Saracens player ratings vs Leicester | Gallagher Premiership final
Saracens player ratings live from Twickenham: All week the vibe had been that Mark McCall’s Saracens were on the verge of Gallag…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
18 Jun 2022, 13:00
Contributors
Liam Heagney
@heagneyl
A seasoned rugby journalist, Liam hails from Limerick and has covered World Cups, Lions tours, Six Nations Championships and European Cup campaigns since 2000. He became a content editor at RugbyPass in 2019 after joining from the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday in Ireland.
Last-gasp Burns drop goal wins Leicester the Premiership title
Whatever way it panned out, English rugby was going to have its headline story coming out of Twickenham on Saturday... and it went…
Liam Heagney
18 Jun 2022, 11:48
'He was almost like a second dad, middle of the night phone calls'
Recalled England scrum-half Danny Care has reflected on his early years at Harlequins, recalling how the London club quickly convi…
Liam Heagney
18 Jun 2022, 5:06
'We got all the heat': Saracens recall humiliating loss at Pirates
Saturday in front of a packed house at Twickenham with the Premiership title up for grabs will be quite the contrast for Saracens …
Liam Heagney
18 Jun 2022, 4:13
'I'm not bothered, I'm not after praise from people I don't know'
Being Owen Farrell, the Saracens and England captain, can’t be an easy gig with so much attention focused on everything that you…
Interview
Liam Heagney
18 Jun 2022, 3:36
The 'dark conversations' that jolted Koch into action at Saracens
Springboks World Cup winner Vincent Koch is looking to sign off on his six-year stint at Saracens with another Gallagher Premiersh…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun 2022, 11:59
'I'm biased... but Billy has been outstanding for Saracens'
Mako Vunipola has hailed the efforts of his younger brother Billy to impress this season at Saracens and remind Eddie Jones that h…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun 2022, 10:26
Wasps' request for £13m public money bail-out fires up Twitter
Wasps have encountered heavy criticism online after it emerged they have asked the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) for £1…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun 2022, 8:37
Danny Care makes the bench as England name team for the Barbarians
Danny Care is poised to complete his shock England comeback after being named on the bench for Sunday’s non-cap international ag…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun 2022, 7:30
Saracens make one change as they name team for Premiership final
Saracens boss Mark McCall has made one change team for Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership final following last weekend’s impress…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun 2022, 7:11
'Freak': Skelton names toughest team and best player he has faced
Barbarians lock Will Skelton has revealed the team that he finds the toughest to play against and the best player he has ever face…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun 2022, 5:35
The England verdict on Schickerling, their Namibian-born tighthead
England forwards coach Richard Cockerill has given his verdict on Patrick Schickerling, the 23-year-old uncapped Namibian-born tig…
Liam Heagney
17 Jun 2022, 4:59
'I was sold the dream by Venter, he could sell anything to anyone'
Charlie Hodgson has never forgotten the first impression Brendan Venter made when courting him to sign for Saracens. The seasoned …
Interview
Liam Heagney
16 Jun 2022, 13:00
Barbarians name a star-studded Top 14 XV to face England on Sunday
Fabien Galthie has named a star-studded Barbarians team skippered by Charles Ollivon to take on England this Sunday at Twickenham.…
Liam Heagney
16 Jun 2022, 12:00
'First time I got hungover, Schalk Burger fed me pints all night'
Barbarians lock Will Skelton has recounted the first time that he wound up hungover following a night out with Saracens that ended…
Liam Heagney
16 Jun 2022, 7:37
World Rugby statement: TMO to be given 'greater scope' from July 1
Quicker, accurate decision-making is the rationale behind trial amendments to the Television Match Official (TMO) protocol announc…
Liam Heagney
16 Jun 2022, 6:27
'It makes me laugh actually': The backs chat that amuses Vunipola
England and Saracens front-rower Mako Vunipola has taken a tongue-in-cheek swipe at moaning backs. The prop is preparing to play i…
Liam Heagney
16 Jun 2022, 5:28
Saracens face 'forensic' financial audit if crowned Prem champions
Following the implementation of toughened-up salary cap regulations after the Lord Myners review, Saracens will face an extended f…
Liam Heagney
16 Jun 2022, 3:53
'Real step forward': Premiership publishes 20/21 salary cap report
New Premiership Rugby CEO Simon Massie-Taylor has insisted the strengthened salary cap is fit for purpose now that the league’s …
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 17:10
Breaking: The 2020/21 Premiership salary cap report by numbers
Premiership Rugby's salary cap report has confirmed that the average income of a player in the English top-flight with over 50 int…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 17:00
'He's dropped in very easily': The England verdict on Care return
Richard Cockerill has explained how well veteran scrum-half Danny Care has fitted into the England squad this week following his s…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 8:46
'This is a brilliant move': London Irish sign Italy's Luca Morisi
London Irish have bolstered their ranks with the signing of another Italian international, this time midfielder Luca Morisi from B…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 8:00
Harlequins confirm seven exits, including their ex-NFL recruit
Beaten in last Saturday’s Gallager Premiership semi-final by Saracens, 2021 champions Harlequins have confirmed the names of the…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 7:23
Banned Robinson explains his 'hung me out to dry' tackle on Biggar
One-time England prospect Sean Robinson has suffered a double punishment for his red-carded tackle on Wales out-half Dan Biggar du…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 6:48
'Welcome': Pro D2 club confirms signing of Scotland forward Harley
Record Glasgow appearances holder Rob Harley has secured himself a two-year deal to extend his career in France.
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 5:18
Why Itoje wouldn't oppose moving Premiership final from Twickenham
Saracens and England talisman Maro Itoje would have no problem with the Gallagher Premiership final being played away from Twicken…
Liam Heagney
15 Jun 2022, 3:36
'I'd very little reservations about staying, I knew we'd be back'
Maro Itoje has explained he never doubted that Saracens would be back in the big time, that days such as this Saturday’s Gallagh…
Liam Heagney
14 Jun 2022, 17:00
'That's a mouthful but I'm pleased there is now clarity'
Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has finally explained why injured Springboks Cobus Reinach and Johan Goosen have stayed with the …
Liam Heagney
14 Jun 2022, 11:38
Revealed: 'Wicked' pub meeting put Saracens on road to Prem final
England international Elliot Daly has described how a pub meeting became the catalyst for Saracens to begin the remarkable journey…
Liam Heagney
14 Jun 2022, 10:17
'We don't shy away from it, there's no awkwardness'
Rival internationals Elliot Daly and Nick Tompkins have explained why they are currently making such a consistently potent midfiel…
Liam Heagney
14 Jun 2022, 7:51
Leinster raid Crusaders to source a replacement for Contepomi
Leinster have announced a replacement for departing assistant coach Felipe Contepomi, signing another former player of theirs, And…
Liam Heagney
14 Jun 2022, 4:58
'I will always be very grateful to him for opening the door'
It’s crazy how it has all worked out so successfully for Mike Prendergast in France. When the ex-Munster scrum-half took the plu…
Interview
Liam Heagney
12 Jun 2022, 4:30
'Guys must understand it's a proper bloody challenge for us now'
The world was a very different place when Leo Cullen last pulled up a chair and shared his thoughts after a Leinster URC semi-fina…
Liam Heagney
11 Jun 2022, 6:55
'La Rochelle's pack is 1,000kgs, so I learned a lot of things'
Jake White was keen to emphasise how one swallow doesn’t make a summer, that a URC semi-final win over Leinster can’t be the b…
Liam Heagney
11 Jun 2022, 5:11
'It's a proper rivalry, I'd say there is as close to hatred there'
Jamie George can’t wait to get stuck into Harlequins on Saturday when Saracens renew their feisty relationship with their fierce…
Liam Heagney
11 Jun 2022, 3:51
Leinster player ratings vs Bulls | URC semi-final
Leinster player ratings live from The RDS: Exeter boss Rob Baxter sprung to mind in the closing minutes of this shock URC semi-fin…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
11 Jun 2022, 3:40
Massive shock in Dublin as Bulls dethrone URC champions Leinster
Defending champions Leinster were dramatically knocked out of the United Rugby Championship courtesy of a brilliant Bulls ambush i…
Liam Heagney
10 Jun 2022, 16:38
'Ambition was to stick two fingers up to everyone critical of us'
Dean Ryan, Rob Andrew and Tony Underwood have delivered a compelling insight into how Newcastle Falcons made history 24 years ago …
Liam Heagney
10 Jun 2022, 14:14
'You destroy young people when you give them false hope'
Soon-to-depart Northampton boss Chris Boyd has taken a potshot at Eddie Jones’ penchant for calling up-and-coming prospects into…
Liam Heagney
10 Jun 2022, 12:44
The rival Premiership player that has most impressed Mark McCall
Title-chasing Saracens boss Mark McCall has named a Leicester Tigers forward as the rival club player that has impressed him most …
Liam Heagney
10 Jun 2022, 11:35
Saracens change 13 and Harlequins two as semi-final teams named
Saracens have made 13 changes to their XV for this Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership semi-final at home to defending champions Ha…
Liam Heagney
10 Jun 2022, 7:25
'A no-brainer to extend': Arundell agrees to new London Irish deal
Teen sensation Henry Arundell has committed to an unspecified length, long-term contract at London Irish.
Liam Heagney
10 Jun 2022, 5:20
'I was very close to going out to the real world, then Chris came'
Lewis Ludlam will never forget the inspiration that soon-to-depart Northampton boss Chris Boyd wielded when the pair first talked …
Interview
Liam Heagney
10 Jun 2022, 4:10
'Leicester, heads down, can absolutely annihilate Northampton'
World Cup winner Lewis Moody has made a smashing promise to himself about Leicester: if the Tigers defeat Northampton on Saturday …
Interview
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 11:36
'He'll light up the attack': Barbarians name Ollivon as skipper
France captain Charles Ollivon will lead the Barbarians in their non-cap international against England at Twickenham on Sunday wee…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 9:53
Sexton only makes bench as Leinster change just two for semi-final
Defending champions Leinster have made just two changes to their XV for this Friday’s URC semi-final at home to the Bulls, Leo C…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 8:33
'Real power': Saracens sign an Italian-based Argentine tighthead
Saracens have momentarily turned away from the buildup to Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership semi-final versus title holders Harle…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 7:30
'I remain furious with the organisers': Toulouse hit out at EPCR
Toulouse took part last month in their fourth successive Heineken Champions Cup semi-final, but the French giants remain furious w…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 6:09
A mind coach is one of four new appointments unveiled at Bath
Incoming head of rugby Johann van Graan has kickstarted his new reign at Bath by unveiling the appointment of four experienced pro…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 5:44
'Can't wait to kick on': England pick Joseph signs Irish contract
New England squad call up Will Joseph has signed a new contract at London Irish, ending speculation that he would look to progress…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 5:22
Springboks: 'The other big thing that we would like to achieve'
Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has identified the two major growth areas for his team in 2022. The South African squad has assem…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 4:38
Gustard breaks quit silence after Benetton appoint ex-Exeter coach
Ex-England assistant Paul Gustard has broken his silence over his decision to quit Benetton, the Italian URC franchise who have ap…
Liam Heagney
09 Jun 2022, 4:00
Springboks explain Jantjies' selection despite last month's arrest
Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has explained why he has stood by Elton Jantjies despite the arrest last month of the NTT Docomo …
Liam Heagney
08 Jun 2022, 10:49
Springboks' Welsh discovery after 'a proper Six Nations analysis'
Jacques Nienaber has insisted he hasn’t bought into the doom and gloom currently surrounding the soon-to-tour Wales team, the Sp…
Liam Heagney
08 Jun 2022, 9:03
Row over Fijian wing's contract dents Pro D2 playoff preparations
Mont-de-Marsan preparations for this weekend’s relegation/promotion final at home to Perpignan have been clouded by long-serving…
Liam Heagney
08 Jun 2022, 7:17
'I've unfinished business': Mark Wilson becomes a Newcastle coach
Recently-retired England back-rower Mark Wilson is back in rugby after agreeing to become a coach at Newcastle under Dave Walder, …
Liam Heagney
08 Jun 2022, 6:39
No Hogg or Russell as Scotland name their 40-man summer tour squad
Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has included six uncapped players in a Grant Gilchrist-captained 40-man squad for the summer tour to…
Liam Heagney
08 Jun 2022, 6:12
Biarritz sign Tomane, confirm Cronin for Leicester among 19 exits
Relegated Biarritz have confirmed the signing of former Wallabies midfielder Joe Tomane just a day after the club named the 19 pla…
Liam Heagney
08 Jun 2022, 5:18
Confirmed: Gustard for Stade along with 8 players including Parra
Ex-England assistant and former Harlequins boss Paul Gustard has been confirmed as a new assistant coach at Stade Francais, the Fr…
Liam Heagney
08 Jun 2022, 4:41
Toulon unveil ex-referee Poite as their latest new signing
Toulon have unveiled ex-referee Romain Poite as their latest new signing for the 2022/23 season. The club’s push to make this se…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 13:55
Matt Giteau's Giltinis the latest team disqualified by the MLR
Major League Rugby has been rocked by a second disqualification inside a week, the LA Giltinis joining Austin Gilgronis in getting…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 12:54
Sinckler ignites Twitter debate with 'worrying times ahead' tweet
England prop Kyle Sinckler has ignited a debate on social media after tweeting on Tuesday afternoon about his concerns that upward…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 12:24
'He now knows, especially having seen people like Jack Nowell'
Incoming Northampton director of rugby Phil Dowson has hailed the rapid progress of rookie winger Tommy Freeman. Restored to full …
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 11:40
'I will make sure that I will never let that happen again'
Saracens’ Jamie George has shed some light on why things didn’t work out for him in the second half of 2021, the hooker slippi…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 10:42
Uncapped Saracens prop Wainwright called up to tour by Wales
Wayne Pivac has announced a change to his Wales squad ahead of next month’s three-Test series away to South Africa, the coach na…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 10:26
Esterhuizen explains why Care should be back with England ASAP
Andre Esterhuizen has backed calls for Danny Care, his on-fire Harlequins colleague, to be recalled to the England set-up by Eddie…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 9:12
South Africa dominate URC dream team XV with 10 players picked
Three clubs from South Africa have provided ten picks in a URC dream team XV padded out by five more players from three of the Iri…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 8:44
Saracens issue Michael Jordan-like Farrell warning to Harlequins
Saracens hooker Jamie George has issued a warning to Harlequins, claiming that skipper Owen Farrell has been wielding an intense M…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 8:00
'Looking good': Esterhuizen on Springboks recall and Owen Farrell
Harlequins midfielder Andre Esterhuizen has spoken about his chances of a Springboks recall this month and about this weekend’s …
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 6:22
Paul Gustard to be unveiled at Stade Francais on Tuesday - report
Ex-England defence coach Paul Gustard is reportedly in France ahead of his likely Tuesday unveiling as a new Stade Francais assist…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 5:25
'It gave us a Caucaunibuca': Biarritz in dark over AWOL Kuridrani
Relegated Biarritz have admitted they are in the dark as to the whereabouts of former Wallabies midfielder Tevita Kuridrani, who m…
Liam Heagney
07 Jun 2022, 4:50
'I was so not shocked. Shocked is not the right word'
Dillyn Leyds can’t quite believe that La Rochelle had to call a stop in midweek to the incredible celebrations ignited by last w…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Jun 2022, 5:23
'I rather the regulation bent or manipulated than a broken neck'
Worcester boss Steve Diamond has shared his latest thoughts on the Gallagher Premiership cancellation controversy with Gloucester,…
Liam Heagney
05 Jun 2022, 4:05
'It takes a bit to get used to new norm of playing rugby in June'
Leo Cullen has played down the significance of Leinster hammering Glasgow in the URC quarter-finals at the RDS, the Irish province…
Liam Heagney
04 Jun 2022, 13:39
Glasgow humiliated by Leinster in a 76-point, 12-try URC mauling
A fifth European star eluded Leinster with last week’s Heineken Champions Cup showcase showpiece final defeat to La Rochelle in …
Liam Heagney
04 Jun 2022, 12:07
Ex-England player argues Simmonds could be alternative to Tuilagi
Ex-England international Austin Healey has floated a radical tactic involving Sam Simmonds so that Eddie Jones can have a reliable…
Liam Heagney
04 Jun 2022, 8:55
'I was probably a bit more anxious then, a little bit more nervous'
Dean Richards has claimed he is stepping away from front-line rugby a mellower character at the age of 58 than what he was like wh…
Liam Heagney
04 Jun 2022, 6:42
'I'd two or three offers abroad but I've unfinished Prem business'
Steve Diamond believes the eleven months he spent away from rugby after quitting as Sale boss have him primed to be a long-term su…
Liam Heagney
04 Jun 2022, 6:05
'There's an argument I might not be talented enough in this role'
Alex Sanderson hasn’t shied away from the criticism that Sale have not delivered on their full potential this season, finding th…
Liam Heagney
04 Jun 2022, 4:17
'It was hell for teams to play at Sandy Park, that has ebbed away'
Rob Baxter has recognised that Exeter need to tweak their mindset and remember that their best seasons are built on them being hor…
Liam Heagney
04 Jun 2022, 4:12
'I'm a huge believer that the league table doesn't lie'
Rob Baxter has drawn a line under the 2021/22 season at Exeter, accepting that his Chiefs weren't good enough to be a top-four tea…
Liam Heagney
03 Jun 2022, 12:15
Leicester get most picks in Greenwood's Premiership XV of the year
Leicester, Saracens and Harlequins are the dominant contributors in the Gallagher Premiership team of the season named by retired …
Liam Heagney
03 Jun 2022, 9:31
No Johnny Sexton as Leinster change seven for visit of Glasgow
Ireland skipper Johnny Sexton is among the absentees after Leinster decided to make seven changes for Saturday’s URC quarter-fin…
Liam Heagney
03 Jun 2022, 8:07
Obano starts first game in 7 months as Bath, Worcester name teams
Fit-again England prop Beno Obano will start his first game in just over seven months when Bath take on Worcester Warriors in thei…
Liam Heagney
03 Jun 2022, 7:40
'Chip on shoulder leaving Ulster motivates me in darkest times'
Long-serving Worcester hooker Niall Annett has given himself a career pat on the back ahead of his final match for the Gallagher P…
Interview
Liam Heagney
03 Jun 2022, 4:11
'You always have an interest, particularly ones like Denny'
Sale boss Alex Sanderson will keep a Saturday morning eye on how the club’s ex-winger Denny Solomona will fare with the Highland…
Liam Heagney
03 Jun 2022, 3:24
'Size 15 feet, I don't need to grow more. Hopefully, I've stopped'
England prospect Joe Heyes reckons he has now filled out as best he can and is ready to accelerate his promising career with his c…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 11:08
'Haven't got that right': Richards names rugby's biggest problem
Ahead of his final game as the Newcastle director of rugby after a decade in charge at Kingston Park, Dean Richards has named what…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 9:45
'We wouldn't be going down if there was relegation, not a chance'
Steve Diamond has insisted that if there was relegation in place at the end of the current 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership season, t…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 9:05
Sale statement: Manu Tuilagi to miss England tour to Australia
Sale have confirmed that Manu Tuilagi won’t be touring Australia with England in July despite recent projections that he was on …
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 6:16
'Reckless from my old mate, Eben, you could see it was head loss'
RugbyPass Offload duo Ryan Wilson and Max Lahiff have become the latest to pass judgement on the massively debated Eben Etzebeth r…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 5:54
Season potentially over for ex-ABs prop Faumuina after Top 14 ban
Ex-All Blacks prop Charlie Faumuina is poised to miss the remainder of the 2021/22 season in France unless defending champions Tou…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 5:07
'First of its kind in SA': Erasmus visits black coaches initiative
Springboks director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has hailed a new initiative that is fast-tracking the development of elite black rugby…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 4:34
EPCR statement: Cheetahs included as 5 SA clubs get European entry
Five South African teams - including the Cheetahs - will participate in next season’s European tournaments after organisers EPCR…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 3:59
'He sees any mistake as a learning as opposed to a loss of face'
Saracens assistant Kevin Sorrell has explained why unheralded signing Theo McFarland has become such a success for the title-chasi…
Liam Heagney
02 Jun 2022, 3:34
Mathieu Bastareaud posts his Lyon exit message on social media
Former France midfielder Mathieu Bastareaud has taken to social media to confirm that he will leave Lyon at the end of the current…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 14:54
Richards rues 'incredibly loyal servant' not getting England cap
Ahead of his last game as Newcastle director of rugby, England Test selection was one topic Dean Richards touched on when reflecti…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 14:14
'Time's right to move back home': O'Brien becomes a Leinster coach
Recently retired Sean O’Brien has finally made up his mind and confirmed his next move will be joining Leinster as their new con…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 8:26
Ospreys confirm six players leaving along with assistant James
Toby Booth has confirmed that six players are leaving the Ospreys along with assistant coach Brock James now that their 2021/22 ca…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 8:08
'He won't leave as big a hole as he would have done a year ago'
Rob Baxter has farewelled Jonny Hill as an Exeter player by suggesting the departure of the England lock to Sale this summer won�…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 7:43
Test exile over for Creevy as Cheika names first Argentina squad
Veteran Agustin Creevy has had his wish granted regarding a Test level recall as new Argentina coach Michael Cheika. The 37-year-o…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 6:35
Confirmed: The identity of Japanese club Faf de Klerk is joining
Ahead of his final match for Sale in the Premiership, the identity of the Japanese club that Faf de Klerk is joining has been conf…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 5:58
'I'm changing my tune on refs, I got offered a gig to become TMO'
Ex-England international Andy Goode has claimed that referees should be centrally contracted by World Rugby after he socialised wi…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 4:13
Surgeon's latest advice for 'a freak of nature, Ollie Lawrence'
Worcester have confirmed the season is over for Ollie Lawrence but they insist they have a handle on the calf injury that has plag…
Liam Heagney
01 Jun 2022, 3:41
'I know why they're leaving and can't disagree with their motives'
Alex Sanderson has farewelled Springboks duo Faf de Klerk and Lood de Jager ahead of their final appearance for Sale this Saturday…
Liam Heagney
31 May 2022, 12:32
Woodward heads list as Gloucester confirm three players leaving
Gloucester have announced that three players - including Jason Woodward - will leave Kingsholm at the end of the 2021/22 season.
Liam Heagney
31 May 2022, 10:52
'He's pretty unique in terms of his skill set for loosehead prop'
Saracens have explained how chuffed they have been with the input of Mako Vunipola, outlining he adopted an Owen Farrell-like coac…
Liam Heagney
31 May 2022, 10:25
'I'm not signing him... you need lads who are hard cases'
Worcester boss Steve Diamond has dismissed speculation that they are in the market to sign Fijian lock Leone Nakarawa, revealing i…
Liam Heagney
31 May 2022, 8:05
'Stop talking about corporate reasons why we can't do relegation'
Ex-England international out-half Stuart Barnes has taken a pop at millionaires club owners in the relegation-free Gallagher Premi…
Liam Heagney
31 May 2022, 5:04
Leinster player ratings vs La Rochelle | Champions Cup final
Leinster player ratings: A nail-biting Heineken Champions Cup final that went down to the wire in Marseille was dramatically tippe…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 14:57
Video: The Eben Etzebeth ruck clearout that has fired-up Twitter
There was no denying that Lyon were deserving winners in Friday night’s European Challenge Cup final, defeating Toulon 30-12 at …
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 8:34
Ex-England international delivers a damning Ed Griffiths verdict
An ex-England international hopes that last Wednesday’s exit from Bath of Ed Griffiths will be the last time that the administra…
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 7:44
'Fearns is in the middle laying people out like Neo in The Matrix'
Ex-England lock Dave Attwood has named Carl Fearns, his former Bath teammate, as the hardest player he has ever come up against. T…
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 6:09
The 'throwing blind' KBA warning O'Driscoll has about La Rochelle
Brian O’Driscoll has given his take on KBA - Keep Ball Alive - and how it will influence La Rochelle versus Leinster on Saturday…
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 5:43
Jersey retain 10 backs but Ryan Olowofela is one of five leavers
Ambitious Championship club Jersey have unveiled its latest 2022/23 squad announcement, confirming that ten of its backline from 2…
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 5:19
'Bit like Football Factory, he was shouting abuse and running away'
Dave Attwood has likened the crazy 2013 night that resulted in Gavin Henson getting knocked out in a Bath bar by Carl Fearns as an…
Liam Heagney
28 May 2022, 4:34
England international tackles rumour he has asked to quit Bath
England international Ben Spencer has taken to Twitter to respond to speculation that he asked to be released from his Bath contra…
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 12:27
Sale statement: Simon Hammersley to retire from rugby aged 29
Sale full-back Simon Hammersley has announced that he will retire from playing at the age of 29 and pursue a career away from rugb…
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 9:42
World Rugby statement: Spain appeal 2023 RWC disqualification
Spain have launched an appeal against the decision that has seen them thrown out of the 2023 Rugby World Cup where they had qualif…
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 9:21
It's Furlong in, Vito out as Leinster and La Rochelle name teams
Leinster have named an entirely unchanged matchday 23 for Saturday’s Heineken Champions Cup final in Marseille after recent knoc…
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 7:17
'Best days are ahead of him': Saracens unveil replacement for Koch
Saracens have announced that Christian Judge will re-join the club after signing a two-year deal to return to StoneX Stadium.
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 6:36
Defence coach Mouneimne becomes the latest casualty at Bristol
Defence coach Omar Mouneimne has paid the price for this season’s downturn at Bristol, the assistant exiting the Gallagher Premi…
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 6:11
'I played rugby a year ago, I couldn't walk for three weeks after'
Nathan Hines will be glued to the TV this Saturday in Manchester, watching from afar as his old club Leinster goes in search of it…
Interview
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 5:22
'I absolutely don't blame him for wanting to f*** off and go back'
Ex-England lock Dave Attwood has provided a compelling take on the failed Sam Burgess experiment in rugby union. The rugby league …
Interview
Liam Heagney
27 May 2022, 4:23
O'Driscoll's 'generous bookies' Champions Cup final prediction
Brian O’Driscoll has made his prediction for this Saturday’s Heineken Champions Cup final featuring his old club Leinster in a…
Interview
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 11:56
2017 Lions prop McGrath is one of five players let go by Ulster
Former Ireland and Lions prop Jack McGrath is the headline name in the five-strong list of players that are leaving Ulster at the …
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 11:12
'That's bollocks': Jono Ross banned after his latest yellow card
Jono Ross has had his season ended early at Sale as he was banned for one match following the accumulation of three yellow cards o…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 10:41
'A human being just like me': Kpoku savours Etzebeth head to head
One-time England prospect Joel Kpoku can’t wait to tackle Springboks talisman Eben Etzebeth when their paths cross in this Frida…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 8:37
Ealing statement: Club signs 'exceptional professional' Holmes
Out-of-favour Wales international Jonah Holmes has joined English Championship side Ealing, calling time on his stint at Dragons i…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 7:59
Kolbe recalled to start as Toulon and Lyon name cup final teams
World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe has recovered from a broken thumb to take his place in the Toulon team for Friday’s European Chal…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 7:38
Dave Attwood explains why Owen Farrell 'hates me with a passion'
Ex-England lock Dave Attwood has explained why Owen Farrell is the player who most winds him up on the rugby pitch. The pair were …
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 6:56
Twitter reaction to Bath included deleted tweet by England player
Wednesday afternoon’s confirmation that Bath have undergone yet another restructure involving Stuart Hooper and Ed Griffiths gen…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 5:09
'That's where he excels': Why Gibson-Park is no longer just a sub
It’s weird how regular replacement Jamison Gibson-Park has suddenly become one of the most influential players in the Leinster t…
Liam Heagney
26 May 2022, 4:12
How 'unique nanoseconds combination' has transformed Johnny Sexton
Brian O’Driscoll has hailed the “unique” way that veteran Johnny Sexton is currently playing the game and making himself ind…
Liam Heagney
25 May 2022, 12:35
Three latest Ealing signings include a Super Rugby Pacific flanker
Championship champions Ealing have unveiled a Super Rugby Pacific flanker and two recent Premiership players as new signings for 2…
Liam Heagney
25 May 2022, 12:23
Bath change it up again, altering Hooper role and axing Griffiths
Gallagher Premiership strugglers Bath have rolled out yet more alterations to its management, giving incoming head coach Johann va…
Liam Heagney
25 May 2022, 10:49
The Andy Goode 'no in-between' theory on Wasps' inconsistencies
Ex-England international Andy Goode has shared his thoughts on why his former club Wasps are languishing in ninth place in the Gal…
Liam Heagney
25 May 2022, 6:09
The O'Gara verdict: Even 'touchline bickering' impresses O'Driscoll
Leinster boss Leo Cullen had better watch out in Marseille on Saturday as the legendary Brian O’Driscoll has warned that the Ron…
Liam Heagney
24 May 2022, 13:05
Cannon and Walker in the group of nine players released by Ealing
Ex-Wasps stalwart James Cannon and former Harlequins winger Charlie Walker are among the group of nine players leaving Championshi…
Liam Heagney
24 May 2022, 11:29
'He's quality, a gem, everything that Saracens want as a player'
Ex-Saracens second row Jim Hamilton has sung the praises of new club recruit Theo McFarland, who capped the 23rd appearance of his…
Liam Heagney
24 May 2022, 10:36
Son of ex-England boss Lancaster leaves Leicester for Championship
Leinster taking on La Rochelle in this Saturday’s Heineken Champions Cup final isn’t the only big news surrounding Stuart Lanc…
Liam Heagney
24 May 2022, 7:28
'We withdrew report': Row diffused over 14-second Toulouse gaffe
A row over Toulouse playing 14 seconds of a Top 14 match with an extra player has been diffused after Brive withdrew its report on…
Liam Heagney
24 May 2022, 7:05
The current Leinster player O'Driscoll would most like to play with
Brian O’Driscoll has named the current Leinster player he would most have loved to have played with during his own career. The L…
Liam Heagney
24 May 2022, 6:11
Why O'Driscoll prefers 'worthy' O'Brien to the 'X-factor' Larmour
Leinster legend Brian O’Driscoll believes Leo Cullen will stick with Jimmy O’Brien to start on the wing in this Saturday’s H…
Liam Heagney
23 May 2022, 12:30
The 'sweet spot' Sale hope to hit loaning out their young players
Sale Sharks will look to strengthen their fledgling relationship with Caldy after the Wirral outfit won promotion to the Champions…
Liam Heagney
22 May 2022, 5:46
Caelan Doris on how Leinster are meeting physical force with smarts
Just a few days after their Heineken Champions Cup semi-final win over Toulouse, Caelan Doris was shedding light on the level of L…
Interview
Liam Heagney
22 May 2022, 5:00
'I was kind of lost in the rugby world, my name had gone quiet'
Joel Kpoku can’t quite believe it has turned out so good so quickly for him at Lyon. His December Top 14 debut was a disaster, i…
Liam Heagney
22 May 2022, 4:22
Leinster player ratings vs Munster | URC
The inclusion of the fit-again Jordan Larmour and Ryan Baird to take on Munster did give Saturday evening’s game with Munster so…
Liam Heagney
21 May 2022, 16:20
'Crooked fingers and a nose that can't smell much, but it's fine'
Sean O’Brien beamed his best smile when asked the other day by RugbyPass how his body is feeling with the curtain set to fall on…
Interview
Liam Heagney
21 May 2022, 4:26
The Deano personality clash advice that Walder has never forgotten
With the curtain soon set to fall on Dean Richards’ decade-long run in charge at Newcastle, incoming Falcons boss Dave Walder h…
Liam Heagney
21 May 2022, 4:09
European finalists Leinster name entirely changed XV for URC derby
Fresh from beating Toulouse last Saturday in Dublin, Heineken Champions Cup finalists Leinster have named an entirely different st…
Liam Heagney
20 May 2022, 8:04
Paul Gustard linked with a switch to the Top 14 - report
Ex-England assistant Paul Gustard has been linked with a switch to the Top 14 for next season. It was 2018 when Eddie Jones’ def…
Liam Heagney
20 May 2022, 7:17
'He's a kid, Eben, a kid in the body of a colossus'
Toulon president Bernard Lemaitre has explained his January criticism of Springboks talisman Eben Etzebeth as “a handicap” for…
Liam Heagney
20 May 2022, 6:38
'That is what the strictly policed salary should create'
Exeter and Sale both sounded at peace this week that are unlikely to make the Gallagher Premiership semi-finals this season eleven…
Liam Heagney
20 May 2022, 5:41
'We were driving around every day looking for training pitches'
Ex-England international Dean Schofield has revealed that the Premiership title-winning Sale used to drive around during the Phili…
Liam Heagney
20 May 2022, 4:16
O'Brien: 'Nothing's set in stone, I'm open to every conversation'
Sean O’Brien has claimed he still hasn’t made a concrete decision on what his future will be once he retires from playing afte…
Liam Heagney
19 May 2022, 11:27
'He's not far off': What Sanderson took from his Jones dinner date
Sale boss Alex Sanderson has given an insight into the conversations that took place in Manchester when England boss Eddie Jones v…
Liam Heagney
19 May 2022, 7:29
'Like anyone it hit him like a bit of a train'
Incoming Newcastle boss Dave Walder is hoping the Falcons will soon complete negotiations to being Mark Wilson on board his coachi…
Liam Heagney
19 May 2022, 6:21
EPCR statement: 2023 European finals moved from London to Dublin
Next year’s Heineken Champions Cup and Challenge Cup finals won’t be taking place at the Tottenham Stadium in London as origin…
Liam Heagney
19 May 2022, 5:16
Ex-Harlequins boss Gustard gives verdict on first year in Italy
Former Harlequins boss Paul Gustard has delivered his verdict on how he has fared as the defence coach in his first year working a…
Liam Heagney
18 May 2022, 11:53
'It was very tough for George': Newcastle's England hooker rivalry
Incoming Newcastle boss Dave Walder has shed light on the rivalry that exists between George McGuigan and Jamie Blamire, the two F…
Liam Heagney
18 May 2022, 10:21
Manchester visit by Jones has left Sale 'confident' over Tuilagi
Sale boss Alex Sanderson believes the Sharks and England are on the same wavelength about what is best for the delicate Manu Tuila…
Liam Heagney
18 May 2022, 6:52
The 'discreet' opinion Jones has formed about Rennie's Australia
Eddie Jones believes that Australian rugby is in a very different place compared to the last time England toured his native countr…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 14:56
The 2am Saturday night texts Jonny Hill is sending Alex Sanderson
Alex Sanderson is excited about the potential relationship that can be built with England lock Jonny Hill, the Sale director of ru…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 14:13
Haskell issues three-minute video apology after social media storm
Ex-England international James Haskell has published a three-minute video on Instagram to explain the social media storm he ignite…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 12:04
Rassie Erasmus has tweeted his reply to World Rugby water boy ban
South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has taken to Twitter to post his response to the decision by World Rugby to ban dir…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 9:31
The Wallabies legend Jones likens 'desire to attack' Arundell to
Eddie Jones has explained why new England call-up Henry Arundell reminds him of the legendary Matt Giteau, the 39-year-old who bro…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 8:43
'Sam will be unlikely because he is going to be having an op'
Sam Simmonds has been described by his Exeter boss Rob Baxter as unlikely to tour this summer with England as he is due to have an…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 7:12
Teen sensation Henry Arundell named in 36-man England squad
Eddie Jones has named a 36-man squad - including uncapped London Irish pair Henry Arundell and Will Joseph and the fit-again Owen …
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 5:27
Era of 'Rassie the water boy' is over as World Rugby trial new law
The era of the likes of Rassie Erasmus running onto the Test match pitch delivering water to his Springboks is over after World Ru…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 4:38
'That was Steve just being cute as we'd call it in Ireland'
Ahead of Tuesday night’s Premiership Rugby Cup final at Brentford, London Irish boss Declan Kidney has curiously referenced last…
Liam Heagney
17 May 2022, 4:13
'The thing that is taking up most of my headspace at the minute'
Leinster have booked themselves the chance to win a fifth Heineken Champions Cup title by progressing to the May 28 final versus L…
Liam Heagney
16 May 2022, 4:17
'There will be speculation now if he could play 12 for Ireland'
Leinster skipper Johnny Sexton has quipped that a jaw-dropping pass from Tadgh Furlong will ignite speculation that the popular pr…
Liam Heagney
16 May 2022, 4:15
'It's not a case of that': Irish review wounding Cokanasiga loss
Declan Kidney hasn’t ruled out the possibility of Phil Cokanasiga rejoining London Irish sometime in the future after it was con…
Liam Heagney
15 May 2022, 4:47
'We don't make idiots of ourselves': The remarkable rise of Caldy
Within a day of Caldy enthusing that their successful 2021/22 National 1 title win had made Liverpool Echo headlines, ex-England i…
Interview
Liam Heagney
15 May 2022, 4:25
Leinster issue injured trio update, including 'hobbling' Furlong
Leinster were left nursing some wounds in the aftermath of defeating Toulouse in the Heineken Champions Cup semi-finals, but coach…
Liam Heagney
14 May 2022, 14:41
The 'pinch of salt' Sexton reaction to Leinster beating Toulouse
Player of the game Johnny Sexton wasn’t shouting in celebration from the Aviva Stadium rooftops after Leinster had blasted past …
Liam Heagney
14 May 2022, 14:05
Leinster player ratings vs Toulouse | Champions Cup semi-final
Leinster player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: This blockbuster encounter between the Heineken Champions Cup’s two most honour…
Liam Heagney
14 May 2022, 12:40
'Eddie was over': Irish confirm England interest in Arundell
London Irish boss Declan Kidney has insisted that Henry Arundell, who is on the England radar following last week’s training gro…
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 9:15
Maro v Eben head-to-head confirmed: Saracens and Toulon name teams
England talisman Maro Itoje is set to renew his rivalry with Springboks lock Eben Etzebeth as they have been respectively named at…
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 7:37
All Blacks prop Karl Tu'inukuafe linked with a return to France
All Blacks prop Karl Tu'inukuafe has been linked with a return to France seven years after he first went there and learned how to …
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 7:01
The video message Eddie Jones posted after Australia's RWC bid win
Eddie Jones was quick off the mark in the wake of Thursday’s announcement that Australia is to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup, th…
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 3:47
'When Jimmy made that decision to leave his game upped actually'
Wasps boss Lee Blackett doesn’t believe rugby is witnessing the start of a trend where players regularly play on professionally …
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 3:34
'His heart is still with Australia and we would love to have him'
Phil Kearns has told RugbyPass the reasons why he would love England boss Eddie Jones to have some role to play for Australia when…
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
13 May 2022, 3:18
A World Cup bid day in stark contrast to 2017's blood on the floor
No matter what way you turned on Thursday at the sleek Dublin Convention Centre looking out over the low tide River Liffey, you we…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
12 May 2022, 13:38
World Rugby makes ambitious 'do what we say on the tin' promise
World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin has insisted his organisation is doing everything it can to ensure that the likes of second-tier natio…
Liam Heagney
12 May 2022, 13:27
'Right runway' has rugby believing in 'a billion-dollar World Cup'
World Rugby boss Alan Gilpin has shrugged off fears that selling 2031 World Cup tickets in the USA will be a hard sell, claiming t…
Liam Heagney
12 May 2022, 13:22
The 'frightening to see' praise for 'in his prime' Peter O'Mahony
Last Saturday’s defiant performance by Peter O’Mahony for Munster has earned him effusive praise from ex-Scotland internationa…
Liam Heagney
12 May 2022, 4:03
The Wasps selection dilemma after 'right decision' to omit Fekitoa
Wasps boss Lee Blackett has admitted he has given himself a selection headache for this Saturday’s Challenge Cup semi-final at L…
Liam Heagney
12 May 2022, 3:21
Watch: Agustin Creevy banned for pulling the hair of Eben Etzebeth
London Irish hooker Agustin Creevy has been banned for pulling the hair of Eben Etzebeth, the 2019 Springboks World Cup winner, du…
Liam Heagney
11 May 2022, 11:41
Danny Care is in awe of a 'best in Europe' aspect of Leinster play
Ex-England scrum-half Danny Care was left in awe by the silver service provided last Saturday by Leinster to their No9, Jamison Gi…
Liam Heagney
11 May 2022, 10:24
Finn Russell: Tuilagi 'decoy' quip and giving Curry 'a bit of lip'
Scotland out-half Finn Russell has spoken about his encounter last Sunday in Paris with England duo Manu Tuilagi and Tom Curry in …
Liam Heagney
11 May 2022, 9:48
'I've been thinking about that': Russell's Scotland tour situation
Finn Russell has shared his thoughts on whether he will tour Argentina in July with Scotland. Gregor Townsend’s team have a thre…
Liam Heagney
11 May 2022, 8:17
Milner-Skudder becomes latest ex-All Black to sign for New York
Nehe Milner-Skudder has become the second former All Blacks back three player to join Rugby United New York in the space of a mont…
Liam Heagney
11 May 2022, 5:56
'My bad': Ashton apologises to Lowe 18 months after 'heavy' comment
Ex-England winger Chris Ashton has revealed that he apologised to James Lowe after last Saturday’s Leicester versus Leinster Eur…
Liam Heagney
11 May 2022, 5:19
Ex-England skipper Hartley gets Middle East director of rugby role
Former England captain Dylan Hartley has agreed to become director of rugby at Dubai Sharks, a second-tier UAE club that finished …
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 12:56
'He's someone everyone keeps an eye on': Wasps address Wade rumour
Wasps boss Lee Blackett took questions on Tuesday from RugbyPass and the Coventry Telegraph on their ex-star winger Christian Wade…
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 12:17
Gloucester statement: 'Club will seek compensation from Worcester'
Gloucester CEO Lance Bradley has explained the club will seek compensation from Worcester following their cancelled Premiership ma…
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 11:28
Connacht name the 12 players leaving at the end of their season
Connacht have confirmed the names of all twelve players leaving them at end of the current season, adding that a squad of 44 has s…
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 11:03
Gloucester-Worcester cancellation: Full 26-page verdict published
A fascinating chain of correspondence - including a disagreement on what was allegedly said between the respective club owners - h…
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 10:23
'This sport is shrinking': England prop Marler pens magazine letter
England prop Joe Marler has sounded a dire warning for rugby, fearing that its appeal is shrinking and that more of an attempt mus…
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 8:05
Two-leg round of 16 Champions Cup format ditched after one season
Heineken Champions Cup officials have confirmed that the two-legged round of 16 aggregate format that was used last month for the …
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 6:35
The 'always a plan' American TV character Etzebeth likens Rassie to
Springboks enforcer Eben Etzebeth has likened his Test game boss Rassie Erasmus to a fictional American TV character.
Liam Heagney
10 May 2022, 5:55
'There's no job security - coaches rent houses, they don't buy them'
It’s weird how small the rugby world can be. Toulon welcome London Irish on Sunday for a quarter-final that will have a strong C…
Interview
Liam Heagney
08 May 2022, 5:15
'Ten years ago I was living in New York and working in a bar'
Long-serving Sale out-half AJ MacGinty believes his time working in a noisy New York bar ten years ago will serve him well when he…
Interview
Liam Heagney
08 May 2022, 4:44
'What stuck out was some of the messages were pretty disgusting'
Simon McIntyre couldn’t help himself a year ago when Sale boss Alex Sanderson wanted a chat. He was a wide-eyed 20-year-old when…
Interview
Liam Heagney
08 May 2022, 4:14
'If ever there is a day that sums up Munster rugby it's today'
Saturday night won’t be the last time Johann van Graan will sit in the hot seat in the Aviva Stadium media conference room refle…
Liam Heagney
07 May 2022, 14:45
Munster player ratings vs Toulouse | Champions Cup quarter-final
Munster player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: Defending champions Toulouse are just two games away from successfully retaining t…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
07 May 2022, 13:38
'A big mistake': Ruddock wades into row over bombshell WRU report
Grand Slam-winning coach Mike Ruddock has explained why it would be a big mistake if the WRU followed through on a recommendation …
Liam Heagney
07 May 2022, 7:02
Wasps: The Blair difference at Edinburgh compared to Cockerill
Wasps boss Lee Blackett is braced for a very different Edinburgh threat this Saturday now that the Scottish side is coached by Mik…
Liam Heagney
07 May 2022, 5:46
Confirmed: Newcastle name new boss as Dean Richards steps down
Newcastle have confirmed that Dean Richards will step down as director of rugby at the end of the current season, with head coach …
Liam Heagney
06 May 2022, 11:17
How 'really coachable' 19-year-old produced a 20-minute MOTM cameo
Last Sunday presented an incredible situation for the 19-year-old London Irish rookie Henry Arundell to capture the imagination an…
Liam Heagney
06 May 2022, 8:41
'He's well primed': Tuilagi back for Sale after last week's rest
Manu Tuilagi has been recalled to the Sale XV for their Heineken Champions Cup quarter-final away to Racing on Sunday but he won�…
Liam Heagney
06 May 2022, 7:22
The half-time motivational chat that Sale admit they got so wrong
Sale are heading to Paris this weekend to take on Racing 92 with the painful half-time from their previous Heineken Champions Cup …
Liam Heagney
05 May 2022, 14:16
'I'm not sure I'm a fan of a golden point to tell you the truth'
London Irish head coach Les Kiss has shared his thoughts on whether a golden point tiebreaker needs to be introduced in the Gallag…
Liam Heagney
05 May 2022, 14:05
Wasps explain why Crossdale hasn't played Premiership since January
Wasps boss Lee Blackett has explained why England prospect Ali Crossdale hasn’t featured in his team’s Gallagher Premiership s…
Liam Heagney
05 May 2022, 6:48
'We look after each other and his mates have been strong for him'
London Irish head coach Les Kiss has shed light on the growing influence of ex-Ireland out-half Paddy Jackson in recent years at t…
Liam Heagney
04 May 2022, 14:05
Mike Prendergast coming home to Munster after nine years in France
Ex-Munster scrum-half Mike Prendergast is to rejoin the Irish club as its new attack coach from Racing 92. The soon-to-be 45-year-…
Liam Heagney
04 May 2022, 12:20
'Yard quicker up top': Wasps' verdict on Hougaard position switch
Wasps have been singing the praises of ex-Springboks international Francois Hougaard, their scrum-half signing last summer from Wo…
Liam Heagney
04 May 2022, 7:11
'You said Chris Ashton would only end up playing at Doncaster'
The Rugby Pod have this week celebrated the remarkable feat of Chris Ashton in setting a new all-time try-scoring record in the Ga…
Liam Heagney
04 May 2022, 6:20
'Unforgivable ineptitude': Pontypool demand WRU resignations
Rugby at grassroots level in Wales has been thrown into turmoil this week following an extraordinary statement by Pontypool after …
Liam Heagney
04 May 2022, 4:32
Sale factor 'black swan moment' into their plan for Finn Russell
Sale boss Alex Sanderson has spoken about the threat that the maverick Finn Russell presents to the Sharks' Heineken Champions Cup…
Liam Heagney
03 May 2022, 12:24
'We trialled it seven weeks ago': Wasps reveal new Mitchell role
Lee Blackett has revealed to RugbyPass that ex-England assistant John Mitchell is now doing a different role at Wasps following a …
Liam Heagney
03 May 2022, 9:47
'We all s**t ourselves because Tom Youngs was there'
Ex-Leicester teammates Jim Hamilton and Andy Goode have recalled the botched robbery simulation of the Tigers academy house that r…
Liam Heagney
03 May 2022, 8:01
'I'm going to say it frankly - Bath need to get rid of Hooper'
Rugby Pod co-hosts Jim Hamilton and Andy Goode have doubled down on the criticism voiced earlier this season about Bath boss Stuar…
Liam Heagney
03 May 2022, 6:43
RFU statement: The hospitalisation of CEO Bill Sweeney
The RFU have issued a statement on the health of Bill Sweeney, the chief executive who was admitted to the hospital last Friday wi…
Liam Heagney
03 May 2022, 5:46
'Final stages are tears and blood, business made on human misery'
Biarritz president Jean-Baptiste Aldige has branded the current promotion format to the Top 14 from Pro D2 as "tears and blood, a …
Liam Heagney
03 May 2022, 4:58
'Lot of work trying to make sure he doesn't make the same mistake'
Lee Blackett has given his assessment on how Jacob Umaga has responded after getting red carded in two consecutive games during th…
Liam Heagney
01 May 2022, 5:26
'To have an owl follow you around, I feel that would be quality'
Ollie Hassell-Collins can't disagree with the description of him that London Irish boss Declan Kidney delivered to RugbyPass in Ja…
Interview
Liam Heagney
01 May 2022, 4:57
'You have a drink, the veils drop and they get to shoot at me'
With a big Heineken Champions Cup quarter-final on the horizon next weekend away to Racing, Sale director of rugby Alex Sanderson …
Interview
Liam Heagney
01 May 2022, 4:25
'Disgraceful what we saw today, disrespectful to the occasion'
Ugo Monye has described Saturday's Bath display as disgraceful - they were humiliated 64-0 at Gloucester and stay bottom of the Pr…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2022, 12:54
'Unbelievable': Early Chris Ashton strike breaks Premiership try record
Former England winger Chris Ashton needed just four minutes of Saturday's Leicester versus Bristol game to score the try that made…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2022, 11:01
'More surgeries this year than I've seen in 22 years in the sport'
Stuart Hooper has claimed he has never seen a team suffer as many surgeries as Bath have this season in his 20-plus years in rugby…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2022, 6:21
'One hell of a journey': Ex-Wasps back row Thompson calls it quits
Ex-Wasps and Leicester back row Guy Thompson has announced on social media that he will retire from playing at the age of 35 when …
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2022, 5:34
'I never turned into an alcoholic, I can't give you that headline'
Second-year head coach George Skivington has candidly spoken about his coping mechanisms when it comes to handling the immense pre…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2022, 4:23
'Feels like a natural fit': Redpath appointed London Scottish DoR
Ex-Scotland scrum-half Bryan Redpath has jumped back into frontline rugby coaching, agreeing to become director of rugby at Londo…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2022, 4:03
'You respect anyone playing at that age, Johnny, Smith, Thorn'
Bristol boss Pat Lam has suggested he wouldn't be in the least bit surprised to see John Afoa play Gallagher Premiership rugby nex…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2022, 3:45
Cipriani statement: 'My last games in England are fast arriving'
Danny Cipriani has confirmed he will finish up at Bath at the end of the current season and embark on a different rugby experience…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2022, 12:09
The Wasps message for England about 'ultimate team guy' Robson
Lee Blackett reckons it would be great to see Dan Robson back in an England shirt following his impressive form in recent weeks fo…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2022, 9:56
'He's another Antoine example, we found him playing in Ebbw Vale'
Pat Lam has described Toby Fricker - last weekend's Bristol match-winner against Gloucester in the Gallagher Premiership - as anot…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2022, 8:52
Exeter statement: Defence coach Salvi exits with immediate effect
The difficult season that Exeter have experienced has had a casualty, defence coach Julian Salvi exiting the Chiefs with immediate…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2022, 7:54
'We do get overlooked quite a bit, the RFU, RPA, agents, whatever'
Long-serving Newcastle boss Dean Richards has touched on the isolation within rugby that is felt by the Falcons and Sale, their no…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2022, 7:05
The England 'rabbit hole' Sale opted not to go into with Tom Curry
Alex Sanderson has explained why he took the decision not to talk too much with Tom Curry about his latest Six Nations with Englan…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2022, 5:40
Bath rate Ewels' response to 'huge moment in a young man's career'
Bath boss Stuart Hooper has given his take on how skipper Charlie Ewels has coped with the enormity of the red card he shipped wit…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2022, 4:32
The one Cipriani at Bath aspect that DoR Hooper 'can't argue with'
Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper has delivered his verdict on the year Danny Cipriani has spent at the Gallagher Premiership c…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 12:14
A painful training ground clash with Etzebeth still haunts Kolisi
Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi has recalled the terrible day when he was left wincing in pain after his friend Eben Etzebeth targe…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 11:46
Steffon Armitage to quit Top 14 for the French third tier
Former England back-rower Steffon Armitage is set to swap Biarritz and life in the Top 14 for a stint at Nationale level, the thir…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 11:03
Prop's forged passport sees Spain kicked out of the 2023 World Cup
Spain have been thrown out of the 2023 World Cup in France after a disciplinary hearing found that they had played an ineligible p…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 9:15
Injured England duo Lawes and Curry return to Premiership action
Courtney Lawes and Tom Curry, the duo who captained England in their recent five-game Guinness Six Nations campaign, are back in a…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 8:26
'Departs with our love': Alapati Leiua leaves Bristol for Pro D2
Bristol have confirmed that Alapati Leiua will depart the Gallagher Premiership club at the end of the season to join French Pro D…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 8:03
Bath respond to speculation that Watson to Leicester is done deal
Bath boss Stuart Hooper has reacted to media speculation this week that Anthony Watson, the England and Lions player, will definit…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 6:52
Siya Kolisi: Where I'd like to play if I ever left South Africa
Springboks World Cup-winning skipper Siya Kolisi has revealed where he would like to play his club rugby if he ever left South Afr…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2022, 4:43
'If it was up to me I'd live on a little island and fish all day'
Out of favour England winger Adam Radwan was quick out of the blocks this week when quipping to RugbyPass that he had the perfect …
Interview
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2022, 14:04
The 'brilliant bloke' Gloucester verdict on their Georgian gamble
Gloucester boss George Skivington has given his verdict on Giorgi Kveseladze, the unheralded Georgian international that the Galla…
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2022, 8:01
New Munster signing suffers a season-ending injury at Bristol
New Munster signing Antoine Frisch has played his last match for Bristol as an injury sustained in last Friday's Gallagher Premier…
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2022, 6:51
'Nugget' tactic mined by Sale on recent visit by Springboks bosses
It was quite the bye-week last week for Alex Sanderson and his fellow Sale coaches, beginning with a jolly in Barcelona and ending…
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2022, 4:23
'Bit of a freak moment' has ruled Quirke out for Sale and England
Up-and-coming scrum-half Raffi Quirke has been ruled out from playing in the remainder of this season's campaign with Sale and fro…
Liam Heagney
26 Apr 2022, 12:38
What Gloucester make of hosting Worcester so soon after hearing
It was last Thursday when that cancelled Premiership verdict was published and the clubs will now face off on Wednesday night in t…
Liam Heagney
26 Apr 2022, 10:08
What Andy Goode made of Henry Slade as the Exeter No10
Ex-England international Andy Goode has rated the performance of Henry Slade, the Test level midfielder who started his first matc…
Liam Heagney
26 Apr 2022, 8:07
Loosehead Dave Kilcoyne ruled out of Ireland tour to New Zealand
Ireland loosehead Dave Kilcoyne has been ruled out of their July tour to New Zealand following a disappointing injury update issue…
Liam Heagney
26 Apr 2022, 6:34
'Where can I address the flowers?': Genge issues Moore response
England vice-captain Ellis Genge has taken to Twitter to issue his response to comments by ex-Test level hooker Brian Moore in a …
Liam Heagney
26 Apr 2022, 6:04
'When your knee goes at England camp, that's just the game'
Beno Obano can't wait. The Bath prop is nearly mended from the ACL ruptured last October, but it's not just the prospect of an app…
Interview
Liam Heagney
24 Apr 2022, 4:14
Concern over 'creating false market for English-qualified players'
London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney has dived into an issue that is sure to dominate the conversation around the Gallaghe…
Liam Heagney
24 Apr 2022, 3:45
'To get cancer kind of put a whole new twist on everything'
Worcester forward Joe Batley sounds like he has got it sussed at the age of 25. It has been another season of strife at Sixways bu…
Interview
Liam Heagney
23 Apr 2022, 4:55
Esterhuizen excellence in a different sport lifts Harlequins' mood
Andre Esterhuizen showed his prowess at another sport this week to help lift the gloomy mood at Harlequins following their dramati…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2022, 14:12
Exeter roll back the years with their Slade positional switch
Playoff-chasing Exeter have turned the clock back five years regarding Henry Slade and the part the England midfielder will play i…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2022, 8:21
Two changes for Harlequins for a game that has poignant dedication
Defending champions Harlequins have welcomed club skipper Stephan Lewies to the fold following injury for this Saturday's Gallaghe…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2022, 7:42
Gloucester, Worcester statements: Clubs respond to hearing outcome
Both Gloucester and Worcester have issued club statements following the decision on Thursday evening by an independent Sport Resol…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2022, 5:32
The 'adversity' message Pat Lam has for frustrated Bristol fans
Pat Lam has issued a message to frustrated Bristol fans to keep the faith, that there is every reason for them to be excited about…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2022, 4:02
'He is playing like a guy that wants to take the club somewhere'
With Exeter having doubts that England back-rower Sam Simmonds will play for them again this season due to a hip/groin injury desc…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2022, 3:51
The 'no airs or graces' backstory to an unexpected England call-up
London Irish boss Declan Kidney has given an insight into Tom Pearson, the unknown rookie flanker surprisingly called into the Eng…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 14:30
'What a trooper': The pain barrier on-loan Lane battled at Bristol
Emergency Bristol full-back Rich Lane has likely played the last time for the Bears as an injury sustained in last weekend's Heine…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 14:17
The 'full-blooded' Exeter emotions as Saracens look to 'dent' them
Exeter boss Rob Baxter reckons there is no underestimating the importance of the outcome of this Sunday's renewal of their edgy ri…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 14:07
Premiership statement: Gloucester-Worcester cancellation verdict
Gloucester have had their Gallagher Premiership playoff qualification hopes boosted by the outcome of the investigation into the l…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 12:00
URC statement: Where the 2022 final will be played
United Rugby Championship officials have finally ended speculation that South Africa was poised to stage the final of the 201/22 U…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 8:49
Baxter gives his take on Jack Nowell wearing the Munster shirt
Last Saturday's bizarre sight of Exeter winger Jack Nowell wearing a Munster jersey while seated in the Thomond Park stands on his…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 7:47
Exeter update leaves Simmonds the latest doubt for England tour
Exeter are still awaiting feedback before reaching a decision on the best treatment for the injury that has sidelined Sam Simmonds…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 6:28
'Bursting their backside' video has Bristol enthused for the future
Pat Lam has isolated one moment from last Friday night's Heineken Champions Cup exit that fills him with confidence that Bristol w…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 4:48
The 'surprise' survey result fuelling Harlequins' title defence
Tabai Matson believes Harlequins are ready to launch a powerful end-of-season Gallagher Premiership title defence because of the r…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2022, 4:03
What Declan Kidney has made of Munster and their Ed Sheeran gaffe
Ex-Munster boss Declan Kidney was diplomacy personified when quizzed this week about the bizarre decision by his old club to sched…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2022, 12:46
Munster bring in Irish-qualified Antoine Frisch from Bristol
Bristol have confirmed that French midfielder Antoine Frisch will leave at the end of the current Gallagher Premiership season and…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2022, 11:04
Bristol reveal 'season-ending' operation for Radradra this week
Bristol boss Pat Lam has confirmed that Semi Radradra is set to undergo knee surgery for the second time in six months, bringing a…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2022, 9:59
'Fantastic competitor' Vito hints he will 'probably' soon retire
Double All Blacks World Cup winner Victor Vito has suggested he is poised to retire from playing at the age of 35. Capped on 33 oc…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2022, 4:47
The conversation Harlequins had with Marcus Smith over missed kick
Harlequins skipper Stephan Lewies has claimed that last Saturday's costly missed kick from Marcus Smith wasn't mentioned in their …
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2022, 4:20
'Farcical': Eliminated Harlequins hit out at Champions Cup format
Harlequins senior coach Tabai Matson has branded the new home-and-away round-of-16 format in the Heineken Champions Cup as farcica…
Liam Heagney
19 Apr 2022, 14:32
'I was being lineout-lifted in the bar for about three hours after'
England international Jack Nowell has told all about his epic stag party last weekend in Ireland which resulted in him getting hil…
Liam Heagney
19 Apr 2022, 8:07
Rowntree: Why the England gang of 2015 have 'prospered' in Ireland
New Munster head coach Graham Rowntree has spoken about how the failed 2015 England coaching ticket is now a success in various ro…
Liam Heagney
19 Apr 2022, 6:23
'Horrible': Andy Goode reviews miss that will 'haunt' Marcus Smith
Ex-England international Andy Goode has reviewed the missed conversion from Marcus Smith that eliminated Harlequins from the Heine…
Liam Heagney
19 Apr 2022, 5:16
'A lot of teams would like to have those unsuccessful seasons'
Rob Baxter claimed on Saturday night that numerous clubs would love to have the type of season that Exeter have endured - getting …
Liam Heagney
16 Apr 2022, 15:09
The 'downward spiral' Sam Simmonds injury update from Exeter
Exeter boss Rob Baxter hasn't written off the chances of Sam Simmonds playing again for the Chiefs this season even though he is u…
Liam Heagney
16 Apr 2022, 13:32
Exeter player ratings vs Munster | Champions Cup round of 16
Exeter player ratings live from Thomond Park: This was epic Easter fare every bit as absorbing and exhausting as the tumult the la…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
16 Apr 2022, 12:25
How 'one of the most penalised props' is now so dominant for Quins
Scrum coach Adam Jones has hailed the transformation this season at Harlequins by their 30-year-old tighthead Will Collier. The pr…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2022, 11:39
End is nigh for banned Latu at Stade after club owner's outburst
Ex-Wallabies hooker Tolu Latu is set to leave Stade Francais after a suspension for his latest red card reportedly prompted a stin…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2022, 10:07
Exeter missing Sam Simmonds as Munster bring back their stars
Sam Simmonds will be absent for Exeter this Saturday in Limerick as they seek to protect a five-point first leg European advantage…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2022, 8:21
'The magic in his feet' reason why Sale are promising to entertain
Alex Sanderson is hoping that his youthful back three of Luke James, Arron Reed and Tom Roebuck can let rip at Ashton Gate and tip…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2022, 6:04
Ex-All Blacks winger Waisake Naholo has picked up an MLR deal
Former All Blacks winger Waisake Naholo has signed for Rugby United New York in the MLR after failing to pick up a team for the 20…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2022, 4:55
'I was back at the airport with another hangover 24 years on'
It's a weird coincidence not lost on Andy Nicol, the Bath Heineken Cup-winning captain. Not since that fateful January 1998 day in…
Interview
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2022, 13:20
Punishment meted out for 'head-high Challenge Cup assault'
Former Argentine sevens player Axel Muller has been banned for five matches following his ugly red-carded hit last Friday night fo…
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2022, 11:41
LNR publishes the result of its O'Gara, Urios disciplinary hearing
Ronan O'Gara and Christophe Urios have learned their fate following a tempestuous sideline clash during a recent Top 14 match.
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2022, 6:28
Why Nigel Owens won't support the 20-minute red card law trial
Retired Test referee Nigel Owens has doubled down on his fears that the 20-minute red card in rugby won't change player behaviour.
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2022, 4:32
Finn Russell has broken his silence about difficult Six Nations
Finn Russell has given his take on his difficult Guinness Six Nations campaign which culminated in him getting dropped to the Scot…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2022, 9:51
Lowry reveals the reason for abandoning trademark white scrum cap
Ulster full-back Michael Lowry has revealed why he has dispensed with his trademark white scrum cap in recent months. The distinct…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2022, 7:52
Premiership Rugby statement on cancelled Gloucester-Worcester game
Premiership Rugby officials have issued an update regarding the adjudication of the cancelled March 25 Gallagher Premiership match…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2022, 6:31
The latest 'mind-stretching' Sale exercise to improve their play
Alex Sanderson has revealed that one of the world's leading neuropsychologists visited the Sale squad at their Carrington training…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2022, 5:19
'Low degree of force' sees Gibson-Park free to play after hearing
Ireland scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park has been cleared to play for Leinster in Friday's Heineken Champions Cup round of 16 second…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2022, 4:46
'Unbelievable' Mike Brown verdict on new England full-back Steward
Mike Brown has run his critical eye over the new England full-back Freddie Steward and given the first Test season rookie a glowin…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2022, 4:15
'Nobody has pushed him out the door': Irish address O'Brien exit
London Irish have confirmed that the salary cap cuts across the Gallagher Premiership weren't to blame for the announcement last F…
Liam Heagney
12 Apr 2022, 13:24
'Smoked by Burger and de Villiers': The England debut from hell
Mike Brown has painfully recalled his hellish England Test debut 15 years ago as a wide-eyed 21-year-old on the receiving end of a…
Liam Heagney
12 Apr 2022, 13:10
Massive ban given to Tolu Latu following his latest red card
Tolu Latu of Stade Francais has been suspended for eleven weeks for his latest Heineken Champions Cup red card brandished last Sat…
Liam Heagney
12 Apr 2022, 11:12
Gibson-Park cited for yellow-carded clash with Marmion
European rugby officials have arranged six disciplinary hearings following last weekend's Champions and Challenge Cup action - fou…
Liam Heagney
12 Apr 2022, 10:45
The message Declan Kidney has for new Munster boss Rowntree
Two-time Heineken Cup winner Declan Kidney has given his reaction to ex-England assistant Graham Rowntree becoming the new head c…
Liam Heagney
12 Apr 2022, 7:43
Eddie Jones' 'secret' 5am CCTV surveillance of his England squad
Mike Brown has revealed that Eddie Jones used to organise 5am walkthroughs for his England squad that the coach didn't turn up for…
Liam Heagney
12 Apr 2022, 5:35
'It sounds barbaric looking back now, you have to laugh at it'
It's crazy how it has all turned out for Donnacha Ryan. There he is living the life in France as a first-year Top 14 forwards coac…
Interview
Liam Heagney
10 Apr 2022, 4:06
Watch: 'Reckless, exactly what we don't like to see in the game'
Defending European champions Toulouse were beaten 26-20 at home on Saturday by Ulster, the Heineken Champions Cup holders losing t…
Liam Heagney
09 Apr 2022, 12:29
Two late changes for Munster, including the absence of Simon Zebo
Irish hopes that Munster can ambush Exeter in their round of 16 Heineken Champions Cup clash in England on Saturday evening have b…
Liam Heagney
09 Apr 2022, 9:42
Soon-to-retire referee Poite lines up a very different rugby role
Romain Poite is poised to take on a Top 14 role with a difference when his French rugby federation contract as a full-time referee…
Liam Heagney
09 Apr 2022, 6:45
An ancient Japanese phrase has Sale believing they can win Europe
Alex Sanderson has likened his Sale team to the ancient Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi. Heading into this Saturday's Champions C…
Liam Heagney
09 Apr 2022, 5:22
The 'bit rainy faced' tribute Sale have paid to Faf de Klerk
Sale boss Alex Sanderson has explained why Faf de Klerk will exit the Gallagher Premiership club at the end of this season with th…
Liam Heagney
08 Apr 2022, 8:56
The 'very strategic' variation Harlequins are getting heads around
Tabai Matson has painted this Sunday's clash between his English title-winning Harlequins and the French title-chasing Montpellier…
Liam Heagney
08 Apr 2022, 8:42
'At Leicester last time I got sacked over lemon and herb chicken'
Freddie Burns is back enjoying himself at Leicester this season, becoming an integral part of the Steve Borthwick squad that is ch…
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 14:41
'I'd love Rassie in the England job, he sounds an absolute legend'
Ex-England out-half Freddie Burns has claimed he would love Rassie Erasmus, the controversial South African rugby boss, to succeed…
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 14:32
Farrell included as Saracens make 11 changes for a must-win game
Mark McCall has made eleven changes - including the recall of Owen Farrell - to his Saracens XV for Friday's must-win Challenge Cu…
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 8:16
Seven changes for Leinster, including a recall for Johnny Sexton
Leinster have made seven changes to their Champions Cup starting XV following last weekend's URC win over Munster, including the r…
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 7:46
The poignant 2021 Lions interview with the late Tom Smith
The British and Irish Lions have republished the now poignant interview they did last year ahead of the 2021 trip to South Africa …
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 7:11
'Alignment camps vital': Nienaber explains plan for 2022 Springboks
Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has outlined his plans for the team in 2022, a campaign that will get underway with alignment cap…
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 5:38
Tributes paid to ex-Ukraine captain killed in the war with Russia
Oleksi Tsibko, a former skipper of the Ukraine national team who went on to become his country's rugby union president, has been k…
Liam Heagney
07 Apr 2022, 5:12
O'Gara banned and fined at the first of two disciplinary hearings
La Rochelle boss Ronan O'Gara has been banned from matchday coaching duties for the upcoming two-legged Heineken Champions Cup rou…
Liam Heagney
06 Apr 2022, 14:48
'No way I'm saying no': Lynagh clears up his Test level allegiance
England squad pick Louis Lynagh has addressed the commentary that he is still eligible for Australia and Italy after the recent Gu…
Liam Heagney
06 Apr 2022, 12:35
'He tried to syringe or use a knife and it created more infection'
What happened to Coenie Oosthuizen last Friday to force him to pull out of the Sale XV that was to take on Saracens at home in the…
Liam Heagney
06 Apr 2022, 11:03
'It was a No1 bucket list experience - mind-blowing and insane'
Ask Brian O'Driscoll for a bit of positivity and the legendary Lions, Ireland and Leinster midfielder nails the request with aplom…
Interview
Liam Heagney
06 Apr 2022, 7:19
'I'd love Manu to get almighty shot off on Radradra at some point'
Sale boss Alex Sanderson is salivating over the prospect of two of the world's best midfielders - Manu Tuilagi and Semi Radradra o…
Liam Heagney
06 Apr 2022, 3:41
Ronan O'Gara to face two Top 14 disciplinary hearings in a week
La Rochelle boss Ronan O'Gara is to face two Top 14 disciplinary hearings in a week following incidents during recent matches in t…
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 15:41
Genge hits back at allegation that England tactic left sour taste
Ellis Genge has hit back at critics who claimed the England tactic of having the loosehead stand in the backfield and run the ball…
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 15:06
Sanderson: 'Legacy of all that South African influence' at Sale
Alex Sanderson has farewelled the high watermark of the South African influence at Sale following the confirmation on Tuesday afte…
Interview
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 14:45
Sale statement: De Klerk and de Jager will leave at end of season
Sale have confirmed one of the worst-kept secrets in English rugby - that Springboks World Cup winners Faf de Klerk and Lood de Ja…
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 12:11
'I'm not surprised': The O'Driscoll verdict on O'Gara for England
Brian O'Driscoll has given his verdict on Ronan O'Gara ambitiously throwing his hat into the mix for the England head coach job.
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 9:02
'Billy keeps walking past saying, Beyonce, what's wrong with you?'
Double Heineken Champions Cup winner Jim Hamilton has amusingly recalled the incredible 24 hours he had when Saracens won the 2017…
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 7:36
'What I'm hearing is the final is going to be in South Africa'
The inaugural season of the United Rugby Championship is poised to have an intriguing twist as it is rumoured that the June 18 URC…
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 6:00
'Not the end I hoped for': Dan Leavy retires with immediate effect
Ireland and Leinster back-rower Dan Leavy has retired from the game with immediate effect at the age of just 27. The forward had h…
Liam Heagney
05 Apr 2022, 5:19
'Niall Horan, Eddie Jordan... famous friends pop down to say hello'
Topsy Ojo is loving the craic now that London Irish are back in the English capital city and thriving at their new Brentford Commu…
Interview
Liam Heagney
03 Apr 2022, 4:11
Pat Lam breaks his silence over alleged Bristol salary cap trouble
Bristol boss Pat Lam has broken his silence about allegations that the Bears have started a player fire sale to ensure they come i…
Liam Heagney
02 Apr 2022, 14:14
'It's very poignant for Chris, the last few years have been tricky'
Ex-England international Topsy Ojo has saluted the achievement of Chris Ashton in becoming the equal all-time record Premiership t…
Interview
Liam Heagney
02 Apr 2022, 5:28
Bristol Bears statement: Alleged Premiership salary cap problem
Bristol Bears have issued a statement in response to a damaging newspaper story claiming that a 2022/23 Premiership salary cap pro…
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2022, 9:13
Russian captain to play first Premiership game since war outbreak
Russia rugby skipper Kirill Gotovtsev is set to play his first Gallagher Premiership match for Gloucester since the outbreak of th…
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2022, 8:55
England wing Cokanasiga to make his first Bath start in 10 months
England winger Joe Cokanasiga will make his first start of the 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership season after coming through unscathed…
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2022, 7:24
'Wasn't an extreme act of foul play' but Toomaga-Allen still banned
Ex-All Blacks prop Jeff Toomaga-Allen has been banned for three games for striking in Wasps' Premiership Rugby Cup win over Sarace…
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2022, 6:23
Bristol salary cap gaffe has sparked a player fire sale - report
Ex-England second row Dave Attwood won't be the first top player to exit Bristol as it has been reported a fire sale is underway d…
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2022, 5:38
'We're sorry to see him go': Hughes' loan deal at Bath is over
Nathan Hughes' loan at Bath will end next Monday, leaving the No8 returning to Bristol to see out the final months of his existing…
Liam Heagney
01 Apr 2022, 5:21
Kobus van Wyk has exited Leicester with immediate effect
Leicester Tigers will see out their double-chasing 2021/22 campaign minus South African Kobus van Wyk who has been granted an earl…
Liam Heagney
31 Mar 2022, 11:55
Nathan Hughes' bold Pacific Islands prediction for World Cup 2023
Ex-England back-rower Nathan Hughes has declared himself available to be called up to play at Test level by Fiji. World Rugby have…
Liam Heagney
31 Mar 2022, 11:32
What Hughes said when asked if his relationship has soured with Lam
It's been one of the major stories of this year's Gallagher Premiership season - what has gone wrong for Nathan Hughes at Pat Lam'…
Liam Heagney
31 Mar 2022, 8:57
Ex-England full-back Ben Foden has retired with immediate effect
Ex-England full-back Ben Foden has confirmed his retirement from playing at the age of 36. The 34-time Test cap between 2009 and 2…
Liam Heagney
31 Mar 2022, 6:20
'If you come back under 120 you're not going back to England camp'
Ex-England No8 Nathan Hughes has revealed the complicated fluctuating weight battle he endured during his three-year Test career d…
Liam Heagney
31 Mar 2022, 5:36
'Very easy choice': Ex-England back Abendanon extends Pro D2 deal
The Nick Abendanon adventure in France will continue until summer 2023 at the very least as the 35-year-old ex-England player has …
Liam Heagney
30 Mar 2022, 10:14
Worcester's 'victim' status in record-equalling 92 Ashton tries
Premiership Rugby have taken a deep dive into the try-scoring of Chris Ashton, the ex-England winger who last Sunday entered the t…
Liam Heagney
30 Mar 2022, 7:09
'Chris will bring a new dimension': Bath sign Cloete from Munster
Damian de Allende won’t be following Johann van Graan to Bath next season but the South African coach won’t be leaving Munster…
Liam Heagney
30 Mar 2022, 6:00
'The London Irish thing fell through, they didn't have the dollar'
The Rugby Pod show co-hosts Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton delved into the latest transfer rumours in this week’s show, providing u…
Liam Heagney
30 Mar 2022, 5:11
Worcester cancellation row: 'Hybrid game' solution was turned down
Worcester boss Steve Diamond has defended his club over last Friday’s late cancellation of their Gallagher Premiership at playof…
Liam Heagney
29 Mar 2022, 12:23
Sale docked five match points for fielding an ineligible player
Sale will finish bottom of Pool Two in the Premiership Rugby Cup after having five match points deducted for fielding an ineligibl…
Liam Heagney
29 Mar 2022, 11:25
Woodward slams RFU: 'How can a fan pick the England rugby coach?'
Ex-England coach Clive Woodward has become the latest person to question the ability of RFU CEO Bill Sweeney to recruit Eddie Jone…
Liam Heagney
29 Mar 2022, 10:25
de Allende confirms he is quitting Munster, but Bath not on radar
Springboks World Cup winner Damian de Allende has confirmed that he will be leaving Munster at the end of the current season after…
Liam Heagney
29 Mar 2022, 9:35
'He's coming in his prime': Sale raid Exeter to sign O'Flaherty
Sale have raided Exeter for the second time in three months, adding winger Tom O’Flaherty to their December signing of England s…
Liam Heagney
29 Mar 2022, 7:16
'There is only one man for the job and it's 'f**kin' smash 'em'
Ex-England out-half Andy Goode and his fellow Rugby Pod co-host Jim Hamilton, the ex-Scotland lock, have outlined their dissatisfa…
Liam Heagney
29 Mar 2022, 6:30
'I'm quite confident I could still perform at the highest standard'
Nigel Owens hasn't got a minute to waste in his new career on the farm, looking after 90 acres of his own land and renting 25 more…
Interview
Liam Heagney
27 Mar 2022, 4:14
'We just saw Kyle at the door going, no, you're not leaving'
Freddie Steward has revealed some brilliant behind the scenes insight into life in England camp this season, naming the players wh…
Liam Heagney
26 Mar 2022, 7:49
Bristol make a big prediction on England career of Harry Randall
Pat Lam has predicted that Test level newcomer Harry Randall has a potentially long England career ahead of him after the Bristol …
Liam Heagney
26 Mar 2022, 6:25
Canny ref message from London Irish amid glut of Premiership reds
Declan Kidney has got no hang-ups about the high number of Gallagher Premiership matches that London Irish have been involved in t…
Liam Heagney
26 Mar 2022, 6:10
The 'rolled his sleeves up' Isiekwe moment much lauded by Saracens
Saracens boss Mark McCall has hugely sung the praises of Nick Isiekwe, the lock who ended a yawning four-year gap without a Test c…
Liam Heagney
26 Mar 2022, 5:38
'He was desperate': The legacy Fekitoa is driven to leave at Wasps
Lee Blackett has enthusiastically explained that ex-All Blacks midfielder Malakai Fekitoa is desperate to end his stint at Wasps a…
Liam Heagney
25 Mar 2022, 13:33
Worcester statement: Gloucester match cancelled over lack of props
Friday night’s Gallagher Premiership clash between Gloucester and Worcester at Kingsholm has been cancelled just five hours befo…
Liam Heagney
25 Mar 2022, 11:02
Hogg left out as Exeter name team to take on a stacked Leicester
Rob Baxter has slotted England internationals Henry Slade and Sam Simmonds straight back into his Exeter team following the comple…
Liam Heagney
25 Mar 2022, 10:34
Owen Farrell is back as Saracens show their spurs for Bristol
England skipper Owen Farrell is set to play for a star-studded Saracens XV on Saturday for the first time since October 24, the ou…
Liam Heagney
25 Mar 2022, 8:40
Six Nations statement: Tomas Francis' concussion versus England
Six Nations officials have published their investigation into the concussion controversy over Wales prop Tomas Francis, who was al…
Liam Heagney
25 Mar 2022, 8:09
'I wasn't performing, I wasn't in the right headspace to lead'
Exeter talisman Joe Simmonds won’t lie. He’d love the Chiefs to do another magical Gallagher Premiership/Heineken Champions Cu…
Interview
Liam Heagney
25 Mar 2022, 5:17
The 'smashing' verdict of ex-Ireland boss Kidney on Andy Farrell
Former Ireland boss Declan Kidney believes that the upcoming tour to New Zealand 14 months before the start of the 2023 World Cup …
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
24 Mar 2022, 12:34
'There must have been, he's lying to us, tell us the truth...'
Out-of-favour Scotland forward Ryan Wilson was tongue-in-cheek branded a dinosaur when reacting to international newcomer Freddie …
Liam Heagney
24 Mar 2022, 10:58
How the 29 England players capped in the 2022 Six Nations rated
Collectively, the Guinness Six Nations campaign was a best-forgotten endeavour for England as they managed just two wins from five…
Analysis
Liam Heagney
23 Mar 2022, 12:36
'An inspiration': England skipper Farrell fit for Saracens return
Saracens have confirmed that Owen Farrell is in the mix for them this Saturday in the Gallagher Premiership having fought back to …
Liam Heagney
23 Mar 2022, 11:28
The Jack Willis situation: 'It was a pretty smart play by England'
Wasps boss Lee Blackett has hailed the England decision to call the fit-again Jack Willis into their squads for the recent round f…
Liam Heagney
23 Mar 2022, 6:21
How 'loved' Ellis Genge tactic ultimately left sour England taste
It was quite an eye-catching statistic, prop forward Ellis Genge emerging as the England player that made the most metres away to …
Liam Heagney
23 Mar 2022, 5:33
Worcester statement: Willi Heinz has left with immediate effect
Former England scrum-half Willi Heinz has been released from his contract with Worcester by mutual agreement to return to his nati…
Liam Heagney
22 Mar 2022, 13:01
What Wasps have made of Alfie Barbeary not getting an England cap
Wasps boss Lee Blackett has reported that Alfie Barbeary has returned to the fold at the Gallagher Premiership club feeling “rea…
Liam Heagney
22 Mar 2022, 12:21
'Eddie Jones and England are deluded': Rugby Pod's damning verdict
The Rugby Pod have become the latest critics to heavily unload on Eddie Jones and the RFU following another Guinness Six Nations c…
Liam Heagney
22 Mar 2022, 9:49
Goode takes swipe at Woodward's 'ridiculous rugby oracle' persona
Ex-England international Andy Goode has taken a swipe at Clive Woodward for the ridiculous persona he has when commentating on rug…
Liam Heagney
22 Mar 2022, 7:42
The Springboks transformation that Jones wants England to mirror
Eddie Jones has insisted that England are on track to peak at the 2023 World Cup, insisting he has no regrets about not blooding y…
Liam Heagney
21 Mar 2022, 4:44
England's verdict on how new assistants fared in first Six Nations
Eddie Jones has given his seal of approval to the three assistant coaches that worked for the first time under him with England in…
Liam Heagney
20 Mar 2022, 18:00
Sexton settles some scores, with even Schmidt in the line of fire
Johnny Sexton used the Triple Crown success as the platform to fire back at detractors who had written off the Ireland team under …
Liam Heagney
20 Mar 2022, 5:18
'100 per cent I'm coaching well': Jones fights corner at debrief
Eddie Jones insisted on Sunday morning from Paris that his England team are just “three per cent off” where they need to be to…
Liam Heagney
20 Mar 2022, 4:31
The message Farrell delivered with All Blacks next for Ireland
No sooner had Andy Farrell trooped in off the Aviva Stadium pitch on Saturday night did thoughts quickly turn to what is on the ho…
Liam Heagney
20 Mar 2022, 4:30
Townsend explains how relations can be mended with Hogg and co
Scotland boss Gregor Townsend believes it will be possible to have a positive long-term relationship with the likes of Stuart Hogg…
Liam Heagney
19 Mar 2022, 17:40
Stuart Hogg breaks silence on Scotland team disciplinary breach
Scotland skipper Stuart Hogg has broken his silence over last weekend’s breach of team protocol which resulted in the full-back …
Liam Heagney
19 Mar 2022, 16:44
Ireland player ratings vs Scotland | Six Nations 2022
Ireland player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: A sun-kissed afternoon gave way beery twilight celebrations as Ireland clinched th…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
19 Mar 2022, 15:35
The Nowell plan to kill time waiting for 'latest ever kick-off'
Rejuvenated England winger Jack Nowell has explained how he will manage his time waiting around for the late 9pm Parisian kick-off…
Liam Heagney
19 Mar 2022, 5:30
'Don't believe that for a second': England dismiss attack allegation
New England attack coach Martin Gleeson has dismissed claims that the team is low on confidence due to its blunt attack in this ye…
Liam Heagney
18 Mar 2022, 12:48
Maro Itoje: 'Do I think I have got the best prep in the world?'
Maro Itoje has insisted his preparation to play could still be better even though his recent progress was this week hailed by Engl…
Liam Heagney
18 Mar 2022, 12:42
England hint at a tactic that doesn't involve Steward at 14 or 15
England attack coach Martin Gleeson hasn’t dismissed the idea of Freddie Steward being used as a first receiver outside Marcus S…
Liam Heagney
18 Mar 2022, 11:54
Maro Itoje's verdict on the Mona Lisa after a trip to the Louvre
Maro Itoje has soaked up so much of Paris this week that the England lock even gave his verdict on the Mona Lisa on Friday ahead o…
Liam Heagney
18 Mar 2022, 9:40
Maro Itoje issues 'confrontational' warning to France
Maro Itoje has insisted that wounded England are not in Paris to simply make up the numbers when they take on the Grand Slam-chasi…
Liam Heagney
18 Mar 2022, 9:04
'Missing out on the Lions stung him a fair bit, more than he felt'
England are backing Sam Underhill to deliver on Saturday night in Paris and demonstrate that he should have been picked on the 202…
Liam Heagney
18 Mar 2022, 6:17
The 'one-off selection' that England felt compelled to gamble on
Eddie Jones believes England fans will see a very different George Furbank in Paris this Saturday than the rookie who struggled on…
Liam Heagney
18 Mar 2022, 5:43
England defend Sinckler decision five days after prop failed HIA
England boss Eddie Jones has defended the decision to select Kyle Sinckler on the bench for Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations fina…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 18:00
Jones outlines why England revamp includes Furbank at full-back
Eddie Jones has explained his much-changed England team selection to face France, an XV that includes a surprise first start at fu…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 14:02
England spring Furbank, Sinckler surprises as five changes made
Eddie Jones has made five changes to his England team to take on France this Saturday night in Paris following last weekend’s 15…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 12:22
Ireland explain Hansen inclusion, react to Scotland axing Russell
Ireland coach Andy Farrell has explained why Mack Hansen is back in the starting line-up to face a Scotland team this Saturday tha…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 12:04
Impressive newcomer Capuozzo rewarded as Italy make two changes
Kieran Crowley has picked an Italy team for this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations finale in Wales that contains two changes from …
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 10:15
Andy Farrell makes three changes for title-chasing Ireland
Title-chasing Andy Farrell has made three changes to his Ireland team to face Scotland this Saturday in Dublin following last week…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 9:37
'Okay, fine': Townsend throws light on his axing of Finn Russell
Gregor Townsend has cagily defended his decision to start Blair Kinghorn as the Scotland out-half for only the second time in his …
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 9:21
Finn Russell dropped as Scotland make two changes for Ireland game
Gregor Townsend has announced a Scotland team to face Ireland this Saturday in Dublin that shows two changes - including the bench…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 8:25
'She was bloody right': The anthem advice that shook up O'Driscoll
Brian O’Driscoll has revealed it took the intervention of his mother to cop himself on and sing both Ireland anthems with real p…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 8:00
France make one change for their Grand Slam decider versus England
Fabien Galthie has named a France side to play England in this Saturday’s title-deciding Six Nations game that shows one change …
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 7:08
George: The 'good plan' areas where England are targeting France
Jamie George has identified the main areas where he feels England can get at France and ambush their Guinness Six Nations Grand Sl…
Liam Heagney
17 Mar 2022, 5:00
'A brilliant opportunity for me': JP Doyle is back in rugby
Ex-RFU referee JP Doyle has been named as Scottish rugby’s high-performance referee coach in a newly created role put in place b…
Liam Heagney
16 Mar 2022, 12:48
Six Nations statement: Charlie Ewels' disciplinary hearing outcome
England second row Charlie Ewels has been banned for three games following last Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations red card. The lo…
Liam Heagney
16 Mar 2022, 10:47
'A deeply unpleasant experience': London Irish coach banned
London Irish have been dealt a blow with the suspension of midfielder Curtis Rona and assistant coach Brad Davis following a virtu…
Liam Heagney
16 Mar 2022, 10:21
'It's something we've talked about, chopping the big fellas down'
Sam Simmonds has spoken about how last Saturday’s red card for Charlie Ewels has helped focus the minds of England players as th…
Liam Heagney
16 Mar 2022, 6:19
'I thought, who is going to argue with them two, so I picked them'
France defence coach Shaun Edwards has explained the logic behind selecting the no-nonsense Paul Willemse and Romain Taofifenua as…
Liam Heagney
16 Mar 2022, 5:32
Leicester statement: Tigers respond to £300k salary cap punishment
Leicester Tigers have issued their response after the conclusion of the Premiership Rugby salary cap investigation resulted in the…
Liam Heagney
15 Mar 2022, 11:59
Rees-Zammit and Jones are back as Wales make 7 changes for Italy
Wales coach Wayne Pivac has named a starting team to face Italy this Saturday in the Guinness Six Nations that shows seven changes…
Liam Heagney
15 Mar 2022, 11:19
Max Malins the big casualty as England cut squad to 28 for France
Max Malins was the biggest casualty when Eddie Jones cut his England squad from 34 t0 28 on Tuesday afternoon ahead of this Saturd…
Liam Heagney
15 Mar 2022, 10:46
Premiership Rugby statement: Leicester salary cap investigation
Premiership Rugby have issued a Tuesday lunchtime statement confirming their salary cap investigation into Leicester Tigers is ove…
Liam Heagney
15 Mar 2022, 10:12
The 'big' reason why one England player doesn't want Jones sacked
Knives have been sharpened for Eddie Jones in the wake of the England loss to Ireland - but one player who had plenty to feel aggr…
Liam Heagney
15 Mar 2022, 9:44
'Wow, what an athlete, he is almost like an NFL player'
Shaun Edwards has given his rundown on the current England team, the France defence coach singling out a number of players - inclu…
Liam Heagney
15 Mar 2022, 8:02
'It's reckless - there is one loser here and it is James Ryan'
Former Scotland second row Jim Hamilton had predicted that red-carded England lock Charlie Ewels will be on the receiving end of a…
Liam Heagney
15 Mar 2022, 6:18
'Second rows of his size and calibre are like teddy bear s***'
One of the downsides of the annual Guinness Six Nations is how the spotlight turns away from the Gallagher Premiership and some he…
Liam Heagney
13 Mar 2022, 7:30
Barnes' new assistant ref is ex-player he red-carded for stamping
Wayne Barnes has tweeted about this Sunday’s very different reunion with Nick Wood nine years after he sent the ex-Gloucester pr…
Liam Heagney
13 Mar 2022, 6:00
'Not over': The forgotten England prop tipped for a future recall
Rob Baxter is tipping forgotten England tighthead Harry Williams to fight his way into Test level contention again once he fully g…
Liam Heagney
13 Mar 2022, 5:28
Four awful England takeaways that spinning Eddie Jones can't ignore
It’s getting silly now, all this talk about new England attack coach Martin Gleeson honing a new style of rugby that has never b…
Liam Heagney
13 Mar 2022, 4:53
'Congratulations': The compliment Ireland paid to beaten England
Andy Farrell was gracious in victory at Twickenham on Saturday night, the Ireland coach paying compliment to one particular aspect…
Liam Heagney
12 Mar 2022, 16:17
Jones takes swipe at referee Raynal but it's not over the red card
England boss Eddie Jones has taken a swipe at referee Mathieu Raynal for the way he officiated the scrum in Saturday’s 32-15 Gui…
Liam Heagney
12 Mar 2022, 15:18
Ireland player ratings vs England | Six Nations 2022
Ireland player ratings: Andy Farrell’s Ireland arrived at sunny Twickenham on Saturday labelled as red-hot favourites by Eddie J…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
12 Mar 2022, 14:05
Maro Itoje fit and will start for England
Maro Itoje will start for England in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations round four game at Twickenham, putting an end to fears…
Liam Heagney
12 Mar 2022, 10:40
Grassroots club suspends player for racially abusing Cooper Vuna
An English grassroots club has suspended a player after he racially abused Cooper Vuna, the ex-Wallabies and Tongan international,…
Liam Heagney
12 Mar 2022, 7:57
'Cam Neild, who was sparked out, passed his HIA after the game'
Sale boss Alex Sanderson is happy with the way concussion is being handled at the Gallagher Premiership club, their medics making …
Liam Heagney
12 Mar 2022, 6:00
'That's not going to happen, not even in my wildest dreams'
England boss Eddie Jones has claimed it took his squad until their fallow week training camp in London to get back to the levels o…
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 12:24
'We'd a good catch-up with World Rugby on Monday'
England scrum coach Matt Proudfoot is hoping his pack can get into its groove at the set-piece quicker than has been the case so f…
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 12:05
Henry Slade: 'The thing I like about both Joe and Marcus'
Henry Slade has explained what he likes about starting for England with Marcus Smith positioned inside him at out-half and with Jo…
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 8:39
RFU statement: Six Nations over for van der Merwe as appeal fails
An appeal by Duhan van der Merwe to overturn the three-week ban that ruled him out of the remaining two Scotland games in the Guin…
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 7:59
England confirm Itoje contingency plan and how long they will wait
Assistant coach Matt Proudfoot has claimed that England are "really optimistic" that Maro Itoje will play against Ireland on Satur…
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 6:58
'We've got ourselves on a pathway that feels a little wrong to me'
Rob Baxter has outlined his ongoing unease with the pathway that Premiership Rugby have embarked on, looking to increase the size …
Interview
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 5:33
England suffer eve-of-Test blow as Cockerill can't attend the game
The England preparations for this Saturday's Guinness Six Nations game against Ireland at Twickenham have suffered another covid b…
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 5:01
The awkward moment when Jones hinted he didn't write his books
England boss Eddie Jones has never been a coach that has been shy of putting his thoughts down on paper.
Liam Heagney
11 Mar 2022, 3:42
England's taunt: 'Ireland haven't played a team like us before'
Eddie Jones sounded like he had his wires weirdly crossed when speaking in the embargoed section of his England media briefing on …
Liam Heagney
10 Mar 2022, 17:00
The 'strange way' Sexton reacted when Farrell first spoke to him
Johnny Sexton is heading to Twickenham reinstated as Andy Farrell’s Ireland skipper nine years after their first conversation pr…
Liam Heagney
10 Mar 2022, 13:38
Jones explains an England team that includes Marchant back at No13
Eddie Jones has explained his logic behind this week’s latest midfield reshuffle, the England coach opting to promote Joe Marcha…
Liam Heagney
10 Mar 2022, 8:59
Farrell explains Ireland changes and what 'explosive' bench can do
Andy Farrell is hoping that an “explosive” Ireland bench featuring four 2021 Lions tourists can successfully tip the outcome t…
Liam Heagney
10 Mar 2022, 7:09
Johnny Sexton recalled as Ireland name team with six changes
Johnny Sexton was given further cause to celebrate this week after he was restored to the Ireland No10 jersey on Thursday when And…
Liam Heagney
10 Mar 2022, 6:08
'It was the right package for him at the time'
Exeter have admitted they have no cause for complaint that Jonny Hill hasn’t made it back in time from injury to feature in this…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 13:56
'Oh God, wow. Has Eddie got some sort of deal with 365?'
Joe Marler has quipped that England boss Eddie Jones must have a deal with the bookies after learning that Ireland were midweek fa…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 13:49
Fresh delay for Tuilagi after latest Sale conversation with England
Manu Tuilagi hasn’t started back training with the Sale squad this week as was hoped for following his recent hamstring injury s…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 11:40
'No disrespect': Wales robustly defend selection of Tomas Francis
Wales boss Wayne Pivac has insisted he has not made a grave error by including Tomas Francis in his starting team to take on Franc…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 10:17
Wales make four changes, including a recall for Josh Navidi
Wales boss Wayne Pivac has named a starting XV to face France on Friday that shows four changes from the Guinness Six Nations roun…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 9:12
What Joe Marler said when asked who has the world's best front row
Joe Marler is usually the type of laidback character that is more inclined to crack a joke than answer a serious question seriousl…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 8:34
France make one change and also alter forwards/backs bench split
France coach Fabien Galthie has named a starting XV to face Wales on Friday in Cardiff that shows just one change from their Guinn…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 6:33
'It is doubtful he will play this weekend'
Exeter boss Rob Baxter has explained he had no issue with Scotland surprisingly calling up Jonny Gray for this week’s Guinness S…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 5:54
'He accepted he was reckless': Naulago banned after his latest red
Bristol winger Siva Naulago has been banned for four matches following his red card versus Bath last Saturday in his first game ba…
Liam Heagney
09 Mar 2022, 5:04
'Maybe that seems silly... but it keeps me fresher'
Joe Marler has praised the in/out nature of his Six Nations involvement with England, a flexibility that has enabled him to be at …
Liam Heagney
08 Mar 2022, 14:49
The 'massive lump' compliment England have paid Tadhg Furlong
England sub loosehead Joe Marler might only get a short few minutes playing against Tadhg Furlong, the starting Ireland tighthead …
Liam Heagney
08 Mar 2022, 14:33
Sam Underhill is cut by England as Jones reduces his squad to 26
Eddie Jones has trimmed his England squad to face Ireland next Saturday in the Guinness Six Nations to 26 players, excluding the l…
Liam Heagney
08 Mar 2022, 14:12
How 'underrated knowledge' has accelerated the maturity of Genge
Joe Marler has paid tribute to positional rival Ellis Genge, who has burst from the pack to make the England No1 jersey his own in…
Liam Heagney
08 Mar 2022, 13:22
'Really nice tasty training session... Gengey punched me 4 times'
Joe Marler has reported there was an added edge to England training on Tuesday morning at Pennyhill Park that wasn’t evident in …
Liam Heagney
08 Mar 2022, 9:39
England hope a 'pretty cool' cider night can help against Ireland
England are hoping that a cider tasting session that involved exercises with a communications expert can help them get the better …
Liam Heagney
08 Mar 2022, 5:28
'Real shame': 3 Prem coaches on cancelled promotion and bye-weeks
This past week changed the outlook of the upcoming 2022/23 Gallagher Premiership season.
Analysis
Liam Heagney
06 Mar 2022, 4:38
'Scrums were like a necessary evil to me, I'd just hit and hope'
Sixteen weeks on from the proudest moment of his career, London Irish tighthead Ollie Hoskins is still living the dream. He is in …
Liam Heagney
06 Mar 2022, 3:22
'C'mon, who are you trying to kid?': Dallaglio lashes Eddie Jones
Famed ex-England No8 Lawrence Dallaglio has turned the heat up on Eddie Jones ahead of next weekend’s Guinness Six Nations game …
Liam Heagney
05 Mar 2022, 11:03
The change England need to leave teams 'quaking in their boots'
Legendary Ireland and Lions midfielder has claimed that Eddie Jones’ current England team doesn’t have opposition sides quakin…
Liam Heagney
05 Mar 2022, 10:17
Some 'unbelievably dangerous individuals' are worrying Bath
Stuart Hooper reckons that the major slump in results that Bristol have suffered in this season’s Gallagher Premiership is simil…
Liam Heagney
05 Mar 2022, 5:25
'Steve's brave': Leicester boss Borthwick is impressing Saracens
Back-at-work Saracens boss Mark McCall has saluted the excellent Leicester transformation orchestrated this season by Steve Borthw…
Liam Heagney
05 Mar 2022, 5:06
'Salary cap now was could we get a dispensation on a dispensation'
Pat Lam has shed light on the madcap, behind the scenes drama that resulted in Bristol hurriedly bringing in three additional play…
Liam Heagney
05 Mar 2022, 4:22
Long-serving former CEO Simon Cohen to sue Leicester Tigers
Simon Cohen is suing Leicester Tigers, the Gallagher Premiership club where he worked as CEO for eight years until his sudden May …
Exclusive
Liam Heagney
04 Mar 2022, 14:39
'Terrifying': Mike Brown fears losing job after Newcastle decision
BT Sport rugby commentator Nick Mullins has confirmed that ex-England full-back Mike Brown is on the lookout for a new employer af…
Liam Heagney
04 Mar 2022, 6:24
Six Nations sledgegate: 'He should take it as a compliment'
Ospreys boss Tony Booth reckons Wales hooker Dewi Lake should take it as a compliment that England resorted to sledging him when h…
Liam Heagney
04 Mar 2022, 4:53
'A step up from what we've played so far': How England eye Ireland
Richard Cockerill is braced for a thorough round four Guinness Six Nations examination when England host Ireland at Twickenham on …
Liam Heagney
04 Mar 2022, 4:13
'Gatland always had a way of delivering bad news quite well'
Lawrence Dallaglio accumulated quite the stash of war stories over the course of his legendary career with Wasps and England.
Interview
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 14:13
'He's a hard bugger, I knew when he went down he'd done something bad'
Jack Nowell has wished Luke Cowan-Dickie, his Exeter and England pal, well after it was confirmed on Thursday that the hooker will…
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 13:03
'Positive news': The England update Jonny Hill fans have waited for
England have revealed that Jonny Hill came through unscathed from two days of full training with them, putting him in line for a p…
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 9:39
'I don't think we would do anything differently'
England assistant Richard Cockerill has suggested they would not do anything differently if they had their matchweek back over aga…
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 9:01
Joe Marler to start for Harlequins after England squad omission
England sub loosehead Joe Marler is set to top up his game time ahead of the remainder of the Guinness Six Nations by starting for…
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 7:17
'Significant' injury rules Cowan-Dickie out of the Six Nations
Luke Cowan-Dickie will play no further part in the Guinness Six Nations with England because of the knee injury sustained against …
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 5:46
Disciplinary hearing rubs salt into wounding Hame Faiva red card
Italy hooker Hame Faiva has had salt rubbed into the wound of his Guinness Six Nations red card as he will now miss the remainder …
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 4:34
'His actions are showing he can stay in that team for a long time'
Pat Lam has shared his thoughts on how he feels Harry Randall performed in his first two Guinness Six Nations matches at the start…
Liam Heagney
03 Mar 2022, 4:11
'Bizarre': How vegetables injury sidelined Bristol's Fitz Harding
Bristol boss Pat Lam has quipped that fast-rising back-rower Fitz Harding needs to improve his food preparation skills after a sel…
Liam Heagney
02 Mar 2022, 14:00
'We're struggling to see how we can manage him potentially better'
Alex Sanderson has refused to write off the ambition of Manu Tuilagi to play for England in this season’s Guinness Six Nations, …
Liam Heagney
02 Mar 2022, 12:10
3 starters against Wales excluded as England name a 25-man squad
England flanker Tom Curry, hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie and utility back Elliot Daly are the three starters from last weekend’s Guin…
Liam Heagney
02 Mar 2022, 8:56
Crowley takes to Twitter to defend rookie Test referee Amashukeli
Italy boss Kieran Crowley has taken to Twitter to defend Georgian referee Nika Amashukeli, who found himself at the centre of a bi…
Liam Heagney
02 Mar 2022, 7:21
'He understands his best weight for his power and his size'
Away from the suffocating confines of Twickenham last Saturday where England managed just a single try from a lineout overthrow ag…
Liam Heagney
02 Mar 2022, 4:32
'We're certainly hopeful': The latest Saracens update on Farrell
Mark McCall has used his first media briefing back at the helm at Saracens to provide the latest update as to when the injured Owe…
Liam Heagney
02 Mar 2022, 4:00
Bath tackle a 'few red flags' waved after Underhill skips comeback
Bath boss Stuart Hooper has insisted that Sam Underhill hasn’t suffered a fresh concussion setback and that his late withdrawal …
Liam Heagney
01 Mar 2022, 13:35
'Business as normal': Saracens' Mark McCall back at work after break
Mark McCall had returned to work as the Saracens director of rugby just over a month after it was revealed on January 28 by the Ga…
Liam Heagney
01 Mar 2022, 10:40
Cryptic Erasmus tweet about the tackle that left Adams needing HIA
Springboks World Cup winner Rassie Erasmus has ended his recent Twitter hibernation by posting twice about last Saturday’s late-…
Liam Heagney
01 Mar 2022, 8:55
Bath announce three signings and name their new attack coach
The huge overhaul at Bath ahead of the summer arrival of Johann van Graan as the Gallagher Premiership club's new head coach from …
Liam Heagney
01 Mar 2022, 6:54
The subtle dig Andy Farrell has aimed at Jones' 'new' England
Andy Farrell has taken a subtle dig at Eddie Jones’ ‘new’ England ahead of the March 12 visit by Ireland to Twickenham for a…
Liam Heagney
01 Mar 2022, 5:52
Ireland name 27-man squad as preparations start for England game
Andy Farrell has named a 27-man Ireland squad for this week’s fallow-week Guinness Six Nations camp in Dublin which includes a f…
Liam Heagney
01 Mar 2022, 5:02
'It's just weird': Even Ireland were miffed by uncontested scrums
What unfolded in Dublin on Sunday did little for rugby as a spectacle, practically a full hour of the Ireland versus Italy Guinnes…
Liam Heagney
27 Feb 2022, 13:56
We like Crowley but Italy keep finding terrible ways to lose
An upset Guinness Six Nations result was never on the cards before kick-off in Dublin on Sunday.
Analysis
Liam Heagney
27 Feb 2022, 12:58
Ireland player ratings vs Italy | Six Nations 2022
Ireland player ratings: Eight points behind France with an inferior 36-points difference coming into this Guinness Six Nations rou…
Opinion
Liam Heagney
27 Feb 2022, 12:14
Andy Farrell's Ireland transformation ain't 'skin' deep
It’s been quite the twelve months in the making of Ireland coach Andy Farrell as a genuine Test team boss in his own right.
Opinion
Liam Heagney
27 Feb 2022, 3:49
An ex-England No9 isn't sure about Randall as a Test scrum-half
Harry Randall is set to appear in the biggest rugby match of his career this Saturday, the 24-year-old getting chosen at the start…
Liam Heagney
26 Feb 2022, 6:53
'Kruis is just making a load of coin... bloody hell, good for him'
The past fortnight has been quite the contrasting time for 32-year-olds rugby players Ben Youngs, George Kruis and Mark Wilson, a …
Liam Heagney
25 Feb 2022, 12:10
England pay 'frightening' ref Adamson a contact area compliment
England have paid a compliment to Mike Adamson, the referee whose ability to properly manage this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nation…
Liam Heagney
25 Feb 2022, 12:04
Emotional Andy Farrell's lovely tribute to the late Inga Tuigamala
Ireland coach Andy Farrell has paid a beautifully emotional tribute to Va'aiga Tuigamala, his former Wigan rugby league teammate w…
Liam Heagney
25 Feb 2022, 11:55
'The thing that kills me': Kyle Sinckler as you've never seen him
England prop Kyle Sinckler is set to appear in a compelling documentary on Monday about his native south London and how it kills h…
Liam Heagney
25 Feb 2022, 8:43
Debut for Lowry as Ireland change six but Sexton given bench role
Ireland boss Andy Farrell has made six changes to his team to take on Italy this Sunday in the Guinness Six Nations, having a debu…
Liam Heagney
25 Feb 2022, 8:11
Three changes for Italy for Sunday's game away to Ireland
Italy boss Kieran Crowley has made three changes to his team to take on Ireland this Sunday in the Guinness Six Nations in Dublin.
Liam Heagney
25 Feb 2022, 7:27
England give update on seriousness of the latest Tuilagi injury
England assistant coach Richard Cockerill has delivered an update on the fresh hamstring problem that ruled Manu Tuilagi out of co…
Liam Heagney
25 Feb 2022, 6:26
