Liam Heagney

Dave Kearney confirms Leinster exit, pays tribute to brother Rob

Former Ireland winger Dave Kearney has called time on his near 14-year career at Leinster, announcing he will leave the Irish prov…

Liam Heagney

11 May 2023, 9:55

World Rugby statement: Community rugby lower tackle height trials

World Rugby council has unanimously approved a recommendation that unions participate in trials of a lower tackle height in commun…

Liam Heagney

11 May 2023, 11:25

Five-hour hearing clears Chris Ashton to play with immediate effect

Fears that the stellar career of Chris Ashton was prematurely ended by last Saturday’s red card have been quashed as the soon-to…

Liam Heagney

11 May 2023, 12:47

Scotland statement: Contract extension for Gregor Townsend

Speculation about who will coach the Scotland team after the upcoming Rugby World Cup in France ended on Tuesday morning with a st…

Liam Heagney

09 May 2023, 3:41

'You slip easily into driving like a lunatic, I'd a rude awakening'

Matt Kvesic was apologetic when he answered the phone the other day to RugbyPass at the time he had suggested to call. The bed del…

Interview

Liam Heagney

07 May 2023, 4:44

Evan Roos: 'There is no hate or anything between us. Just respect'

It didn’t take long for the endearing Evan Roos to emit a mischievous grin when he pulled up a balcony chair to shoot the breeze…

Interview

Liam Heagney

07 May 2023, 3:23

The Leo Cullen verdict on 'far from perfect' Leinster performance

Leo Cullen has called on double-chasing Leinster to deliver more polish next weekend after a scrappy affair limited their dominanc…

Liam Heagney

06 May 2023, 14:24

London Irish confirm names of the 12 players who are leaving

London Irish have confirmed that a dozen players will be departing the Gallagher Premiership club now that their 2022/23 season ha…

Liam Heagney

06 May 2023, 13:27

Sharks player ratings vs Leinster | 2023 URC quarter-final

Sharks players ratings live from Aviva Stadium: The South African franchise came to Dublin looking to cause a major URC upset agai…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

06 May 2023, 12:55

Early success for Leicester, Saracens in BT Sport Immortals XV poll

Leicester and Saracens have had first success in the BT Sport fan poll to select a Premiership Immortals XV. The tournament’s pr…

Liam Heagney

06 May 2023, 6:44

Nigel Owens has his say on the Joe Hawkins ineligible-for-Wales saga

Test centurion referee Nigel Owens has waded into the debate about Wales midfielder Joe Hawkins signing for Exeter, a decision tha…

Liam Heagney

06 May 2023, 6:08

IRFU statement: Greg McWilliams steps down with immediate effect

The Ireland women’s team are in the market for a new head coach after Greg McWilliams left his position with immediate effect on…

Liam Heagney

05 May 2023, 9:20

London Irish allay cancellation fears by naming power-packed XV

London Irish have allayed fears that their final match of the Gallagher Premiership season might not take place as they have named…

Liam Heagney

05 May 2023, 6:24

Sale confirm list of 12 players leaving at the end of the season

Gallagher Premiership title chasers Sale have confirmed that a dozen players will leave at the end of the current season.

Liam Heagney

05 May 2023, 5:31

The recently retired Josh Navidi has named his Ultimate XV

Former Wales back-rower Josh Navidi has named his Ultimate XV, an understandably Welsh-biased selection peppered with legends such…

Liam Heagney

05 May 2023, 3:54

BT Sport launches campaign to name its Premiership Immortals XV

BT Sport have unveiled an intriguing build-up to 2022/23 Gallagher Premiership final, getting fans to select their Immortals XV be…

Liam Heagney

04 May 2023, 8:52

The Declan Kidney transcript: Every word of his London Irish update

After days of media speculation arising on the back of payday being missed last Friday, London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidn…

Interview

Liam Heagney

04 May 2023, 8:31

Declan Kidney hosts briefing to provide latest London Irish update

Declan Kidney has confirmed that this Saturday’s London Irish match will definitely go ahead even though players and staff at th…

Liam Heagney

04 May 2023, 6:12

Bath statement: The exit of Stuart Hooper

Former director of rugby Stuart Hooper is to leave Bath following a 15-year association with the club. It was last summer when the…

Liam Heagney

04 May 2023, 5:00

John Plumtree has a new job 10 months after leaving the All Blacks

John Plumtree has secured a new job 10 months after being released by the All Blacks, the Durban-based Sharks snapping up his serv…

Liam Heagney

04 May 2023, 3:57

The 'cringey energy giver' who has ignited Sale post-Faf de Klerk

When World Cup winner Faf de Klerk said his goodbyes in Manchester and headed to Japan last summer, the path was clear for rookie …

Liam Heagney

04 May 2023, 3:03

Atlas issue six-part social media statement on Worcester takeover

New Worcester owners Atlas have published a six-part Twitter thread following the completion on Wednesday of their deal to take ov…

Liam Heagney

03 May 2023, 10:35

EPCR statement: The Charles Ollivon red card hearing verdict

Former France skipper Charles Ollivon has been cleared to play for Toulon in their upcoming Challenge Cup final versus Glasgow in …

Liam Heagney

03 May 2023, 9:23

World Rugby statement: The death of ex-chairman Bernard Lapasset

World Rugby have paid tribute to Bernard Lapasset, the international federation’s former chairman who led rugby back to the Olym…

Liam Heagney

03 May 2023, 8:11

Reports – Sale of Worcester Warriors to Atlas is finally complete

It has been reported that the sale of Worcester Warriors, the former Gallagher Premiership club that collapsed at the start of the…

Liam Heagney

03 May 2023, 7:23

Sale boss Sanderson has reacted to Northern super club merger idea

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has responded to a recent radical suggestion that the Sharks should merge with Newcastle and one other cl…

Liam Heagney

03 May 2023, 3:53

Springboks statement: Post-op Siya Kolisi update

SA Rugby have issued a post-operation statement about the World Cup prospects of Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi.

Liam Heagney

03 May 2023, 2:17

Edinburgh confirm head coach delay despite 'excellent' interest

Edinburgh have delayed the appointment of a head coach successor to Mike Blair, explaining that lead rugby consultant Steve Diamon…

Liam Heagney

02 May 2023, 11:02

Gloucester leaver Jordy Reid has named his new club

Australian back-rower Jordy Reid has confirmed that he will join Ealing for the 2023/24 Championship season after it was revealed …

Liam Heagney

02 May 2023, 7:56

Bath statement: The signing of ex-Wasps boss Lee Blackett

Gallagher Premiership strugglers Bath have confirmed the capture of Lee Blackett for next season. The ex-Wasps boss had been worki…

Liam Heagney

02 May 2023, 6:50

'I’m 31 and never expected this' - The Scot living the Belgian dream

Ryan Godsmark was deliriously overjoyed in the wake of last Sunday’s triumph by Belgium in the second leg of the 2023 Challenger…

Interview

Liam Heagney

02 May 2023, 6:15

The Nadine Roos promise after Springboks seal World Series return

Nadine Roos flew back to Japan this week chuffed that the Springboks are back on the elite World Rugby Sevens circuit for next sea…

Liam Heagney

02 May 2023, 3:25

The Tonga answer to the Pitau at London Sevens qualifier question

Tonga boss Tevita Tuifua has revealed he won’t be getting out his contacts book to call in star reinforcements for the upcoming …

Liam Heagney

02 May 2023, 2:25

Gripping late drama sees Springboks, Belgium win Challenger titles

The second leg of the Sevens Challenger Series in Stellenbosch provided a dramatic denouement on Sunday, South Africa producing a …

Liam Heagney

30 Apr 2023, 9:01

Challenge Series reaches semis with Springboks, Tonga both shining

South Africa are on the cusp of sealing their return to the sevens circuit big-time as a productive moving day Saturday at the 202…

Liam Heagney

29 Apr 2023, 11:16

Five-try Nadine Roos fires Springboks into Challenger quarter-finals

Nadine Roos demonstrated her class on day two of the Sevens Challenger Series in Stellenbosh, scoring five tries as the Springboks…

Liam Heagney

29 Apr 2023, 6:06

Live blog: Sevens Challenger Series – day two

RugbyPass is live from Stellenbosch for the second day of the second and final leg of the 2023 Challenger Series.

Liam Heagney

29 Apr 2023, 0:22

'The more you suffer, the more you enjoy it at the end'

Jose Escobedo was the toast of Chile on Friday after his last gasp-try in the corner in Stellenbosch defeated Tonga, last weekendâ…

Liam Heagney

28 Apr 2023, 9:57

Live blog: Sevens Challenger Series – day one

RugbyPass is live from Stellenbosch for the opening day of the second and final leg of the 2023 Sevens Challenger Series featuring…

Liam Heagney

27 Apr 2023, 23:44

'She took me in without blinking': How Nadine Roos beat the odds

Nadine Roos claims she is shy and introverted but, truth be told, she could talk for South Africa – and what a story she has to …

Interview

Liam Heagney

27 Apr 2023, 2:15

'Atmosphere's cooking': The Will Becconsall Exeter breakthrough

It’s been quite the crazy leap for rookie Exeter Chiefs scrum-half Will Becconsall in recent weeks. There was the 20-year-old on…

Interview

Liam Heagney

30 Apr 2023, 4:00

Willie le Roux posts 'epic' farewell message to Toyota Verblitz

Veteran Springboks full-back Willie le Roux has brought the curtain down on his four-year stay in Japan, posting his Toyota Verbli…

Liam Heagney

26 Apr 2023, 2:35

Scan confirms Challenger Series injury setback for the Springboks

The Springboks have been dealt a blow in their attempt to secure promotion for next season’s revamped HSBC women’s sevens seri…

Liam Heagney

24 Apr 2023, 11:13

'I immediately regretted that moment, that was the rude awakening'

Ultan Dillane roared with laughter when asked by RugbyPass what backline position he might play if La Rochelle ever allowed him th…

Interview

Liam Heagney

23 Apr 2023, 3:05

South Africa and Tonga win Challenger Series opening leg trophies

South Africa women and Tonga men lifted trophies in Stellenbosch on Saturday after winning the opening tournament in the two-legge…

Liam Heagney

22 Apr 2023, 17:57

Cardiff statement: Josh Navidi has retired with immediate effect

Wales back-rower Josh Navidi has been forced to retire from playing with immediate effect. He played his final match in July 2022 …

Liam Heagney

20 Apr 2023, 16:54

The 'hit like a ton of bricks' reason why Stuart Hogg is retiring

Stuart Hogg has explained the moment in 2021 when he first thought of retiring as a player. The 30-year-old Scotland full-back rec…

Liam Heagney

20 Apr 2023, 12:12

'He’s hellish. You and Peter O’Mahony are the worst to play against'

Stuart Hogg has named the two players who rubbed him up the most during his stellar career. The 30-year-old last month announced t…

Liam Heagney

20 Apr 2023, 10:34

Harlequins statement: Ross Chisholm retires, Charlie Matthews leaves

Harlequins have announced that stalwart Ross Chisholm is to retire and experienced lock Charlie Matthews will leave the club at th…

Liam Heagney

20 Apr 2023, 9:24

France and Ireland dominate the World XV chosen by The Rugby Pod

Rugby Pod co-hosts Jim Hamilton and Andy Goode have named their current World XV, including six French players, five Irish, two So…

Liam Heagney

20 Apr 2023, 6:47

RFU statement: The Jack Nowell misconduct charge verdict

Exeter winger Jack Nowell has been heavily fined for a message he posted to Twitter last weekend about an incident in his team’s…

Liam Heagney

20 Apr 2023, 4:46

Exeter break their silence on the Jack Nowell misconduct charge

Rob Baxter has opened up about the Tuesday afternoon revelation that Jack Nowell will face a misconduct hearing on Wednesday eveni…

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 6:59

Nephi Leatigaga has left Leicester with immediate effect

Nephi Leatigaga has exited Leicester with immediate effect to take up an injury cover contract at the NSW Waratahs for Angus Bell,…

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 16:34

The online troll fuelling Marcus Smith and his England ambitions

Marcus Smith has given a 50-minute interview that covered everything and anything, including the online criticism that has fuelled…

Interview

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 12:00

Newcastle statement: The exit of ‘club great’ Mark Wilson

Mark Wilson has applied the brakes on his coaching career, stepping away from his role as an assistant at Newcastle after just a s…

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 13:18

Table Mountain gathering launches latest Sevens Challenger Series

The slopes of the iconic Table Mountain provided the backdrop for the launch of the two-legged World Rugby Sevens Challenger Serie…

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 8:08

Gloucester statement: Exit of Billy Twelvetrees after 11-year stay

Former England and Lions midfielder Billy Twelvetrees will leave Gloucester at the end of this season after 11 years with the Gall…

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 7:33

Olly Woodburn has learnt his fate after his much-debated red card

Fears that Olly Woodburn could miss the upcoming Heineken Champions Cup semi-final following his Exeter red card have been quashed…

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 5:35

Ellis Genge banned for dangerous tackle on England pal Tom Curry

Ellis Genge will miss the remainder of the season with Bristol - but his ban for dangerously tackling Tom Curry won’t spill over…

Liam Heagney

19 Apr 2023, 5:10

Headache for Exeter as RFU charge Jack Nowell for tweeting criticism

England international Jack Nowell potentially faces missing the upcoming Heineken Champions Cup semi-final in France versus La Roc…

Liam Heagney

18 Apr 2023, 6:47

Scarlets statement: The signing of Ioan Lloyd from Bristol

Much improved Scarlets have secured an eye-catching recruit for next season, Wales international Ioan Lloyd who has come through t…

Liam Heagney

18 Apr 2023, 5:22

Waratahs' Lachlan Swinton cops heavy ban for 'reckless' foul play

Wallabies international Lachlan Swinton has copped a heavy ban for last Saturday’s cited Super Rugby Pacific tackle for the Wara…

Liam Heagney

18 Apr 2023, 7:21

Two more players exit Exeter, including recent quarter-final starter

Munster have bolstered their midfield options by capturing the signature of Sean O’Brien from Exeter for next season.

Liam Heagney

18 Apr 2023, 6:15

Nine players capped at XVs in Springboks' Challenger Series squad

Springboks coach Renfred Dazel has included just one uncapped sevens player – XVs out-half Libbie Janse van Rensburg – in an e…

Liam Heagney

18 Apr 2023, 5:49

'Better place': Wallabies legend reacts to Brad Thorn's Reds exit

Legendary Wallabies midfielder Tim Horan has claimed that the soon-to-depart Brad Thorn will leave the Reds in a much better place…

Liam Heagney

18 Apr 2023, 3:55

Latest World XV high-profile recruit is an ex-All Blacks assistant

Brad Mooar has become the latest high-profile name to become involved in next month’s bumper Killik Cup match at Twickenham, the…

Liam Heagney

18 Apr 2023, 2:58

'I'm not sure we need to dumb rugby down to lowest common denominator'

David Quinlan, the ex-Ireland midfielder, has plenty to say in his role as head of legal and player welfare at International Rugby…

Interview

Liam Heagney

16 Apr 2023, 3:30

'I agree with the decision. Unfortunately, it has to be a red'

Scotland international Duncan Taylor picked up the first red card of his career when sent off just eight minutes into Saracens’ …

Liam Heagney

15 Apr 2023, 10:04

Watch: Curry twins' amusing shared player of the match award

Ex-England international Austin Healey was at his mischievous best on Friday night when naming both Curry twins, Tom and Ben, as h…

Liam Heagney

15 Apr 2023, 10:35

Springboks shock as Jacques Nienaber agrees on a return to Ireland

Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber will step down at the end of the upcoming Rugby World Cup to make a club return to Ireland,…

Liam Heagney

15 Apr 2023, 7:24

Victor Matfield names the toughest All Blacks team he ever faced

Record Springboks caps holder Victor Matfield has named the toughest All Blacks side that he faced throughout his lengthy career.

Liam Heagney

15 Apr 2023, 3:10

Victor Matfield has named his best all-time Springboks XV

Victor Matfield, the most capped Springboks international of all time, has named his best South African XV.

Liam Heagney

13 Apr 2023, 11:08

Tongan and Irish internationals among the eight leaving Connacht

Tonga second row Leva Fifita and Ireland winger Adam Byrne have been included on the list of eight players leaving Connacht at the…

Liam Heagney

13 Apr 2023, 10:05

'Extraordinary case' made Charlie Ewels irresistible to the Bulls

Bulls boss Jake White has explained that their temporary signing of England lock Charlie Ewels is an "extraordinary case", insisti…

Liam Heagney

13 Apr 2023, 9:15

Jake White's radical idea to make South Africa a Champions Cup force

Bulls boss Jake White has claimed a radical rethink must happen if teams from South Africa are to dominate in the Heineken Champio…

Liam Heagney

13 Apr 2023, 7:55

John Jeffrey secures a brand new position at World Rugby

Former Scotland forward John Jeffrey is the new World Rugby vice chair, replacing Bernard Laporte as chairman Bill Beaumont’s No…

Liam Heagney

13 Apr 2023, 6:30

Charlie Ewels has secured a temporary deal to play in South Africa

England lock Charlie Ewels is hoping that a temporary switch to the Currie Cup in South Africa can pave the way for his return to …

Liam Heagney

13 Apr 2023, 4:31

The lie detector test that amusingly got under Jamie George's skin

England hooker Jamie George has admitted he would like to play abroad at some stage in his club career.

Liam Heagney

13 Apr 2023, 3:50

Unbeaten England change three for their round three trip to Wales

Unbeaten England have made three changes to their TikTok Women's Six Nations team to travel to Wales this Saturday following their…

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 11:40

SRU statement: Community game’s lower tackle height law trial

Clubs in Scotland from Tenant’s Premiership and below are set to embrace a new tackle height trial in the 2023/24 season.

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 10:18

Saracens issue a short injury update on Billy Vunipola

Saracens have confirmed that the current season is over for Billy Vunipola following the first-half knee injury he sustained in la…

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 9:51

Exeter explain 'ridiculously simple' reason why rookies are thriving

Thirteen days earlier, you would have got long odds on Exeter reaching the Heineken Champions Cup semi-finals, but their Gallagher…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 7:31

Leicester statement: 'Game changer' Chris Ashton confirms retirement

Former England international Chris Ashton has confirmed he will retire from playing at the end of the current Gallagher Premiershi…

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 6:20

Toulouse statement: Jack Willis contract extension confirmed

French giants Toulouse have confirmed a contract extension for Jack Willis, a decision that will place the international future of…

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 5:22

One-club man Will Welch to retire after 15 seasons at Newcastle

Will Welch has confirmed that he will retire from playing at the end of the current season following a 15-year career with Newcast…

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 4:18

The work Ivan Nemer is undertaking after ban for racism incident

Italy prop Ivan Nemer has started his ‘Racism is a bad story’ project with the Italian rugby federation after his suspension f…

Liam Heagney

12 Apr 2023, 3:48

Nathan Hughes declares his Fiji ambition, likes ‘crazy’ Japan time

Former England No8 Nathan Hughes has declared himself available to represent his native Fiji at the upcoming Rugby World Cup.

Interview

Liam Heagney

11 Apr 2023, 6:55

Newcastle statement: Appointment of Alex Codling as new head coach 

Newcastle have confirmed last Wednesday’s RugbyPass exclusive that ex-England lock Alex Codling will succeed Dave Walder as thei…

Liam Heagney

11 Apr 2023, 4:15

The Jake Ball verdict on becoming re-eligible for Wales while in Japan

The last thing Jake Ball imagined happening following his move to Japan in the summer of 2021 was that he would become re-eligible…

Interview

Liam Heagney

11 Apr 2023, 11:11

From being unemployed and training alone to earning a new contract

Steff Hughes has gone from being an unemployed rugby player to becoming a key part of the Dragons set-up under Dai Flanagan in the…

Liam Heagney

11 Apr 2023, 9:07

IRFU statements: Contract extensions for Ryan and van der Flier

The IRFU have confirmed that James Ryan and Josh van der Flier have agreed to respective contract extensions through to the summer…

Liam Heagney

11 Apr 2023, 4:33

Welsh exodus continues with Dillon Lewis moving to the Premiership

The exodus of players from the regions in Wales continued on Tuesday with Cardiff tighthead Dillon Lewis joining Harlequins in the…

Liam Heagney

11 Apr 2023, 4:55

The thing that Leo Cullen won't apologise for... and he's right

Leo Cullen wasn’t having any of it, Anglo-Irish potshots about the dominance of the Leinster operation.

Opinion

Liam Heagney

10 Apr 2023, 2:53

Nigel Owens reveals reason why he said no to Rassie Erasmus offer

Nigel Owens has revealed the reason why he turned down the offer from Rassie Erasmus to work with the Springboks at the Rugby Worl…

Liam Heagney

08 Apr 2023, 9:56

'Pretty clear facts' exasperate Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth

It’s a rough gig, getting anointed first-time head coach in an emergency. Just ask Richard Wigglesworth. There he was in midweek…

Liam Heagney

08 Apr 2023, 4:02

The Leinster update on Friday's tear-jerking Ryan Baird injury

It was sweetness and light post-game with Leinster on Friday night amid the fuzzy warmth of the battering given to Leicester, but …

Liam Heagney

08 Apr 2023, 5:40

Leicester player ratings vs Leinster | 2023 Champions Cup

Leicester player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: Despite their recent flourish in form with Handre Pollard finding his groove, th…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

07 Apr 2023, 16:00

The major thing Martin Gleeson wants to see after his England exit

Former England attack coach Martin Gleeson has called for even greater collaboration between rugby union and league.

Liam Heagney

07 Apr 2023, 13:00

Four Scotland internationals named on list of 13 Edinburgh leavers

Edinburgh have confirmed the 13 players leaving at the end of the 2022/23 season, a list that includes four Scotland international…

Liam Heagney

07 Apr 2023, 11:00

Sharks deliver a very worrying update on the injured Eben Etzebeth

Springboks talisman Eben Etzebeth is facing a race against time to be fit for the start of the upcoming 2023 Rugby Championship.

Liam Heagney

07 Apr 2023, 9:09

Exeter make one XV change, Stormers two for quarter-final clash

Exeter have confirmed that their team for Saturday’s Heineken Champions Cup quarter-final at home to the Stormers contains just …

Liam Heagney

07 Apr 2023, 6:20

Nigel Owens has reportedly reached a decision over Springboks job

Centurion referee Nigel Owens has reportedly given Rassie Erasmus his final decision about an offer to work with the Springboks at…

Liam Heagney

07 Apr 2023, 5:30

Anthony Watson explains 'grudges' he still has for his old club Bath

England winger Anthony Watson has given a withering account of his brutal exit from Bath last year, claiming he still holds a grud…

Liam Heagney

07 Apr 2023, 4:52

Another New Zealander in disciplinary trouble at a Pro D2 club

A week after it emerged that ex-Super Rugby player Jonathan Ruru had reportedly played his last match for Provence in the Pro D2, …

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 11:23

Lewis Boyce and Michael Etete have left Bath with immediate effect

Forwards Lewis Boyce and Michael Etete have exited Bath for playing opportunities elsewhere. The 26-year-old prop Boyce has joined…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 8:10

Fijian legend Nemani Nadolo has confirmed his retirement date

Nemani Nadolo has taken to social media to confirm that 2023 will be his last year as a professional rugby player. The 35-year-old…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 9:32

New role for Freddie Steward in Dublin return 20 days after red card

Freddie Steward will occupy a very role different from his usual position as the Leicester full-back when he makes his return to D…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 6:24

Edinburgh statement: Signing of 'top prospect' Ewan Ashman confirmed

Edinburgh have confirmed the signing of Scotland international Ewan Ashman on a four-year deal. The hooker is currently starring f…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 5:24

Stormers' Deon Fourie has explained his 'scuffle' with Joe Marler

Veteran Stormers forward Deon Fourie has got Joe Marler off the hook following allegations of skullduggery by the out-of-favour En…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 4:55

The John Dobson visit to Exeter that Rob Baxter hasn't forgotten

Rob Baxter has paid tribute to the success that John Dobson has enjoyed at the Stormers, the South African franchise that will tak…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 4:01

Bernard Laporte tweets reply to claim he is joining Galthie's France

Ex-France coach Bernard Laporte has taken to Twitter following a claim that he was reportedly set to join Fabien Galthie’s staff…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 3:05

Luther Burrell on 'cut short' career, why he still won't name names

Ex-England international Luther Burrell has claimed his career has been cut short by the investigation into his racism allegations…

Liam Heagney

06 Apr 2023, 2:29

Ben Youngs: Why Springboks' Handre Pollard is thriving at Leicester

Long-serving scrum-half Ben Youngs has spoken about the silver lining of falling down the pecking order with England – getting t…

Liam Heagney

05 Apr 2023, 11:23

Georges-Henri Colombe banned for 'reckless act' versus Gloucester

La Rochelle prop Georges-Henri Colombe has been banned following his ugly yellow-carded clearout on Gloucester’s Ruan Ackermann …

Liam Heagney

05 Apr 2023, 10:09

No Zach Mercer ban as his red card at Exeter has been rescinded

England prospect Zach Mercer has had the controversial red card he picked up at Exeter last Sunday rescinded at a midweek discipli…

Liam Heagney

05 Apr 2023, 9:46

SA tribute paid following death of ex-Springboks coach Ian McIntosh

SA Rugby have paid tribute to Ian McIntosh, the former Springboks coach and selector, following his death on Wednesday at the age …

Liam Heagney

05 Apr 2023, 7:27

South African coach calls out 'not so kosher' Joe Marler incident

Out-of-favour England prop Joe Marler has been criticised by ex-Springboks assistant Swys de Bruin for some of his antics with Har…

Liam Heagney

05 Apr 2023, 6:39

Sale sign 'under-appreciated' Tom Ellis with immediate effect

Title-chasing Sale have signed Tom Ellis with immediate effect. The Bath forward had been on loan at Saracens, but he has now move…

Liam Heagney

05 Apr 2023, 5:23

Exeter address the question of Joe Hawkins' availability for Wales

Exeter boss Rob Baxter has explained that he signed Joe Hawkins with the expectation that the youngster wouldn’t be at Sandy Par…

Liam Heagney

05 Apr 2023, 4:54

The Semi Radradra verdict on Joseph Suaalii joining union from NRL

Fijian powerhouse Semi Radradra has given his verdict on the recent signing by Rugby Australia of Joseph Suaalii from the NRL.

Liam Heagney

04 Apr 2023, 10:34

The lessons Jimmy Gopperth gave a 14-year-old Charlie Atkinson

Jimmy Gopperth has shed light on his strong rapport with Leicester teammate Charlie Atkinson – despite their 18-year difference …

Liam Heagney

04 Apr 2023, 9:14

The Nic Dolly injury update that will enthuse Leicester and England

Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has reported that Nic Dolly is on the verge of a playing comeback just 11 months following the…

Liam Heagney

04 Apr 2023, 8:01

Aaron Morris confirms 'heavy heart' retirement at the age of 28

Aaron Morris is to call it quits at the end of the current campaign at the age of just 28 after injuries restricted him to just si…

Liam Heagney

04 Apr 2023, 5:46

Ugly La Rochelle clearout on Ruan Ackermann has resulted in citing

Last Saturday’s ugly-looking breakdown clearout on Gloucester’s Ruan Ackerman will have a disciplinary hearing sequel as La Ro…

Liam Heagney

04 Apr 2023, 5:26

Ben Youngs: The 'main England difference' between Borthwick, Jones

Centurion Test scrum-half Ben Youngs has revealed what he claims to be the main England difference now that Steve Borthwick has su…

Liam Heagney

04 Apr 2023, 4:40

Leinster player ratings vs Ulster | 2023 Champions Cup round-of-16

Leinster player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: From green to blue with another visiting team beaten in Dublin – life is rather…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

01 Apr 2023, 13:35

'Johnny Sexton is now selling tickets for the game next week'

Leinster boss Leo Cullen has quipped that the unavailable Johnny Sexton has taken on the new role of ticket seller in an effort to…

Liam Heagney

01 Apr 2023, 15:21

Watch: Semi Radradra runs in a try despite doing his hamstring

Semi Radrada had no hesitation in putting Bristol before his own well-being on Friday night, the Fijian international managing to …

Liam Heagney

01 Apr 2023, 4:21

Alex Dombrandt: 'It would be silly not to get excited for it'

It’s quite the run of England and Harlequins games for Alex Dombrandt at the minute. Twickenham versus France, Aviva Stadium ver…

Interview

Liam Heagney

01 Apr 2023, 3:25

Bath claim 'robust set of results' despite latest financial losses

Bath have reported revenues of nearly £20million in its latest annual financial report and while the Gallagher Premiership still …

Liam Heagney

31 Mar 2023, 12:01

Italian rookie Rizzoli has World Cup hopes scuppered by lengthy ban

Rookie Italian loosehead Luca Rizzoli has had his Rugby World Cup hopes dashed by a lengthy ban following an independent URC disci…

Liam Heagney

31 Mar 2023, 8:57

World Cup winner RG Snyman to start his first match in 32 months

Springboks lock RG Snyman is poised to start his first Munster match since his injury-ruined debut for the club in August 2020.

Liam Heagney

31 Mar 2023, 7:15

England skipper Owen Farrell has shrugged off latest injury scare

Saracens’ optimism regarding last weekend’s injury suffered by England skipper Owen Farrell has paid off as the out-half has r…

Liam Heagney

31 Mar 2023, 6:45

Bristol confirm nine contract extensions, including Steven Luatua

Bristol have followed Thursday’s signing ex-Wasps duo Gabriel Oghre and Sam Wolstenholme by confirming contract extensions for n…

Liam Heagney

31 Mar 2023, 6:19

Steve Diamond reveals midweek Edinburgh training ground fight

New Edinburgh consultant Steve Diamond has revealed that a training ground fight has left the Scottish club spoiling for a Heineke…

Liam Heagney

31 Mar 2023, 4:01

Dan Cole: Missing magnums, playing in jeans, packing down with girls

Dan Cole becoming a Test centurion was one of the sights of the 2023 Guinness Six Nations that you could never have imagined happe…

Interview

Liam Heagney

31 Mar 2023, 3:03

Ex-Blues player reportedly set to be sacked by French Pro D2 club

Former Super Rugby player Jonathan Ruru has reportedly played his last match for Provence in the French Pro D2.

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 9:46

Harlequins: The Louis Lynagh return and Evans with England latest

Louis Lynagh is primed for Harlequins selection for the first time since last June after playing his first match in nine months la…

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 12:14

Bristol confirm recruitment of two ex-Wasps players for next season

Bristol have bolstered their roster for next season, confirming the signings on Thursday of ex-Wasps duo Gabriel Oghre from Bordea…

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 13:19

England make three changes, including a debut for Delaney Burns

England have named a team to face Italy this Sunday in the TikTok women’s Six Nations which shows three changes from last weeken…

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 10:52

RFU statement: England recruit another 2019 Rugby World Cup winner

New England boss Steve Borthwick has recruited a second member of the Springboks 2019 World Cup-winning staff after securing a dea…

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 8:21

The Rob Baxter verdict on the shock Stuart Hogg retirement call

Exeter boss Rob Baxter has given his reaction to Monday’s shock decision by Scotland international Stuart Hogg to retire from ru…

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 3:59

Leicester change six and prime ex-Wasps back for debut off bench

Richard Wigglesworth has made six changes to his Leicester team for Friday night’s Heineken Champions Cup round-of-16 clash at h…

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 6:24

Exeter explain the reason why Cowan-Dickie recovery is taking its time

Rob Baxter has shared his thoughts on the situation with Luke Cowan-Dickie, the injured Exeter hooker who hopes to play for Englan…

Liam Heagney

30 Mar 2023, 7:19

Two more Gallagher Premiership clubs in financial peril - reports

England’s Gallagher Premiership woke up to damaging headlines on Wednesday morning, with separate reports claiming that Newcastl…

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 3:59

Sale confirm 'as bad as it gets' injury suffered by Cobus Wiese

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has revealed the true extent of the devastating season-ending injury suffered by Cobus Wiese when he was …

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 10:54

26% of vote nets Antoine Dupont player of the Six Nations award

France scrum-half Antoine Dupont has become only the second player to win a third Six Nations player of the year award, matching t…

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 8:22

Ireland dominate the official Six Nations dream team with 10 picks

Ireland have secured 10 places in the official Guinness Six Nations team of the championship, the remaining spot going to three Fr…

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 10:09

Handre Pollard paid a classy compliment by an ex-England out-half

A former England out-half has paid Handre Pollard a classy compliment after the 2019 Rugby World Cup winner’s latest involvement…

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 6:32

Rassie Erasmus makes astonishing claim about 2019 Rugby World Cup

Rassie Erasmus has made a startling claim about the Springboks' victory at the 2019 Rugby World Cup. The SA director of rugby, who…

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 5:43

London Irish issue 55-word statement about unpaid salaries story

London Irish have issued a 55-word statement in response to a media report claiming there were fears at the club that players and …

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 5:14

Scarlets statement: Region defends 'bold' Llanelli RFC decision

Scarlets have withdrawn Llanelli RFC from next season’s Welsh Premiership over fears that it doesn’t have enough players to ad…

Liam Heagney

29 Mar 2023, 4:25

Sale poised to schmooze Manu Tuilagi after 'insulting' first offer

Alex Sanderson is optimistic that negotiations with Manu Tuilagi this Wednesday will finally sway the England midfielder into comm…

Liam Heagney

28 Mar 2023, 12:14

Leicester on what Hassell-Collins signing means for Anthony Watson

Leicester have spoken about where the Anthony Watson contract situation now stands at the club following an eventful Tuesday in wh…

Liam Heagney

28 Mar 2023, 9:38

Bristol confirm the exit of assistant coach John Muldoon

Bristol boss Pat Lam will lose right-hand man John Muldoon to Connacht for the 2023/24 season. The pair first worked together when…

Liam Heagney

28 Mar 2023, 7:13

Leicester statement: Contract extension confirmed for Mike Brown

The 2023 Mike Brown resurgence has had another happy development as the ex-England full-back has signed a deal that will see him s…

Liam Heagney

28 Mar 2023, 6:39

London Irish statement: Ollie Hassell-Collins has joined Leicester

London Irish have confirmed that Ollie Hassell-Collins, their winger recently capped at Test level by England, is to leave at the …

Liam Heagney

28 Mar 2023, 6:14

10 of the best tweets about the bombshell Stuart Hogg retirement

There has been a massive online reaction to Monday’s bombshell announcement by Stuart Hogg that he will retire from playing rugb…

Liam Heagney

28 Mar 2023, 5:46

Damning Rugby Pod verdict: 'Genge looked like he wasn't interested'

Rugby Pod co-host Andy Goode believes the abject performance last Saturday by Ellis Genge on his return to his old club Leicester …

Liam Heagney

28 Mar 2023, 4:51

'Rugby will never be perfectly safe, people need to accept that'

Sam Warburton is full of the joys of spring these days. Usually, at this time of year, he would be a wreck with the Guinness Six N…

Interview

Liam Heagney

26 Mar 2023, 3:11

The 'big difference' that denied Marcus Smith a fair England chance

Former England player Austin Healey has claimed that Marcus Smith wasn’t given a fair chance to impress by new head coach Steve …

Liam Heagney

25 Mar 2023, 12:45

Mike Ford has bagged a new role... and George will be helping out

Former England and Ireland assistant Mike Ford has bagged himself a new role – heading up the five-strong investment group that …

Liam Heagney

25 Mar 2023, 11:20

Eddie Jones poised to recruit recently sacked Top 14 coach - report

Eddie Jones’ next staff recruitment for the Wallabies is set to be Pierre-Henry Broncan, the Frenchman who recently lost his job…

Liam Heagney

25 Mar 2023, 8:17

'No complaints': London Irish defend level of support in Brentford

Declan Kidney has insisted that the move of London Irish back to the English capital has been a success even though just two of th…

Liam Heagney

25 Mar 2023, 5:08

Julian Montoya: 'I'm not lying, I don't think about those things much'

Leicester skipper Julian Montoya has downplayed his recent vault up the Gallagher Premiership try-scoring list with the Tigers.

Liam Heagney

25 Mar 2023, 4:21

The pointless 12-man escape London Irish refuse to celebrate

This Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership fixture between London Irish and Northampton has rekindled memories of the bizarre nine mi…

Liam Heagney

24 Mar 2023, 11:14

Farrell and Smith to collide as Saracens and Harlequins name teams

Owen Farrell and Marcus Smith will challenge each other head-on this Saturday for their Gallagher Premiership clubs following a Gu…

Liam Heagney

24 Mar 2023, 7:30

Leicester reveal how Freddie Steward is coping with red card saga

Interim Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has revealed how Freddie Steward is coping with the fallout from the controversial red…

Liam Heagney

23 Mar 2023, 11:18

Nigel Owens: Why Willis was carded and Fickou wasn't for tip tackle

Nigel Owens has assessed why England’s Jack Willis was yellow-carded in Dublin for an incident that was similar to the un-carded…

Liam Heagney

24 Mar 2023, 6:55

Ex-England international identifies RWC game Ireland 'want to lose'

Former England out-half Stuart Barnes has made an incredible claim about Grand Slam champions Ireland and their upcoming Rugby Wor…

Liam Heagney

24 Mar 2023, 6:09

The reason why London Irish couldn't convince Rob Simmons to stay

Declan Kidney has bemoaned the financial imbalance that ultimately made it impossible for London Irish to keep hold of ex-Wallabie…

Liam Heagney

24 Mar 2023, 5:31

The post-op update from Leicester on Ollie Chessum's England injury

Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has given his view on the stellar progress made this season at international level by England …

Liam Heagney

24 Mar 2023, 4:35

The Nigel Owens verdict on controversial Freddie Steward red card

Nigel Owens has had his say on last weekend’s controversial red card for Freddie Steward, the England full-back who had his send…

Liam Heagney

23 Mar 2023, 9:48

Sam Warburton names Lions team he would pick after 2023 Six Nations

Two-time British and Irish Lions tour skipper Sam Warburton has named the first Test team he would pick if a Lions tour was taking…

Exclusive

Liam Heagney

23 Mar 2023, 4:47

What Declan Kidney made of Farrell's Ireland winning the Grand Slam

Declan Kidney has given his verdict on Ireland clinching just their fourth-ever Grand Slam with last Saturday’s win over England…

Liam Heagney

23 Mar 2023, 7:44

England name Six Nations team with 7 changes from World Cup final

Simon Middleton has named an England team to face Scotland in Saturday’s TikTok Women’s Six Nations which shows seven changes …

Liam Heagney

22 Mar 2023, 12:33

The Hugo Keenan verdict on the overturned Freddie Steward red card

Ireland full-back Hugo Keenan has given his verdict on the rescinded red card received by England’s Freddie Steward in last Satu…

Liam Heagney

23 Mar 2023, 3:32

Ex-England centre takes aim over Farrell captaincy, Itoje form

Jeremy Guscott believes Steve Borthwick must rethink his decision to make Owen Farrell his England captain – and has also questi…

Liam Heagney

21 Mar 2023, 12:08

The Mark Laycock verdict on Walder exiting 'emotional' Newcastle

Interim head coach Mark Laycock has held his first media briefing since he was asked on March 13 to take temporary charge at Newca…

Liam Heagney

22 Mar 2023, 9:03

Negri explains Six Nations bust-up with England skipper Farrell

Italy back-rower Sebastian Negri has shed light on his recent fight with England skipper Owen Farrell at Twickenham.

Liam Heagney

22 Mar 2023, 7:20

The Rugby Pod verdict on the 'horrendous' Freddie Steward red card

The Rugby Pod has given its verdict on the red card given to England full-back Freddie Steward in Dublin last Saturday.

Liam Heagney

21 Mar 2023, 8:20

Lyon make decision after speculation linked them with Josh Adams

Wales international Josh Adams won’t be joining Lyon next season, according to the latest media reports from France.

Liam Heagney

22 Mar 2023, 6:02

Bath statement: 'Behemoth prop' Thomas du Toit joining next season

Bath have bolstered their roster for 2023/24 with yet another Test-level signing, unveiling Springboks tighthead Thomas du Toit as…

Liam Heagney

22 Mar 2023, 5:21

Six Nations statement: Freddie Steward red card 'not upheld'

Freddie Steward has been exonerated following his red card sustained when playing for England in last Saturday’s Guinness Six Na…

Liam Heagney

22 Mar 2023, 4:49

Northampton confirm exit of ex-Springboks wing Courtnall Skosan

Former Springboks winger Courtnall Skosan will leave Northampton at the end of the season – but there is no indication where he …

Liam Heagney

21 Mar 2023, 11:00

World Rugby statement: Madrid Grand Final

Madrid will host the Grand Final of the reimagined World Rugby Sevens Series for three years from the 2023-24 season, World Rugby …

Liam Heagney

21 Mar 2023, 6:37

England player ratings | The 30 players capped in Six Nations 2023

England player ratings – Six Nations 2023: Leaving Aviva Stadium on Saturday night, the dominant takeaway was that Steve Borthwi…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

20 Mar 2023, 3:34

Five takeaways from the England loss to Ireland in the Six Nations

It’s become too much of an England habit, getting reduced to frustrated bystanders on Six Nations final round day as the trophy …

Opinion

Liam Heagney

19 Mar 2023, 4:31

England player ratings vs Ireland | 2023 Guinness Six Nations

England player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: It’s said you cannot reason with a tiger when your head is in its mouth, but the…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

18 Mar 2023, 14:53

The Borthwick, Farrell reaction to the Freddie Steward red card

England boss Steve Borthwick has refused to share his thoughts on whether the red card brandished at Freddie Steward in Dublin was…

Liam Heagney

18 Mar 2023, 16:15

Andy Farrell issues ominous warning to Ireland's World Cup rivals

Ireland boss Andy Farrell has issued an ominous warning to his team’s World Cup rivals just six months out from the start of the…

Liam Heagney

18 Mar 2023, 17:08

PRB statement: First standard contracts in Welsh rugby now agreed

Wales’ final match in the 2023 Guinness Six Nations away to France on Saturday has coincided with a standard contract being pres…

Liam Heagney

18 Mar 2023, 5:39

Ex-Ireland player's brutal 'English rugby a right old mess' verdict

A former Ireland player has stuck the boot in on England, criticising the baffling approach being taken by Steve Borthwick’s sid…

Liam Heagney

17 Mar 2023, 10:11

Wasps' training ground has a new client, but it isn't a rugby team

Wasps’ training ground is back in business – but not for rugby. The Henley-in-Arden facility became surplus to requirement in …

Liam Heagney

17 Mar 2023, 7:42

Three things England must do to ambush Ireland in Dublin

So erratic have England continued to be under new head coach Steve Borthwick, they are poised to sign off against Ireland on yet a…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

17 Mar 2023, 6:06

Nigel Owens: The red card that was missed in Six Nations round four

Seasoned Test referee Nigel Owens has claimed that a red card was missed in last weekend’s Guinness Six Nations round four match…

Liam Heagney

17 Mar 2023, 4:27

England reveal grim seriousness of Chessum training ground injury

Steve Borthwick wrapped up his England media commitments in Dublin on Thursday night by delivering a grim update on the extent of …

Liam Heagney

17 Mar 2023, 3:35

Cipriani takes issue with England dropping Marcus Smith again

Danny Cipriani has expressed disappointment that Marcus Smith lost the England No10 shirt to Owen Farrell when Steve Borthwick con…

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 5:41

Borthwick explains Tuilagi recall, ignores Farrell for Smith query

Steve Borthwick has described Manu Tuilagi as a fantastic player to come into this week’s England team to face Ireland, but he r…

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 15:25

The giddy prediction England have made about Henry Arundell

Steve Borthwick has insisted he is right to hand Henry Arundell his first England Test start at the age of just 20 in Saturday’s…

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 16:18

Farrell, Tuilagi recalled as England make four changes for Ireland

Steve Borthwick has reacted to last weekend’s humiliating home loss to France by naming a team to take on title-chasing Ireland …

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 12:00

Ireland name team with three changes for their Grand Slam decider

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland team to host England that has three changes from their win away to Scotland last Sunday.

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 10:36

Nigel Owens on the disallowed Ireland try and 'cynical' Hogg play

Centurion Test referee Nigel Owens has shared his thoughts on two much-talked-about incidents in last Sunday’s Scotland versus I…

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 8:44

Ex-Ireland player's Farrell versus 'out of whack' Borthwick verdict

An ex-Ireland international has explained why he believes Andy Farrell has been a soaraway success as a Test team head coach compa…

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 7:57

Owen Farrell set to start for England against Ireland - reports

Owen Farrell is set to be restored to the England starting line-up to take on Ireland when Steve Borthwick confirms his team at 5p…

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 3:36

Four changes to the Italy team with one new cap also included

Kieran Crowley has named an Italy side to visit Scotland that shows four changes following last weekend’s 29-17 home loss to Wal…

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 6:31

Gatland rolls the dice again with six changes to latest Wales team

Warren Gatland has unveiled a Wales team to take on France away with six changes from last Saturday’s Roman success over Italy.

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 6:24

Four changes to the Scotland team, with one new cap on their bench

Gregor Townsend has announced a Scotland team to host Italy on Saturday that contains four changes from last Sunday’s home loss …

Liam Heagney

16 Mar 2023, 4:37

The All Blacks trait O'Mahony wants Ireland to emulate on Saturday

Peter O’Mahony says Ireland are intent on emulating the self-assured mentality of the All Blacks as they seek to substantiate th…

Liam Heagney

15 Mar 2023, 14:21

The 'fun' Paolo Garbisi is having despite Italy facing wooden spoon

Fit-again Paolo Garbisi has insisted there is a great level of optimism now surrounding Italy even though they face finishing bott…

Liam Heagney

15 Mar 2023, 10:07

Alleged Luke Pearce apology to Jamie Ritchie ignites Twitter debate

A claim that referee Luke Pearce apologised to Jamie Ritchie for punishing his backchat during last Sunday’s Guinness Six Nation…

Liam Heagney

15 Mar 2023, 5:52

'You could bang him up there': New position suggested for Dupont

An ex-Scotland forward has suggested a novel new position for Antoine Dupont of France to finish off showing he has got the most c…

Liam Heagney

15 Mar 2023, 4:53

Chessum the biggest casualty as England cut squad to 30 for Ireland

Steve Borthwick has cut his England squad to 30-ahead of Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations clash with Ireland, with Ollie Chessum …

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 13:31

England prop Trevor Davidson quits Newcastle with immediate effect

Twice-capped England prop Trevor Davidson has exited Newcastle with immediate effect to permanently join Northampton, with Irish p…

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 6:18

Manu Tuilagi on his 2015 arrest, getting sent home by England in 2017

Manu Tuilagi has given a revealing interview on the latest England Rugby Podcast: 02 Inside Line, including his recollection of hi…

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 12:56

Exeter sign a 133kg tighthead with immediate effect

Exeter have moved quickly to fill the void left by injured tighthead Harry Williams by securing the immediate effect signing of Eh…

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 9:12

'It's personal': England rift alleged between Vunipola and Borthwick

An ex-England international has alleged that a bust-up is the reason why Billy Vunipola hasn’t figured at all this year for his …

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 8:23

Ireland statement: Women's team to stop wearing white shorts

A permanent switch to navy shorts has been agreed by the Ireland women’s team ahead of this month’s opening round in the TikTo…

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 5:47

England's Maggie Alphonsi included on WRU independent review panel

Legendary England women’s player Maggie Alphonsi has been named on the panel that will investigate allegations of sexism, misogy…

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 5:18

Wales confirm a 32-man squad minus two of last Saturday's players

Warren Gatland has named a 32-man squad for this week’s training camp in Nice ahead of Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations finale …

Liam Heagney

14 Mar 2023, 4:49

The message Olly Cracknell has for his old friends at Ospreys

Leicester back-rower Olly Cracknell has voiced his sympathy for old friends at the Ospreys caught up in the WRU contractual nightm…

Liam Heagney

12 Mar 2023, 6:00

The Bristol verdict on their rookie tighthead who joined as a No8

It’s been quite the journey at Bristol for the locally sourced prop George Kloska. The 23-year-old initially arrived at the Bear…

Liam Heagney

12 Mar 2023, 5:00

Five takeaways from record England loss to France in the Six Nations

Saturday at Twickenham was one of those dramatic evenings that will live long in the memory, be it from the perspective of shambol…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

12 Mar 2023, 4:00

Borthwick sidesteps Smith, blames other factors for record defeat

England boss Steve Borthwick has refused to blame his bold selection of Marcus Smith to start at No10 and drop skipper Owen Farrel…

Liam Heagney

11 Mar 2023, 15:23

New England skipper Ellis Genge on 'brutal reality' of record loss

First-time England skipper Ellis Genge has explained why he resisted the temptation to fire a verbal rocket at his underperforming…

Liam Heagney

11 Mar 2023, 14:46

England player ratings vs France | 2023 Guinness Six Nations

England player ratings live from Twickenham: This was savage, a brutal record beating as England. They came into the round four fi…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

11 Mar 2023, 12:56

What Nigel Owens said when Rassie Erasmus rang with SA job offer

Nigel Owens has revealed what he said to Rassie Erasmus when the South African director of rugby recently contacted him about beco…

Liam Heagney

11 Mar 2023, 8:23

The ex-England apprentice who took very different path to Marcus Smith

Under different circumstances, Gabriel Ibitoye could well have been running out at Twickenham this Saturday to represent England i…

Liam Heagney

11 Mar 2023, 4:26

Pollard: 'England are in a good spot... that makes them dangerous'

Handre Pollard was in cracking form when put forward by Leicester for interview, embracing 34 wide-ranging questions over a 20-min…

Interview

Liam Heagney

11 Mar 2023, 3:45

Edinburgh statement: The appointment of Steve Diamond

Edinburgh have confirmed that Steve Diamond has joined as lead rugby consultant until the end of the current season.

Liam Heagney

10 Mar 2023, 11:20

Gregor Townsend names Scotland team showing two changes for Ireland

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland team to host Ireland showing two changes from their Guinness Six Nations round three defeat a…

Liam Heagney

10 Mar 2023, 7:04

Andy Farrell names Ireland team showing six changes for Scotland

Andy Farrell has made six changes to his Ireland team to face Scotland this Sunday 15 days after their hard-fought win over Italy …

Liam Heagney

10 Mar 2023, 7:12

The Rob Baxter verdict on why crowds are down this season at Exeter

Exeter came roaring out of the pandemic, enjoying an average attendance for regular season Premiership games of 12,199 in 2021/22 …

Liam Heagney

10 Mar 2023, 6:02

3 hot takes as Steve Borthwick names England team to host France

It’s been the quite the week for Steve Borthwick and England. He came under fire for cutting Marcus Smith loose last week. Now, …

Opinion

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 11:52

Borthwick explains picking Smith for England start, dropping Farrell

England boss Steve Borthwick has explained that goal-kicking wasn’t the only factor considered in his huge decision to drop skip…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 9:33

Borthwick reveals how Farrell reacted to getting benched by England

Steve Borthwick has explained how Owen Farrell reacted this week to his demotion from the England starting team to face France thi…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 8:58

Borthwick names England team with Smith at No10, Farrell dropped

Steve Borthwick has named his England team to host France this Saturday, making one changes from the win over Wales - the dramatic…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 7:34

Ex-All Black Malakai Fekitoa names the club he will join next season

Italian franchise Benetton have secured a recruitment coup, signing ex-All Blacks midfielder Malakai Fekitoa on a three-year deal.…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 7:15

Warren Gatland names Wales team with six changes and no AWJ

Warren Gatland has made six changes to his Wales team - including axing record caps holder Alun Wyn Jones - for Saturday’s de fa…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 5:53

Fabien Galthie names a France team with three changes for England

France boss Fabien Galthie has named a team to take on England this Saturday at Twickenham that contains three changes from the Gu…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 5:16

Italy make one team change and alter bench split to face Wales

Italy boss Kieran Crowley has made one enforced change to his starting team to host Wales this Saturday in Rome following the Guin…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 4:12

The Exeter verdict on Borthwick's England overlooking Sam Simmonds

Rob Baxter has shared his thoughts on how Sam Simmonds is coping with his difficult England situation under Steve Borthwick.

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 2:29

London Irish on why price is now right for Ben White with Scotland

London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney has given his verdict on the flourish that has swept Ben White into the No9 Scotland …

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 2:18

The feeling at Bristol with Heenan sledger Joe Marler set to visit

Pat Lam has given his view with Joe Marler set to visit Bristol on Sunday with Harlequins nearly 11 weeks after the sledging incid…

Liam Heagney

09 Mar 2023, 2:05

Pat Lam has responded to 'Charles Piutau is leaving Bristol' reports

Bristol boss Pat Lam has responded to reports that Charles Piutau will definitely leave the Bears at the end of the current season…

Liam Heagney

08 Mar 2023, 10:38

Clive Woodward names the No10 that can win England the World Cup

Clive Woodward has called on Steve Borthwick to end the confusion over the England No10 position. Tuesday’s decision to cut Geor…

Liam Heagney

08 Mar 2023, 9:46

Skipper Owen Farrell set to be dropped by England - report

England boss Steve Borthwick is reportedly seriously considering starting Marcus Smith in Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations clash …

Liam Heagney

08 Mar 2023, 7:13

Northampton statement: Fijian lock signed to replace David Ribbans

Northampton have announced the signing of Fiji Test lock Temo Mayanavanua as their replacement next season for the France-bound Da…

Liam Heagney

08 Mar 2023, 6:26

What London Irish have made of England excluding Hassell-Collins

London Irish boss Declan Kidney has given his verdict on how Ollie Hassell-Collins has reacted to his recent England rejection.

Liam Heagney

08 Mar 2023, 6:04

The 'poppycock' Baxter reaction to England picking overseas players

Exeter boss Rob Baxter has shot down recent speculation that the restriction preventing overseas-based players from representing E…

Liam Heagney

08 Mar 2023, 4:53

Scotland call up four for Ireland, including fit-again Rory Darge

Scotland have posted a 35-word message on Twitter confirming their squad changes - including the naming of Rory Darge - for next S…

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 8:01

Smith wins Ford battle but England update is bad news for Lawes

Marcus Smith has won his England battle with George Ford, the Harlequins out-half getting retained by Steve Borthwick in the squad…

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 10:09

Ospreys director tweets '100 per cent' promise about merger story

Ospreys have yet to issue an official club statement in response to weekend rumours that they are to merge with English Championsh…

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 9:50

Newcastle bring in an ex-Wasps hooker with immediate effect

Dave Walder has bolstered his Newcastle squad for the end-of-season run-in with the immediate effect recruitment of ex-Wasps young…

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 6:13

Ireland name 37-man squad that shows five changes from round three

Andy Farrell has named a 37-strong Ireland squad for this Sunday’s match away to Scotland that shows five changes from the start…

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 5:59

SANZAAR statement: Savea banned following throat-slitting gesture

All Blacks back-rower Ardie Savea has copped a ban following his throat-slitting gesture towards a Rebels player during last weeke…

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 5:30

The Freddie Steward message for France, and his most feared No10

England full-back Freddie Steward has issued a warning to France ahead of Saturday’s round four Guinness Six Nations match at Tw…

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 4:54

Kurt-Lee Arendse has made a decision on his post-World Cup future

Springboks winger Kurt-Lee Arendse has confirmed what he will do after the upcoming Rugby World Cup finals in France, agreeing to …

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 3:16

Where are they now: The last Jaguares team to play in Super Rugby

Time flies. Three years ago to this very day - March 7, 2020 - the Jaguares played their last-ever Super Rugby match. Having spect…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

07 Mar 2023, 2:50

Marcus Smith named in latest 36-strong England squad

England coach Steve Borthwick has kept his promise to Marcus Smith, naming the out-half in the squad for next weekend’s Guinness…

Liam Heagney

05 Mar 2023, 13:01

'The last World Cup wasn't so happy for us... we now want revenge'

This weekend would have been very different for Matias Moroni if the world hadn’t abruptly shut down three years ago. Instead of…

Interview

Liam Heagney

05 Mar 2023, 3:30

Harlequins' take on 'unique' Dombrandt now thriving with England

Harlequins have had their say on seeing Alex Dombrandt thriving as the first-choice England No8 for the 2023 Guinness Six Nations …

Liam Heagney

03 Mar 2023, 7:20

The 'first-rate' Joe Heyes response to losing England squad place

Richard Wigglesworth has given his take on how England squad regular Joe Heyes has reacted to his recent exclusion from the intern…

Liam Heagney

03 Mar 2023, 6:33

Harlequins name Marcus Smith to start after his England release

Marcus Smith has been named to start by Harlequins on Saturday after he was dropped from this week’s England training squad by S…

Liam Heagney

03 Mar 2023, 6:23

The Bristol verdict on Harry Randall, the forgotten England No9

Bristol have given their verdict on the situation that has seen Harry Randall tumble down the England selection pecking order a ye…

Liam Heagney

03 Mar 2023, 4:05

What Nigel Owens made of the red cards in France versus Scotland

Nigel Owens has reviewed the dramatic start to last Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations match in Paris where a red card for Grant Gilc…

Liam Heagney

02 Mar 2023, 11:17

The Leicester verdict on Ollie Chessum becoming an England regular

Leicester have given their verdict on the emergence last month of Ollie Chessum as a regular starter in the England team. The 22-y…

Liam Heagney

02 Mar 2023, 13:03

Munster statement: The immediate effect release of Chris Farrell

Munster have confirmed the immediate effect release of Chris Farrell nearly six months after the midfielder was stood down by the …

Liam Heagney

02 Mar 2023, 11:59

Ex-England player bemused by SRU's 'proper team' Scotland gamble

Former England out-half Andy Goode can’t fathom why the SRU have yet to offer Gregor Townsend a contract extension given how gre…

Liam Heagney

02 Mar 2023, 6:15

The 'seething' reply Mike Brown gave when asked about Marcus Smith

Former Test full-back Mike Brown has admitted that he understands why England are currently selecting Owen Farrell as their No10 b…

Liam Heagney

02 Mar 2023, 5:05

The 'locked in stone' legacy Semi Radradra is leaving at Bristol

Semi Radradra doesn’t have much longer left in his three-year stint with Bristol. The Bears have just six Gallagher Premiership …

Liam Heagney

02 Mar 2023, 3:58

Bristol explain their signing of Kieran Marmion after Andy Uren exit

Pat Lam has described former Ireland international Kieran Marmion as the perfect fit to replace Andy Uren, the current Bristol scr…

Liam Heagney

01 Mar 2023, 12:59

Crisis for France as Haouas becomes their second banned tighthead

France tighthead Mohamed Haouas has had his 2023 Guinness Six Nations campaign ended by a ban following last Sunday’s red card i…

Liam Heagney

01 Mar 2023, 12:18

Mike Brown delivers a brutal put-down of Wales and Alun Wyn Jones

Mike Brown has delivered a damning assessment of last Saturday’s lethargic Wales performance, even accusing the legendary Alun W…

Liam Heagney

01 Mar 2023, 9:17

Harlequins' verdict on Evans coaching Smith-less England this week

Harlequins have spoken about Nick Evans this week coaching attack to a 26-strong England squad that doesn’t include Marcus Smith…

Liam Heagney

01 Mar 2023, 8:06

Jones reject Ollie Lawrence explains why he fits Borthwick's England

Ollie Lawrence has explained why he feels a very different player with England under Steve Borthwick than under Eddie Jones, the p…

Liam Heagney

01 Mar 2023, 3:19

Why an ex-England 10 won't take issue with token Smith cap in Wales

Former England international Andy Goode has explained why there should be no criticism of the token cap given to Marcus Smith vers…

Liam Heagney

01 Mar 2023, 2:32

The promise Steve Borthwick has made to the excluded Marcus Smith

Steve Borthwick has given Marcus Smith assurance that he will be named in the England squad when it gathers next Sunday evening to…

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 16:00

Jack Nowell explains England axe message received from Borthwick

Seasoned international Jack Nowell has revealed the reason why Steve Borthwick axed him from his England plans for the 2023 Guinne…

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 3:52

The Steve Borthwick verdict on his first three England matches

England boss Steve Borthwick has given his verdict on his first month of matches in charge of a team he claimed wasn’t good at a…

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 11:54

The 'win-win' Harlequins reaction to England excluding Marcus Smith

Harlequins boss Tabai Matson has given his verdict on the decision by Steve Borthwick to exclude Marcus Smith from this week’s E…

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 11:19

No Marcus Smith as England name latest 26-man training squad

England boss Steve Borthwick has named a 26 squad for this week’s fallow week training camp in Brighton following last Saturdayâ…

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 5:54

Borthwick explains leaving Marcus Smith out of latest England squad

England head coach Steve Borthwick has explained why he felt it best to omit Marcus Smith from this week’s fallow week training …

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 7:13

2024 Six Nations fixtures confirmed but doubt over Stade de France

The 2024 Guinness Six Nations will start and finish in France with Les Bleus respectively hosting Ireland and England - but neithe…

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 4:18

The canny old-school way the Bulls are celebrating Morne Steyn

The Bulls have decided to celebrate the commitment of Morne Steyn to the South African franchise by awarding him a farewell benefi…

Liam Heagney

28 Feb 2023, 2:46

The Munster update that will pique the interest of the Springboks

It’s taken an eternity for RG Snyman to get fit but 2019 Springboks World Cup winner is finally poised to play his first match f…

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 11:42

Sale statement: The signing of Sam Bedlow from Bristol

Alex Sanderson has secured a deal taking ex-Sale academy graduate Sam Bedlow back to the Sharks for the 2023/24 season.

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 9:45

Three familiar faces recalled as Ireland name 27-man mini-camp squad

Andy Farrell has named a 27-man squad for this week’s two-day Ireland training camp, retaining 24 of the players included in the…

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 9:13

Leinster statement: Leo Cullen explains latest contract extension

Leo Cullen has ended his cycle of one-year rolling deals at Leinster, committing to a two-year extension that will see him in char…

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 7:56

Wounded Wales release eight Six Nations players back to the regions

Warren Gatland has reacted to Saturday’s latest Guinness Six Nations defeat by releasing eight Wales squad players back to their…

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 7:37

Newcastle make ex-Wasps lock their third signing for 2023/24

Ex-Wasps forward Tim Cardall has become the third new Newcastle signing for next season following last week’s announcement of Sc…

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 7:16

Where are they now: The last Cheetahs team to play in the PRO16

No one knew it at the time, but the February 29 loss for the Cheetahs three years ago at the Dragons was the match that marked the…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 6:23

RA statement: Eddie Jones names his new Wallabies coach

Eddie Jones has named his new Wallabies defence coach, appointing Brett Hodgson on a two-year deal through to the end of 2024.

Liam Heagney

27 Feb 2023, 3:28

The 'shackles are off' reason why Sale are on guard going to Exeter

Second-place Sale are Exeter-bound on Sunday fully aware that they can’t afford another slip on the road if they are to deliver …

Liam Heagney

26 Feb 2023, 5:31

'I've found myself bored at times going from head coach to assistant' - Lee Blackett

Life is currently very different for Lee Blackett from what he had known as the Wasps boss. Take his commute to work.

Interview

Liam Heagney

26 Feb 2023, 3:30

Five takeaways from the England win over Wales in the Six Nations

The round three table makes painful reading for Wales. Their attacking bluntness is portrayed in their scoring of a tournament-wor…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

26 Feb 2023, 2:37

England player ratings vs Wales | 2023 Guinness Six Nations

England player ratings live from Principality Stadium: Rome witnessed a humdinger of an all-frills Italy-Ireland contest but this …

Opinion

Liam Heagney

25 Feb 2023, 13:05

The 'few areas' where Gatland felt Wales improved in latest loss

Warren Gatland has refused to blame the off-the-field contractual shenanigans in Wales for Saturday’s latest championship defeat…

Liam Heagney

25 Feb 2023, 14:39

The Owen Farrell verdict on his kicking display versus Wales

England skipper Owen Farrell has given his verdict on the standard of his kicking in his team’s Guinness Six Nations win over Wa…

Liam Heagney

25 Feb 2023, 15:21

The England explanation why Marcus Smith played less than a minute

Steve Borthwick has defended the strategy regarding his England replacements in Cardiff, an approach that restricted Marcus Smith …

Liam Heagney

25 Feb 2023, 16:37

The brutal moment when Saracens made Gavin Henson feel embarrassed

With it being Wales versus England week in Cardiff, Gavin Henson, the penalty hero of the 2005 Six Nations encounter, was always g…

Liam Heagney

25 Feb 2023, 3:23

How Jonny Hill is coping with his 'ego shock' England rejection

Sale have shared their thoughts on the shock to the ego suffered in recent weeks by Jonny Hill with his exclusion by England.

Liam Heagney

25 Feb 2023, 2:27

Wacky reason why Chris Ashton had to shelve Ash Splash celebration

Hard to believe it’s now four years since Chris Ashton was last capped by England but he will keep abreast of the live updates f…

Interview

Liam Heagney

25 Feb 2023, 2:43

Ex-England boss Lancaster snaps up French legend to assist Racing

Ex-England boss Stuart Lancaster has made a bold statement about his future plans for Racing 92, the Parisians announcing that Fre…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 7:41

Head coach Mike Blair surprisingly reveals he's quitting Edinburgh

Edinburgh have revealed that head coach Mike Blair is to quit at the end of the current season after opting not to renew his contr…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 6:36

The 10am call an upset Sale gave referee Ian Tempest last Sunday

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has revealed he was on the phone venting to referee Ian Tempest the morning after last weekend’s dramat…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 6:15

One change for France as Galthie names his team to host Scotland

Fabien Galthie has announced a France team to host Scotland on Sunday that contains just one starting XV alteration from the round…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 5:18

One change for Scotland as Townsend names his team to play France

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland team to take on France away this Sunday that has just one change - Hamish Watson for Luke Cro…

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 3:11

Fiji name a new head coach three weeks after Cotter's sudden exit

Fiji have named Simon Raiwalui as their new head coach just over three weeks after Vern Cotter surprisingly stepped away from the …

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 4:07

'Shaking my head' Eddie Jones pens open letter about the Wallabies

New Wallabies boss Eddie Jones has penned a lengthy open letter to Australian rugby fans on the opening weekend of the 2023 Super …

Liam Heagney

24 Feb 2023, 3:26

3 hot takes as Steve Borthwick names England team to visit Wales

Thursday was like old times with new England boss Steve Borthwick. His opening two team selection conferences had been very lively…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 13:02

What England really made of this week's Wales strike threat

England coach Steve Borthwick has revealed he always planned that this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match versus Wales in Car…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 10:31

The Borthwick verdict on naming Courtney Lawes as an England sub

England boss Steve Borthwick has shared his thoughts on his decision to recall the fit-again Courtney Lawes to the match day squad…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 9:09

One change as Steve Borthwick names his England team to play Wales

Steve Borthwick has confirmed an England team to take on Wales on Saturday in the Guinness Six Nations that contains just one chan…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 6:36

England explain why Watson is getting his first start in 23 months

Steve Borthwick has explained why he felt compelled to give Anthony Watson his first England start since March 2021.

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 7:45

Six changes for the Italy-bound Ireland, including new half-backs

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland team to play Italy on Saturday that shows six changes - including a new half-back partnership - …

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 7:03

9 changes as Gatland finally names his Wales team to host England

Warren Gatland has unveiled the Wales team to host England this Saturday in Guinness Six Nations round three, the head coach picki…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 6:19

Garbisi back as Italy name team with three changes to play Ireland

Italy have made three changes to their starting team to face Ireland on Saturday in the Guinness Six Nations, including the recall…

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 5:16

The 'sensitive' way red-carded Manu Tuilagi has reacted to his ban

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has provided an update on how Manu Tuilagi is coping with the ban he copped on Tuesday at a disciplinary …

Liam Heagney

23 Feb 2023, 4:43

The Sale verdict on how Ben Curry has been treated by England

Alex Sanderson has given his verdict on the in-out-in-out-in way that Ben Curry has been treated in recent weeks by England.

Interview

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 13:17

Sale confirm Tom Curry's Six Nations with England is over

Sale have confirmed that the Guinness Six Nations campaign with England is over for Tom Curry after his latest setback.

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 10:35

The reason Wigglesworth now admires Chris Ashton more than ever

Interim Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has paid Chris Ashton quite a tribute at his latest midweek media briefing.

Interview

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 7:50

Rugby Australia statement: Two assistant coaches have quit

Rugby Australia have issued a statement confirming that new head coach Eddie Jones will not be working with assistants Dan McKella…

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 6:10

Former Wasps lock set for Premiership return after short URC stint

Ex-Wasps lock Kiran McDonald is primed for a return to the Gallagher Premiership in 2023/24 after he agreed on a deal to join Newc…

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 5:23

Leicester statement: New coach named after list of 40 whittled down

Leicester have named Australian-based coach Dan McKellar as their new head coach for the 2023/24 season.

Liam Heagney

22 Feb 2023, 3:20

George Ford and Tom Curry out as Borthwick cuts England squad to 26

Steve Borthwick has cut his England squad from 36 to 26 players ahead of Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match away to Wales, re…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 10:10

Connacht statement: New boss named to succeed Andy Friend

Connacht have decided who will succeed the homeward-bound Andy Friend, naming Pete Wilkins to take over on a three-year deal when …

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 12:24

Out-of-favour England midfielder Manu Tuilagi banned for red card

Manu Tuilagi has learned his fate following last Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership red card for Sale at Northampton, the out-of-f…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 11:59

Clive Woodward curiously changes tune on 2000 England player strike

Clive Woodward has curiously changed his tune on the England rugby player strike that took place in November 2000.

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 3:09

Wales call off their planned Tuesday Six Nations team announcement

Warren Gatland has been unable to name as planned his Wales team to face England in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations.

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 5:50

The legendary Jonathan Davies slams 'scandalous position' in Wales

Welsh rugby legend Jonathan Davies has slammed the situation in Wales that has led to the threatened players' strike for next week…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 6:54

Jeremy Davidson secures new Top 14 job 18 weeks after Brive exit

Former British and Irish Lions lock Jeremy Davidson has landed himself a new Top 14 head coaching role 18 weeks after he was dismi…

Liam Heagney

21 Feb 2023, 5:17

'Extremely dangerous': Red card ruins Manu Tuilagi's England hopes

England hopes that Manu Tuilagi could show top form this weekend for Sale and force his way back into the selection debate for the…

Liam Heagney

18 Feb 2023, 9:51

'It's something I just grew up with, I've no idea where it comes from'

Benhard Janse van Rensburg will have enjoyed the Saturday night bus ride home with London Irish. The deserved win over Bath gave t…

Interview

Liam Heagney

19 Feb 2023, 2:51

The Scotland message Matt Scott recently received from Townsend

Matt Scott hasn’t given up all hope of receiving a Scotland call-up, revealing that Gregor Townsend was in touch last month to k…

Liam Heagney

18 Feb 2023, 3:12

Richard Wigglesworth on England job, Mike Brown's Leicester debut

Interim Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has spoken for the first time about being a new addition to the Steve Borthwick coachi…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2023, 9:52

Ex-Lions forward suggests it's 'time to look at a British League'

Former England lock Martin Bayfield, a 1993 tourist with the British and Irish Lions, has called on the rugby authorities to shake…

Liam Heagney

17 Feb 2023, 4:02

RFU statement: Wasps and Worcester in 2023/24

The RFU have updated the status of Wasps and Worcester regarding their respective situations for the 2023/24 after both clubs fina…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 11:45

Hugo Keenan becomes first 7s graduate to sign IRFU central contract

Ireland full-back Hugo Keenan has seen his stellar form rewarded with a three-year IRFU deal. The Leinster No15 was one of the pla…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 10:13

RFU statement: England women's team coaching staff update

Backs coach Scott Bemand is to leave his role with the England women’s rugby team after the 2023 Six Nations, but forwards coach…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 5:01

Atonio banned after accepting tackle should have been a red card

France prop Uini Atonio has been banned following his citing for foul play during last Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match in …

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 6:25

Sonny Bill Williams has waded into the Wales players' strike threat

Ex-All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams had waded into the debate over the threatened players’ strike ahead of Wales hostin…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 5:43

How Wales fans have reacted online to players' strike threat

Former Wales back-rower Sam Cross believes the online reaction to the player strike threat ahead of the Guinness Six Nations match…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 4:37

The 'real change' that Brian O'Driscoll has seen in Garry Ringrose

Topping the chart for missed tackles is an accolade no Guinness Six Nations player wants to have, but legendary Ireland midfielder…

Liam Heagney

15 Feb 2023, 3:09

Munster statement: World Cup winner Malakai Fekitoa is leaving

Former All Blacks midfielder Malakai Fekitoa will exit Munster after just a single season at the club. The 30-year-old was a high-…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 11:35

Ealing silent on decision that they are ineligible for promotion

Ealing Trailfinders have yet to issue a public response to Monday’s confirmation by the RFU that the Championship leaders will n…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 5:16

'It was like two buses hitting each other, a full-on car crash'

The gruesome moment when Lawrence Dallaglio and Paul Volley clashed heads and awkwardly played on in a 2004 Heineken Cup quarter-f…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 4:01

'It was proper animalistic behaviour, the English were in town'

Tom Voyce has recalled the intimidating cauldron Wasps found themselves in when playing Munster in the famed 2004 Heineken Cup sem…

Liam Heagney

14 Feb 2023, 3:18

The Wayne Barnes tweet that hasn't aged well

Referee Wayne Barnes commendably hasn’t shied away from using social media despite the massive amount of abuse received in Novem…

Liam Heagney

13 Feb 2023, 3:31

Five takeaways from the Ireland win over France in the Six Nations

Hype is a word seemingly not in the vocabulary of Andy Farrell, which is a pity as it would be great for the sport if he started p…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

12 Feb 2023, 3:26

Ireland player ratings vs France | 2023 Guinness Six Nations

Ireland player ratings live from Aviva Stadium: The arrival of France in Dublin two years on from their last visit was the perfect…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 10:47

The French tactic that was 'little bit surprising' to Andy Farrell

Andy Farrell strode into his Aviva Stadium media briefing full of the joys of spring after his Ireland team had defeated France 32…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 13:38

The Ireland verdict on Atonio yellow and Beirne's worrying injury

Ireland boss Andy Farrell has given his verdict on the yellow-carded tackle from French prop Uini Atonio that left Rob Herring una…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 12:59

'Can't talk s***': Rassie Erasmus' audio rant attacks Nick Mallett

South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has gone on a rant about Nick Mallett, his former Springboks coach. Mallett was hea…

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 4:32

Steve Borthwick reveals how Ben Youngs reacted to his England axe

England boss Steve Borthwick has finally addressed his midweek decision to scratch men’s record caps holder Ben Youngs from the …

Liam Heagney

11 Feb 2023, 3:32

Borthwick explains dropping Smith and naming Farrell as England No10

England boss Steve Borthwick has explained his reason for shelving the 10/12 combination of Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 10:14

Ex-Worcester boss Steve Diamond tweets 'shafted' 37-word RIP message

Former Worcester director of rugby Steve Diamond has tweeted a negative 37-word verdict about the decision on Thursday to rebrand …

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 11:40

3 hot takes as England talk up a bench with Marcus Smith on it

England have yet to convince on the field under new head coach Steve Borthwick but no one can accuse him of staging dull team sele…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 13:31

Confirmed: Semi Radradra has named his new French club

The exit of Semi Radradra from Bristol was officially confirmed on Friday evening, the in-demand Fijian powerhouse getting unveile…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 11:57

The verdict from England on naming Slade and Lawrence at midfield

Steve Borthwick has outlined why he felt compelled to name Henry Slade in an England midfield partnership with Ollie Lawrence.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 11:36

Marcus Smith set to be dropped by England - reports

Media reports in England have claimed that Marcus Smith will be dropped by Steve Borthwick for this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nation…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 2:14

Marcus Smith dropped as England name team to host Italy

Steve Borthwick has named an England team to play Italy this Sunday in the Guinness Six Nations that shows three changes - includi…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 9:06

Two changes as Italy name team to play England in the Six Nations

Kieran Crowley has named an Italy team to play England this Sunday in the Guinness Six Nations that shows two changes from the XV …

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 7:58

Gloucester lock Andrew Davidson has exited with immediate effect

Gloucester forward Andrew Davidson has left the Gallagher Premiership club with immediate effect. The Scottish second row was sign…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 8:13

Conor Murray set to start for Ireland despite family emergency

Seasoned Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray is set to start for Ireland in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match versus France…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 3:00

Furious Steve Diamond blasts the Atlas plan for Worcester

Steve Diamond has slammed the plan by new owners Jim O’Toole and James Sandford to rebrand Worcester Warriors as Sixways Rugby a…

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 6:48

Northampton statement: David Ribbans' exit to Top 14 is confirmed

Northampton have confirmed that England lock David Ribbans will quit at the end of the current season for a move to the Top 14.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 4:16

3 hot takes as Andy Farrell names Ireland team to host France

Having produced the most impressive performance out of all the teams in Guinness Six Nations round one, Ireland will be looking to…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 10:00

England lock David Ribbans set to quit Northampton for the Top 14

David Ribbans has become the latest England player linked with a move to the Top 14 for the 2023/24 season.

Liam Heagney

10 Feb 2023, 3:43

Ireland name team to host France in Six Nations round two

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland team to play France this Saturday in Dublin that contains one change from last Saturday’s Guin…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 8:07

3 hot takes as Fabien Galthie names France team to visit Ireland

When you are in charge of a team that has won 14 matches on the bounce, panic isn’t the sensible reaction following a single und…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 6:30

3 hot takes as Gregor Townsend names Scotland team to host Wales

Scotland were exceptional in attack last weekend, beating England with a heartwarming zest to register yet another Calcutta Cup vi…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 11:12

3 hot takes as Warren Gatland names Wales team to visit Scotland,

Desperate times call for desperate measures and the damaging downturn in Wales has now resulted in Warren Gatland taking a sledgeh…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 8:16

Gatland axes 3 Lions as Wales name team for Scotland

Warren Gatland has named a Wales team to play Scotland this Saturday in Edinburgh that shows five changes from last Saturday’s G…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 6:05

France name team to visit Ireland in Six Nations round two

Fabien Gatlthie has named a France team to play Ireland this Saturday in Dublin that shows no changes from last Sunday’s Guinnes…

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 5:07

Scotland name team to host Wales in Six Nations round two

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland team to play Wales this Saturday in Edinburgh that shows just one change from last Saturday 

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 7:05

Ex-New Zealand 7s player cops ban for 'brutal' Morgan Parra gesture

Former New Zealand 7s player George Tilsley has copped a hefty suspension for what a French disciplinary committee described as a …

Liam Heagney

09 Feb 2023, 4:44

NZR statement: The retirement of All Blacks hooker Dane Coles

All Blacks hooker Dane Coles has confirmed that he will retire from playing at the end of the 2023 season.

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 12:11

Youngs and Curry axed as England cut their squad from 36 to 29

Steve Borthwick has cut his England squad from 36 to 29 ahead of this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations round two match at home to I…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 10:01

Declan Danaher explains raw emotions of Ollie Hassell-Collins' hug

If there was a post-game picture to tug at the heartstrings last Saturday from an England perspective, the sight of Declan Danaher…

Interview

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 11:43

Clive Woodward's damning 'world's biggest pub' Twickenham verdict

Former England coach Clive Woodward had damningly described Twickenham as the world’s biggest pub, alleging there would be a rio…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 5:54

What Finn Russell would do with Smith/Farrell for England vs Italy

Scotland out-half Finn Russell has waded into the debate over England continuing to select Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell as a 10/1…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 5:09

Bristol name the Fijian who will replace the France-bound Radradra

Pat Lam has confirmed he has secured a replacement for the France-bound Semi Radradra, Bristol unveiling the signing of Fijian Dru…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 3:34

NZR statement: Brodie Retallick names his club in Japan for 2024

It’s official: All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick will play his club rugby overseas after the end of the 2023 season after confirm…

Liam Heagney

08 Feb 2023, 3:07

Fijian Drua statement: Vinaya Habosi sacked with immediate effect

New Racing 92 signing Vinaya Habosi won’t play any part in this year’s Super Rugby Pacific tournament as the Fijian Drua have …

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 4:56

'I want the most expensive rugby player, that's how fantasy it was'

Ex-RFU boss Rob Andrew has recalled being at the forefront of the unprecedented recruitment drive that resulted in Newcastle signi…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 12:17

RFU statement: More staff changes as England raid Leicester again

Steve Borthwick’s overhaul of the England setup he inherited in December had another major development on Tuesday when the Leice…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 8:15

'Pure box office': Adam Radwan agrees lengthy Newcastle extension

Out-of-favour England winger Adam Radwan has agreed on a deal to stay with Newcastle rather than look to get the attention of nati…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 9:32

Leicester statement: The loss of Wigglesworth, Walters to England

Leicester have given their reaction to the latest destruction of their 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership title-winning staff, the RFU …

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 8:41

Watch: When 18 Ireland and France players piled into the same ruck

Ahead of this weekend’s Guinness Six Nations clash in Dublin between the World Rugby No1 ranked Ireland and defending champions …

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 7:25

Ex-Scotland lock Hamilton: 'We're 12 points better than Wales'

Jim Hamilton has claimed that Scotland are poised to make it two wins from two next Saturday in this 2023 Guinness Six Nations, su…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 6:24

The 'absolute b*ll*cks!!!!' match day message posted by Will Carling

Ex-England skipper Will Carling took a pop last Saturday at the new BT Sport Film recalling the 1990 Calcutta Cup match.

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 4:08

RFU statement: Richard Cockerill to quit his England forwards role

Richard Cockerill, the last remaining assistant coach that Steve Borthwick inherited from the Eddie Jones era, is to quit his role…

Liam Heagney

07 Feb 2023, 3:18

The strong-man fitness circuit incident at Saracens that wounded Itoje

England lock Maro Itoje has recalled his formative years coming through the ranks at Saracens, including how his teenage failure i…

Liam Heagney

06 Feb 2023, 3:00

The making of Capuozzo: 'That's where his intelligence comes from'

Ten seconds was all it took last March for Ange Capuozzo to magnificently create the memory of a lifetime with Italy.

Interview

Liam Heagney

05 Feb 2023, 3:30

Five takeaways from latest England Six Nations loss to Scotland

Saturday’s Six Nations match programme had new England boss Steve Borthwick pictured on its cover with a revealing interview ins…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

05 Feb 2023, 4:42

England player ratings vs Scotland | 2023 Guinness Six Nations

England player ratings live from Twickenham: The plain-speaking new boss Steve Borthwick said this was never going to be about per…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 13:18

Beaten Borthwick claims 'great resolve' gives him hope for England

Doom and gloom was the expected narrative when Steve Borthwick came in to conduct his first post-game media briefing as England he…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 15:09

A chilling 15-minute video of the missing Levi Davis has emerged

A chilling social media video of Levi Davis has emerged more than three months after the former Bath and Ealing player went missin…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 6:03

Clive Woodward has predicted 2023 will see 'best-ever' Six Nations

Ex-England boss Clive Woodward has predicted that the best-ever Six Nations is about to unfold despite months of negativity surrou…

Liam Heagney

04 Feb 2023, 5:16

The demand from a 'frustrated' Georgia as the Six Nations kicks off

Inspirational Georgia boss Levan Maisashvili doesn’t have a minute to lose these days. It’s not that he didn’t live life to …

Exclusive

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 3:10

SA Rugby statement: Withdrawal of invitation to a team from Israel

An invitation for Tel Aviv Heat, the Israel-based Super Rugby Cup franchise, to participate in a provincial tournament in South Af…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 10:28

The round one Six Nations Injured XV

The 2023 Guinness Six Nations kicks off this weekend, but spare a thought for this stellar list of Injured XV players who won't be…

Analysis

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 7:08

Six Nations: Kieran Crowley has named the Italy team to host France

Italy boss Kieran Crowley has named his team for this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations opener at home to France, an XV that shows t…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 6:24

Six Nations: Fabien Galthie has named the France team to play Italy

Fabien Galthie has named his France team to take on Italy in this Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations in Rome, an XV that shows five c…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 5:56

Ex-Ireland player makes 'good sign' Six Nations red card prediction

Former Ireland back-rower Alan Quinlan believes it would be a good sign to see red cards shown in the upcoming Guinness Six Nation…

Liam Heagney

03 Feb 2023, 3:44

3 hot takes as Steve Borthwick names England team to play Scotland

After 45 days in the England hot seat, Steve Borthwick named the first team of his tenure on Thursday afternoon and it was a selec…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 11:29

The Hassell-Collins 'attributes' that excite England boss Borthwick

Steve Borthwick has explained why he decided to give Ollie Hassell-Collins his England debut in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nat…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 10:20

Steve Borthwick reveals how Manu Tuilagi reacted to England axe

New England boss Steve Borthwick has explained how Manu Tuilagi reacted when he told the Sale midfielder that he was not picked to…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 9:32

Steve Borthwick has named his England team to play Scotland

Steve Borthwick has named his England team to face Scotland this Saturday at Twickenham in the opening round of the Six Nations.

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 8:41

3 hot takes as Andy Farrell names Ireland team to play Wales

For the major headline in the Ireland team selection to face Wales in Guinness Six Nations round one, look no further than the abs…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 8:16

Six Nations: Andy Farrell has named his Ireland team to play Wales

Andy Farrell has named an Ireland side to play Wales in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations showing three changes from the team…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 6:55

3 hot takes as Gregor Townsend names Scotland team to play England

England won a football World Cup with Alf Ramsey sticking by the philosophy to ‘never change a winning team’, but that approac…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 4:57

Gregor Townsend has named his Scotland team to face England

Gregor Townsend has named a Scotland side to play England in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations showing seven changes from the…

Liam Heagney

02 Feb 2023, 3:05

Worcester officially have new owners after four months in limbo

Worcester finally have new owners after the administrators struck a deal with the Atlas group headed up James Sandford and Jim O 

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 10:10

RFU statement: Championship deadline set for Wasps and Worcester

The RFU have set the new owners of Wasps and Worcester a mid-February deadline to have their respective takeovers fully completed …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 11:52

WRU bans Tom Jones' song from Wales versus Ireland match playlist

Tom Jones’ song Delilah has been axed by the Principality Stadium ahead of this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations Wales versus I…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 9:25

Wales' Louis Rees-Zammit posts a salty 12-word tweet about the WRU

Louis Rees-Zammit has suggested he has been left speechless by the latest WRU reaction to allegations of a toxic culture existing …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 10:42

Jonny Hill is one of seven players cut as England trim squad to 29

Sale second row Jonny Hill and Toulouse back-rower Jack Willis are the two big-name casualties after Steve Borthwick trimmed his E…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 12:23

Eben Etzebeth one of four Sharks players up for European POTY award

That collective prominence has now been recognised on an individual basis as four Cell C Sharks players - including Eben Etzebeth …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 7:06

Erasmus explains why Springboks wanted pre-RWC trip to Argentina

South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has explained why he has arranged for the Springboks to play a pre-Rugby World Cup …

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 6:24

How 'a dumb play or two' could have hurt Jonny Hill with England

Jonny Hill was the big-name casualty on Tuesday evening when Steve Borthwick trimmed his England squad from 36 to 29 ahead of this…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 5:23

The 'vulnerability' that has Alan Quinlan concerned about Ireland

Former back-rower Alan Quinlan has explained the one concern he has about the hotly fancied Ireland as they head into a 2023 World…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 4:21

Sam Warburton explains the standards that 'Wales can't go beneath'

Sam Warburton has set out the targets for Wales in a World Cup year with Warren Gatland suddenly back at the helm in place of Wayn…

Liam Heagney

01 Feb 2023, 3:49

The 21-question 'beat the drum' Eddie Jones Aussie media unveiling

It’s incredible how quickly the rugby world can change. Just over nine weeks ago, Eddie Jones sounded deluded. England had just …

Analysis

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 4:58

Why Hastings would always pick Russell ahead of his son Adam

Legendary Scotland full-back Gavin Hastings has admitted he would never have any qualms about picking Finn Russell ahead of his ow…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 10:49

3 hot takes as Warren Gatland names Wales team to play Ireland

Look away now, Wayne Pivac. It was January 17, the day when Warren Gatland named his 37-strong Wales Guinness Six Nations squad, w…

Opinion

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 13:13

New Zealand stay will be brief for Ryan as Munster agree new deal

The plan to play Super Rugby Pacific by ex-Ireland prop John Ryan will be short-lived as he has decided he will come home to Munst…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 10:19

What Eddie Jones said about England at first Wallabies media briefing

Eddie Jones opted at his first official media briefing as the Wallabies coach in Australia not to talk about England and the RFU 

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 2:53

Leicester statement: Mike Brown has joined with immediate effect

Defending Gallagher Premiership champions Leicester have confirmed the signing of ex-England full-back Mike Brown on a short-term …

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 9:25

Warren Gatland names his Wales Six Nations team to play Ireland

New Wales boss Warren Gatland has named a team to face Ireland in this Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations opener in Cardiff that sh…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 6:07

Eddie Jones couldn't resist 'still recovering' dig at referee Raynal

Eddie Jones was in his element at his introductory media briefing as the new Wallabies coach on Tuesday, speaking about a myriad o…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 6:50

Eddie Jones shares his thoughts on 'the hierarchy of Wallabies 10s'

New Wallabies boss Eddie Jones has given his assessment of the battle for the No10 Australia shirt in a World Cup year where his f…

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 7:28

England legend: Curbing Finn Russell, and why Irish are title tip

Former England prop Jason Leonard has explained what Steve Borthwick’s team must do to curb the influence of Scotland No10 Finn …

Liam Heagney

31 Jan 2023, 8:23

Exeter revisit 'very powerful emotions' of Saracens' salary scandal

Rob Baxter has revisited how the fallout over the Saracens salary cap saga helped to fuel Exeter to win their 2019/20 Gallagher Pr…

Liam Heagney

30 Jan 2023, 3:49

Steve Borthwick and the spelling gaffe that keeps inspiring him

Past conversations with Steve Borthwick used to be like getting blood from a stone, but the 43-year-old has undergone a public spe…

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 4:30

The Townsend verdict on call to ditch Flower of Scotland anthem

Gregor Townsend has explained why he doesn’t back a call from former Scotland coach Jim Telfer for Flower of Scotland to be ditc…

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 4:00

The 'little bit of concern' Gatland has with Six Nations Netflix series

New Wales boss Warren Gatland has revealed he isn’t 100 per cent supportive of Netflix filming its behind-the-scenes documentary…

Liam Heagney

29 Jan 2023, 3:00

Even Tyson Fury got a mention in Freddie Burns' Leicester send-off

Freddie Burns has revealed he shared a Tyson Fury quote with the Leicester squad when he last addressed them on the Welford Road p…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2023, 10:46

Video: Farewell message leaves 'blown away' Freddie Burns in tears

Freddie Burns was left in tears reading out emotional messages from Leicester fans ahead of his final match for the club this Satu…

Liam Heagney

28 Jan 2023, 5:19

'Deeply sorry' Italian prop cops big ban for Traore banana 'gift'

Italy prop Ivan Nemer has copped a hefty ban following an investigation into his racist secret Santa gift to Benetton and Azzurri …

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 10:52

World Rugby statement: 'No immediate plan to implement blanket elite game tackle height reduction'

World Rugby have insisted there are no immediate plans to lower the legal tackle height in elite rugby around the globe.

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 4:53

RFU statement: Apology issued to community game over tackle law

The RFU have issued an apology for the anger and concern it has created amongst the rugby community in England following last week…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 8:37

Jannes Kirsten the latest to quit as major Exeter exodus continues

Jannes Kirsten has become the latest Exeter Chiefs double-winner to quit Sandy Park. The Gallagher Premiership club has been swamp…

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 10:02

FFR boss Bernard Laporte resigns with immediate effect - report

Bernard Laporte has reportedly resigned as French rugby federation president with immediate effect following the ‘no’ outcome …

Liam Heagney

27 Jan 2023, 3:41

URC chief's verdict on 15 of its 16 teams progressing in Europe

It’s been a pretty eventful eight years since Martin Anayi took over as chief executive of what is now the BKT URC. “It’s ei…

Interview

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 7:28

'Crushed': World Cup winner criticises lack of real England leaders

World Cup winner Neil Back has claimed there are at best just three players in the England squad who can be classed as real leader…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 7:44

Premiership statement: Shot clock trial to start this weekend

Friday night’s Gallagher Premiership match at the AJ Bell between Sale and Bath will see the introduction of the shot clock for …

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 7:29

Exeter explain the Patrick Schickerling England eligibility gaffe

Rob Baxter believes that last year’s gaffe regarding the England eligibility of tighthead Patrick Schickerling can work in the 2…

Interview

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 6:05

RFU statement: The 'significant feedback' over tackle law change

The RFU have issued a statement following the fallout from last week’s controversial decision to reduce the community game tackl…

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 4:21

'Addiction to tinkering': Two Premiership bosses on RFU tackle law

Two Gallagher Premiership directors of rugby - Sale boss Alex Sanderson and Rob Baxter of Exeter - have shared their thoughts on t…

Interview

Liam Heagney

26 Jan 2023, 3:04

Exeter issue timely update on fitness of Stuart Hogg for Scotland

Rob Baxter has given an update on the current fitness of Stuart Hogg, the Exeter full-back who is away for the first half of this …

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 5:27

Plan for George Ford to debut on Friday for Sale has been scrapped

This Friday’s much-anticipated Sale debut for George Ford has been scrapped. The England out-half has been sidelined since his f…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 11:43

The 21-word Sale answer to latest Manu Tuilagi 'leaving' rumour

Alex Sanderson has addressed the latest speculation that England pick Manu Tuilagi will exit Sale at the end of this season when h…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 10:57

EPCR statement: Three bans, dismissed citing, two citing warnings

EPCR have handed out bans worth a total of ten weeks to three red-carded Heineken Champions Cup players - Northampton duo Fraser D…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 6:11

New Harlequins deal for potential new England cap Jack Walker

Jack Walker has inked a contract extension with Harlequins in the same week that he dramatically jumped up the selection pecking o…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 4:28

Mike Brown currently on trial at a Premiership club - report

Ex-England full-back Mike Brown is reportedly on trial at a Gallagher Premiership club ten months after playing his last game in t…

Liam Heagney

25 Jan 2023, 3:45

RFU statement: Borthwick's England lose two more players to injury

England have now lost a total of four players from their original 36-strong Guinness Six Nations squad, Elliot Daly and Jamie Geor…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 5:57

Wales statement: Scott Baldwin called up for Six Nations

Veteran hooker Scott Baldwin is looking to win his first Test cap in six years after he was called into the Wales Guinness Six Nat…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 8:26

Glasgow statement: McLean contract terminated with immediate effect

Scotland winger Rufus McLean has had his contract terminated with immediate effect by Glasgow Warriors following a disciplinary he…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 8:04

Offer made to Semi Radradra after his weekend Top 14 trip - report

Semi Radradra reportedly spent time in France last weekend visiting a Top 14 club after playing for Bristol in their Friday night …

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 11:13

Frustrated Finn Russell explains Racing's Champions Cup elimination

Finn Russell has shed light on how frustrated and disappointed Racing are following their pool stage elimination from the Heineken…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 12:51

Andy Farrell leaning on one thing Ireland 'have got pretty decent at'

World Cup years haven’t been kind to Andy Farrell as a Test level assistant... but the Ireland head coach is optimistic that his…

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 6:38

The Finn Russell aspect that 'doesn't get talked about enough'

With the countdown on to facing England at Twickenham on February 4 in the Guinness Six Nations, Gregor Townsend is now very much …

Liam Heagney

24 Jan 2023, 4:15

Borthwick has his say on controversial RFU waist high tackle limit

Steve Borthwick has had his say on the controversial RFU law change that has split the grassroots game in England.

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 12:42

'It's back, baby': 2023 Six Nations media launch whets the appetite

Three years after its last in-person media launch, the Six Nations was keen to turn on the glitz at Monday's London launch of the …

Opinion

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 9:39

The 'sitting duck' Ireland reaction to RFU waist high tackling

Ireland skipper Johnny Sexton has strongly disagreed with the RFU decision to limit the community game in England to waist-high ta…

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 7:51

Owen Farrell explains biggest lesson he learned at tackle school

England skipper Owen Farrell has explained the biggest thing he has learned from his recent enrolment in the World Rugby tackle sc…

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 6:59

O'Shea's middle-of-the-night police station calls about Danny Care

Veteran scrum-half Danny Care had recalled the middle-of-the-night police station calls that Conor O’Shea received about him dur…

Liam Heagney

23 Jan 2023, 3:00

'If I played now the way I did when I was 20, I wouldn't survive'

Daddy daycare duty didn’t go quite to plan last weekend for Will Skelton in La Rochelle with his fit-again wife Kate playing her…

Interview

Liam Heagney

22 Jan 2023, 3:30

Big-spending Racing bomb out after late Leinster flourish in Dublin

A penny for the thoughts of Jacky Lorenzetti, the billionaire owner of Racing who saw his club eliminated from the Heineken Champi…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 11:23

England assistant Cockerill linked with French club move - report

Steve Borthwick’s revamp of the England coaching team he inherited from Eddie Jones could be completed by the potential departur…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 6:35

'Stuart's vital but it's very unfair to elevate one over the other'

It’s been quite the seven-year marriage, ex-England boss Stuart Lancaster popping across the Irish Sea to pair up with Leo Culle…

Interview

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 3:20

The Clive Woodward verdict on Borthwick's first England squad

It has been such a busy rugby week that we have only finally gotten around now to what Clive Woodward made of the first England sq…

Liam Heagney

21 Jan 2023, 3:05

The 'sweet spot' that Sale and England have found for Manu Tuilagi

Sale have confirmed that their S&C dealings with England regarding the fitness and well-being of Manu Tuilagi haven’t changed de…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2023, 7:33

Rugby Australia statement: The arrest of Kurtley Beale

Rugby Australia have issued a statement following the arrest of Kurtley Beale, suspending the Test-level veteran from all rugby ac…

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2023, 5:39

'Interestingly, I'd been told that Pat was a bit of a dictator'

Former England lock Dave Attwood has revealed his negative-sounding impression of Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam, but it didn 

Liam Heagney

20 Jan 2023, 4:51

O'Driscoll's tackle school verdict and what he makes of Owen Farrell

Ireland legend Brian O’Driscoll has given his verdict on the tackle school that enables red-carded or cited offenders to get a m…

Interview

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 10:37

EPCR statement: Bans for five players, including Springbok Mapimpi

Tournament organisers EPCR have confirmed that five players have copped a total suspension of 13 weeks for red cards and a citing …

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 6:14

The 'Oh, wow' Saracens reaction to Ben Earl getting England recall

Saracens have explained the very different Ben Earl that will head into England camp next week compared to the back-rower that was…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 5:45

'There was a mob of supporters waiting to beat Chris Ashton up'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson has this week recalled the trouble Chris Ashton encountered on his 2014 visit to Belfast with Saracens to…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 8:36

Williams takes swipe at 'multi-million $ deals' for Jones and co

Former All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams has taken a swipe at the big money recently splashed out on Test-level coaches, i…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 3:56

Leicester sign ex-Wasps prop West and a South African youngster

New Leicester boss Richard Wigglesworth has strengthened his squad with immediate effect, signing England prospect Tom West and Ca…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 4:19

Ireland name 37-strong Six Nations squad with one uncapped player

Andy Farrell has named a 37-strong Ireland squad for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations, including only 27 of the 34 players capped…

Liam Heagney

19 Jan 2023, 3:09

EPCR statements: Bristol docked match points, get suspended fine

Pat Lam’s Bristol have tumbled down the prospective European Challenge Cup round of 16 seedings after the Gallagher Premiership …

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 6:38

Call for a designated away fan area has whipped up fans on Twitter

Harlequins’ Will Evans has called for the introduction of designated away fan areas at rugby stadiums to help improve the atmosp…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 7:45

Joe Simmonds to become the latest big name to quit Exeter - report

Double-winning skipper Joe Simmonds is poised to become the latest big name to exit Exeter at the end of the current season.

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 13:23

Saracens give update on the Owen Farrell 'tackle school' progress

Saracens are waiting to hear whether England skipper Owen Farrell has successfully come through tackle school after he undertook t…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 9:09

'That's bananas': Irish legend gobsmacked by Stormers' travel plan

Brian O’Driscoll couldn’t quite believe what he was hearing last Sunday when listening in from the BT Sport studio to what mat…

Interview

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 11:35

'Tackling's a tough one to call, I don't like the game to go soft'

Harlequins midfielder Andre Esterhuizen has admitted that his sights are very much on securing World Cup selection later this year…

Interview

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 4:55

Six Nations boost for England as Henry Slade red card dismissed

Henry Slade has been cleared for England Six Nations duty and he can also play for Exeter in their Heineken Champions Cup game ver…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 4:34

'He came back at me in that meeting... so he challenges me'

Sale boss Alex Sanderson will send Bevan Rodd off on England Six Nations duty next week with the earnest hope that the loosehead c…

Interview

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 5:46

Ex-Wasps coach Neil Fowkes has secured a new role

Former Wasps scrum coach Neil Fowkes has become the latest staff member from the fallen Gallagher Premiership club to secure his f…

Liam Heagney

18 Jan 2023, 3:42

Exeter statement: The exit of Dave Ewers

Dave Ewers has become the latest big name to quit Exeter for the 2023/24 season, the back-rower following Sam Simmonds and Luke Co…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 7:40

The Will Skelton reaction to Eddie Jones becoming Wallabies boss

France-based second row Will Skelton has given his reaction to this week’s shock development of Eddie Jones being named Wallabie…

Exclusive

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 13:47

France name eight uncapped players in Six Nations squad of 42

France boss Fabien Galthie has included eight uncapped players in his squad of 42 for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations.

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 13:39

Ex-England wing Ruaridh McConnochie named in Scotland squad of 40

Gregor Townsend has named four new players in his 40-strong Scotland squad for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations, a campaign that …

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 7:28

World Rugby promises fans 'largest-ever consultation on the sport'

World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont believes rugby has the ability to become the world’s most progressive sport regarding player …

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 9:30

'I had that Barbarians commitment written into my new contract'

Eddie Jones has confirmed he will still definitely coach the Barbarians in May at Twickenham - even though he was unveiled as the …

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 9:03

The Cameron Woki tweet that confirms he will miss the Six Nations

France talisman Cameron Woki has confirmed that an injury sustained last Sunday with Racing 92 has ruled him out of the upcoming G…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 8:02

'Bizarre from the RFU, bizarre from Bill Sweeney...'

Former England international Andy Goode had taken a pop at Bill Sweeney, accusing the RFU CEO of being asleep at the wheel in allo…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 6:52

Harlequins statement: The signing of scrum-half Will Porter

Harlequins’ preparations for the 2023/24 season continued on Tuesday with the confirmation that Will Porter has been signed.

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 6:29

Watch: Epic video of Eddie Jones' first Wallabies training in 2001

With Eddie Jones confirmed on Monday as the new Wallabies coach for a second stint through to 2027, a video has emerged of the 62-…

Liam Heagney

17 Jan 2023, 4:33

The 'significant' thing Guscott wants from Monday's England squad

Former England midfielder Jeremy Guscott has identified the one thing he believes will be significant when new head coach Steve Bo…

Liam Heagney

15 Jan 2023, 10:20