Analysis
Luke Pearce's refereeing masterclass points the way towards rugby's future
The talented Englishman's approach enhanced a fabulous match between Northampton and Saracens.
Nick Bishop
02 Apr 2024, 12:06
Contributors
Nick Bishop
Nick Bishop was rugby analyst/advisor to Graham Henry (1999-2003) and Mike Ruddock (2004-2006) with Wales. He has worked with Stuart Lancaster for England (2012-2015), Leinster (2016-2022) and currently for Racing 92 in France’s Top 14. Three of his four rugby books have shortlisted for, or won national sports book awards.
Analysis
Will the Crusaders' decline spark a slow death for New Zealand rugby?
The once-mighty franchise have lost all five Super Rugby Pacific matches this season.
Nick Bishop
28 Mar 2024, 15:26
Analysis
Noah Lolesio spearheads Brumbies with Wallaby axe to grind
Scorned ACT men are resurgent after being omitted from Eddie Jones' World Cup squad.
Nick Bishop
25 Mar 2024, 9:58
Analysis
Reds are carrying the Australian flag on and off the pitch
Sustainable on and off the pitch, with smart coaching and a shiny training base, the Queenslanders have a bright future.
Nick Bishop
19 Mar 2024, 7:48
Analysis
How England reverse-engineered unlikely attacking change
Steve Borthwick's men found their claws to arrest a meek start to the Six Nations.
Nick Bishop
18 Mar 2024, 12:23
Analysis
How petit general Le Garrec inspired Jekyll-and-Hyde France
The Racing 92 tyro's Cardiff masterclass eased the pressure on his truculent coach Fabien Galthie.
Nick Bishop
13 Mar 2024, 5:31
Analysis
Is the balance of power shifting across the Tasman?
The Reds' win over the Chiefs hints at a sea change in a struggling Super Rugby Pacific.
Nick Bishop
12 Mar 2024, 12:12
Analysis
How England can upset Irish apple cart
With their savage defence and breakdown work, England can subject the Grand Slam chasers to new pressure.
Nick Bishop
07 Mar 2024, 15:37
Analysis
Why Jake Gordon could answer Australia's scrum-half quandary
The Waratah has started the season in fine form and has much to like about his game
Nick Bishop
06 Mar 2024, 4:03
Analysis
How Queensland Reds can spark Schmidt's Wallaby revolution
A Les Kiss game plan will showcase the Reds' top talents and underpin the work of the new Australia boss.
Nick Bishop
01 Mar 2024, 3:32
Analysis
Is the Six Nations balance of power shifting?
The statistics paint a picture of a new landscape emerging across the North's flagship tournament
Nick Bishop
27 Feb 2024, 3:57
Analysis
Why Australian rugby needs the Kiss of life
Incoming Reds boss Les Kiss can apply the defibrillators to a flatlining sport
Nick Bishop
20 Feb 2024, 15:46
Analysis
Why Ireland haven't felt the loss of 'irreplaceable' Johnny Sexton
Jack Crowley's seamless ascent to the number 10 jersey has assuaged the great man's retirement.
Nick Bishop
15 Feb 2024, 3:32
Analysis
Why have France fallen off a World Cup cliff?
Shorn of Antoine Dupont, Les Bleus look oddly toothless and confused.
Nick Bishop
14 Feb 2024, 6:12
Analysis
'Offence drives business': Why Gallagher Premiership shows the way for rugby
With its attacking focus, England's top flight offers a glimpse of a future rugby must embrace.
Nick Bishop
08 Feb 2024, 7:56
Analysis
Why defensive aggressor Felix Jones will drive new-look England
Steve Borthwick's World Cup-winning lieutenant could be the most influential voice in the coaching box.
Nick Bishop
06 Feb 2024, 5:11
Analysis
Six Nations: How Big Joe McCarthy destroyed the French juggernaut
Ireland's young lock delivered a coming-of-age performance in the Marseille cauldron.
Nick Bishop
05 Feb 2024, 5:35
Analysis
Carter Gordon and the Rebels without a cause
As the Melbourne franchise battles financial strife, Australia's talented young 10 faces an uncertain future.
Nick Bishop
02 Feb 2024, 5:13
Analysis
Guinness Six Nations: Why data shows England can compete for the title
What do the in-depth statistics say about each team's chances of lifting the trophy?
Nick Bishop
30 Jan 2024, 3:27
Analysis
The rise of Jack Willis proves England's eligibility criteria should change
The flanker has added to his considerable skillset in Toulouse, yet is unable to represent his country.
Nick Bishop
27 Jan 2024, 4:21
