Liam Heagney

'Iain has left Ireland camp': Henderson tests positive

Ireland preparations for their Guinness Six Nations round three game at home to Italy has hit another bump in the road as Iain Hen…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2022, 10:25

'It's so tough': The interview that moved Ben Youngs to tears

Record-breaking England scrum-half Ben Youngs was moved to tears this week when talking about his older brother Tom on the England…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2022, 8:51

The Colwyn Bay game where Wales picked Dombrandt to face England

Five years ago current England back-rower Alex Dombrandt had a very different Six Nations experience than the one he is preparing …

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2022, 7:07

Rees-Zammit set to be axed by Wales for England game - reports

Wayne Pivac is reportedly set to explode a Guinness Six Nations selection bombshell on Thursday by axing Louis Rees-Zammit from hi…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2022, 5:11

'Nothing's ruled out with Manu': The difference Tuilagi is making

Martin Gleeson is so glad to have the fit-again Manu Tuilagi back in the England ranks because of the added dimension he brings, t…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2022, 4:10

One starter from Rome omitted as England cut squad from 35 to 25

England boss Eddie Jones has cut his Test week squad from 35 to 25 ahead of this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations round three gam…

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2022, 13:49

England fire warning shot after Lawes, Manu training ground update

Martin Gleeson has sidestepped the question as to who will skipper England next Saturday against Wales now that Courtney Lawes is …

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2022, 11:06

The teenage backline positions that hugely helped Alex Dombrandt

Packing down at No8 for England and Harlequins is where Alex Dombrandt is developing his burgeoning reputation as a player to watc…

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2022, 9:32

'He can do it, definitely': The added dimension Manu Tuilagi craves

It will be at next Thursday’s latest Guinness Six Nations team announcement when England officially confirm they are rolling the…

Liam Heagney

20 Feb 2022, 4:00

Austin Healey bites back after Eddie Jones' 'egg-on-face' jibe

Austin Healey has bitten back after England boss Eddie Jones had a laugh at his expense during last Sunday’s media briefing in R…

Liam Heagney

19 Feb 2022, 10:42

'We have made some signings and expect to announce them soon'

Wasps have hinted they already have signings in the bag following the February 2 confirmation that seasoned duo Jimmy Gopperth and…

Liam Heagney

19 Feb 2022, 6:49

'My nose is incredibly happy, I'm fed up having things stuck up it'

Newcastle boss Dean Richards has hailed the decision by Premiership Rugby to end with immediate effect the weekly routine covid te…

Liam Heagney

19 Feb 2022, 5:22

'I'm still able to go for my Nandos, I don't get hassled too much'

Impressive performances this month are nothing new to Marcus Smith, the exuberant out-half who has fast become the latest poster b…

Interview

Liam Heagney

19 Feb 2022, 3:40

'In Johnny's head that doesn't work': O'Gara on Sexton vs Carbery

Ronan O’Gara believes Ireland must give Joey Carbery a run of games as the starting Ireland No10 to bring on his game further ra…

Liam Heagney

18 Feb 2022, 10:02

'It's odd, the biggest cheer was when Ford did a spiral bomb'

Newcastle are currently on a five-game losing run in the Gallagher Premiership but the director of rugby Dean Richards has insiste…

Liam Heagney

18 Feb 2022, 4:22

'I hate talking about people being retired, it sounds terrible'

Dean Richards had a candid confession to make after spending some time at his Newcastle media briefing on Thursday talking about t…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 14:46

'So much more to his game': Scotland's loss is Saracens' gain

It’s nearly eleven months since Sean Maitland won the last of his 53 Scotland caps but Saracens can’t get enough of their 33-y…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 14:38

'He's probably sick to death of my voice on a Monday and Tuesday'

Harlequins boss Tabai Matson has highlighted how energising an experience training with England has been for Louis Lynagh, even th…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 13:59

'Oddly, I just sat down with Adam now talking it through'

Dean Richards turned up late to his already rearranged Newcastle media briefing on Thursday due to his need to chew the fat with A…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 10:54

'Tank's a whole lot more dangerous': Eben Etzebeth joins Sharks

Springboks enforcer Eben Etzebeth will join the Durban-based Sharks from Toulon at the end of the current season in Europe.

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 6:38

'Excellent character' Siva Naulago learns red card hearing verdict

Bristol winger Siva Naulago has been banned following his Gallagher Premiership red card against London Irish.

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 5:39

'Joe's never done it before': Launchbury's new England experience

This week’s inclusion of Joe Launchbury in the England training squad in London at the expense of Nick Isiekwe - a starter versu…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 4:57

Saracens coach Joe Shaw has given an Owen Farrell injury update

Saracens head coach Joe Shaw has delivered an update on how England skipper Owen Farrell has got down to the business of his lates…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2022, 4:19

What Harlequins have made of the England release of Joe Marler

Tabai Matson has admitted he is in the dark about what this week’s release of Joe Marler back to Harlequins means for the looseh…

Liam Heagney

16 Feb 2022, 14:35

'I fell to my arse... and I'm too ashamed to watch it back'

Luke Cowan-Dickie has spoken for the first time since his high profile Guinness Six Nations error versus Scotland resulted in his …

Liam Heagney

16 Feb 2022, 12:25

What Marcus Smith has made of Manu Tuilagi's England squad return

Marcus Smith had admitted he is loving rubbing shoulders once more with the fit-again Manu Tuilagi, someone he vividly remembers w…

Liam Heagney

16 Feb 2022, 11:58

The Saracens reaction to curious England rejection of Nick Isiekwe

Saracens have confirmed that a knock wasn’t the reason why Nick Isiekwe was omitted from the squad of 25 training with England i…

Liam Heagney

16 Feb 2022, 10:44

'They were stealing my money': Smith's tongue-in-cheek Wales story

New England talisman Marcus Smith has tongue-in-cheek quipped that Dan Biggar and his fellow Wales players “were stealing his mo…

Liam Heagney

16 Feb 2022, 9:10

How 'frustrated, emotional' Quirke is coping with England setback

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has explained how rookie scrum-half Raffi Quirke has been coping in recent weeks with his rejection by En…

Liam Heagney

16 Feb 2022, 6:40

'Really tough': What Barbeary found most challenging about England

Wasps boss Lee Blackett has given kudos to Alfie Barberary, the uncapped 21-year-old back-rower who in recent weeks has managed to…

Liam Heagney

16 Feb 2022, 4:42

'Every last scrap': Sale explain why Tuilagi is ready for England

Sale have explained why they believe the time was right for Manu Tuilagi to return to the Test fold with England, the powerhouse m…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 15:25

Jones names 25-strong England training squad that includes Tuilagi

England boss Eddie Jones has named a 25-man squad for this week’s fallow week training camp in London ahead of the February 27 G…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 14:19

'He has been called in': Sale confirm Tuilagi recalled by England

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has confirmed on Tuesday that Manu Tuilagi has been recalled to the England squad for the fallow week tra…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 11:33

Ex-England back-rower Teimana Harrison linked with move to France

PRO D2 club Provence are reportedly interested in bolstering their pack with two players who have huge Gallagher Premiership exper…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 8:01

The Twitter reaction to retirement of 'nicest bloke' Mark Wilson

Danny Care and Mike Brown were two of the many players to lead the tributes on social media after England back-rower Mark Wilson a…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 6:52

'Proved his quality': Tadhg Beirne signs a lengthy IRFU extension

Ireland forward Tadhg Beirne has agreed to an IRFU central contract that will see him play his rugby at Munster until July 2025.

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 5:48

Two young England prospects sign contract extensions at Bath

Recent England Six Nations squad call up Orlando Bailey and Max Ojomoh, who was in last year's summer series squad, have given str…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 5:27

The reaction to 'rangy' Ollie Chessum, the latest new England cap

There were just 15 minutes remaining at Stadio Olimpico last Sunday when Ollie Chessum entered the Guinness Six Nations arena to r…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2022, 4:42

The England verdict on how the Smith/Randall combination performed

Marcus Smith’s new Six Nations half-back partnership with Harry Randall has been given a seal of approval by England boss Eddie …

Liam Heagney

13 Feb 2022, 14:31

Eddie Jones fires back at Austin Healey after England win in Rome

England boss Eddie Jones finished off his post-match media briefing in Rome following his team’s 33-0 win by taking a tongue-in-…

Liam Heagney

13 Feb 2022, 13:53

'He came from the side and crushed my ribs, it was a big welcome'

Toa Halafihi last Sunday found himself running down the Stade de France tunnel to make a Test debut he would never have imagined h…

Interview

Liam Heagney

13 Feb 2022, 3:45

Ireland player ratings vs France | Six Nations 2022

Ireland player ratings: That was a Guinness Six Nations thriller where the result gloriously hung in the balance right until the f…

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2022, 14:28

England assistant reckons losing to Scotland 'could be good for us'

New England attack coach Martin Gleeson has suggested that last weekend’s round one Guinness Six Nations defeat to Scotland coul…

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2022, 8:13

The message Sinckler has given to rare England starter Will Stuart

Rare England starter Will Stuart has revealed the message he has got from fellow tighthead Kyle Sinckler ahead of this Sunday’s …

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2022, 7:03

Why a day at the beach was just the tonic for 'heartbroken' Exeter

Rob Baxter has explained why he changed things up at Exeter training this week by taking his squad off to the beach in Exmouth on …

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2022, 4:38

The one thing England 'can't afford to do' early on against Italy

Eddie Jones has highlighted the one thing his England team can’t afford to do early on against Italy on Sunday in round two of t…

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2022, 4:27

The 'welcome' Sale have planned for Diamond 14 months after he quit

Sale boss Alex Sanderson is keen on having a catch-up beer on Saturday with his Sharks predecessor Steve Diamond - but there will …

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2022, 4:12

The Springboks great that England have likened Alex Dombrandt to

England coach Eddie Jones has claimed that Alex Dombrandt, his team’s No8 for Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations match away to Ital…

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2022, 3:48

The 'ruthless' Muhammad Ali vision England have for bench in Rome

England boss Eddie Jones wants his experienced, caps-heavy replacements bench to strike a Muhammad Ali versus Sonny Liston type po…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2022, 17:00

'A loss to Italy does not seem completely ridiculous'

Former England international Austin Healey is giving Italy a sporting chance of causing a Guinness Six Nations upset this Sunday i…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2022, 9:34

Kieran Crowley makes three changes to his Italy team for England

Italy have made three changes for this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations match at home to England following last Sunday’s 37-10 lo…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2022, 8:49

A shaken-up England explain their half-dozen changes for Italian job

England boss Eddie Jones has explained why he has made six changes to his starting team to face Italy this Sunday in the Guinness …

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2022, 7:53

Sinckler benched as Jones makes six changes to his England team

England boss Eddie Jones has made six changes to his starting team to face Italy this Sunday in the Guinness Six Nations following…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2022, 6:40

The Exeter reaction to a Calcutta Cup that featured so many Chiefs

Last Saturday was one of those crazy high and low days for Rob Baxter and Exeter. A Chiefs side missing a plethora of its establis…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 14:20

How Joey Carbery reacted when he saw Johnny Sexton pull up lame

Joey Carbery has explained what ran through his mind on Wednesday when noticed that Johnny Sexton was no longer training with Irel…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 14:11

Debate over Murrayfield scrum finale is still raging days later

Days after the result-confirming series of clock-in-the-red scrums at Murrayfield and the debate over whether England should have …

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 14:05

Scotland explain Sione Tuipulotu promotion and front row strategy

Gregor Townsend has explained why he has opted to start Test level rookie Sione Tuipulotu at No12 this week following his efforts …

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 9:36

England to host Barbarians 20 months after 'laughing stock' cancellation

England are set to host the Barbarians at Twickenham next June 20 months after the embarrassing cancellation of the previously pla…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 8:25

Scotland ring the changes and make five alterations to face Wales

Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has made five changes to his starting XV for this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations round two match …

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 7:42

The training ground moment that sidelined Ireland's Johnny Sexton

Andy Farrell has explained how veteran Johnny Sexton promptly withdrew himself from Ireland training on Wednesday as soon as he fe…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 7:24

Shock Ireland selection as skipper Johnny Sexton is ruled out

Ireland boss Andy Farrell has resisted the temptation to recall Lions duo Iain Henderson and Robbie Henshaw to his starting line-u…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 6:07

'Much less in-house bitching': Life with England after latest loss

Joe Marler has given the current England set-up under Eddie Jones the highest of praise for how tight-knit the squad is - quite a …

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2022, 3:51

Courtney Lawes is ruled out as England cut squad from 36 to 27

Eddie Jones has trimmed his England squad of 36 down to 27 ahead of Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations round two match away to Italy …

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 13:52

Leicester statement: Chris Ashton has joined with immediate effect

Steve Borthwick’s Leicester have signed former England international Chris Ashton on a short-term deal eight days after the free…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 12:50

'The right thing': How the Tuilagi, Jones call unfolded on Monday

Alex Sanderson has shed light on the conversation that was had between England boss Eddie Jones and fit-again midfielder Manu Tuil…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 12:25

'Cockers has been giving me the eyes of, 'Any danger this week?'

Loosehead Joe Marler has explained he has been busy on the England training ground at Pennyhill this week to ensure he won’t eve…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 10:18

What Exeter made of the yellow-carded Cowan-Dickie England error

Rob Baxter has claimed that if there was any front-rower he would have backed to catch a crossfield kick it would have been Luke C…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 6:20

Danny Cipriani wades into debate over Marcus Smith substitution

Ex-England out-half Danny Cipriani had waded into the red-hot debate about the decision by Eddie Jones to remove on-song No10 Marc…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 5:03

Video: What Itoje said in beaten England Murrayfield changing room

The latest episode in the weekly RFU video series on the England team has revealed that Maro Itoje was the player who rallied his …

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 4:03

The Wallabies lesson helping Eddie Jones coach England this week

Eddie Jones has revealed that a chastening experience he endured nearly 20 years ago as head coach of the Wallabies will ensure he…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2022, 2:48

Jones: No regrets over 'gut feeling' subs policy that hurt England

England boss Eddie Jones has insisted he has no regrets regarding his decision-making at Murrayfield during last Saturday’s Guin…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2022, 17:10

England name 36-man squad that includes uncapped Irish back row

England boss Eddie Jones has confirmed following a Tuesday evening training session at Pennyhill Park that he has a 36-man squad w…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2022, 14:43

Jones: 'We left 15 points out there at least from our calculation'

Eddie Jones has suggested England should have been comfortable winners of last Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations, claiming his tea…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2022, 8:28

England pick Joe Launchbury but there is no call for Manu Tuilagi

England boss Eddie Jones has recalled fit-again Joe Launchbury to his squad for next Sunday's round two Guinness Six Nations match…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2022, 7:23

Watch: The bonkers two-balls-on-pitch Top 14 finish at Biarritz

The Top 14 has a habit of throwing up some of the most bizarre sights you will ever see anywhere in rugby and what unfolded with t…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2022, 5:00

Bakkies Botha hits out at Toulon for hitting rock bottom in France

Legendary Springboks second-rower Bakkies Botha has taken to Twitter to mourn the weekend Top 14 result that has left Toulon - the…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2022, 4:21

Some of the best grassroots rugby photos you will ever see...

With the Twickenham World Rugby Museum currently playing host to a wonderful exhibition showcasing the excellent work of the first…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2022, 3:39

Townsend: What Scotland must now do to 'deliver something special'

There was a time when Scotland beating England was the be-all and end-all for them but not anymore judging by the composed manner …

Liam Heagney

06 Feb 2022, 6:04

The five nastiest Murrayfield takeaways that most sickened England

Defeat for England in the opening round of the 2022 Guinness Six Nations will be sickening for them. They were coasting midway thr…

Liam Heagney

06 Feb 2022, 5:40

'The U15s from my club in Manchester would beat us at the moment'

New boss Steve Diamond has accepted he needs to act quickly on the training ground if there is to be an upward swing in the fortun…

Interview

Liam Heagney

06 Feb 2022, 5:20

The 'smallest budget' reminder Pat Lam has on Bristol office wall

Don’t talk to Bristol boss Pat Lam about the alleged hardships of Gallagher Premiership clubs with reduced budgets struggling to…

Liam Heagney

06 Feb 2022, 5:00

'He was actually really angry that I didn't know what I'd done'

Ex-All Blacks scrum-half Tawera Kerr-Barlow is one heck of a storyteller, his entertaining yarns - including an incredible story a…

Interview

Liam Heagney

06 Feb 2022, 3:54

'Wait for the video... I have got the production team on it now'

Eddie Jones managed to find some room for levity in the wake of Saturday’s 20-17 loss to Scotland, the beaten England coach quip…

Liam Heagney

05 Feb 2022, 14:58

Whoops, Eddie Jones, it's happened again as England implode

Whoops, Eddie Jones, it happened again. Whereas the Australian’s reign as England coach started out with some extravagance when …

Opinion

Liam Heagney

05 Feb 2022, 14:19

England arrive to boos but there is no repeat of 2020 bottle-gate

England arrived to a chorus of boos at Murrayfield on Saturday for their Guinness Six Nations opener but there was no repeat of th…

Liam Heagney

05 Feb 2022, 11:00

'I think half the time he doesn't know what he is doing...'

Finn Russell has received a glowing endorsement from Stuart Hogg, his Scotland skipper, ahead of this Saturday’s Guinness Six Na…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 14:25

The emotion Simmonds feels over his first England start in 4 years

Recalled England No8 Sam Simmonds insists he hasn’t felt any added pressure this week after earning a first start for his countr…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 14:16

Hogg's classy response to Jones' 'Scotland red-hot favourites' quip

Stuart Hogg has sidestepped getting involved in the discussion about Eddie Jones tagging Scotland as “red-hot favourites” for …

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 10:15

Six Nations boost for England as Manu Tuilagi is picked by Sale

Missing England midfielder Manu Tuilagi is poised to play his first match in eleven weeks after he was named on the Sale bench for…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 9:27

How Elliot Daly went from England axe to 'significant' in 17 days

It’s been quite a few weeks for Elliot Daly, the 29-year-old who has gone from getting axed by Eddie Jones on January 18 to bein…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 8:55

The plan England have hatched to take away Finn Russell's 'weapons'

New England defence coach Anthony Seibold is hoping the plan he has formulated can be executed to such an effective degree that Sc…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 7:09

'We'd a 19-year-old second row on the bench, I don't think we've ever had that'

A glance at the current Gallagher Premiership table makes for very unusual reading for serial finalists Exeter heading into their …

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 4:26

'My overall feeling was Mark's my friend, the biggest concern was for him'

It was a jolting 70-word bolt from the blue statement that Saracens issued last Friday afternoon, announcing that long-serving bos…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 4:06

Eddie Jones' 'blatantly honest' claim about Scotland's development

Eddie Jones has startingly claimed that Gregor Townsend’s Scotland are “probably two years ahead” of England in terms of the…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2022, 3:56

The 'Scotland brag' that England want Marcus Smith to silence

Eddie Jones has no concerns about the speculation that Scotland will get at Marcus Smith, the rookie England out-half, when the Gu…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 17:00

Saracens: How Nick Isiekwe ended 44-month wait for England recall

You have to go back 44 months to find the last time that Saracens lock Nick Isiekwe was capped by England. He had just turned 20 a…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 14:44

Sanderson's 6:30am phone call after Raffi Quirke England omission

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has revealed how he made a 6.30am phone call to his brother Pat, his fellow ex-England international, aft…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 14:42

The advice Will Carling has given new England skipper Tom Curry

New England skipper Tom Curry has spoken about the advice he has received from the legendary Will Carling which helped him go from…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 11:44

England explain the selection of unheralded duo Ludlam and Isiekwe

You would have very got long odds a few weeks ago on Eddie Jones naming an England team to face Scotland this Saturday with Lewis …

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 9:45

England bank on two advantages versus 'red-hot favourites' Scotland

England boss Eddie Jones is banking on two particular areas of play tipping the balance in his team’s favour when they take on �…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 8:45

Scotland make three changes to their pack for clash with England

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland team for this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations opener at home to England that contains three…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 8:17

The All Blacks great rookie skipper Tom Curry has been likened to

Eddie Jones has backed Tom Curry to impress after the 23-year-old back-rower was named the youngest England captain since Will Car…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 7:30

England name Six Nations team with 7 changes from Springboks win

Eddie Jones has named an England team for this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations opener away to Scotland that shows seven changes …

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 6:31

'An inspiration to so many being the lightest pro rugby player'

Pat Lam will allow himself a hearty chuckle when it is confirmed later on Thursday that Harry Randall has made the England matchda…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2022, 4:00

Bristol tidy up 'a few misconceptions' after Hughes' Bath debut

Pat Lam has reflected on last week’s Gallager Premiership man of the match debut by Nathan Hughes, the out-of-favour No8 that Br…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2022, 15:07

'He's not a dick with it': Why Tom Curry is set to skipper England

So excited are Sale about the likely prospect that Tom Curry will skipper England in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations opener…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2022, 14:49

Wasps confirm the exits of both Jimmy Gopperth and Malakai Fekitoa

Wasps have confirmed the end-of-season departures of Jimmy Gopperth, who has been linked with a two-year switch to Leicester, and …

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2022, 12:24

The Sale update that will have England and Springboks fans smiling

Sale boss Alex Sanderson is poised to unleash fit-again duo Manu Tuilagi and Faf de Klerk in this weekend’s Gallagher Premiershi…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2022, 11:54

The alleged England stigma Steve Diamond dismisses as 'bulls**t'

Steve Diamond has dismissed as bulls**t the suggestion that players need to be playing for the best clubs in England in order to g…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2022, 8:38

The Exeter verdict on Jonny Hill losing out this week with England

Exeter have admitted it wasn’t a great surprise that Jonny Hill won’t be fit in time for England to face Scotland this weekend…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2022, 6:47

England cut their squad to 29 ahead of their Six Nations opener

Eddie Jones has retained 29 players ahead of England’s opening Guinness Six Nations match this weekend. England will travel to E…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 14:27

Gilroy cited for 'the tackle everyone is trying to get away from'

Former Ireland winger Craig Gilroy escaped with just a yellow card for a high tackle during last Friday night’s United Rugby Cha…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 14:00

Leicester confirm 'sound-out conversation' with Chris Ashton

Leicester boss Steve Borthwick has confirmed that free agent Chris Ashton visited the Tigers training ground on Tuesday in the hop…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 12:41

Worcester statement: Scott Baldwin has left with immediate effect

Ex-Wales hooker Scott Baldwin has been released from his Worcester contract on compassionate grounds. The 33-year-old, who arrived…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 12:09

England deliver the latest update on their wait for Courtney Lawes

England assistant Matt Proudfoot has described Courtney Lawes as "raring to go" for Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match away t…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 10:17

Ford and Smith named in 15-strong European player of the year list

Five Gallagher Premiership players - including George Ford of Leicester and Harlequins' Marcus Smith - have been named on the Hein…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 8:57

England's Dolly and Heyes among new deals announced by Leicester

Rookie England hooker Nic Dolly has agreed on a new deal at Leicester, the club he joined just last March from Coventry. Having in…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 6:58

'Scotland in a Grand Slam decider...': The Rugby Pod predictions

With giddy Guinness Six Nations atmosphere in the air, The Rugby Pod has been busy in this week’s latest episode giving its uniq…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2022, 5:17

What Smith as the England 10 means for Youngs compared to Ford

Centurion Test scrum-half Ben Youngs has explained he doesn’t really have to change his game when paired together with internati…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2022, 4:50

Why Ben Youngs craves 'Raffi's D and Harry's feel for when to tap'

Twelve years after making a Test level debut against Scotland in March 2010 as a fresh-faced 21-year-old, Ben Youngs will head bac…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2022, 4:00

'It is what it is… they are grim conversations, extremely tough'

Six Nations hype is simmering six days out from the start of the 2022 tournament but steer clear of asking former Wallabies lock L…

Liam Heagney

30 Jan 2022, 4:00

'It's going to be hostile... I'm sure I'm going to get plenty abuse'

England boss Eddie Jones has claimed he will happily accept being on the receiving end of plenty of verbal abuse at Murrayfield ne…

Liam Heagney

30 Jan 2022, 4:00

How Nathan Hughes reacted to his man of the match debut at Bath

Former England No8 Nathan Hughes royally illustrated how he still has what it takes to shine at Gallagher Premiership level by pro…

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2022, 6:45

Saracens statement: Mark McCall to take 'break' as director of rugby

Mark McCall, the long-serving director of rugby at Saracens, is to take a short break from his role at the Gallagher Premiership c…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2022, 9:40

'Wayne wasn't having it... he looked me dead in the eyes'

Stade Francais skipper Tala Gray has relived the dramatic moment when he tried to appease Wayne Barnes after the furious referee h…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2022, 9:17

Townsend faces a nervous Saturday as Hogg and co start for Exeter

It will be a nervous Saturday for Scotland boss Gregor Townsend as skipper Stuart Hogg and second row duo Jonny Gray and Sam Skinn…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2022, 7:28

World Rugby statement: Why Six Nations has adopted scrum law trial

With just a week to go to the start of the 2022 championships, World Rugby and Six Nations Rugby have confirmed the use of a close…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2022, 4:52

'Combine him and Marcus Smith, you'd have the best attacking 10/12 in the Six Nations'

Gloucester boss George Skivington has endorsed the suggestion by ex-England international Austin Healey that Eddie Jones must pick…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2022, 4:08

Weaponised maul has Gloucester fielding calls 'all over the world'

When it comes to the Gallagher Premiership, Opta provides a multitude of statistics that can take any rugby fan down a rabbit hole…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2022, 13:58

'Closing in on half a million pound at least to do a brand change'

Exeter owner Tony Rowe has revealed it will cost the club around £500,000 to undergo the brand change of its existing Chiefs logo…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2022, 10:16

Red-carded Latu learns fate after 'abusive' chat with Wayne Barnes

Stade Francais hooker Tolu Latu has been suspended for one week following his red-carding by referee Wayne Barnes during last Sund…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2022, 5:19

'We're not going to name it': England decide to play waiting game

Eddie Jones will delay publicly revealing his latest England squad leadership group until he names the team that will take on Scot…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2022, 4:54

The glaring Ireland omission Ronan O'Gara can't get his head around

Ireland jetted out at the start of the week to Portugal for some warm-weather training ahead of the Guinness Six Nations, but ther…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2022, 4:12

How George Ford has fared settling back into life with England

One player’s agonising misfortune has very much become another player’s good fortune as England up their preparations for the …

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 15:08

Andy Farrell's poignant message for son Owen at Six Nations launch

Ireland boss Andy Farrell had a poignant message for his son Owen, the stricken England skipper, at the Guinness Six Nations media…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 14:32

The one thing Saracens reckon Owen Farrell will feel 'great' about

It has been a devastating few days for England skipper Owen Farrell as his need for an ankle operation on Wednesday morning ruled …

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 11:12

'A player that gets fans out of seats': Scarlets sign Vaea Fifita

Scarlets have confirmed the signing of former All Blacks forward Vaea Fifita from Wasps. The 29-year-old, who can play at lock and…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 9:23

Why an embarrassed Eddie Jones has admitted he is 'such a dodo'

England boss Eddie Jones somehow managed to drop himself in the mire on Tuesday when British Olympic gold medal winner Jessica Enn…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 8:58

'Billows of smoke, then all of a sudden it lit up in a huge fire'

Eddie Jones has spoken about the Tuesday night fire drama that resulted in his England squad evacuating from their seafront hotel …

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 6:54

England skipper Owen Farrell ruled out of entire 2022 Six Nations

England captain Owen Farrell has been ruled out of the entire Guinness Six Nations because of an ankle problem. Head coach Eddie J…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 5:02

England squad evacuated from their Brighton hotel because of fire

England preparations for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations took another unexpected twist on Tuesday night when Eddie Jones’ squa…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2022, 4:41

The classy tweet Jonathan Thomas posted after his Worcester exit

Jonathan Thomas didn’t last all that long as the head coach at Worcester following the arrival of Steve Diamond as lead rugby co…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 15:24

'What's the hate around Owen Farrell in the media...'

A former Saracens teammate of Owen Farrell has questioned the media narrative that wanted the England skipper pushed out of the Ed…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 14:01

Joe Marler withdrawn from the England training camp in Brighton

Seasoned loosehead Joe Marler has become the latest player to pull out of the England training camp in Brighton ahead of the Febru…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 13:20

'Standout traits': The Leicester reaction to Ford's England recall

Steve Borthwick reckons George Ford owes his England call-up after ten months away from the international squad to his relentless …

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 12:08

'That is the hope': Gloucester shed light on the Jonny May injury

Gloucester boss George Skivington has claimed he is in the dark as to the severity of the knee injury that this week ruled Jonny M…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 10:25

Diamond now Worcester boss as Thomas exits with immediate effect

It has taken Steve Diamond just eight weeks to go from getting his foot in the door at Worcester as the lead rugby consultant to s…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 9:35

Dragons sign Bradley Roberts four days after Hibbard retirement

New Wales hooker Bradley Roberts will join Dragons from Ulster for the 2022/23 season, the 26-year-old South African-born forward …

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 8:06

Wales to release 6 players for URC action, confirm 1 Covid positive

Wales boss Wayne Pivac has given permission for six United Rugby Championship players in his Guinness Six Nations squad - Rhys Car…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 7:32

Lancaster: 'A real strength' that Ireland have compared to England

Ex-England boss Stuart Lancaster has explained why his country’s wider player pool from across the Gallagher Premiership is a fa…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2022, 6:21

'We are in the middle of a bit of adversity on and off the field' - Sanderson

Sale boss Alex Sanderson got a touch emotional when he reflected on his rollercoaster first year as a Gallagher Premiership direct…

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2022, 5:30

'I spent so much time in the gym I'd forgotten what it took to run'

It was so nearly the fully perfect week for Jack Nowell, the 28-year-old who was last Tuesday recalled to an England squad he hasn…

Interview

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2022, 4:08

'That's nasty': Sam Underhill comeback lasts just 15 minutes

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2022, 9:06

Saracens' bold prediction 'once Gregor sees Andy in the flesh'

If there was one social media post that surely made every rugby fan smile this past week it was that of Saracens back-rower Andy C…

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2022, 7:38

EPCR statement: Northampton eliminated from the Champions Cup

Sunday’s match in Paris featuring Racing 92 and Northampton has become the third of the twelve planned round four Heineken Champ…

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2022, 7:01

'He's basically going around giving stick to every injured player'

Luke Cowan-Dickie was forced to miss the Autumn Nations Series with England due to a significant ankle ligament injury, but Exeter…

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2022, 5:57

The key factor England reckon will be decisive in 2022 Six Nations

England boss Eddie Jones reckons the upcoming 2022 Guinness Six Nations will be won by the team that proves to be the most adaptab…

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2022, 4:36

'It's frightening that the same official is doing England v Wales'

Scottish referee Mike Adamson ignited a social media inferno over his controversial handling of Friday night’s Heineken Champion…

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2022, 3:44

Leicester game cancelled just hours after naming XV for Bordeaux

Leicester have finished out their Heineken Champions Cup pool a day earlier than planned as it was decided that virus-hit Bordeaux…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2022, 11:28

Sam Underhill set for Bath start four days after England exclusion

Excluded England back-rower Sam Underhill will play his first club match in four weeks when he lines out for Bath in this Saturday…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2022, 10:49

'Scandalous': LNR threaten legal action over Toulouse 0 Cardiff 28

Legal action against the EPCR has been threatened by the Ligue Nationale de Rugby after defending Champions Cup champions Toulouse…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2022, 9:32

The Esterhuizen-like player tipped for England start outside Smith

Former England utility back Austin Healey has called on Eddie Jones to pick Mark Atkinson as an Andre Esterhuizen-type player at i…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2022, 7:31

Saracens statement: Owen Farrell training ground injury setback

Owen Farrell appears to have been ruled out of contention for the upcoming England Six Nations opener away to Scotland on February…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2022, 6:42

Why Exeter admire Nowell for making 'various body transformations'

Exeter have claimed even better is still to come from Jack Nowell even though the winger has returned to top form this winter to e…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2022, 5:31

Newcastle stopped from going to Toulon following trip to Biarritz

Last weekend’s trip to Biarritz has had disappointing consequences for Newcastle as this Saturday’s Challenge Cup round four m…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2022, 4:27

How 'subtle' advice from an ex-All Black helped new England winger

Waisake Naholo never played all that much during his injury-hit two-year stay at London Irish which ended in June 2021 but the rol…

Interview

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2022, 13:47

'AJ walks in and he's all flustered, like all red and stressed...'

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2022, 13:42

Chris Cook 'very happy' to quit Premiership for Italian URC spell

Ex-Bath and Bristol scrum-half Chris Cook has signed a short-term deal taking him to Zebre Parma, the Italian-based United Rugby C…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2022, 9:55

Saracens react to latest England snub for Billy and Mako Vunipola

Saracens boss Mark McCall has given his take on the decision by Eddie Jones not to recall Billy or Mako Vunipola to the England sq…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2022, 7:51

Bubble tweaked to ensure England don't repeat 2021 Odogwu 6N issue

England players chosen in Eddie Jones’ 36-strong squad for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations won’t experience the championship…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2022, 7:14

Exeter in France: 'There's no Novak Djokovic business going on...'

Rob Baxter has avoided confirming in advance of Friday’s Exeter team announcement whether Henry Slade will be included in the Ch…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2022, 6:12

EPCR statement: Bundee Aki verbal attack on referee Mathieu Raynal

Ireland midfielder Bundee Aki can rest easy ahead of the upcoming Guinness Six Nations after learning that his verbal altercation …

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 13:14

The GPS tweak which Sale hope can get Tuilagi back with England

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has explained they have adopted the GPS system used by England in order to get Manu Tuilagi fit “at som…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 12:38

Lowe left out as Ireland name two uncapped players in squad of 37

Ireland boss Andy Farrell has named two uncapped players - Ulster’s Michael Lowry and Connacht’s Mack Hansen - in his 37-stron…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 11:17

Why Owen Farrell's Saracens comeback will hinge on 'late decision'

England boss Eddie Jones is banking on his skipper Owen Farrell playing his first match in ten weeks this Sunday versus London Iri…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 10:26

Townsend names five uncapped players in his 39-man Scotland squad

Gregor Townsend has named five uncapped players in his 39-man squad for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations, including Saracens back…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 9:15

Jacob Umaga learns fate after second red card in two Wasps games

Wasps’ Jacob Umaga is set for another frustrating stint on the sidelines as he has received a four-week ban following last Satur…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 8:59

How Caelan Doris found 'peace of mind' after his concussion issues

Calean Doris has reflected on how he went from a concussion nightmare at the start of 2021 to finish the year getting voted as the…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 6:27

Unexpected message has given Esterhuizen hope of Springboks recall

Harlequins powerhouse Andre Esterhuizen has received a timely pat on the back from Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber as he at…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 5:09

Why England like 'really good adjustment' made by recalled Nowell

England boss Eddie Jones has followed the lead of Exeter coach Rob Baxter by heaping praise on Jack Nowell for the way he had fine…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2022, 4:24

5 of the biggest casualties as England name Six Nations squad

Accused throughout the 2021 Guinness Six Nations of being too loyal to certain favourites, Eddie Jones has continued on his missio…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 14:05

The one thing that Eddie Jones admits could make him 'an idiot'

Eddie Jones stuck to his guns on Tuesday, opting not to recall the out-of-favour George Ford or the Vinupola brothers to the Engla…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 10:58

The 4 reasons why England have backed Farrell to remain skipper

Eddie Jones has insisted Owen Farrell remains the right player to lead England even though he played just once in November’s thr…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 9:10

'Extraordinary ability': Eddie Jones on his six new England picks

Eddie Jones has outlined his reasons for including each of the six uncapped players in his England squad that will assemble in Bri…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 8:38

England explain dropping Underhill and reveal Tuilagi setback

Eddie Jones has explained the absence of Sam Underhill and Manu Tuilagi - two starters in the win last time out versus the Springb…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 7:40

Wales name Biggar to skipper squad containing 3 uncapped players

Wayne Pivac has named three uncapped players - Ospreys duo Dewi Lake (hooker) and Jac Morgan (back row) alongside Cardiff's James …

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 6:45

England squad includes 6 uncapped players but no recall for Ford

Eddie Jones has named a 36-strong squad for the 2022 Guinness Six Nations that includes six uncapped players - Orlando Bailey, Alf…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 5:54

'Hey, that's life': Stockdale rules out Six Nations with Ireland

Ireland 2018 Grand Slam star Jacob Stockdale has taken to social media to confirm he will miss the upcoming Guinness Six Nations w…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2022, 4:29

'He nailed Vermeulen and Steve rang going 'We have got our man!'

Jan McGinity figured it could work out like this, the fortunes of Leicester turning around hugely on the pitch with him no longer …

Interview

Liam Heagney

16 Jan 2022, 4:00

Bundee Aki tweets apology after verbal attack on French referee

Ireland midfielder Bundee Aki will hope that his tweeted apology will be enough to stave off a citing following his tempestuous on…

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2022, 13:33

'Excessive': Pundits angry as Umaga red-carded again for Wasps

Boos rang around the Coventry Building Society Arena on Saturday after Jacob Umaga was controversially red-carded six minutes befo…

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2022, 9:36

The thing giving Northampton 'a lot of confidence' in coach change

Mark Darbon has insisted that Northampton explored every possible avenue before confirming this week that they were happy for curr…

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2022, 6:49

The 'low maintenance' birthday winger tipped for an England call

London Irish getting players into the England Six Nations squad is rare, but is that situation about to change next Tuesday with r…

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2022, 6:15

Exeter tackle damning accusation about them and new drop-out rule

Rob Baxter has laid bare his exasperation that the new goal-line drop-out rule is a major reason why Exeter haven’t been as domi…

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2022, 5:14

New role for Cameron Redpath in first Bath appearance since May

Fit-again Cameron Redpath has been handed an entirely new role Bath this Saturday when he plays his first rugby match since seriou…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2022, 10:57

WRU statement: Full crowds permitted for home Six Nations matches

The WRU have welcomed the Welsh Government decision to ease restrictions on crowds, meaning Wales’ upcoming three home matches a…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2022, 10:30

Sale round off a difficult week with three XV changes for Clermont

Sale will fly out to France on Saturday for Champions Cup action having made three changes to their starting XV following a diffic…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2022, 9:56

The 'little concern' Wasps have about England prospect Barbeary

Wasps have backed their uncapped back-rower Alfie Barbeary for an England Guinness Six Nations call-up but Lee Blackett, the Galla…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2022, 5:29

Ex-Lions prop speaks out: 'Us fatties look at a scrum differently'

Former Ireland and Lions loosehead Nick Popplewell has posted an interesting analysis about the intricacies of the scrum and how a…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2022, 5:18

Why Creevy still rocks for Irish just weeks from his 37th birthday

London Irish boss Declan Kidney has explained why he was determined to keep Agustin Creevy at the Gallagher Premiership club even …

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2022, 5:04

Nowell tipped for England after hitting some 'highest physical stats'

Rejuentated Exeter winger Jack Nowell has been tipped for an England squad call-up next Tuesday 27 months after he earned the last…

Liam Heagney

14 Jan 2022, 4:08

Newcastle say £100k England fees row 'blown out of all proportion'

Newcastle have claimed that the revelation they withheld payments of around £100,000 from their England players for their involve…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 12:34

Italy name six uncapped players in a 33-strong Six Nations squad

Former All Blacks full-back Kieran Crowley has named a 33-strong Italy squad for his first Guinness Six Nations in charge of the A…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 11:56

Tizard quits Harlequins: 'Always sad to see a team member move on'

Hugh Tizard will quit Harlequins at the end of this season, the 21-year-old deciding that his future in the game as a second row i…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 11:10

Saracens statement: Update on the Jackson Wray skull fracture

Saracens have delivered a very upbeat injury update on Jackson Wray, revealing that the skull fracture the back-rower suffered in …

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 10:09

'The uncertainty created quite a bit of angst for a lot of people'

Dean Richards has given an insight into the anxiety that this week’s uncertainty over this Friday’s Challenge Cup match at Bia…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 9:36

Crowley gets first Munster Euro start after escaping URC sanction

Rookie Jack Crowley has been chosen for his first Champions Cup start for Munster having avoided getting sanctioned for his involv…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 8:11

Newcastle name team after the lifting of French travel restrictions

Newcastle have named their team for Friday night’s European Challenge Cup match at Biarritz after the lifting of travel restrict…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 7:32

'He was gone, gasping, struggling... but he found something more'

Wasps boss Lee Blackett has paid tribute to the inspiring last-ditch tackle put in by tired prop Biyi Alo when Leicester sought to…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 6:15

Why 'split jury' last weekend has Exeter pleased with Sam Simmonds

Exeter boss Rob Baxter has backed the winter form of Sam Simmonds - even though the No8 isn’t enjoying a repeat of the record-br…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 5:29

'Alex Sanderson slammed Wayne Barnes was not what I was doing'

Alex Sanderson has taken issue with media headlines claiming that he slammed referee Wayne Barnes in the wake of last Friday’s G…

Liam Heagney

13 Jan 2022, 4:44

Christian Wade comparison has Wasps relishing Paolo Odogwu return

Exciting England prospect Paolo Odogwu is poised to play his first rugby match in eight months this Saturday after fighting his wa…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 15:05

Sale statement on 'allegation and arrest' of one of their players

Sale have issued a statement on the allegation that one of its players was arrested by police in England last Sunday on the suspic…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 13:15

Red-carded Zebo learns fate, Snyman agrees to Munster extension

Wednesday has turned out to be a very good news day for Munster as Simon Zebo has escaped a ban following his United Rugby Champio…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 12:46

'All positive, we're going. That is what I have been informed'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has revealed that the stipulated 48-hour French quarantine and testing rule which has thrown some of this…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 12:16

Ex-Ireland midfielder Jared Payne hands in his notice at Ulster

Former Ireland midfielder Jared Payne has handed in his notice to quit Ulster at the end of the season and pursue coaching opportu…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 11:33

Cipriani's wife issues statement after being doorstepped by media

Bath have endorsed a social media plea from Victoria Cipriani, the wife of Danny Cipriani, for the media to leave her and the form…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 10:18

'Team managers across the Prem on phones going, what's happening?'

Exeter boss Rob Baxter has outlined his bemusement over the lack of clarity currently surrounding the upcoming rounds of Champions…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 9:06

Springboks' Nyakane heads list of 10 additional European players

Springboks prop Trevor Nyakane heads the list of the ten additional players registered by clubs ahead of this weekend’s round th…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 7:59

Sent off Alec Hepburn punished for dumping Joe Marler on his head

Exeter prop Alec Hepburn has been suspended for last Saturday’s red card incident which saw him dump England loosehead Joe Marle…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 7:23

Red-carded Sutherland learns fate on Scotland Six Nations opener

Recent Lions Test series prop Rory Sutherland can breathe a sigh of relief after learning that his ban for last Sunday’s Gallagh…

Liam Heagney

12 Jan 2022, 6:52

England player allegedly 'arrested on suspicion of rape' - report

An unnamed England player - who cannot be named for legal reasons - has reportedly been arrested on the suspicion of raping a teen…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2022, 15:14

'Disgusting': Ellis Genge hits back over 'gouge' allegation

Leicester skipper Ellis Genge has hit out at claims that he tried to gouge Wasps’ Francois Hougaard during last Sunday’s Galla…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2022, 12:09

'He sounded like he had about 25 bottles of wine responsibly…'

Rugby Pod co-hosts Jim Hamilton and Andy Goode have reacted to the voice note they received from suspended Springboks boss Rassie …

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2022, 8:57

Why Saracens centre Nick Tompkins reckons he is 'a good example'

Saracens midfielder Nick Tompkins has been reflecting on his career so far, explaining why one aspect is a good example for other …

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2022, 8:01

'I love the club': Alex Dombrandt confirms new Harlequins deal

England No8 Alex Dombrandt has confirmed he will stay at Harlequins after he agreed to a contract extension with the Premiership c…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2022, 7:23

Northampton to promote from within after 'Boyd leaving' revelation

Latest reports on Northampton suggest that the Saints will be promoting from within to replace Chris Boyd, their departing directo…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2022, 5:34

UK clubs threaten boycott over fears players 'trapped' in France

There are fears that matches featuring UK club in Champions and Challenge Cup action this weekend in France won't go ahead as plan…

Liam Heagney

11 Jan 2022, 4:59

Why retired David Flatman still can't look Danny Care in the eyes

A rucking incident featuring Marcus Smith with Harlequins has reminded a mischievous David Flatman why he can't look Danny Care in…

Liam Heagney

09 Jan 2022, 5:20

'Game has changed for them': What Leicester now demand from props

Leicester boss Steve Borthwick has outlined the changes in rugby for tight five forwards by giving an assessment of young tighthea…

Liam Heagney

09 Jan 2022, 5:07

The Wasps verdict on Ali Crossdale, their signing from Saracens

Ali Crossdale didn't play much rugby for Saracens but the 24-year-old England prospect has now come of age at Premiership rivals W…

Liam Heagney

09 Jan 2022, 4:00

'It's like having a tighthead lock playing in the No12 jersey'

The Springboks don't seem to want Andre Esterhuizen but Harlequins can't get enough of their inspiring South African 'Agent of Cha…

Liam Heagney

08 Jan 2022, 13:06

The 'chat' the RFU had after England boss Jones used 'poison' word

It's now ten months since Eddie Jones was on the receiving end of a damaging Six Nations backlash after England collapsed in that …

Liam Heagney

08 Jan 2022, 5:54

Why No9 Francois Hougaard is getting picked as a winger at Wasps

Former Springboks international Francois Hougaard arrived at Wasps last summer as a seasoned No9 but he is now playing a very diff…

Liam Heagney

08 Jan 2022, 5:09

The dinner in Germany where Steve Hansen got stuck into England

RFU boss Bill Sweeney is hoping to someday have the final say about a stinging critique of England by ex-All Blacks boss Steve Han…

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 14:06

RFU confirms date for the England Six Nations squad announcement

The RFU have confirmed the date for the announcement of the England squad for the 2022 Six Nations by head coach Eddie Jones.

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 11:33

EPCR statement: Decision taken on European rounds three and four

Tournament organisers EPCR have issued a statement on the next two rounds of games in the Champions and Challenge Cup tournaments.…

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 10:17

No Billy Vunipola as Saracens and Gloucester each make five changes

Saracens and Gloucester have each made five changes for their Premiership clash, with the Londoners excluding Billy Vunipola on th…

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 7:35

Creevy quashes Top 14 speculation by extending London Irish deal

Former Argentina captain Agustin Creevy was recently linked to a switch to France but he has now agreed to an extension at London …

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 6:42

'I can't wait': Camille Lopez quits Clermont for Bayonne

Former France out-half Camille Lopez is to quit Clermont a year early to take up a deal at Bayonne, the Pro D2 promotion chasers. …

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 6:12

'I love Harry Wells': Why Leicester enormously respect their lock

Recent new England cap Harry Wells has been a Leicester talisman this season, appearing in 14 of their 15 wins in their unbeaten s…

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 5:26

'Lightbulb moments': Farrell, Mo'unga research inspires Atkinson

Faced with four months on the Wasps sidelines, 20-year-old Charlie Atkinson took on a project of researching Owen Farrell and Rich…

Liam Heagney

07 Jan 2022, 4:39

Wasps confirm a comeback date for England hopeful Joe Launchbury

Seasoned England second row Joe Launchbury has been sidelined since the knee ligament injury he suffered last April when playing f…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2022, 14:47

Why Saracens are backing 'physically very blessed' ex-basketballer

With Jackson Wray sidelined, Saracens boss Mark McCall has outlined his high hopes for Theo McFarland, the London club's former ba…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2022, 13:56

Wasps respond to rumour they are favourites to sign Anthony Watson

Wasps have reacted to the speculation that they are apparently favourites to sign England international Anthony Watson from Bath. …

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2022, 10:23

'Whenever Doddie is involved, there has to be an element of fun'

Scotland players Hamish Watson and Ali Price are leading the charge in a mass participation exercise challenge raising funds for D…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2022, 8:09

Why Leicester gambled on winger Murimurivalu playing as a flanker

So stretched was the Leicester squad last Sunday that Fijian winger Kini Murimurivalu was picked as an emergency back row versus N…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2022, 7:17

Bath-bound van Graan accused of 'ruining' some Munster players

With patience wearing thin over Bath-bound Johann van Graan, Keith Wood wants Stephen Larkham to take temporary charge at Munster.…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2022, 5:48

Louis Rees-Zammit's 'fans' tweet ignites lively Six Nations debate

Louis Rees-Zammit has posted his thoughts on the speculation that Wales could stage their upcoming home Six Nations matches in Eng…

Liam Heagney

06 Jan 2022, 3:51

The 'point of ridicule' that has Sale happy with Bristol-bound AJ

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has been talking about Bristol-bound AJ MacGinty coming up against his new employers this Friday with the…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2022, 14:27

Saracens' upbeat 'within Eddie's gift' update on Owen Farrell

England skipper Owen Farrell was expected to be sidelined for between ten and twelve weeks following November surgery on his ankle…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2022, 14:09

'Sounds very serious': Saracens shed light on Wray skull fracture

Saracens boss Mark McCall has been talking about the serious-sounding skull fracture suffered by Jackson Wray last Sunday at North…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2022, 10:38

Saracens reveal Jackson Wray has suffered a shocking head injury

Saracens have issued an injury update on seven players, including the revelation that Jackson Wray suffered a worrying knock last …

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2022, 8:32

Premiership club boss backs radical 'one host' Six Nations idea

A radical idea that the Six Nations should mirror recent Rugby Championships staged in one country has got the support of Rob Baxt…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2022, 7:56

The Exeter reaction to last week's bristling Stuart Hogg interview

Stuart Hogg last week nipped in the bud the rumours that he could leave Exeter, going on to score a vital try last Saturday versus…

Liam Heagney

05 Jan 2022, 7:03

'It doesn't give us a competitive team': Sale fear French red tape

Director of rugby Alex Sanderson is due to take his Sale team to France for a round three Champions Cup game at Clermont on Januar…

Liam Heagney

04 Jan 2022, 12:54

Zebre statement: Struggling Italians have sacked Michael Bradley

Ex-Ireland scrum-half Michael Bradley was into his fifth season at Zebre Parma but he won't see the campaign out after Tuesday's a…

Liam Heagney

04 Jan 2022, 11:34

Danny Care and his 'big kind of annoyance' with Stuart Lancaster

Veteran scrum-half Danny Care has been speaking about his bumpy relationship with Stuart Lancaster when he was coach of England.

Liam Heagney

04 Jan 2022, 10:22

RFU responds to claim it has a 'grudge' against Championship clubs

The RFU has received stinging criticism for funding cuts affecting English Championship clubs but Bill Sweeney has defended the de…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2021, 11:10

'It's hard to put into words...': Jonny Hill quits Exeter for Sale

Exeter have lost a second Test level lock this Monday, England's Jonny Hill joining Sale and following Scotland's Sam Skinner out …

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2021, 10:24

'The s**t people don't see': Saracens CEO Wray pens letter to fans

Saracens CEO Lucy Wray had penned a letter to her club's supporters at the end of an eventful 2021 for the rejuvenated Premiership…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2021, 8:14

'Extremely hard decision': Sam Skinner quits Exeter for Edinburgh

The tightening Premiership salary cap has had an effect at Exeter as Scotland international Sam Skinner has signed for Edinburgh.

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2021, 7:41

URC statement: New South African trip confirmed for Munster and co

Cardiff, Munster, Scarlets and Zebre have all been given new URC dates to return to South Africa despite their recent nightmare ex…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2021, 7:19

Ex-Wallabies boss Michael Cheika linked with shock Pro D2 switch

Ex-Wallabies boss Michael Cheika was unveiled as the new Japanese Green Rockets coach last May but a French Pro D2 rumour has now …

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2021, 6:23

'Will add great value': Leicester back row Brink heads home to URC

South African players have played a major part in the rejuvenation of Leicester under Steve Borthwick but Cyle Brink has opted out…

Liam Heagney

20 Dec 2021, 4:50

The secret non-rugby activity that left Danny Care 'petrified'

Scrum-half Danny Care has revealed how a recent secret activity away from Harlequins left him petrified before he rose to the chal…

Liam Heagney

19 Dec 2021, 4:30

'It's an eye-opener...': The rebuilding of Leeds in National One

Results have been brutal for Leeds in recent years but ex-England full-back Jon Callard has now joined their National One rebuild.

Interview

Liam Heagney

19 Dec 2021, 4:00

What current All Blacks make of Malakai Fekitoa switching to Tonga

Malakai Fekitoa has given a revealing magazine interview where he talks about what his All Blacks pals have made of his switch to …

Liam Heagney

19 Dec 2021, 3:30

The three facets of play that are costing Sale the most penalties

Director Alex Sanderson has his team's discipline foremost in his mind following the naughty aspects of the last two Sale performa…

Liam Heagney

18 Dec 2021, 5:59

'I've received death threats': Sacked Top 14 winner breaks silence

Ludovic Radosavljevic has spoken for the first time after racist remarks against Christian Ambadiang resulted in his sacking by Pr…

Liam Heagney

18 Dec 2021, 4:51

'We probably have got a much better rugby player than we thought'

Jack Walker at Harlequins has proved to be one of the best summer signings in England, his excellence even surprising assistant Ad…

Liam Heagney

18 Dec 2021, 4:06

EPCR statement: Seven more round two European games are called off

It has been a bruising week for the credibility of European rugby as a total of ten Champions Cup/Challenge Cup matches have been …

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 8:32

Racing handed walkover after Ospreys pull out of trip to France

Racing versus Ospreys in Paris became this weekend's latest cancellation after the Welsh region admitted they were no longer able …

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 7:25

Banned Brad Shields cleared to play again with immediate effect

Wasps were furious that Brad Shields was banned for four matches and their appeal to overturn the red card suspension has been suc…

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 6:52

O'Gara has his say on being the bookies' favourite for Munster job

La Rochelle boss Ronan O'Gara was installed as the 8/11 favourite when the bookies' market opened on who will become the new Munst…

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 6:35

London Irish sign hooker Tadgh McElroy on a season-long loan

Having followed a trial at Bristol by signing for Ealing, 2021 has taken another twist for Tadgh McElroy as he is now at London Ir…

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 6:00

What most impresses Leicester about breakthrough 21-year-old lock

Freddie Steward isn't the only academy graduate to impress at Leicester this season as Ollie Chessum has also caught Steve Borthwi…

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 5:23

Brett Gosper retains one regret from long stint as World Rugby CEO

After switching into a role with the NFL, Brett Gosper has looked back on his time as World Rugby CEO and revealed his one major r…

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 4:48

How Exeter view 'unique' brother-vs-brother scrum-half challenge

It has become very interesting at Exeter in recent weeks with Jack Maunder now being challenged for No9 selection by his younger b…

Liam Heagney

17 Dec 2021, 4:17

'It looks stupid': The story behind rugby's shortest-ever loan

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has explained the reasons why new Scotland cap Ewan Ashman had rugby's shortest-ever loan last month at G…

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 13:56

Leinster statement: Province 'disappointed' with walkover decision

Leinster were set to fly to France on Friday morning to face Montpellier in the Champions Cup but they have had their wings clippe…

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 13:26

'Bollocks': What Ellis Genge said in 2020 about loyalty in rugby

Ellis Genge leaving Leicester has lit up social media - amid the debate it's worth recalling his January 2020 interview about rugb…

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 9:44

Toulon debut for Cheslin Kolbe 16 weeks after quitting Toulouse

Springboks winger Cheslin Kolbe is set to make his debut for new club Toulon, who forked out a fortune in August to sign him from …

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 8:13

No Biggar but Lawes set for a 'reunion' with Henderson in Belfast

Dan Biggar has been excluded by Northampton but fellow 2021 Lions Courtney Lawes and Iain Henderson will be lining out in Belfast.…

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 7:40

Wasps deliver their verdict on makeshift midfielder Josh Bassett

Wasps boss Lee Blackett has sifted through the wreckage of their loss to Munster and has given a verdict on Josh Bassett as a make…

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 6:30

The 'Welsh prop pride' Adam Jones felt seeing Cardiff vs Toulouse

Harlequins assistant Adam Jones has outlined his 'Rocky-like' respect for the props who fronted up last weekend for Cardiff in an …

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 5:47

Hooper's 'big decision' reaction to van Graan's Bath appointment

Struggling Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper has been speaking about the club's recruitment of Johann van Graan as its new head…

Liam Heagney

16 Dec 2021, 4:43

'Way less competitive': How reduced Premiership cap has hit market

The reduced Premiership salary cap was a major talking point for Rob Baxter at this week's Exeter media briefing before round two …

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 14:34

Hilarious bulldog video diary is keeping the banned Erasmus busy

Banned Springboks rugby boss Rassie Erasmus is keeping busy with a video series very different from the footage that landed him in…

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 14:21

'Feels harshly done': Wasps to appeal the Brad Shields ban

Wasps have revealed they will be appealing the ban that was announced on Wednesday for Brad Shields after his European red card.

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 11:24

'This is a personal decision': Ellis Genge to leave Leicester

Club captain and England prop Ellis Genge has revealed he will leave Leicester Tigers at the current season for personal reasons.

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 10:32

Brad Shields is banned after contesting last Sunday's red card

Brad Shields decided to contest the red card he picked up for Wasps last Sunday and he has now learned his fate following his hear…

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 8:51

Hooper survives as Bath only give van Graan the head coach role

Director of rugby Stuart Hooper had dodged a bullet at Bath as Johann van Grann will only become the head coach at the club next s…

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 8:13

Saracens forced to concede Saturday's European game in France

Beaten by Edinburgh last Saturday in the Challenge Cup, Saracens have now suffered a second blow on their return to European compe…

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 7:42

Why Leicester have eyes on 'back five of the scrum' Irish approach

Leicester have won all 10 league and European games so far in 2021/2022 but Steve Borthwick has his attention piqued by their next…

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 5:39

England confirm November 2022 schedule includes All Blacks game

England have given themselves a mini-World Cup for November 2022, arranging a four-match programme that includes the All Blacks.

Liam Heagney

15 Dec 2021, 5:03

'Yes, we don't have the same budget as other teams but...'

Tigers boss Steve Borthwick on why fallen giants Leicester are now thriving again in England and Europe despite the reduced salary…

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 14:15

Rugby Pod rages over Poite: 'An absolute cowboy of a referee...'

The Rugby Pod are raging over the latest red card incident involving Romain Poite, the referee who sent off Wasps' Brad Shields la…

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 14:03

Bath, Sale and Pau players cited, two for alleged eye contact

EPCR citing commissioners have been busy as three players have been cited after round one in Europe, including Will Muir of Bath.

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 13:29

Further positive tests at Leinster and Montpellier ahead of Friday

Friday's Montpellier versus Leinster Champions Cup clash in France has been affected by yet more players testing positive for Covi…

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 11:22

Munster injury update leaves Joey Carbery in race for Six Nations

Joey Carbery is set to possibly miss the start of the 2022 Six Nations campaign with Ireland after a Munster medical bulletin upda…

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 10:24

O'Gara the early Munster favourite but bookies' list intrigues

Ronan O'Gara is the early favourite with the bookies after the decision by Johann van Graan to hand in his notice at Munster on Tu…

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 9:48

Bath appoint South African defence coach 19 days after urgent call

Bath have appointed Brent Janse van Rensburg as their new defence coach 19 days after an internal review at the Premiership strugg…

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 9:01

Sergio Parisse is looking for an Italy recall at the age of 38

Sergio Parisse, the legendary Azzurri No8, has this week revealed he has had talks with Kieran Crowley about playing for Italy aga…

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 8:25

Watch: The jaw-dropping jump by Harry Potter into a French moat

Winger Harry Potter scored a try for Leicester and then disappeared from view 117 seconds later with a dramatic jump in Bordeaux. …

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 5:59

Bath target van Graan has handed in his notice to quit Munster

Munster boss Johann van Graan has turned down a two-year extension and will instead quit the Irish club at the end of the current …

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 5:32

Watch: Newcastle score the fastest ever try in European history

Newcastle midfielder Max Wright shaved four seconds off the record for the fastest ever European try with his score last weekend.

Liam Heagney

14 Dec 2021, 4:33

'It wasn't just getting drunk, we had little activities for them'

Sale took themselves off to London on a recent jolly, high jinx that Alex Sanderson insists is invaluable in strengthening his tea…

Liam Heagney

12 Dec 2021, 6:00

'The last 20 minutes is probably the thing that is lingering...'

Leinster were very comfortable Champions Cup winners over Bath on Saturday, yet one aspect of their display bugged coach Leo Culle…

Liam Heagney

12 Dec 2021, 4:16

'You'd be surprised if I told you I only goal kick once a week'

Ospreys talisman Stephen Myler explains at length to RugbyPass why he is still going at the age of 37, 15 years after converting f…

Interview

Liam Heagney

12 Dec 2021, 3:30

The 'we are growing' Bath mantra at odds with a 25-point hammering

Stuart Hooper and Charlie Ewels had their 'youthful' excuses at the ready after Bath suffered a Champions Cup hammering in Dublin.…

Liam Heagney

12 Dec 2021, 3:12

Appointment of new defence coach can't come quick enough for Bath

Bath came to Dublin having conceded 297 points and 38 tries Premiership tries, and Europe only added to their pain under Stuart Ho…

Liam Heagney

11 Dec 2021, 13:21

Bath player ratings vs Leinster | Champions Cup

The Bath player ratings live from Dublin on a damaging day where their wounding Premiership struggles continued on into the Champi…

Liam Heagney

11 Dec 2021, 12:12

'When that happens you know Pearce has lost it as he's a nice dude'

The latest RugbyPass Offload has reflected on what happened last weekend at Sandy Park between referee Luke Pearce and Saracens.

Liam Heagney

11 Dec 2021, 5:30

Paul Hull gets 'one of the most crucial roles in the English game'

The exit of long-serving Tony Spreadbury RFU referees boss has paved the way for ex-England full-back Paul Hull to return to the p…

Liam Heagney

10 Dec 2021, 9:25

'No bulls*** with him': What convinced Pollard to join Leicester

Handre Pollard has given his first interview since signing for Leicester, the Springboks No10 telling the Tigers website what swun…

Liam Heagney

10 Dec 2021, 8:37

12 players set to make their debut for quarantine-hit Munster

The depth of the Munster squad will be severely tested when they take on Wasps in the opening round of the Champions Cup this Sund…

Liam Heagney

10 Dec 2021, 7:36

Leinster's European preparations affected by positive Covid tests

Fancied Irish side Leinster have had their preparations for this Saturday's Champions Cup opener versus Bath affected by a Covid o…

Liam Heagney

10 Dec 2021, 6:45

'I'm sure he'll handle pressure of a home crowd baying for blood'

Georgian referee Nika Amashukeli is set for a Champions Cup baptism of fire when he takes charge of Castres versus Harlequins on S…

Liam Heagney

10 Dec 2021, 5:06

'Look, it's a failure potentially on my part but I tried...'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has shed light on the sudden departure of ex-England winger Denny Solomona from the Premiership club.

Interview

Liam Heagney

09 Dec 2021, 11:26

The training ground attitude change that fired up Alex Mitchell

Alex Mitchell has saluted a change in attitude on the Northampton training ground for helping him get over the line for his club a…

Interview

Liam Heagney

09 Dec 2021, 11:20

'Ah bollocks!' and 'Superb signing': Koch transfer stirs emotions

The surprise decision of Springboks prop Vincent Koch to quit Saracens and join Wasps for next season lit up Twitter on Thursday.

Opinion

Liam Heagney

09 Dec 2021, 10:48

Northampton make three changes while Racing include Finn Russell

Talisman Finn Russell has been restored to a star-studded Racing 92 line-up for Friday's Champions Cup opener away to Northampton …

Liam Heagney

09 Dec 2021, 8:07

'It's time for a change': Wasps sign Springboks prop Vincent Koch

Wasps have pulled off a Premiership transfer coup, securing the services of the Springboks and Saracens prop Vincent Koch for next…

Liam Heagney

09 Dec 2021, 7:32

Munster's van Graan on the speculation that he is wanted by Bath

Ex-Springboks assistant Johann van Graan has reacted to speculation that he could be tempted by Bath to leave Munster for the 2022…

Liam Heagney

09 Dec 2021, 7:09

Sale react to Ashton rumour, their take on Diamond at Worcester

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has responded to the Chris Ashton for Sharks rumour and Worcester's recent appointment of consultant Stev…

Liam Heagney

09 Dec 2021, 5:18

Mitchell finally breaks silence over quitting England for Wasps

Wasps assistant John Mitchell has broken his silence about his exit from Eddie Jones' England just months after extending his cont…

Liam Heagney

08 Dec 2021, 13:14

Springboks dominate the World Rugby Dream Team of the Year

The Springboks are the dominant force in the World Rugby Men’s 15s Dream Team of the Year, Eben Etzebeth one of five players in …

Liam Heagney

08 Dec 2021, 8:46

'Positive sign': England newcomer Atkinson sticks with Gloucester

New England cap Mark Atkinson has agreed to continue the good times at Kingsholm, the 31-year-old agreeing to an extension with Gl…

Liam Heagney

08 Dec 2021, 7:25

'Motivated' Garry Ringrose agrees to a long-term IRFU deal

The multi-year deal agreed by Tadhg Furlong showed the IRFU are back contracting and Ireland centre Garry Ringrose has now also ag…

Liam Heagney

08 Dec 2021, 6:55

Bath sign two players, including a history-making ex-Wales winger

Premiership strugglers Bath have added two players to their roster, including ex-Wales international Tom Prydie who blazed a trail…

Liam Heagney

08 Dec 2021, 5:42

Why 'world's best nause' Maro Itoje has unfollowed Jim Hamilton

Saracens featured heavily on this week's episode of The Rugby Pod, Jim Hamilton having plenty to say about Maro Itoje and Billy Vu…

Liam Heagney

08 Dec 2021, 5:10

The 'hurry up' Test team comparison that has Saints fearing Racing

Recent domestic results have Northampton tipped to start Europe well, but Saints boss Chris Boyd is concerned about the threat Rac…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 13:38

'We had a team of Welsh officials who got so much abuse...'

Exeter were crowned Champions Cup champions in October 2020 but a first-ever European trip to France ten years earlier still buoys…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 13:32

'In Paris, he was enjoying the baguettes or the red wine...'

The stint Simon Zebo had in Paris before his return to Munster for the 2021/22 season came up in conversation on this week's Rugby…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 13:23

Leicester confirm Handre Pollard will replace Ford next season

Steve Borthwick has confirmed that Montpellier's Handre Pollard will replace the Sale-bound George Ford at Leicester Tigers next s…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 9:24

'It's kill or be killed': What O'Gara most likes about Euro revamp

With pool matches in the Champions Cup cut from six to four, La Rochelle boss Ronan O'Gara is embracing the reduced margin of erro…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 8:11

Latest twist in the Six Nations TV deal given a January 7 deadline

BBC and ITV have tabled a TV proposal to the UK’s communications regulator after targeting the next three Six Nations championsh…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 7:23

The 'no mean feat' that has pricked Saracens' European attention

With Saracens set to play in the Challenge Cup for the first time since 2009/10, Mark McCall has praised one old pal he will soon …

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 6:53

'Too much risk': Quarantined Scarlets hand Bristol a 28-0 walkover

The Champions Cup has suffered a serious setback before a ball has been kicked in 2021/22, Scarlets pulling out of their game vers…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 6:24

The 'little pebble under your beach mat' driving on Harlequins

It's now twelve months since Harlequins bombed in Europe, a memory that new boss Tabai Matson has revealed was mentioned during pr…

Liam Heagney

07 Dec 2021, 5:12

'That has been a really enjoyable change from Dean and Dimes...'

Simon Hammersley has a deserved reputation as a safe Premiership pair of hands as the Sale full-back after breaking through at New…

Interview

Liam Heagney

28 Nov 2021, 4:24

Barbarians match suffers another 11th-hour cancellation

The famed Barbarians have suffered another damaging match cancellation, Saturday's game versus Samoa getting called off at the 11t…

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2021, 8:32

Eddie Jones sheds light on working with Beauden Barrett at Suntory

Eddie Jones was ridiculed for his Suntory consultancy with Beauden Barrett, but a new book by the England coach explains what happ…

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2021, 5:25

What Saracens make of Alex Sanderson's first return as Sale boss

Sunday's Premiership match marks the first return of ex-assistant Alex Sanderson to Saracens in his new role as the Sale director …

Liam Heagney

27 Nov 2021, 4:25

'The biggest thing we have been told is there's no right or wrong'

With Newcastle hosting Worcester in Saturday's delayed artificial pitch derby, the Warriors have responded to criticisms over the …

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 12:39

What draw specialists Irish make of Premiership golden point idea

London Irish have become Premiership draw specialists, drawing three of eight games this term to add to two other draws in 2021.

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 12:24

Met Office red warning forces Newcastle vs Worcester postponement

A red warning about the stormy weather in the North-East of England has forced the postponement of Friday's Newcastle vs Worcester…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 11:23

Ex-Lions boss claims England's autumn 'won them a lot of friends'

England wrapped up their Autumn Nations Series in dramatic fashion and ex-Lions boss Ian McGeechan claims it won them many friends…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 10:15

OFF: URC round 6 and 7 matches in South Africa have been postponed

URC games planned for South Africa this weekend and next weekend involving Cardiff, Munster, Scarlets and Zebre have been called o…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 8:17

Jones on why 'inward looking' Itoje isn't a future England skipper

A new book by England boss Eddie Jones is being serialised this week in The Telegraph and it includes must-read details about Maro…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 7:47

7 Wallabies and 3 Springboks to start for Barbarians versus Samoa

Teams are in for Saturday's Barbarians double-header where the men's XV will be captained by Ryan Wilson, the RugbyPass Offload sh…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 6:34

'I thought Cork was a small place but the rugby world is even smaller'

Oli Hoskins is back at London Irish after an incredible fortnight with the Wallabies where he made an unexpected Test debut at the…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 5:44

Ex-England wing Denny Solomona has left Sale with immediate effect

Alex Sanderson recently described the return of ex-England winger Denny Solomona to the Sale team as one of his best-ever rugby ac…

Liam Heagney

26 Nov 2021, 5:24

'I am the only person who has ever done it, which is a shame'

Harlequins boss Tabai Matson, who played for Fiji and the All Blacks in the 1990s, has his say on World Rugby's eligibility change…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 12:02

'That incident was the sign of a really intelligent defender...'

Max Malins has been scoring tries for fun with Saracens but he brilliantly showed his defensive capabilities in last Saturday's En…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 11:53

How sent off ex-Wallaby Coleman graduated from Irish tackle school

Ex-Wallabies lock Adam Coleman was sent off at Saracens this month and had to attend tackle school to get his London Irish ban red…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 11:44

Dramatic U-turn by Erasmus and SA Rugby as they issue an apology

Springboks director Rassie Erasmus and SA Rugby have done a U-turn, stating they now won't appeal last week's misconduct hearing v…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 10:12

England skipper Lawes starts for Saints but no Sinckler for Bristol

Stand-in England skipper Courtney Lawes has opted against taking a post-Autumn Nations Series rest as he starts for Northampton on…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 7:22

Furlong signs long-term deal just months after 1-year offer agreed

It was just six months ago the IRFU curiously announced they had agreed to a limited one-year extension with Ireland tighthead Tad…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 6:20

'Recklessly contacted in the air': Powell punished for Bristol red

The 22-year-old Charlie Powell was a starter for Bristol in their 68-13 Premiership Cup loss last Saturday to the Worcester Warrio…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 5:23

Ted Hill breaks silence on red card that cost him England place

It was the weekend after attending the England September mini-camp when Worcester skipper Ted Hill got caught up in red card troub…

Liam Heagney

25 Nov 2021, 4:50

'To lose three players within an hour was a bit disappointing'

November 13 was an awful day for Saracens' Mark McCall as three Test players, including England captain Owen Farrell, suffered bad…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 13:32

RFU reports £97million revenue, down from £167m the previous year

The RFU annual report was published on Wednesday with reported revenues for the year at £97million, down £70m from the previous …

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 12:20

Bid revision leaves England, Australia, USA set to host World Cups

World Cup host selection process revisions have put England, Australia and the USA in pole position for the 2025, 2027 and 2031 to…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 11:54

Test rugby gets shake-up as World Rugby agrees to transfer changes

Test rugby will radically change from January 1 next year after World Rugby council approved an amendment to its eligibility rules…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 11:27

Sale issue update on Tuilagi who hurt himself scoring for England

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has been speaking about Manu Tuilagi, their midfielder who hurt himself when scoring for England last Sat…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 10:41

What Thomas came away with after first conversation with Diamond

The stage is set at Worcester with new consultant Steve Diamond set to officially start work next Monday above head coach Jonathan…

Interview

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 7:19

Rob Kearney has tweeted he will retire after the Barbarians match

Ex-Ireland full-back Rob Kearney has confirmed he will retire from playing with immediate effect following his appearance for the …

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 5:21

'You remember those days... no one was coming down that channel'

Bristol boss Pat Lam has explained to RugbyPass why the chance to reunite with Sale's AJ MacGinty, his old Connacht No10, had to b…

Liam Heagney

24 Nov 2021, 4:16

'If you want me to highlight one (new) England player I will...'

England capped 23 new players across their 10-game campaign in 2021 and coach Eddie Jones has now given a special mention to Nic D…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2021, 13:49

Stephen Larkham has handed in his notice and will quit Munster

Ex-Wallabies assistant Stephen Larkham has handed in his notice at Munster after deciding to take up a job offer closer to home in…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2021, 13:32

Anthony Watson banned following tweet posted while icing his knee

Injured England and Lions winger Anthony Watson was watching from home when Bath were defeated by Wasps in the Premiership recentl…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2021, 12:26

Worcester latest on 'unavailable' Ashton ahead of Diamond arrival

Intrigue has been added to the ongoing unavailability of Chris Ashton at Worcester by their recruitment of Steve Diamond, his old …

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2021, 11:38

Bristol deliver encouraging update on paddle-board injured Randall

Harry Randall was set to be out for two months after his paddle-board injury with England but Bristol have now given a better upda…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2021, 8:15

England verdict on Henry Slade, their most picked player of 2021

The increased value of Henry Slade was obvious on Saturday in what was his 9th start in 2021 and his 14th in 15 post-lockdown Engl…

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2021, 6:42

What Jones makes of North vs South debate following Autumn Nations

England boss Eddie Jones has been asked about the North vs South debate after recent losses for the All Blacks, the Wallabies and …

Liam Heagney

23 Nov 2021, 4:18

England compliment referee Brace despite the 18-8 penalty count

England were heavily penalised on Saturday by referee Andy Brace but rather than complain, they claim they have learned a positive…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2021, 5:00

The Maro Itoje advice Marcus Smith ignored before decisive kick

England hero Marcus Smith has revealed what unfolded on Saturday when he was faced with the biggest kick of his young Test career.

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2021, 4:29

The dramatic 7.45 am SOS call Ireland put into Belfast on Sunday morning

There were just six and a half hours left before kick-off on Sunday in Dublin when Ireland rang Nick Timoney in Belfast to ask wou…

Liam Heagney

22 Nov 2021, 4:19

'I was p****d off': O'Mahony on calling out 'scumbag' Lavanini

Peter O'Mahony was furious with what Tomas Lavanini did in Dublin on Sunday and the Ireland skipper didn't hold back with his verb…

Liam Heagney

21 Nov 2021, 14:35

Dead and buried: The must-see Ireland-Pumas rivalry of old is over

RugbyPass was in Dublin to see the age-old Ireland versus Argentina rivalry get left for dead as the Pumas were simply awful.

Analysis

Liam Heagney

21 Nov 2021, 13:04

Ireland player ratings vs Argentina | Autumn Nations Series

Here are the RugbyPass Ireland player ratings live from Aviva Stadium where Argentina were the latest beaten Autumn Nations Series…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

21 Nov 2021, 11:43

'Smashed': Rodd on THAT Ox Nche hit and advice given by two Lions

It has been an incredible week-and-a-half for Test newcomer Bevan Rodd after he was called up as an emergency loosehead by England…

Liam Heagney

21 Nov 2021, 8:09

Skipper Lawes makes retirement quip post-beating the Springboks

Owen Farrell was supposed to be Captain Fantastic this November with England but Courtney Lawes instead fared better by two wins t…

Liam Heagney

21 Nov 2021, 5:00

What most pleased England about their defiant win over Springboks

With his stated aim being to win the 2023 World Cup, England boss Eddie Jones has highlighted the traits that impressed him most o…

Liam Heagney

21 Nov 2021, 4:45

How Jones rated the performance of England match-winner Smith

Starting against the Springboks on Saturday at Twickenham was the biggest game so far in the career of new England out-half Marcus…

Liam Heagney

21 Nov 2021, 4:00

England the epitome of resilience as fight club defuse bomb squad

From the moment RugbyPass emerged from Twickenham rail station early on Saturday it was clear England vs the Springboks would be s…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2021, 13:41

England player ratings vs South Africa | Autumn Nations Series

Here are the England players ratings live from Twickenham on the day their 2021 Autumn Nations Series concluded against the Spring…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2021, 12:32

Woodward details his blueprint to defuse the Springboks bomb squad

Ex-England boss Clive Woodward has explained in his latest Sportsmail column what needs to happen to defuse the Springboks bomb sq…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2021, 7:37

'One of the worst 10s I have ever played with...'

Marcus Smith was on the receiving end of a brutal tongue-in-cheek critique from Joe Marler, who then went on to fluff the new Engl…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2021, 4:48

The eye-catching Sinckler: 'That made me really proud of Kyle'

Something Kyle Sinckler did last weekend for England left scrum coach Matt Proudfoot feeling very proud about the tighthead prop.

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2021, 4:26

Why 'fantastic' Biggar and 'goalkeeper' Barrett inspire Steward

Freddie Steward has blazed a trail with England in their recent games but two players from rival countries have been a huge influe…

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2021, 3:47

'Pure joie': How rookie Bevan Rodd won the approval of Joe Marler

Joe Marler was sat at home in isolation watching England last Saturday and he has revealed how the debut-making Bevan Rodd caught …

Liam Heagney

20 Nov 2021, 3:25

England 'very confident' officials will rule on Boks scrum tactic

England assistant Richard Cockerill has every confidence in his front row rookies, adding the officials have a role to play at the…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2021, 12:29

'How the f**k in Australia and UK?': Rassie reaction to video leak

The 80-page written judgement detailed how the infamous video by Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks boss, quickly went from private to…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2021, 8:12

How a chicken run helped to keep isolated Marler fit to face Boks

Joe Marler was in priceless form at a media briefing on Friday shortly after he trained with England for the first time since Nove…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2021, 7:27

'It's a scar you have for the rest of your life, mate'

Saturday is the first time England will have played the Springboks since the 2019 World Cup final, a loss that still hurts Eddie J…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2021, 4:46

Erasmus hearing reveals why Nic Berry apologised to Siya Kolisi

The written judgment on the Erasmus hearing has explained why referee Nic Berry sought out Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi at the s…

Liam Heagney

19 Nov 2021, 4:07

Jones blindsided by the revelation he was named at Erasmus hearing

England boss Eddie Jones was stuck for words when told that his name was mentioned in the Rassie Erasmus written hearing judgment.…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 17:44

Why England chose Dolly, the hooker Sale cut loose over the phone

It has been a remarkable rise for Nic Dolly, this Saturday's England No16, as eight months ago he was playing Championship for Cov…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 14:48

The 'financial damage' submission Erasmus made at sanction hearing

Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus didn't speak at his sanction hearing but a written submission told the financial hardship a ban wou…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 14:04

Jaco Peyper denied in 'robust and direct terms' a Nic Berry claim

The 80-page written judgment on the Erasmus hearing has laid bare a difference in opinion between Jaco Peyper and fellow referee N…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 12:46

Owen Farrell an England Six Nations doubt as Saracens issue update

Owen Farrell is a doubt to be available for the start of the 2022 Six Nations with England following a medical update issued by Sa…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 11:24

England explain picking Joe Marchant and rushing back Joe Marler

Eddie Jones has raised eyebrows by selecting Joe Marchant as a starter on the England wing while also including Joe Marler as a su…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 10:32

Jones lashes Springboks claim that England 'forward pack is weak'

England boss Eddie Jones was salty at Thursday media briefing, taking umbrage that the Springboks implied the England pack was wea…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 9:52

Another wing surprise as England make 2 changes for Springboks

Eddie Jones has named the England team that will play the Springboks in Saturday's final Autumn Nations Series game in London.

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 8:35

Wallabies make four changes to their starting team to face Wales

Dave Rennie has named his Wallabies team that will take Wales this Saturday in Cardiff on the final weekend of the Autumn Nations …

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 7:30

Wales make 7 changes to their starting team versus the Wallabies

Wayne Pivac has named his Wales team that will take the Wallabies this Saturday in Cardiff on the final weekend of the Autumn Nati…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 7:08

Why Erasmus and SA Rugby lost bid to have hearing broadcast live

The 80-page written judgement published after the Rassie Erasmus verdict is full of compelling vignettes on the Springboks directo…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 6:31

Erasmus judgment wants match officials 'removed from firing line'

The written judgment postscript from the Springboks boss Erasmus case insists changes are needed in how coaches communicate with r…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 5:11

Berry email reveals he agreed with Erasmus on 17 of the 36 clips

An email produced at the judicial hearing showed that referee Nic Berry agreed with 17 of the 36 first Test clips queried by Rassi…

Liam Heagney

18 Nov 2021, 3:54

'Vilified': Compelling Berry testimony on damaging Erasmus attack

The 80-page written judgement on the Rassie Erasmus hearing contains compelling testimony from Australian referee Nic Berry.

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 19:12

Erasmus banned from all rugby activity with immediate effect

The hearing verdict is finally in after World Rugby had charged Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks director of rugby, with misconduct.…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 12:35

Springboks release two players early from their touring squad

Jacques Nienaber confirmed that Sbu Nkosi and Aphelele Fassi have been released from the Springboks before Saturday's game against…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 11:32

How Sale signed Ford: 'He isn't on much more than what AJ is paid'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has spoken enthusiastically at a media briefing after the Manchester club signed George Ford from Leicest…

Interview

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 10:39

Leicester confirm George Ford will leave at the end of this season

A week after Sale revealed holding talks with George Ford, Leicester have confirmed the out-half will quit Tigers at the end of 20…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 7:53

The reasons why England admit Springboks pack has grown since 2019

England assistant Matt Proudfoot has compared the 2019 Springboks pack he worked with and the pack coming to London on Saturday wi…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 7:36

Eroni Sau cops a hefty ban after his red card for Fiji last Sunday

It was after a lengthy interaction with his TMO that referee Nic Berry red-carded Eroni Sau of Fiji for his 24th-minute foul again…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 7:05

Ireland lose another half-back as Gibson-Park is now also injured

The recent form of Jamison Gibson-Park has been a revelation but the scrum-half has been ruled out of Sunday's Ireland game versus…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 6:32

Wales issue a medical update confirming 2 players definitely out

Injuries have been a frequent nuisance for Wales during the Autumn Nations and they have now lost WillGriff John and Will Rowlands…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 5:56

'Fight club' has England optimistic about rookie front-rowers

Some fans are anxious about the inexperience of the likes of Jamie Blamire and Bevan Rodd facing the Springboks, but England have …

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 5:28

Why Springboks chose not to select six/two bench versus England

Much is still said about the Springboks' famed 6/2 bench split at the 2019 World Cup but it's a tactic largely unused under Jacque…

Liam Heagney

17 Nov 2021, 4:07

England have paid Sale a terrific compliment about Bevan Rodd

There was an apprehension when the uncapped Bevan Rodd was suddenly flung into the England team last week but the 21-year-old didn…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2021, 15:51

The Maro and Faz advice that has helped Steward star for England

It was just a few winters ago that new England star Freddie Steward was starring in the RugbyPass documentary series on Leicester'…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2021, 15:08

Springboks latest on Rassie and their lack of award nominations

Rassie Erasmus' role versus England and the squad's lack of World Rugby awards recognition were topics at Tuesday's Springboks bri…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2021, 13:58

Springboks on England's scrum, Manu at 14 and the 2019 RWC final

The questions about England came thick and fast when Jacques Nienaber held his Springboks media briefing on Tuesday from London.

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2021, 12:58

How England view Mako Vunipola after his latest selection snub

Another England squad announcement has come and gone with Mako Vunipola, the loosehead in the 2019 RWC final, overlooked by Eddie …

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2021, 9:09

Springboks make three changes to their team to face England

Jacques Nienaber has named the Springboks team that will take on England in this Saturday's clash two years on from the 2019 World…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2021, 6:41

World Rugby signals ex-player 'major initiative' care announcement

World Rugby boss Alan Gilpin has touched on the issue of dementia in his opening address to the annual medical commission in Londo…

Liam Heagney

16 Nov 2021, 5:15

What Ireland spoke about at halftime before closing out All Blacks win

Andy Farrell has gone from being responsible for the worst Ireland championship start since 1998 to win seven games on the bounce.…

Liam Heagney

14 Nov 2021, 4:08

One aspect of Ireland's win left Sexton scratching his head

Ireland were deserving winners against the All Blacks on Saturday but one aspect of the game left Johnny Sexton scratching his hea…

Liam Heagney

14 Nov 2021, 4:00

The Ireland tactic that Foster couldn't resist taking a swipe at

All Blacks boss Ian Foster was generally congratulatory about Ireland's display but there was one issue he couldn't resist taking …

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2021, 20:02

The post-game gesture Ireland paid to the late Sean Wainui

Ireland sought out the All Blacks post-game to pay tribute to the late Sean Wainui, having earlier acknowledged the late Anthony F…

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2021, 16:49

Only mystery was that Ireland didn't win by more than nine points

The best thing about Ireland powering past the All Blacks with a brilliant display is that these teams have a 3-Test series coming…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2021, 14:11

Ireland player ratings vs All Blacks | Autumn Nations Series

Here are the RugbyPass Ireland player ratings live from Aviva Stadium following their Autumn Nations Series match versus the All B…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2021, 12:45

The Ireland reason why 2021 Lions captain Murray is left on bench

Conor Murray flew out to South Africa as Lions captain but he was benched for two Tests and now has a similar reserve role with Ir…

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2021, 5:02

Why England 'line in the sand' has invigorated 50-cap Maro Itoje

Saturday will be a special occasion for Maro Itoje as he will lead a revamped England out on the occasion of the 50th cap for his …

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2021, 4:25

Test rookie Bevan Rodd backed to deliver as new England loosehead

After the success of George Furbank being an emergency England starter last week, it is now the turn of uncapped prop Bevan Rodd t…

Liam Heagney

13 Nov 2021, 4:07

'As rough as they come': How Jones views a familiar Wallabies face

Saturday's Autumn Nations Series game at Twickenham will see Eddie Jones going up against his former England assistant Scott Wisem…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 14:09

Owen Farrell's verdict on Marcus Smith, his new England partner

After months of hype and last week's frustrating delay, England will finally unveil their new Owen Farrell/Marcus Smith partnershi…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 9:53

Ireland the latest team to suffer eve-of-match Covid disruption

Andy Farrell's Ireland have suffered the same fate as England, having to endure eve-of-match disruption due to Covid testing resul…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 9:00

'Interesting isolation with him and Marler if they were together'

It has been an eventful Friday for England with Ellis Genge going into isolation just days after his fellow loosehead Joe Marler.

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 8:30

England squad 'quite emotional' after Bevan Rodd given debut start

It has been a second successive disrupted eve-of-game Friday for England after uncapped Bevan Rodd was promoted to the starting XV…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 7:24

England suffer major blow as Ellis Genge tests positive for Covid

England have suffered another Autumn Nations Series Covid blow as Ellis Genge is ruled out of Saturday's game versus the Wallabies…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 6:08

How Smith/Farrell measure up to some 'good examples historically'

Eddie Jones has chosen Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell as the new England 10/12 partnership to take on the Wallabies on Saturday.

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 5:28

What Tuilagi said when England told him he would start on the wing

Manu Tuilagi has only made one of his previous 38 England starts on the wing but he will wear the No14 shirt for a second time thi…

Liam Heagney

12 Nov 2021, 4:38

What Sale make of Manu the winger and having 4 picks in England 23

Sale have reacted to having four players chosen in the England matchday 23, including the rare sight of Manu Tuilagi picked as a w…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 13:17

England explain six/two bench split that ends Simmonds' long wait

Sam Simmonds hasn't played for England since March 2018 but the Exeter No8's long exile is over as he has been chosen on Saturday'…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 12:26

Tonga sub Fine learns fate after his red-carded clash with Smith

Replacement Tonga back Viliami Fine has learned his fate after his second-half red card for striking England's Marcus Smith last S…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 11:11

Ireland make 1 change for ABs, but it isn't a promotion for Murray

Having put Japan to the sword in their Autumn Nations Series opener, Ireland have now named their team to take on the All Blacks i…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 10:14

Sale admit Ford contact: 'I have had a conversation with George'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has admitted speaking to Leicester's George Ford about the possibility of the out-half joining the Sharks…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 9:53

Townsend makes four changes to his Scotland team to face the Boks

With Tonga and the Wallabies beaten, Scotland have now named their team to face the Springboks in their third Autumn Nations match…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 8:28

Wallabies limit changes to just two despite six-day turnaround

Having had their five-game winning run ended by Scotland last Sunday, the Wallabies have named their Autumn Nations team to face E…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 8:03

Fickou comparison has England believing in Manu Tuilagi the winger

Eddie Jones has explained why he has decided to pick midfielder Manu Tuilagi to start on the England wing for the first time since…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 7:50

England make two XV changes and hand Manu Tuilagi a surprise role

Fresh from putting 11 tries past Tonga, England have named their team to face the Wallabies in their second Autumn Nations Series …

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 6:37

All Blacks make 14 changes to their starting team versus Ireland

Having comfortably seen off Italy in Rome, the All Blacks have named a much-changed team to face Ireland in their latest Autumn Na…

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 6:14

Bristol's MacGinty signing opens door for Ford to Sale - report

With Bristol confirming they have signed AJ MacGinty, Sale have been quickly linked with George Ford, the Leicester No10 unwanted …

Liam Heagney

11 Nov 2021, 4:37

How Springboks view Russell nearly 14 weeks after Lions decider

It was nearly 14 weeks ago when Finn Russell was thrust into the maelstrom of the Lions Test series decider versus the Springboks.

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 12:02

'Huge admirer' Lam reunited with MacGinty as Bristol sign Sale 10

Bristol boss Pat Lam admitted in May that he coveted Sale No10 AJ MacGinty and had unsuccessfully tried to sign him for the Bears.…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 10:43

Exeter turn to Argentina after Jacques Vermeulen injury setback

Exeter have alleviated the loss of South African Jacques Vermeulen to injury by signing Argentina back-rower Santiago Grondona.

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 10:17

Why Earls has named Sexton the best player he ever played with

Keith Earls has played with greats such as O'Connell, O'Gara and O'Driscoll but Ireland veteran Johnny Sexton is his all-time favo…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 8:04

Wales make five changes for Fiji, name Ellis Jenkins as skipper

Wayne Pivac has shaken up his Wales team, making five change to the XV that will start versus Fiji with a new captain in Ellis Jen…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 7:33

No reprieve for Mako as uncapped Rodd gets the England call up

Eddie Jones has turned to Bevan Rodd, the uncapped 21-year-old, Scottish-born loosehead, to fill the England squad vacancy left by…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 6:52

'He isn't selfish in that regard': What Boks love most about Steyn

The 34-year-old Frans Steyn is now into his 15th year in Test rugby since his November 2006 debut for the Springboks away to Irela…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 6:16

'A reckless act of foul play': Red-carded Adam Coleman cops a ban

Former Wallabies second row Adam Coleman was red-carded in the first half of last weekend's Premiership visit by London Irish to S…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 5:38

Seibold's eye-opening 2018 meeting at Saracens with Owen Farrell

Anthony Seibold's first impression of Owen Farrell in 2018 was immense, the then NRL boss comparing the England captain to some NR…

Liam Heagney

10 Nov 2021, 4:39

Sexton's 'freak' Barrett verdict and how ABs have altered defence

Ireland veteran Johnny Sexton has delivered a glowing assessment of All Blacks "freak" Beauden Barrett ahead of Saturday's Dublin …

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 14:10

One Scotland improvement has the Springboks very much on guard

Springboks boss Jacques Nienaber has delivered a warning about the greatly improved Scotland they are facing on Saturday in Edinbu…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 12:37

New England defence coach has singled out the Wallabies dangerman

New England defence coach Anthony Seibold has his work cut out next Saturday, especially with Nic White driving on Dave Rennie's W…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 12:30

An afternoon meeting will decide if a Marler replacement is needed

England have explained how a Tuesday afternoon meeting will decide whether they will call up a replacement for the unavailable Joe…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 9:37

Wasps bring in veteran prop Reid from the Scottish Premiership

With three players currently unavailable at loosehead, Wasps have turned to ex-Scotland prop Gordon Reid to provide emergency cove…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 8:18

Joe Marler is OUT of Australia match after a positive Covid test

After all the kerfuffle surrounding the testing of Owen Farrell, England have now confirmed Joe Marler won't play against Australi…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 7:50

Springboks make three changes, including a switch at fly-half

Fresh from their win over Wales, the Springboks have made three changes to face Scotland - including the picking of Elton Jantjies…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 6:28

How Farrell spelling comp intervention showed Ireland he was boss

Andy Farrell was just weeks into his job as Ireland boss in 2020 when he showed he was now the boss after assisting Joe Schmidt si…

Liam Heagney

09 Nov 2021, 4:41

Gone but not forgotten: 'I'd a conversation with Eddie over summer'

It was March 2019 when Wasps' Brad Shields was last capped by England but the Kiwi hasn't surrendered all hope of getting another …

Interview

Liam Heagney

07 Nov 2021, 3:00

Liberated Ireland attack takes big leap forward before ABs arrive

Ireland were ridiculed for attacking bluntness last February but their nine-try rampage versus Japan was a definite sign of progre…

Liam Heagney

06 Nov 2021, 12:20

Ireland player ratings vs Japan | Autumn Nations Series

Andy Farrell's Ireland were excellent in their nine-tries-to-one win over Japan in their Autumn Nations Series opener in Dublin on…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

06 Nov 2021, 11:05

Test rookie George Furbank backed to deliver as the England No10

There has been no update from England since Friday's 11am media briefing but rookie George Furbank backed to succeed at No10.

Liam Heagney

06 Nov 2021, 5:29

Out-of-favour Dan Robson is a Six Nations doubt after Wasps update

Dan Robson, the out-of-favour England scrum-half, is now a Six Nations doubt following a disappointing injury update from Wasps on…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2021, 13:51

Cockerill verdict on early days working with just-as-fiery Jones

Ex-Leicester and Edinburgh boss Richard Cockerill has delivered a verdict on his first few weeks working under England boss Eddie …

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2021, 10:46

Scotland make 6 changes for the Wallabies, name 2 rookies on bench

Fresh from their win over Tonga last weekend, Gregor Townsend has named his Scotland team to take on the Wallabies at Murrayfield …

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2021, 9:13

Owen Farrell latest: Cockerill on retesting, Furbank and axed Ford

New England assistant Richard Cockerill fronted the media on Friday amid the emergency sparked by Owen Farrell testing positive fo…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2021, 7:56

Owen Farrell a doubt for England as he has gone into isolation

England skipper Owen Farell is now a doubt for Saturday's match after he was placed in isolation and will miss training on Friday.…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2021, 6:11

'Needed to change': The reason why England named 3 vice-captains

Owen Farrell is England captain for the Autumn Nations Series but Eddie Jones has shaken up his support by appointing three vice-c…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2021, 6:00

'Genge and Sinckler are changing the face of England rugby'

Ellis Genge and Kyle Sinckler will start an England Test match together for the third time this Saturday, something that pleases E…

Liam Heagney

05 Nov 2021, 5:19

The 'fantastic' compliment England boss Jones has paid to Tonga

England boss Eddie Jones has paid quite a compliment to Tonga ahead of this Saturday's Autumn Nations Series match at Twickenham.

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 14:43

'It's a team that can grow, develop and be World Cup champions'

Having made nine changes from the team beaten in the Six Nations last March, Eddie Jones has outlined giddy ambitions for his Engl…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 14:10

Jones names the 'most professional' player he has ever coached

England boss Eddie Jones has named seasoned Gloucester winger Jonny May as the most professional player he has ever coached.

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 13:37

World 12s: Star players in line to pocket in excess of £250,000

World 12s organisers have unveiled an attractive remuneration package where star players can earn in excess of £250,000 next Augu…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 11:30

England explain why Marcus Smith has only made Saturday's bench

Eddie Jones has explained an England team selection that has skipper Owen Farrell as the starting No10 and Marcus Smith on the ben…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 10:46

The Ardie Savea comparison that has Tom Curry at No8 for England

Rather than go with Test rookie Alex Dombrandt as the starting England No8 this Saturday, Eddie Jones has gone with Tom Curry in t…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 9:45

Ireland name team for Japan with 8 changes from win over England

Having won their last five games, Andy Farrell has named his Ireland team for Saturday's Autumn Nation Series opener in Dublin ver…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 9:20

England make nine changes to the team beaten by Ireland last March

Eddie Jones has named the England team that will take on Tonga at Twickenham this Saturday in their Autumn Nations Series opener.

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 8:22

Wales make six changes to their team to face the Springboks

Beaten last weekend by the All Blacks in their Autumn Nations Series opener, Wales have named their team to take on the Springboks…

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 8:06

England team announcement delayed after Covid detected in camp

Eddie Jones has had to delay his announcement of the England team to face Tonga following the outbreak of Covid in the camp.

Liam Heagney

04 Nov 2021, 7:25

World Rugby issues statement after Carl Hayman joins legal action

World Rugby have responded to the revelation that Carl Hayman, the ex-All Blacks prop, has early-onset dementia and is taking lega…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2021, 14:17

'Several players have burns and grazes they wouldn't get on grass'

Exeter boss Rob Baxter gives his hot take after artificial pitches became a hot topic again following a post-Kingsholm Jack Nowell…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2021, 14:15

Harry Randall's alleged paddle-board injury puts focus on England

England spent last week in Jersey and it has been alleged that Harry Randall suffered his hip flexor injury while paddle-boarding.…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2021, 11:11

Red-carded Williams and Bath kitman Middleton learn their fate

Bath duo Mike Williams and kit manager Steve Middleton were charged following separate incidents during last Saturday's Premiershi…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2021, 8:54

The reason why Matt Carley refereed England training this week

Matt Carley turned up at England training this week just a month after taking charge of the Springboks-All Blacks classic on the G…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2021, 7:59

'Bit annoyed': Exeter on how Simmonds has taken England rejection

Exeter boss Rob Baxter has been speaking about how Sam Simmonds has reacted to his latest rejection by Eddie Jones' England.

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2021, 6:48

Why 'little bit of anger' from Jamie George delighted Eddie Jones

Eddie Jones wanted a response after excluding Jamie George from recent England squads and the hooker has since been recalled to th…

Liam Heagney

03 Nov 2021, 4:59

Springboks explain why they are revisiting a shelved 2018 tactic

The Springboks on why they are doing something with Jesse Kriel last used in 2018 and why they have started a Willie le Roux side …

Liam Heagney

02 Nov 2021, 16:41