWC player handed Fiji debut
Fiji’s Kitione Salawa joins new Italian call-up Matt Gallagher as the son of a famous rugby-playing father making their Test deb…
Jon Newcombe
04 Jul 2024, 8:23
A game-changer and all-time greats: Brodie Retallick's Top 5 All Blacks
Over 1,200 players have played for the All Blacks since the New Zealand men's national team made their debut in the early 20th cen…
Jon Newcombe
04 Jul 2024, 6:25
Steve Boden back in rugby with Coventry
Coventry Rugby have further strengthened their coaching group with the appointment of Steve Boden as first team assistant and acad…
Jon Newcombe
03 Jul 2024, 8:00
'The Godfather of Bath Rugby' Jack Rowell dies, aged 87
Bath Rugby legend and former England coach Jack Rowell passed away on Monday at the age of 87.
Jon Newcombe
03 Jul 2024, 7:00
Records tumble as Scotland and Japan win big on day one of U20 Trophy
The opening day of the World Rugby U20 Trophy produced the two highest scores in the history of the competition, with hosts Scotla…
Jon Newcombe
02 Jul 2024, 15:16
Saracens finalise Harry Wilson signing
RFU Championship 2023/24 Dream Team forward Harry Wilson is on the verge of securing a move to Saracens.
Jon Newcombe
01 Jul 2024, 5:26
South Africa vs Ireland - the battle to be ranked number one
Ireland will replace South Africa as the number one ranked team in the world if they pull off a sensational win against the Spring…
Jon Newcombe
01 Jul 2024, 8:56
‘The most incredible half-time team talk I have ever heard’
Springbok centre Damian de Allende has revealed the surprise source of inspiration for South Africa’s Rugby World Cup win in 201…
Jon Newcombe
27 Jun 2024, 7:25
Are Ireland and Leinster the biggest chokers in world rugby?
In the latest episode of RPTV's Boks Office, Springbok legends Jean de Villiers and Schalk Burger discuss the mental barrier that …
Jon Newcombe
25 Jun 2024, 9:46
Bath confirm Stooke exit
Gallagher Premiership 2023/24 finalists Bath have confirmed that popular lock Elliott Stooke is leaving the club.
Jon Newcombe
25 Jun 2024, 6:59
Michael Leitch ready to lead Japan into another rugby ‘revolution’
Michael Leitch is looking forward to captaining Japan again and lead the Brace Blossoms into a new era of 'Chosoku' rugby, startin…
Jon Newcombe
21 Jun 2024, 10:47
South African rugby has a new Springbok-ready ‘beast’
Rampaging Bull Cameron Hanekom could have played himself into the Springbok team, according to South African rugby legends Jean de…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
20 Jun 2024, 5:30
Jack Crowley named URC Players’ Player of the Season
Munster Rugby’s Jack Crowley has been named the BKT United Rugby Championship's Players’ Player of the Season, capping off an …
Jon Newcombe
20 Jun 2024, 6:47
University student handed Japan Test debut vs England
Eddie Jones has selected a largely inexperienced squad for his first Test back as head coach of the Brave Blossoms, with rising st…
Jon Newcombe
20 Jun 2024, 4:33
Eddie Jones’ big Owen Farrell revelation
Ahead of his first Test back as Japan head coach, Eddie Jones explains how Owen Farrell could have ended up in Tokyo this weekend.
Interview
Jon Newcombe
19 Jun 2024, 13:05
Chandler Cunningham-South handed first Test start as England name team to play Japan
Harlequins flanker Chandler Cunningham-South will make his first Test start in Tokyo on Saturday after being named in the England …
Jon Newcombe
18 Jun 2024, 2:56
Son of Stuart Lancaster set to sign for Racing 92
Dan Lancaster and Sale Sharks legend Sam James will join the Paris outfit, pending a medical.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
18 Jun 2024, 14:56
England legend Dean Richards: 'I was wrong about Ben Earl'
Ben Earl has won over a sceptical Dean Richards with his form over the last 12 months, and the England legend couldn’t be happie…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
19 Jun 2024, 6:27
South Africa name two debutants vs Wales as Koch hits half-century
Uncapped backs, winger Edwill van der Merwe and fly-half Jordan Hendrikse, will make their Springbok debuts against Wales at Twick…
Jon Newcombe
18 Jun 2024, 8:43
Black Lion and Cheetahs back for more in EPCR Challenge Cup
EPCR have announced that Black Lion from Georgia and South Africa’s Toyota Cheetahs will continue their participation as invited…
Jon Newcombe
18 Jun 2024, 6:52
New docuseries provides fascinating insight into Japanese university rugby
Japan U, which launches on RPTV today (Monday June 17) follows the fortunes of the serial-winning Teikyo University rugby team as …
Jon Newcombe
17 Jun 2024, 7:00
Eddie Jones pinpoints the time it all went wrong with England
The former England boss lifts the lid on his time in charge in the next episode of RPTV's, Walk the Talk, out tomorrow.
Interview
Jon Newcombe
17 Jun 2024, 5:14
Against All Odds - No.1: Japan and the Miracle of Brighton
When Japan host England in Tokyo on Saturday June 22, which is live and exclusive on RugbyPass TV in the UK and Ireland, they will…
Opinion
Jon Newcombe
16 Jun 2024, 13:00
Ex-England full-back: ‘I nearly died on 1971 tour to Japan’
The first time an England XV played Japan on Japanese soil one of the players very nearly didn’t make it home alive.
Interview
Jon Newcombe
13 Jun 2024, 5:37
Premiership final attracts record audience share
Last weekend's Northampton vs Bath classic broke previous records for a Premiership Rugby match, with one in seven people watching…
Jon Newcombe
13 Jun 2024, 8:00
Ted Hill: 'You'll see the fight within us'
When Ted Hill was going through some dark times during his injury rehab he kept a journal to chronicle what he was going through. …
Interview
Jon Newcombe
07 Jun 2024, 4:00
Rosslyn Park University Sevens - 5 to Watch
On Friday, players from the top level of the student game get the chance to shine in front of the RugbyPass TV cameras as they loo…
Analysis
Jon Newcombe
06 Jun 2024, 13:05
Newcastle confirm Jack Metcalf signing
The former Sale Sharks utility back has agreed to join the Falcons on a one-year deal.
Jon Newcombe
06 Jun 2024, 6:28
Damian de Allende: South Africa vs Ireland will be 'like a war'
It's a battle – or in de Allende's mind more than a battle, "almost like a war" – between the back-to-back world champion Spri…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
05 Jun 2024, 10:41
Rugby family comes together to pay tribute to Rob Burrow
Premiership Rugby will unite with The Rugby Football League and pay tribute to Rob Burrow, who passed away this week, with a round…
Jon Newcombe
04 Jun 2024, 5:05
Championship-winning coach joins Japan coaching team
Dan Bowden has announced he has landed a job as attack coach with the Japan national team.
Jon Newcombe
04 Jun 2024, 0:54
Eddie Jones targets Rugby World Cup 2027 semi-finals
Eddie Jones has named 12 uncapped players in his first squad as he leads Japan into a new era.
Jon Newcombe
31 May 2024, 10:42
RugbyPass TV to broadcast Japan v England men’s Test in June
World Rugby and the RFU have announced that RugbyPass TV will be the FREE and exclusive destination for fans in the UK and Ireland…
Jon Newcombe
31 May 2024, 9:20
Versatile former Sale back signs for Newcastle
Jack Metcalf is set for a return to the Premiership next season after signing for the Falcons from Doncaster Knights.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
31 May 2024, 6:11
City fan Sam James aiming for a silver-lined send-off
Sale Sharks' long-serving back hopes to be celebrating another trophy win before his time in English rugby ends.
Interview
Jon Newcombe
30 May 2024, 6:18
‘We could have sold out The Rec a few times over’
Bath Head of Rugby Johann van Graan is in awe at the level of support his title-chasing team continues to receive.
Jon Newcombe
30 May 2024, 3:15
Doncaster in advanced talks with ex-England wing Semesa Rokoduguni
Rokoduguni was one of the deadliest wingers in the Gallagher Premiership for Bath before injuries blighted the end of his decade-l…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
28 May 2024, 12:20
Newcastle back finds new home in the Championship
Newcastle outside back George Wacokecoke has picked up a new club after being released by the Falcons, with Doncaster Knights set …
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
17 May 2024, 13:15
Exeter Chiefs forward Matt Postlethwaite forced to retire
Exeter Chiefs second-row Matt Postlethwaite has been forced to retire at the age of 27 on medical grounds.
Jon Newcombe
27 May 2024, 16:10
Ulster sign Billy Burns replacement from New Zealand
Ulster have confirmed the signing of Irish-qualified fly-half Aidan Morgan from the Hurricanes on a two-year deal.
Jon Newcombe
27 May 2024, 7:48
More contenders emerge for Juan Figallo role at Saracens
Saracens have confirmed club stalwart, Juan Figallo, is leaving at the end of the season with the interview process to find his re…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
25 May 2024, 3:55
Jimmy Gopperth: 500 games and another milestone to come?
Evergreen fly-half Jimmy Gopperth is still going strong as he approaches his 41st birthday, having clocked up his 500th profession…
Jon Newcombe
22 May 2024, 13:14
New Portugal boss confirms Samuel Marques’ return for Springboks tour
Simon Mannix has pulled off a masterstroke as new Portugal head coach before he has even properly started in the role by enticing …
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
22 May 2024, 6:41
Olympian McConnochie commits to Bath
Ruaridh McConnochie has renewed his contract with Bath Rugby, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2025.
Jon Newcombe
13 May 2024, 8:30
Coventry sign Welsh-qualified Will Rigg replacement
Coventry have added some more Tongan firepower to their squad for next season with the signature of Dafydd-Rhys Tiueti from Nottin…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
09 May 2024, 10:24
Cornish Pirates statement: Survival 'down to the RFU'
CORNISH Pirates majority shareholder and Life President Dicky Evans has warned the RFU that the future of professional rugby in th…
Jon Newcombe
03 May 2024, 7:03
Northampton issue injury update, react to Croke Park history talk
Croke Park was the location of the Bloody Sunday massacre in 1920 – when British forces opened fire and killed 14 people at a Ga…
Jon Newcombe
30 Apr 2024, 12:35
Sophie de Goede leads from the front in big win for Canada
Canada's captain Sophie de Goede scored twice in a 50-7 win against USA in the opening match of this year's World Rugby Pacific Fo…
Jon Newcombe
28 Apr 2024, 19:31
Danny Care: 'My old man texted I've played at Twickenham 90 times'
In the case of the hallowed turf of Twickenham Stadium, other than former long-standing RFU groundsman Keith Kent, no one knows wh…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
26 Apr 2024, 6:26
Charlie Ewels: 'That’s my role, to beat Maro in those little battles'
Now 29, the only way Ewels knew was the Bath way, whatever the Bath way was, as it had become increasingly difficult to fathom in …
Interview
Jon Newcombe
24 Apr 2024, 6:51
Double jeopardy for GB7s after SVNS Singapore draw
The draw for HSBC SVNS Singapore has put Great Britain's men's and women's teams in the same pool as their main rivals for a place…
Jon Newcombe
18 Apr 2024, 12:19
Laumape the latest ex-All Black to commit to Tonga
Assistant coach Nili Latu has revealed that former All Blacks star Ngani Laumape has made himself available to Tonga ahead of the …
Interview
Jon Newcombe
16 Apr 2024, 10:44
Will Skelton: 'I didn’t want the gig'
Australia’s reluctant Rugby World Cup 2023 captain gives his take on the Wallabies’ disastrous campaign in the first episode o…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
12 Apr 2024, 4:05
Rob Baxter: New World Club Cup could cripple clubs financially
Exeter Director of Rugby Rob Baxter insists that all the numbers must add up before the idea of a World Club Cup can be properly e…
Jon Newcombe
11 Apr 2024, 5:39
Bath celebrate heritage with unique player numbers
Bath Rugby have honoured each of the 2,952 players to have played a competitive fixture for the club since it was founded in 1865 …
Jon Newcombe
09 Apr 2024, 11:00
Cadan Murley: “It is a massive chance to make Harlequins history”
Facing Scottish opposition in the Champions Cup is almost as rare as Harlequins' presence in the latter stages of Europe’s premi…
Jon Newcombe
04 Apr 2024, 14:30
Lowe wary of Leicester’s Grand Slam deniers
James Lowe expects the ghosts of Ireland’s Grand Slam failure to be re-awoken by Leicester’s triumphant England contingent in …
Interview
Jon Newcombe
02 Apr 2024, 4:16
Manu Samoa appoint Mahonri Schwalger as their new head coach
The 45-year-old replaces Seilala Mapusua who has paid the price for what the Samoan Rugby Union feel was a disappointing Rugby Wor…
Jon Newcombe
31 Mar 2024, 4:32
Bath add Regan Grace to European roster; Sale re-sign WillGriff John
Regan Grace appears to be even closer to making his competitive debut for Bath after the winger was added to the high-flying Premi…
Jon Newcombe
28 Mar 2024, 10:15
Fijian legend Niko Matawalu signs for Caerphilly
Welsh National League side Caerphilly have announced the signing of Fijian legend Niko Matawalu as backs/attack coach for the 2024…
Jon Newcombe
28 Mar 2024, 3:22
Dean Richards set for return to rugby management
National 2 North outfit Tynedale have announced that Dean Richards will be part of an impressive coaching team for the 2024/25 sea…
Jon Newcombe
26 Mar 2024, 11:11
Poland part company with head coach Christian Hitt
Christian Hitt has lost his job as head coach of Poland after a winless campaign in the recently completed Rugby Europe Championsh…
Jon Newcombe
22 Mar 2024, 13:28
Rugby Europe Championship: Hugos bossing it for Portugal
Young half-backs, Hugo Camacho and Hugo Aubry, have played starring roles for Portugal in the 2024 Rugby Europe Championship and a…
Jon Newcombe
15 Mar 2024, 15:13
Richard Cockerill on Akaki Tabutsadze: 'He reminds me of Jonny May'
The Georgia head coach approaches Sunday's Rugby Europe Championship 2024 final against Portugal knowing he has two of the best fi…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
14 Mar 2024, 10:56
Second major SVNS head coach change as Blitzboks turn to legend
South Africa, winners of the Sevens World Series as recently as 2021, have changed their head coach with their future at the elite…
Jon Newcombe
13 Mar 2024, 17:10
Waisale Serevi: 'Without Hong Kong Sevens there would be no Olympic Sevens. It’s everything.'
This year’s Hong Kong Sevens (5-7 April) will be celebrating its 30th year in the iconic Hong Kong Stadium and looking forward t…
Jon Newcombe
12 Mar 2024, 4:00
Fiji win Oceania Rugby U20 Challenger
Fiji U20s completed a clean sweep of wins at the Oceania Rugby U20 Challenger with a 31-17 victory over Samoa U20s in the competit…
Jon Newcombe
06 Mar 2024, 7:17
Leonardo Ghiraldini: 'The supporters in Italy are unbelievable'
The 39-year-old former hooker from Padova was firmly established in Italy’s front row when they downed Ireland 22-15 in March 20…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
05 Mar 2024, 8:31
Ian McGeechan: Why saying yes to Doncaster took 'about five seconds'
While still heavily involved in the game through his media work, the Lions legend has not been actively involved at club level sin…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
02 Mar 2024, 4:21
Explained: The Finn Russell kicking masterclass for Scotland
An Opta RugbyHub graphic below shows that 15 attempts have been made – from both sides of the pitch and down the middle – and …
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
27 Feb 2024, 13:48
Mapusua faces uncertain future as Samoa start new coach search
The decision is believed to be based on results at Rugby World Cup 2023 and has been met with some surprise.
Jon Newcombe
20 Feb 2024, 3:05
The day England’s WAGS wound up the Scots
Scotland legend Iwan Tukalo recalls how the sight of England’s wives and girlfriends on the hallowed Murrayfield turf got the bl…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
18 Feb 2024, 5:45
Germany's all-time leading scorer retires and calls for franchise team
Raynor Parkinson, Germany’s all-time leading scorer, has retired from international rugby with a record that is unlikely to be b…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
13 Feb 2024, 2:37
Portugal's fallen heroes face very different reception
Within two weeks of Portugal’s superb Rugby World Cup campaign coming to a close, Appleton was back treating patients at his cli…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
04 Feb 2024, 6:30
Davidson: 'When comments land in your own personal inbox it is a shock'
The honour of blowing the first whistle in the men’s 2024 Rugby Europe Championship falls to Hollie Davidson, who hopes that the…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
01 Feb 2024, 10:42
Steve Diamond: ‘The league would be bolloxed with nine teams’
Speaking at his media unveiling on Wednesday ahead of his official start date next Monday as the Falcons’ consultant director of…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
31 Jan 2024, 9:46
Bristol swoop for Lovejoy Chawatama as Kyle Sinckler's replacement
Bears director of rugby Pat Lam had been keen on bringing Chawatama to Ashton Gate ever since the front-rower’s former club, Lon…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
30 Jan 2024, 11:05
Season is over for Jonny Hill; Sale also losing Manu Tuilagi battle
The out-of-favour England lock went down in the first half of the 37-24 loss which cost the Sharks their place in the round of 16.
Jon Newcombe
24 Jan 2024, 12:06
Richard Cockerill: 'No one can still tell me what a tier one team is'
Richard Cockerill smiles when he playfully points out that he is the only head coach that England and Georgia have ever had with a…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
19 Jan 2024, 3:28
Coach hints at what's next for Beno Obano after 'phenomenal' form
Bath Head of Rugby Johaan van Graan has hailed the “phenomenal” form of Beno Obano who is being backed to make his England ret…
Jon Newcombe
11 Jan 2024, 10:33
Will Stuart: 'The World Cup just gone was a missed opportunity'
The enormous tighthead has regrets from France but with managed game time and an injury-free run, is aiming to replace the great D…
FEATURE
Jon Newcombe
20 Dec 2023, 14:58
Saracens issue positive Ben Earl injury update
England could be set for a pre-Six Nations boost with the news from Saracens that Ben Earl is nearing a return to action sooner th…
Jon Newcombe
20 Dec 2023, 8:54
Double delight as Japan's men and women qualify for 2024 Olympics
A thrilling end to the Asia Rugby regional qualification tournaments sees both host nation teams secure their tickets to the Olymp…
Jon Newcombe
19 Nov 2023, 6:05
Ex-England skipper de Glanville takes up refereeing at the age of 55
While the younger breed of Bath fans are far more attuned to the achievements of his son Tom, who is fast earning himself a reputa…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
15 Nov 2023, 6:14
Harvey Biljon has found a new role after collapse of Jersey Reds
Former Jersey Reds’ director of rugby Harvey Biljon has taken up a short-term consultancy role with Rotherham Titans.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
16 Oct 2023, 14:44
Another English club go into administration
Jersey Reds, the winners of last year’s Championship, are set to enter administration.
Jon Newcombe
28 Sep 2023, 4:42
Kyle Eastmond is back in rugby union
Former dual code international Kyle Eastmond has begun his coaching journey in the RFU Championship with Jersey Reds.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
01 Sep 2023, 3:00
Sonatane Takulua: 'I didn't want to work there... I never thought I'd win 50 caps'
Sonatane Takulua went from unfulfilled meat plant worker to Tonga's first 50-cap player.
FEATURE
Jon Newcombe
08 Aug 2023, 4:38
The Scott Baldwin verdict on the intriguing Wales' hooker situation
Former Wales hooker Scott Baldwin believes Wales will have enough "dog" in them to do well at Rugby World Cup 2023.
Interview
Jon Newcombe
25 Jul 2023, 4:38
Fowkes leaves Ealing for Leicester Tigers
Former Wasps scrum coach Neil Fowkes is heading back to the Gallagher Premiership.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
30 Jun 2023, 5:54
Rebels cult hero to sign for Ealing Trailfinders
Melbourne Rebels ‘cult hero’ Richard Hardwick is the latest big name to be snapped up by monied Championship outfit Ealing Tra…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
19 Jun 2023, 16:02
'On paper, that is probably the strongest team we have put together'
Tonga captain Nili Latu says he is expecting “big things” from the ‘Ikale Tahi at Rugby World Cup 2023.
Jon Newcombe
15 Jun 2023, 10:18
Paolo Odogwu: 'The life was sucked out the room... it was wild'
After the shock of administration at Wasps, Paolo Odogwu has breached new frontiers with Stade Francais and the Italian national t…
FEATURE
Jon Newcombe
01 Jun 2023, 2:54
Who former Test centre Allen would select in England's midfield
England centre Anthony Allen believes the “door is open” for Dan Kelly to become Steve Borthwick’s midfield general for year…
Interview
Jon Newcombe
18 May 2023, 10:17
Miles Reid: 'It was probably one of the worst days I have ever had on a rugby pitch'
The swashbuckling No 8 has had his best season yet in Bath colours and after some crushing lows he senses a revival in the West Co…
FEATURE
Jon Newcombe
06 May 2023, 3:06
The Alan Gilpin verdict on new WXV clashing with the men's RWC
World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin believes there will be a positive knock-on effect from staging the inaugural edition of WXV at the sam…
Jon Newcombe
09 May 2023, 5:41
Exclusive: England to name John Mitchell as new women's head coach
John Mitchell is set to be unveiled as the new England women’s head coach following the departure of Simon Middleton. RugbyPass …
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
02 May 2023, 5:43
Payne to join Scarlets as coaching reshuffle continues
Former Ireland centre Jared Payne is set to join Scarlets as attack coach as part of a coaching reshuffle at the region.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
01 May 2023, 9:03
Newcastle to raid Coventry again for defence coach
Newcastle Falcons look set to continue their raid on Championship high-flyers Coventry with James Scaysbrook strongly tipped to be…
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
27 Apr 2023, 8:01
Dan Robson: 'It was a horrific thing that happened and I'm still scarred.'
After Wasps went bust, the 14-cap England scrum-half was forced to scramble for another club and he is flourishing with Pau at the…
FEATURE
Jon Newcombe
12 Apr 2023, 11:48
Deal agreed for Alex Codling to become the new Newcastle boss
Newcastle Falcons have moved swiftly to replace Dave Walder with the appointment of Alex Codling as the club’s new head coach.
Exclusive
Jon Newcombe
05 Apr 2023, 9:53
Fiji set to play France and England in pre-World Cup warm ups
Undercooked Fiji have put together an extensive fixture list in a bid to ensure they are match ready for Rugby World Cup 2023.
Jon Newcombe
14 Mar 2023, 22:00
