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Rugby News

Get the latest rugby news from the experts at RugbyPass. From match reports to in-depth tactical breakdowns and expert opinions, our rugby journalists have every angle covered.

'It's not great and all you can do is send him a message, give him a call, apologise'
It was a break by Jonathan Joseph that tempted Joe Launchbury into making the tackle that ruptured his ACL and ruined his Lions dr…
Liam Heagney
02 May 2021, 3:18
Watch: Tongan hitman Zane Kapeli puts bone-rattling tackle on Blues playmaker Otere Black
The tackle was not the first time Kapeli has made an impression with his shoulder, putting a headline-grabbing shot on England Num…
Sam Smith
02 May 2021, 0:19
Western Force salivating over prospect of playing New Zealand's Super Rugby teams after years of exile
While proud of his trailblazing outfit, coach Tim Sampson couldn't disguise his despair after the Force bowed out of the Super Rug…
AAP
01 May 2021, 21:42
'You can't just move on': Bath coach wants his side to feel the pain after set-piece meltdown in Challenge Cup semi-final loss
Stuart Hooper admitted to a huge amount of disappointment and frustration after Bath were beaten in their European Challenge Cup s…
PA
01 May 2021, 20:16
'Much more physical compared to the rugby I've been used to back in South Africa': Springbok star Kolbe rates the strength of the European competition highly
Kolbe hailed Toulouse as a 'phenomenal' club to be a part of, and credits their free-wheeling philosophy as part of the reason why…
Sam Smith
01 May 2021, 20:11
Watch: Foot trip can't stop Cheslin Kolbe as Toulouse's star steps his way through Bordeaux's defence
With a 14-9 lead, Toulouse were looking for the knockout blow late in the game when Kolbe exploded through the defence putting on …
Sam Smith
01 May 2021, 18:52
Springbok Pollard helps Montpellier beat Bath to reach European Challenge Cup final against Leicester
But Montpellier gatecrashed the party, with flanker Yacouba Camara scoring a try and scrum-half Benoit Paillaugue kicking a conver…
PA
01 May 2021, 18:08
Pulling power
The Crusaders have surprised the rugby world by making perhaps their highest profile signing ever.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
01 May 2021, 17:55
The back-row conundrum
With Warren Gatland spoiled for Lions back-row options, who should he pick to face the mighty Springboks?
LONG READ
Will Owen
01 May 2021, 17:11
Ben Youngs rules himself out of Lions tour selection - reports
Speculation over the Lions scrum-halves that Warren Gatland will select on Thursday will intensify with the Ben Youngs decision. …
Sam Smith
01 May 2021, 14:29
LIONS WATCH: Saracens player ratings vs Nottingham
Here are the Saracens player ratings from Nottingham on Saturday, just days before Warren Gatland unveils his 2021 Lions tour pick…
Liam Heagney
01 May 2021, 13:25
Toulouse reach first Champions Cup final in 11 years with low-frills win over Bordeaux
Matthis Lebel scored an early try and Antoine Dupont another late on as Toulouse got the better of Bordeaux in the Champions Cup s…
PA
01 May 2021, 12:29
'That is the reddest of red cards': Ex-Lions skippers O'Driscoll and Warburton raging over unpunished Marchand headshot
Toulouse skipper Julien Marchand escaped a likely red card during his team's victory in Saturday's all-French Champions Cup semi-f…
Liam Heagney
01 May 2021, 11:37
Second-half try hat-trick from Reniel Hugo sees the Sharks pip Stormers at their new home
The Stormers were beaten by Sharks in their Rainbow Cup opener with injuries to Kade Wolhuter and Herschel Jantjies adding to thei…
Rugby365
01 May 2021, 10:16
Flashpoint no-arms tackle from red-carded Force winger Toni Pulu helps Brumbies win through to AU final
Defending champions Brumbies will play the Reds in a rematch of last year's Super Rugby AU final after beating the Force in a tens…
AAP
01 May 2021, 8:12
Tuilagi named in Scrum V's 36-man Lions squad
England’s Manu Tuilagi has made Scrum V’s 36-man British and Irish Lions squad despite still being out with an Achilles injury…
Josh Raisey
01 May 2021, 4:58
Chiefs player ratings vs Blues | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The Chiefs sent out the reinforcements to give their big boys a break before their Super Rugby Aotearoa final next week against th…
Mike Rehu
01 May 2021, 4:58
'A world of blame, unfairness and spite suddenly descended': Nigel Owens revisits nasty fallout from Liam Williams' Parisian yellow card
With an anti-social media abuse campaign running this weekend, Nigel Owens has resisted the vitriol Liam Williams suffered in Marc…
Sam Smith
01 May 2021, 4:35
Blues cap off Super Rugby Aotearoa campaign with sizeable win over Chiefs' second-stringers
Despite a spirited first half from the Chiefs' dirt-trackers, the Blues have scored a comfortable 15-point win over their neighbou…
AAP
01 May 2021, 4:14
Luatua addresses rumours he's leaving Bristol Bears
Bristol Bears captain Stephen Luatua has dispelled any rumours that he may be leaving Ashton Gate at the end of the season with a …
Josh Raisey
01 May 2021, 3:58
Wasps lock Levi Douglas joins Toulon despite Launchbury's ACL injury
Wasps lost Joe Launchbury to an ACL last Sunday but that hasn't prevented them from allowing Levi Douglas to link up with French c…
Liam Heagney
01 May 2021, 3:25
'I was told to kill myself about five times, that I should be shot and that was over nothing'
James Haskell knows all about the dangers of social media abuse which has seen rugby join football in taking a stand by instigatin…
Chris Jones
01 May 2021, 3:14
'The leaders got together. It was pretty clear what we had to do'
Leicester captain Tom Youngs reflected on a job well done after the Tigers reached a first European final for 12 years.
PA
01 May 2021, 3:05
Jonathan Joseph fears his England career is over at the age of 29
It was November in Llanelli when Jonathan Joseph was last picked to play for England by Eddie Jones and he now fears his Test care…
Liam Heagney
01 May 2021, 3:00
The weaknesses the Western Force have identified in the 'clunky' Brumbies
The Brumbies are banking on their big-game experience to steer them into the Super Rugby AU grand final, however the Western Force…
AAP
30 Apr 2021, 23:19
Beauden Barrett's Suntory Sungoliath progress to Top League semi-finals after match cancelled due to COVID
While New Zealand and Australia's Super Rugby seasons have been mostly unaffected by the ongoing global pandemic, Australasian pla…
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 23:05
Cantabrian Sam Darry's move north paying dividends with the young lock clocking up more game time than Crusaders counterparts
When Sam Darry signed with the Blues for 2021, he expected he'd spend most weekends watching his teammates from the sidelines. Tha…
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 20:44
'Doesn't seem very fair': Pablo Matera's impending move to the Crusaders has split the fanbase
While new Crusaders signing Pablo Matera is one of the top players in the world, not everyone is happy that the Super Rugby champi…
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 19:08
'We aren't going to get a break': How a cruel quirk of the draw has forced massive changes to the Chiefs
Clayton McMillan has made twenty positional changes to the Chiefs' match-day team for this evening's clash from the Blues. It's a …
Tom Vinicombe
30 Apr 2021, 18:36
Case for the Crusader
David Havili is showcasing his wide-range of skills week after week and deserves an All Blacks call-up.
LONG READ
Ben Wylie
30 Apr 2021, 18:09
England's clash with France abandoned due to floodlight failure in Lille
England Women’s clash with France in Lille was abandoned after 62 minutes due to a floodlight failure.
PA
30 Apr 2021, 17:46
Leicester fight back from 11-point deficit to break 12-year hoodoo
Leicester reached a first European final for 12 years as they claimed an impressive 33-24 Challenge Cup victory over Ulster at Mat…
PA
30 Apr 2021, 16:26
Ireland cancel proposed summer tour to Fiji due to Covid uncertainty
The IRFU said it would be speaking to other Unions with regard to arranging alternative Test matches during the July international…
PA
30 Apr 2021, 13:09
Gatland in town as Sam Underhill looks to push Lions bid
Sam Underhill will complete a half-century of Bath appearances knowing a strong performance against Montpellier.
PA
30 Apr 2021, 11:24
The waiting game
Dan Biggar feels he can do no more to put himself in position for a second Lions call-up on Thursday
LONG READ
Dan Biggar
30 Apr 2021, 11:03
Saracens make nine changes for latest Championship outing, benching Jamie George
Nottingham is the latest pitstop for Saracens in their bid to secure promotion but they will keep Jamie George in reserve this wee…
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 8:48
What Bath make of the transfer system that this weekend sees Zach Mercer come up against his new club Montpellier
Unlike football's transfer windows, rugby's system leads to situations such as Zach Mercer playing for Bath against his new club M…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2021, 8:23
Ealing sign USA World Cup back-rower Al-Jiboori
USA back-rower Malon Al-Jiboori, who appeared at the 2019 World Cup in Japan, will now link up with promotion-chasing Ealing Trail…
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 8:14
How the Leicester dressing room reacted to Steve Borthwick sacrificing Lions coaching role
Leicester boss Steve Borthwick had the chance to reprise his 2017 Lions role but he turned down Gatland's invite to fully focus on…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2021, 7:53
Connacht bring in South African forwards coach who succeeded Paul O'Connell at Stade
With Jimmy Duffy turning down an extension to try his luck elsewhere, Connacht have appointed Dewald Senekal as their new forwards…
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 7:46
Leinster change three from the XV that dethroned European champions Exeter
Leinster earned great praise for going to Sandy Park and dethroning Exeter and they have now named their Champions Cup semi-final …
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2021, 6:41
Highlanders player ratings vs Hurricanes | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The Hurricanes broke their three-match losing streak in the last round-robin game of Super Rugby Aotearoa with a 41-22 victory ove…
Mike Rehu
30 Apr 2021, 5:32
Hurricanes player ratings vs Highlanders | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The opening match of Round 10 of Super Rugby Aotearoa was played out between the cellar-dwellers at Sky Stadium this evening, with…
Nick Turnbull
30 Apr 2021, 5:11
Hurricanes stay undefeated against Highlanders for 2021 with big win in Wellington
Despite being down 7-17 at one stage and behind by two going into halftime, the Hurricanes have overcome the visiting Highlanders …
AAP
30 Apr 2021, 4:56
Dylan Hartley picks his British and Irish Lions XV
Former England captain Dylan Hartley has chosen Maro Itoje and Tadhg Beirne as his second-row partnership in his starting British …
Josh Raisey
30 Apr 2021, 4:22
Twickenham to host fan-friendly European finals next month with details also confirmed for next season's format
With Marseille ruled of hosting, EPCR have turned to Twickenham to stage next month's Champions Cup and Challenge Cup finals.
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2021, 4:21
Law and disorder
Three top coaches talk about the psychology and the pitfalls of the penalty count
LONG READ
Graham Simmons
30 Apr 2021, 4:03
'They are ready to fire' - Springbok insider Koch has Lions warning for South African teammates
Vincent Koch has issued a warning to his fellow World Cup-winning Springboks hoping key British and Irish Lions players operating …
Chris Jones
30 Apr 2021, 3:48
Double yellow card in Hurricanes v Highlanders clash leaves everyone gobsmacked
While a double yellow card isn't unheard of in top-level professional rugby encounters, normally the dual sin-binning is a result …
Sam Smith
30 Apr 2021, 3:06
'I'm cleaning about 140, 150 at the moment and box squatting just short of 200'
Nemani Nadolo scored two tries on his Leicester return after eleven weeks out, a show of force he attributes to taking up powerlif…
Liam Heagney
30 Apr 2021, 2:55
Pablo Matera to make Super Rugby return with champion Crusaders
In a somewhat surprise announcement on Friday afternoon, the Crusaders have confirmed that Argentina captain Pablo Matera has sign…
Tom Vinicombe
29 Apr 2021, 22:56
'It's been the best thing that's ever happened': The light that sparked the Western Force's incredible rise from the ashes
It sounds like a plotline from a Hollywood movie script, but the Western Force's journey from near-extinction to Super Rugby semi-…
AAP
29 Apr 2021, 22:24
Dave Wessels stands down from Rebels, leaving two Australian clubs without permanent head coaches
Melbourne Rebels coach Dave Wessels has announced he is quitting his role with the  Rebels Super Rugby club.
AAP
29 Apr 2021, 21:51
Blues player ratings vs Chiefs | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The Blues pulled away late to score a 20-point win over their southern neighbours. Who were the best performers in the win over th…
Tom Raine
29 Apr 2021, 21:40
Reds lose Wallabies midfielder for Super Rugby AU grand final
A fractured cheekbone looks set to keep Queensland Reds and Wallabies centre Hunter Paisami out of next Saturday's Super Rugby A…
AAP
29 Apr 2021, 21:13
Brodie Retallick wary of what former Chiefs coach brings to Wallabies stable
Knowing Dave Rennie like he does, Brodie Retallick is wary of what tricks the second-year Wallabies coach may have in store for th…
AAP
29 Apr 2021, 20:58
How the new golden-point law ruined what could have been a thrilling final round of Super Rugby Aotearoa
Super Rugby Aotearoa's new golden point rule introduced at the start of the 2020 competition was supposed to generate more excitem…
Tom Vinicombe
29 Apr 2021, 19:29
Watershed moment
Alice Soper is thankful ahead of the landmark fixture between the Blues and Chiefs Women's teams.
LONG READ
Alice Soper
29 Apr 2021, 18:50
'You're preparing for 80-minute and 85-minute games': Why Super Rugby Aotearoa has been such a mental challenge
The rugby has been thrilling but the injury toll has been high - and even for the players who are still left standing after nine r…
Tom Vinicombe
29 Apr 2021, 18:46
Intellectual poverty
Fluid movement of players and coaches means intellectual property is always going to be tough to lock down.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
29 Apr 2021, 16:56
'It will be interesting to see who goes back': Nemani Nadolo on Fijian Drua's Super Rugby invite and whether he might join up
With Fijian Drua invited to the 2022 Super Rugby party, Nemani Nadolo airs his thoughts on their invite and whether he might leave…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2021, 16:00
'It's all bull****' - Dylan Hartley rubbishes claims England players were 'fatigued' and the 'faceless experts' behind controversial debrief
Former England captain Dylan Hartley has questioned who exactly had the expertise to judge England head coach Eddie Jones followin…
Ian Cameron
29 Apr 2021, 11:47
Bringing the good times back
Leon Lloyd made 266 appearances for the Tigers and he's hopeful silverware is just around the corner for the next generation
LONG READ
Andrew Elliott
29 Apr 2021, 11:14
Worcester Warriors sign 20-year-old English qualified triallist from Scarlets
Warriors have completed the signing of Wales Under-20s wing Harri Doel from Scarlets for the 2021/22 season.
Sam Smith
29 Apr 2021, 10:35
England's Poppy Cleall named 2021 Six Nations player of the championship
Poppy Cleall was nominated for the Six Nations award alongside fellow England forward Zoe Aldcroft and Caroline Boujard of France.
RugbyPass
29 Apr 2021, 9:32
Irish assistant Les Kiss linked with Super Rugby role as Ben Meehan quits Exiles
Having joined London Irish in March 2018 after his stint in charge at Ulster unsuccessfully, Les Kiss is now linked with a Super R…
Sam Smith
29 Apr 2021, 8:50
Rising to the challenge
After rebuilding a club that was at its lowest ebb in 2018, Dan McFarland is closer than ever to ending Ulster’s 15-year title d…
LONG READ
Garry Doyle
29 Apr 2021, 7:08
Ulster and Leicester Tigers make five changes for semi-final
Leicester and Ulster have named their sides for this Friday night's European Challenge Cup semi-final at Welford Road.
Sam Smith
29 Apr 2021, 6:20
Edinburgh bring in Henry Immelman from the Top 14
South African Henry Immelman will bring his five-year stint in France to an end with a move to Edinburgh next season.
Sam Smith
29 Apr 2021, 5:48
'Not shirking anything': Bath give verdict on 19-year-old sensation Orlando Bailey and update Danny Cipriani situation
Injuries at out-half have thrust teenager Orlando Bailey into the Bath limelight in recent weeks ahead of Danny Cipriani's schedul…
Liam Heagney
29 Apr 2021, 5:24
On this day: The Joe Schmidt era begins in Ireland
Schmidt officially began work on July 1 and remained at the Ireland helm until 2019.
PA
29 Apr 2021, 5:06
Second Russian tighthead joins a Premiership club inside the space of a week
Less than a week after London Irish announced the signing of Vladimir Podrezov, Gloucester have secured his Russia teammate Kirill…
Sam Smith
29 Apr 2021, 4:33
'I don't fear it': $27million loss will see Rugby Australia turn to private equity just like New Zealand
Rugby Australia were losing so much money - $45.7m reduction in revenue - it even considered reverting to amateur status.
AAP
29 Apr 2021, 4:01
England Rugby joins this weekend's sports social media blackout
England Rugby will join with the football community and other sports in taking part in a social media blackout this weekend.
RugbyPass
29 Apr 2021, 3:45
Nehe Milner-Skudder to wear No 15 as Highlanders lose All Black to injury
It's not the worst-case scenario for a team when one international representative can step into fill the void left by another - bu…
Tom Vinicombe
29 Apr 2021, 1:56
Chiefs make wholesale changes to match-day squad, name six debutants for Blues dead rubber
Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan is taking this weekend's clash with the Blues as an opportunity to freshen up his squad ahead of nex…
Tom Vinicombe
28 Apr 2021, 23:30
20-year-old Zarn Sullivan named at fullback for final match of Blues' Super Rugby Aotearoa campaign
The final outing in the Super Rugby Aotearoa competition is being planned as more of a start than a finish for the Blues when they…
Online Editors
28 Apr 2021, 22:40
Hurricanes flanker Du'Plessis Kirifi opens up on 'rough start to the season'
Having fought his way into the All Blacks squad last year, 2021 was shaping up as a massive season in the career of Du'Plessis Kir…
Tom Vinicombe
28 Apr 2021, 20:36
'The game has to change': Provincial Unions have made their decision on New Zealand Rugby's Silver Lake deal at AGM
The landmark deal would see Silver Lake inject $387.5 million into NZR with a large portion of the money earmarked for rugby’s g…
Online Editors
28 Apr 2021, 19:34
'We're losing two guys a week': All Blacks hopeful out for the season as Highlanders hit by another injury
If ever there were a perfect representation of how brutal Super Rugby Aotearoa has been this year, it's the Highlanders' ever-incr…
Tom Vinicombe
28 Apr 2021, 19:22
Teenage halves pairing tasked with guiding Blues Women around the park for Chiefs clash
Coach Willie Walker has named a powerful Blues team for their historic women’s clash against the Chiefs at Eden Park on Saturday…
AAP
28 Apr 2021, 18:35
Folk hero
Japan loose forward Kazuki Himeno has become another fan favourite at the Highlanders.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
28 Apr 2021, 17:25
'The old format is better': All Blacks star's take on Super Rugby Aotearoa
While Super Rugby Aotearoa has been an unmitigated success, there have also been some undeniable adverse consequences of the high-…
Sam Smith
28 Apr 2021, 17:17
Jaguares have second shot at Super Rugby title through melting pot Force
Western Force flyhalf Domingo Miotti will get another chance to push his test claims when he lines up in Saturday night's semi-fin…
AAP
28 Apr 2021, 16:07
Chiefs side named for inaugural Super Rugby Women clash
The Chiefs Women have been named to face the Blues Women at Eden Park on Saturday 1 May. Kicking off at 4.35pm the historic match …
Online Editors
28 Apr 2021, 15:18
'I cannot see us travelling to Argentina': Wales looking at alternative summer tour plan
Wayne Pivac is due to lead Wales on a July tour to Argentina but the Six Nations champions are currently having a rethink.
PA
28 Apr 2021, 12:19
The six players who could benefit from George North getting ruled of Lions tour selection
Confirmation on Wednesday that George North has ruptured his ACL has added intrigue to the May 6 Lions squad midfield selection.
Josh Raisey
28 Apr 2021, 12:09
'He's devastated': Bath cry foul over the length of ban given to Beno Obano
England prop Beno Obano is set to miss huge games for Bath following his suspension for the red card he picked up at Wasps last Su…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2021, 11:22
'A huge signing': Worcester sign Wales' Owen Williams for next season
Jonathan Thomas is continuing to sign a raft of new players for Worcester next season, the latest being ex-Wales out-half Owen Wil…
Sam Smith
28 Apr 2021, 10:17
Friday night rugby returns to the Six Nations as 2022 fixtures confirmed
The dust only recently settled on a dramatic 2021 Six Nations and the fixtures have now been confirmed for the 2022 campaign.
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2021, 8:32
Heavy price paid by Springboks centre Esterhuizen and England prop Obano following Premiership red cards
Andre Esterhuizen and Beno Obano became the latest players to get Premiership red cards last weekend and they have now learned the…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2021, 8:13
'In anyone's language it's a really bad look': Woodward launches scathing attack on Eddie Jones over Japanese nixer
World Cup winner Clive Woodward is furious that current England boss Eddie Jones has popped up in Japan so soon after RFU 6N revie…
Sam Smith
28 Apr 2021, 6:31
Ex-Scotland winger Tommy Seymour has retired from playing at the age of 32
Tommy Seymour has spent the last decade of his career art Glasgow but the 2017 Lions winger has now opted to retire from playing. …
Sam Smith
28 Apr 2021, 5:49
Wasps hand Nottingham boss Fowkes a full-time role
Nottingham boss Neil Fowkes had been double jobbing since rugby returned in England last July, linking up part-time with Wasps.
Sam Smith
28 Apr 2021, 5:32
'Heartbroken is an understatement: George North ruled out of the Lions tour with injury
Wales back George North has become the second player in recent days to be ruled out of Lions selection contention with a serious k…
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2021, 4:39
'I definitely see him a lot more in that England jersey': What the Leicester dressing room thinks of new Test cap George Martin
George Martin was capped last month by England at the age of 19 and his form since them back at Leicester has been exemplary.
Liam Heagney
28 Apr 2021, 4:21
'He has been so good for me': Beauden Barrett lapping up recent advice from England boss Eddie Jones
England boss Eddie Jones is on annual leave in Japan where he has been advising All Blacks star Beauden Barrett at Suntory.
AAP
28 Apr 2021, 3:24
Jason Robinson is back at Sale 14 years after playing his last game
Jason Robinson became a World Cup winner with England when he was at Sale and he is now back at the Premiership club after 14 year…
Sam Smith
28 Apr 2021, 3:03
All Blacks stars predict outcome of British and Irish Lions series against Springboks
All Blacks stars Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara and Brodie Retallick have all offered their thoughts on the outcome of the upcoming …
Alex McLeod
28 Apr 2021, 1:49
Watch: Springboks star Jesse Kriel activates Ronaldo-mode after ripping up Greig Laidlaw's NTT Shining Arcs
Kriel dispatched his World Cup-winning teammate Malcolm Marx, who plays for the Shining Arcs as Canon ran away 43-13 winners on th…
Sam Smith
28 Apr 2021, 0:16
'Just make it one big competition': Beauden Barrett calls for Japanese inclusion in future version of Super Rugby
All Blacks great Beauden Barrett is all for Super Rugby Trans-Tasman also involving two Pacific Islands teams, but also wants to s…
AAP
27 Apr 2021, 23:32
Ex-All Black turned MLR star lifts the lid on how Silver Lake deal could benefit NZR in the USA
Ex-All Blacks halfback Andy Ellis says NZR's potential deal with Silver Lake could provide more than just a financial boost for Ki…
Alex McLeod
27 Apr 2021, 22:54
Why South African-born Duhan van der Merwe is a deeply compelling selection for the British & Irish Lions tour
If you are looking for a powerful, strong ball-carrying wrecking ball that asks for two or three man tackles on every touch, how c…
Ben Smith
27 Apr 2021, 21:59
Hurricanes drop one All Blacks and bring in another for final Super Rugby Aotearoa clash
The Hurricanes have made just two changes to their starting side to face the Highlanders at Sky Stadium in Wellington on Friday.
Alex McLeod
27 Apr 2021, 21:01
Highlanders youngster returns for final Super Rugby Aotearoa clash after 10-month injury spell
Highlanders wing Sam Gilbert will make his first appearance for the franchise since last June in his side's final Super Rugby Aote…
Alex McLeod
27 Apr 2021, 19:51
'I've got no doubt I wasn't the best out and out 15': Beauden Barrett concedes fullback race as he eyes return to All Blacks fold
All Black Beauden Barrett has made a shock confession as he eyes up his return to New Zealand later this season after completing h…
Sam Smith
27 Apr 2021, 16:50
Slog or sidelines
There's no middle ground in Super Rugby Aotearoa this year - if you're not a seasoned pro, you're left right out.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
27 Apr 2021, 16:46
'What would be the bigger headline, Sexton or Finn not going?' - Rugby Pod tackles hottest Lions selection debate
Warren Gatland will unveil his Lions squad on May 6 and The Rugby Pod have been debating if Finn Russell will be a selection winne…
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2021, 12:21
The remarkable progress 2017 Lions prop Jack McGrath is enjoying just two days after hip surgery
Jack McGrath featured in all three Lions Test games in 2017 but the Irish prop is fighting a very different battle four years late…
Josh Raisey
27 Apr 2021, 11:22
Worcester sign 'physical and powerful' Tongan No8 Sione Vailanu
Ambitious Worcester have announced yet another signing for 2021/22, capturing Sione Vailanu from Premiership rivals Wasps.
Sam Smith
27 Apr 2021, 10:55
Scotland promote Mike Blair to interim head coach role for three-game summer series
With Gregor Townsend busy with the Lions in July, Scotland have promoted Mike Blair and unveiled a three-game summer schedule.
Sam Smith
27 Apr 2021, 10:24
Johnny Sexton denied final audition before Lions squad announcement
Ireland skipper Johnny Sexton was hoping to play for Leinster in the Champions Cup semi-final ahead of the May 6 Lions squad annou…
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2021, 8:37
'I was that drunk I didn't notice I was in a fire': Carl Fearns recounts crazy first week at Lyon and also revisits infamous Bath pub bust-up with Gavin Henson
New Newcastle signing Carl Fearns has guested on this week's The Rugby Pod, recalling his introduction at Lyon and his Gavin Henso…
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2021, 8:09
Premiership Rugby's row with the Lions over pre-tour player release has finally ended with an agreement
Players at Premiership clubs in England - and Saracens - faced not being able to link upon with the Lions until after their June 2…
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2021, 6:38
Wasps issue Joe Launchbury injury update that has confirmed the worst for the England second row
Joe Launchbury only returned to action last month after missing the Six Nations and Wasps have now issued an update on his latest …
Liam Heagney
27 Apr 2021, 6:19
All Blacks scrum-half TJ Perenara responds to NRL code switch speculation and reveals position he would love to play
All Blacks half-back TJ Perenara has fanned the flames in Tokyo surrounding his speculated NRL code switch to the Roosters.
AAP
27 Apr 2021, 4:52
Haskell names 40-man Lions squad and makes a huge call at No10
With the countdown on for the Warren Gatland announcement on May 6, James Haskell is the latest ex-Lions player to pick his 2021 s…
Josh Raisey
27 Apr 2021, 4:24
Holding the fort
Leinster will have their work cut out to storm La Rochelle's barricades in the Champions Cup
LONG READ
Martin Gillingham
27 Apr 2021, 3:51
'You can't be a top-six club if you're not conditioned properly': Worcester bring in ex-Ireland age-grade Six Nations winner
Bottom club Worcester are hell-bent on transforming their operation under Jonathan Thomas, with David Drake their latest staff rec…
Sam Smith
27 Apr 2021, 3:35
'I feel it does slow down the game': Super Rugby Aotearoa star hits out at captain's referral law
Crusaders halfback Bryn Hall has called into question the new captain's referral law adaptation that has been implemented in Super…
Sam Smith
27 Apr 2021, 1:39
Tevita Kuridrani to miss Super Rugby AU qualifying final as one of three suspended Wallabies
Ex-Wallabies midfielder Tevita Kuridrani will miss this week's Super Rugby AU qualifying final after being suspended for a dangero…
Alex McLeod
26 Apr 2021, 21:30
It's hard to go past Akira Ioane when wondering where it all went wrong for the Blues in 2021
Ioane talked about learning a few lessons and rediscovering his love for the game and a lot of us went down the lazy route of decl…
Hamish Bidwell
26 Apr 2021, 20:54
The two All Blacks contenders who stood out this week - and the man to replace the injured Sam Cane?
The Crusaders and Chiefs secured their places in next week's Super Rugby Aotearoa final over the weekend, and there was no shortag…
Sam Smith
26 Apr 2021, 20:23
The Blues backline puzzle just gets more confusing after the head-scratching selections against Crusaders
It's hard to believe that the Blues were prepared to use a midfielder who hadn't started all year as the centre piece of their gam…
Ben Smith
26 Apr 2021, 18:57
Liam Messam and Taranaki rookie called into Chiefs squad as injuries strike loose forwards
Former All Black and Chiefs co-captain Liam Messam and Taranaki loose forward Tom Florence have been called into the Chiefs squad …
Sam Smith
26 Apr 2021, 18:39
Why 'freakish' Jordie Barrett must still be the first-choice pick for the All Blacks No 15 jersey
Chiefs maestro Damian McKenzie has notched up four late-game plays in a row to guide his side into the Super Rugby Aotearoa finals…
Sam Smith
26 Apr 2021, 18:07
Play it again, Sam
At 32 years of age, Crusaders lock Sam Whitelock is continuing to reach new levels in performance.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
26 Apr 2021, 18:00
Cruel injury blow looks to have brought Yoann Huget's career to a premature end
The 33-year-old Toulouse winger suffered an Achilles injury during the club's 34-16 win over Racing 92 on Saturday.
Ciarán Kennedy
26 Apr 2021, 11:03
The 6 last chance Lions who need a big weekend in Europe
There is only one weekend before Warren Gatland names his British and Irish Lions squad to travel to South Africa this year, but f…
Josh Raisey
26 Apr 2021, 9:59
Ready to step up
As the Rainbow Cup kicks into life and Premiership Rugby reaches its denouement, everyone is talking about the Lions
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
26 Apr 2021, 9:30
Leicester Tigers' very mediocre record against Ulster and 16 other European rugby factoids
It's a big semi-final weekend in Europe, with eight teams vying to make four spots across the two EPCR tournament finals after wha…
RugbyPass
26 Apr 2021, 9:09
Another scrum-half makes the move between Leinster and Munster
Rowan Osborne, 24, made his Leinster debut in October 2019 and has represented the province 10 times to date.
Ciarán Kennedy
26 Apr 2021, 8:33
Wales to host southern hemisphere powerhouses in autumn
All the games are scheduled at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, with the series opening against New Zealand on October 30.
PA
26 Apr 2021, 6:16
'I've fallen back in love with rugby since I moved to this club' - Evans upbeat after season-ending injury
Evans limped off the field in the first half against London Irish on Saturday and has since revealed he fractured his tibia.
Josh Raisey
26 Apr 2021, 5:21
Ben Kay and Shane Williams among 50 ex-players to sign up for research into dementia links with sport
A number of former elite rugby players have signed up for the Alzheimer’s Society-funded PREVENT:RFC project.
PA
26 Apr 2021, 4:53
Leinster still not sure if Sexton will be fit for Champions Cup semi-final date with La Rochelle
Head coach Leo Cullen says the province still aren't certain if their star out-half will get the green light to play on Sunday.
Sam Smith
26 Apr 2021, 3:44
'Our players are getting more rugby than the Welsh, Scottish and Irish - they're hardly playing at all'
Saracens boss Mark McCall insists his British and Irish Lions contingent will be more battle-hardened for the tour to South Africa…
PA
25 Apr 2021, 13:23
'It was a gut-wrenching moment' - Blackett issues worrying update on Joe Launchbury
Wasps director of rugby Lee Blackett was relieved as his side survived a second-half scare to earn a morale-boosting victory 39-29…
PA
25 Apr 2021, 13:12
'Global club competition' a possibility says EPCR chairman
EPCR Chairman Simon Halliday has confirmed that the three main northern hemisphere leagues have agreed in principle a further eigh…
Ian Cameron
25 Apr 2021, 12:47
Wasps sink Bath but pay price with fresh injury for England lock Joe Launchbury
Wasps’ miserable run of Gallagher Premiership results ended as they won a game of nine tries 39-29 against Bath at the Ricoh Are…
PA
25 Apr 2021, 12:03
Saracens avenge losses by thumping Championship leaders Ealing
Saracens successfully negotiated the toughest assignment of their Greene King IPA Championship season to date by crushing leaders …
PA
25 Apr 2021, 11:50
Dragons begin their Rainbow Cup campaign with bonus-point win over Scarlets
Dragons started their Rainbow Cup campaign with a 52-32 bonus-point win over Welsh rivals Scarlets.
PA
25 Apr 2021, 9:29
English clubs to hold crunch meeting over player release for Lions training camp and Japan match
Premiership rugby chiefs will meet tomorrow in an attempt to find a solution to the problem of player release for the British and …
Chris Jones
25 Apr 2021, 8:34
'When I left I had just over 20 caps. For me, I look back on that and that's p*** poor'
Former Ulster hooker Niall Annett has urged young Irish talent to look abroad for contracts rather than be satisfied with bit-part…
Ian Cameron
25 Apr 2021, 8:08
Wallaby Hooper eyeing Japan rugby title
Wallaby captain Michael Hooper is still in the hunt for a title in Japan after Toyota Verblitz overpowered the Hino Red Dolphins 4…
AAP
25 Apr 2021, 5:25
'I give him a call and he will give me advice': Alex Sanderson still using Saracens hotline 14 weeks into his Sale tenure
It's 14 weeks since Alex Sanderson was unveiled as new Sale boss but his old Saracens links remain strong as they plot a Premiersh…
Liam Heagney
25 Apr 2021, 5:00
'I was just bricking it for the whole weekend, so nervous, sick with nerves... worried if I make a mistake what are people going to think of me'
Jack Conan was a nervous wreck when emerging Leinster but he is now in the prime of his career and loving the pit in the stomach f…
Liam Heagney
25 Apr 2021, 3:58
'Brad Shields was moving house and couldn't take a spa pool': The tricks of the trade that have Jimmy Gopperth still going strong at nearly 38
Veteran Jimmy Gopperth never made the All Blacks but it hasn't stopped him from enjoying an enviable career that shows no signs of…
Liam Heagney
25 Apr 2021, 3:16
Blues player ratings versus Crusaders | Super Rugby Aotearoa
Even though the Blues got their share of possession, they looked too anxious. They missed seven tackles in the first nine minutes …
Mike Rehu
25 Apr 2021, 3:10
Blue is the coldest colour
Things appear to be unravelling at the Blues and this time, there are no ready made excuses.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
25 Apr 2021, 2:47
Crusaders player ratings vs Blues | Super Rugby Aotearoa
After a tight contest in the first half, the Crusaders really came to life against the Blues in the second period. How did the Cru…
RugbyPass
25 Apr 2021, 1:24
'Blues have been worse as the season has gone on': Fans left to question what went wrong as realisation sets in that this isn't their year
After their resurgent season in 2020, the Blues season started hot with wins away over the Hurricanes and at home over the Highlan…
Sam Smith
25 Apr 2021, 1:24
Crusaders end Blues' Super Rugby Aotearoa finals chances with sizeable victory
The Blue still have one more game left to play in this year's Super Rugby Aotearoa competition, but it will only be pride on the l…
Sam Smith
25 Apr 2021, 0:28
Watch: Crusaders fullback Will Jordan slips past five Blues defenders for stunning opening try
The electric fullback scored his 19th Super Rugby try from what was a rather innocuous start, taking a carry outside first receive…
Online Editors
24 Apr 2021, 23:12
Split loyalties may yet play a part with key All Blacks off-contract beyond 2021
While there are few players in recent years who NZR have lost overseas that they would have dearly loved to have kept in NZ, palms…
Tom Vinicombe
24 Apr 2021, 22:21
Beauden Barrett's Suntory run up 76 points in Top League sudden-death flogging
While there was plenty of talk earlier in the season that the standard of the Top League has increased dramatically, Saturday's kn…
Sam Smith
24 Apr 2021, 19:09
'He's very much like an extra assistant coach': Former Crusader returns to the fold following Jack Goodhue injury
While the Crusaders have some of the best young talent in New Zealand coming through their ranks, they've also been able to call o…
Sam Smith
24 Apr 2021, 17:55
Munster end six-match winless run to Leinster with opening Rainbow Cup victory
Conor Murray’s try double drove Munster to their first win over Leinster since December 2018 as they began the Guinness PRO14 Ra…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 17:26
Leinster and Munster player ratings - Rainbow Cup round one
Here are the Leinster and Munster player ratings from the Rainbow Cup opener where the result from the recent PRO14 final was reve…
Liam Heagney
24 Apr 2021, 15:59
'Get off me you fat ****' - James Ryan's oldschool shoeing at the hands of Stephen Archer raises eyebrows
British and Irish Lions hopeful James Ryan got caught on the wrong side of a ruck close to the Leinster try line and Munster prop …
Ian Cameron
24 Apr 2021, 15:02
'Dave's our guy. He's the one we want leading us' - Don't sack our coach urges Rebels captain
Dave Wessels has mounted a passionate defence for Melbourne's failure to reach the Super Rugby AU finals and boldly declared the R…
AAP
24 Apr 2021, 14:22
Lions fears for George North as star injured in Ospreys win over Cardiff Blues
The win was, however, marred by concerns for George North, who limped off the field in the second half, casting doubt on his avail…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 14:05
'His game is very suited to playing in South Africa and I would certainly pick him'
Chris Boyd paid tribute to his Wales outside-half Dan Biggar who played the final 10 minutes on one leg to help Northampton win th…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 13:36
Scotland see off Wales to finish fifth in Women's Six Nations
Scotland claimed a 27-20 play-off victory over Wales at Scotstoun to clinch fifth place in the Women’s Six Nations.
PA
24 Apr 2021, 13:27
Sale Sharks pushed to the limit in Sixways thriller
Sale Sharks survived a major test of their Gallagher Premiership play-off credentials before subduing struggling Worcester 35-32 i…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 11:47
Northampton shrug off disruptions to cling on for win at Leicester
Northampton hung on with 14 men in the closing stages to clinch a typically hard-fought Premiership derby against Leicester.
PA
24 Apr 2021, 11:35
The day Maggie Alphonsi flattened a young Owen Farrell in front of Eddie Jones
Former England flanker Maggie Alphonsi had a reputation in her playing days, as a hard-hitting, no-nonsense forward but it was in …
Ian Cameron
24 Apr 2021, 11:30
Gloucester rebound from slow start to finish with a Willi Heinz flourish
A lethargic Gloucester found themselves 21-7 in arrears after 20 minutes before dominating Newcastle and securing a morale-boostin…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 11:23
England claim third successive Women's Six Nations title by edging past France
Poppy Cleall’s try on the stroke of half-time put England in the box seat.
PA
24 Apr 2021, 10:23
Another Top14 game has been called off at the last minute
This weekend's Top 14 match between Bordeaux Begles and Montpellier has become the latest fixture to fall victim to the pandemic.
Sam Smith
24 Apr 2021, 10:17
Benetton inflict heavy defeat on Glasgow in Rainbow Cup opener
Benetton failed to win a single game in the PRO14 but they opened their Rainbow Cup account with a storming win at Glasgow.
PA
24 Apr 2021, 9:42
Late Marcus Smith try sees 14-man Harlequins beat London Irish
An Ollie Hassell-Collins try had London Irish primed for a Premiership derby win but 14-man Harlequins struck decisively at the de…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 9:29
Video: Ireland claim third spot in Six Nations after easing past Italy
Under pressure Ireland finished their Women's Six Nations campaign on a winning note, defeating Italy in the third-place playoff i…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 9:19
Three late changes for Northampton Saints ahead of Tigers kick-off
Northampton Saints have been forced into three late changes ahead of their Derby match with Leicester Tigers.
Sam Smith
24 Apr 2021, 7:57
Video: Punches thrown and red cards shown as 13-man Rebels consign Waratahs to winless season
The Melbourne Rebels have consigned the NSW Waratahs to an unprecedented winless Super Rugby AU season with a 36-25 victory in the…
AAP
24 Apr 2021, 7:28
Gael Fickou set for mid-season Racing 92 debut
France centre Gael Fickou is poised to make his Racing 92 debut after transferring to the club from Parisian rivals Stade Francis.…
Ian Cameron
24 Apr 2021, 5:44
Reds locked in negotiations with state government over Super Rugby return
The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) is in negotiations with the state government to allow its Super Rugby team to return home without…
AAP
24 Apr 2021, 4:34
'Thank you for every message, positive and negative from every fan and critic'
Former Ulster No8 Marcell Coetzee has said his time at the Kingspan Stadium was “a chapter in my life I will never ever forget,…
Josh Raisey
24 Apr 2021, 4:23
Start date confirmed for South African arm of PRO14 Rainbow Cup
The South African arm of the Guinness PRO14 Rainbow Cup will begin next weekend after a new fixture list was published by organise…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 4:07
Rory Best lands MLR role with the Seattle Seawolves
Former Ireland hooker Rory Best is back in professional rugby after being revealed by the Seattle Seawolves as their new technical…
Ian Cameron
24 Apr 2021, 3:52
The Tongan tornado
Malakai Fekitoa overcame near-permanent disability to reach the pinnacle of world rugby.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
24 Apr 2021, 3:33
'Hopefully, it is no more than that' - Concern for Sam Simmonds after back row limps off after 'fantastic' performance
Exeter boss Rob Baxter hailed “a fantastic performance” by British and Irish Lions hopeful Sam Simmonds in Chiefs’ 20-12 vic…
PA
24 Apr 2021, 3:30
'The surprise factor is gone': Crusaders boss Scott Robertson's blunt challenge to All Blacks star
Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson has called on young star Cullen Grace to make full use of his "incredible ability" following …
Alex McLeod
24 Apr 2021, 0:42
'I was apologising a fair bit': Chiefs hero Damian McKenzie's apology to teammate during win over Hurricanes
Damian McKenzie may have slotted the winning penalty after the siren in Friday's win over the Hurricanes, but it wasn't all smooth…
Sam Smith
23 Apr 2021, 22:47
'We just didn't play the right options': Reds captain's stark admission following Force loss
Queensland Reds captain Liam Wright says he will learn from his roll-of-the-dice tactics that ended up costing his team a shot at …
AAP
23 Apr 2021, 21:18
Picking a Moana Pasifika XV of players coming off-contract in 2021
The long-awaited inclusion of the Pacific Islands in southern hemisphere franchise rugby is nearly upon us, but which off-contract…
Alex McLeod
23 Apr 2021, 18:52
'All the way': Western Force eyeing up Super Rugby AU title following shock win over Reds
The Western Force are daring to dream of snaring the Super Rugby AU crown after securing a landmark finals appearance in the most …
AAP
23 Apr 2021, 17:18
Up for the fight
Steve Hansen has been impressed with how Big Brad Thorn has turned around the Red's fortunes.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
23 Apr 2021, 17:16
Connacht claim dramatic Rainbow Cup victory over Ulster following last-gasp try
A last-gasp try from replacement winger Peter Sullivan gave Connacht a dramatic 26-24 victory over Ulster at the Kingspan in the R…
PA
23 Apr 2021, 17:10
Edinburgh begin Rainbow Cup campaign with victory over Zebre
Matt Currie scored a try on his first Edinburgh start as Richard Cockerill’s side claimed an opening PRO14 Rainbow Cup triumph c…
PA
23 Apr 2021, 17:02
Hurricanes player ratings vs Chiefs | Super Rugby Aotearoa
A dismal campaign for the Hurricanes got one defeat worse in Hamilton on Friday as Damian McKenzie kicked the Chiefs to victory ye…
Tom Raine
23 Apr 2021, 16:53
Sam Simmonds impresses in front of Warren Gatland as Exeter beat Bristol
Sam Simmonds made a towering case for British and Irish Lions selection in front of Warren Gatland.
PA
23 Apr 2021, 15:53
Paolo Odogwu has broken his silence on his uncapped Six Nations with England and how he would react if Italy called again
Huge excitement accompanied the England call-up of Paolo Odogwu and he has now broken his silence after an uncapped Six Nations ca…
Liam Heagney
23 Apr 2021, 11:50
The defensive Lion
Chris Harris seldom features in Lions fantasy XVs. This is why the Scotland centre has a compelling case for inclusion
LONG READ
Will Owen
23 Apr 2021, 9:23
One cap Scotland winger to return to action after 14-month absence from game
Kyle Steyn will make his Glasgow return in the Rainbow Cup opener after more than a year out of action.
PA
23 Apr 2021, 8:44
Premiership revises mid-May fixture list to welcome back fans to stadiums
Premiership Rugby officials have announced welcome plans to allow fans back into stadiums in England from the middle of May.
Sam Smith
23 Apr 2021, 8:24
Saracens make one change as their XV remains stacked with household names for top-table Championship clash with Ealing
The biggest game of the Championship so far this season will be played on Sunday when a stacked Saracens XV hosts leaders Ealing. …
Liam Heagney
23 Apr 2021, 7:31
Ireland trio return from injury as Leinster name team for inaugural Rainbow Cup game
Ireland Number 8 Caelan Doris is set to play his first game of rugby since being concussed against Munster in January.
Ian Cameron
23 Apr 2021, 6:46
'I have this debate with our props all the time': The tighthead mindset champions Exeter are trying hard to change
Exeter have numerous obvious first-choice players but the rotation by Rob Baxter at tighthead has been in full swing again in rece…
Liam Heagney
23 Apr 2021, 6:26
'Right now it's probably the one position the coaches haven't inked in': Why there is no clarity yet over who will be Lions No10
Many positions on the Lions have standout candidates but out-half doesn't and Sam Warburton is wondering if 2021 will be Dan Bigga…
Liam Heagney
23 Apr 2021, 6:10
Chiefs player ratings vs Hurricanes | Super Rugby Aotearoa
Damian McKenzie has handed the Chiefs yet another last-gasp win. Here's how they rated in their latest win over the Hurricanes.
Mike Rehu
23 Apr 2021, 5:24
'Fatuous' and 'cringeworthy' - Clive Woodward rips into RFU's Six Nations debrief
Rugby World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward has torn into the RFU's Six Nations debrief, describing it as 'cringeworthy'.
Ian Cameron
23 Apr 2021, 5:15
'Unfortunately when I was growing up my role models were male-dominated because that's all we saw on TV'
The 25-year-old is one of nine professional or semi-professional players in the Scotland set-up.
PA
23 Apr 2021, 4:51
Damian McKenzie's late penalty hands Chiefs fifth straight victory with Super Rugby Aotearoa final in sight
Another late penalty goal by Damian McKenzie has handed the Chiefs their fifth consecutive Super Rugby Aotearoa victory as they to…
AAP
23 Apr 2021, 4:08
Alphonsi: Expect the unexpected in Women's Six Nations Super Saturday
Former World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi has given her prediction for the Women’s Six Nations final on Saturday, as England seek …
Josh Raisey
23 Apr 2021, 4:01
Watch: Hurricanes lock tears through Chiefs defence to score opening try in under a minute
The Hurricanes have opened their account against the Chiefs in swift fashion by bursting through the opposition defence to score i…
Sam Smith
23 Apr 2021, 3:42
The first inkling Mike Brown got that his days at Harlequins might be numbered
Departing Harlequins fullback Mike Brown has shed some more light on the events that led to his departure from the London club aft…
Josh Raisey
23 Apr 2021, 3:37
Dane Haylett-Petty defends under-siege Rebels coach
There is so much more than the Weary Dunlop Shield on the line when the NSW Waratahs host the Melbourne Rebels in a high-stakes Su…
AAP
23 Apr 2021, 0:02
Crusaders ready to unleash hulking new propping prospect on All Blacks front-rowers
It's no understatement to suggest that the Crusaders are perhaps the best propping factory in the world, regularly converting inex…
Sam Smith
22 Apr 2021, 22:59
Rieko Ioane handed share of captaincy as injury-hit Blues prepare for do-or-die battle with Crusaders
After two narrow losses in the last three games, the Blues are turning inwards for their focus for the Super Rugby Aotearoa match …
Online Editors
22 Apr 2021, 21:23
All Blacks trio return to starting team as Crusaders name debutant for Blues clash
The Crusaders will welcome the return of three key players to their starting team for this weekend's clash against the Blues in Ch…
Sam Smith
22 Apr 2021, 20:14
Five teams handed an extra home game as Super Rugby Trans-Tasman draw finalised
Five teams will stage an extra home match during this year's Super Rugby Trans-Tasman competition, with one city set to host its f…
Sam Smith
22 Apr 2021, 17:55
Ready as they'll ever be
The trans-Tasman bubble is at long last open and Australia’s NZ counterparts may be licking their lips.
LONG READ
Christy Doran
22 Apr 2021, 16:38
Master of his craft
Over the last 24 months, French scrum-half Antoine Dupont has become, arguably, the world's best player
LONG READ
Ben Smith
22 Apr 2021, 12:33
Exeter highlight major flaw in debate that Premiership rugby should become a summer sport
Premiership scorelines have grown in recent weeks amid the improved weather but Exeter are not in favour of a switch to summer rug…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 11:51
'It's almost like shamelessly going wherever the money is': Ex-Wales captain's withering put-down of disastrous PRO14/Rainbow Cup
Credibility of the Rainbow Cup was damaged before this weekend's start and a prominent ex-Wales player has now joined a chorus of …
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 11:43
'There's nothing worse than seeing that Stuart Hogg try. How he kicks it and gets on the end of it, it's a disgrace'
Wasps folded in an embarrassing fashion last Saturday at Premiership champions Exeter, a fade-out Lee Blackett never wants to witn…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 11:26
'These decisions are not made lightly' - Leicester Tigers release another player mid-season
Leicester Tigers have released another player mid-season, confirming that hooker Jake Kerr will leave his contract early.
Sam Smith
22 Apr 2021, 10:24
'I always dislike being asked' - Sam Warburton's brutally honest take on who should captain the Lions
Two-time British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has said it is “unfair” to ask him to name his captain this year as the…
Josh Raisey
22 Apr 2021, 9:35
London Irish sign Vladimir Podrezov
London Irish have completed the signing of Vladimir Podrezov. The Russian prop, formerly of VVA-Podmoskovye, has been training wit…
Sam Smith
22 Apr 2021, 9:14
'Hamish Watson is never too small': Ex-Lions skipper's ringing endorsement for the Scottish back row whose size has divided opinion
A post-Six Nations debate has been raging about the stature of Scotland's Hamish Watson and an-ex Lions skipper has now had his sa…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 7:07
Video: Former England flyhalf calls out Owen Farrell over questionable hit in Championship debut
Saracens and England flyhalf Owen Farrell has been accused of getting away with another highly questionably challenge in his Champ…
Ian Cameron
22 Apr 2021, 6:41
Bristol change seven for Friday's top-table Premiership clash while Exeter hand Jack Nowell first start in six months
The teams are in for Friday night's top-table Premiership clash at Ashton Gate between leaders Bristol and defending champions Exe…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 6:31
RFU's Six Nations debrief reads like a list of excuses - Andy Goode
The RFU’s Six Nations debrief has backed Eddie Jones to the hilt but it seems to have absolved him of responsibility and reads l…
Andy Goode
22 Apr 2021, 5:58
Rising coaching star Nick Evans is a fan of LQB rather than KBA
Former Ireland outside half Ronan O’Gara is getting his La Rochelle team to embrace the concept of Keep Ball Alive (KBA) as they…
Chris Jones
22 Apr 2021, 5:47
Gibbes gets Clermont job while O'Gara earns promotion at La Rochelle
Kiwi Jono Gibbes and Irishman Ronan O'Gara will end their successful coaching partnership at double chasing La Rochelle this summe…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 4:18
Shout out to my ex
Having helped them win a World Cup, Matt Proudfoot explains what Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber tick.
LONG READ
Simnikiwe Xabanisa
22 Apr 2021, 3:59
Edinburgh release Nic Groom with immediate effect
Edinburgh have confirmed that they are to release Nic Groom and Sam Kitchen with immediate effect to allow them to pursue contract…
Sam Smith
22 Apr 2021, 3:57
Exeter Chiefs set to sign 6'4, 128kg NZ prospect Josh Iosefa-Scott
Exeter Chiefs are set to sign former Highlander prop Josh Iosefa-Scott, RugbyPass understands.
Ian Cameron
22 Apr 2021, 3:36
The three Saracens players ex-Lions skipper Warburton believes will '100 per cent go on tour'
The Test-playing contingent at Saracens have had a hard time in 2021 and Sam Warburton has now given his verdict on their Lions to…
Liam Heagney
22 Apr 2021, 3:21
McMillan hints that Damian McKenzie is set for a Super Rugby rest
Week after week, Super Rugby clubs are having to field their top teams, knowing that every match could be the one that decides the…
Tom Vinicombe
22 Apr 2021, 2:05
'This week is do or die': Wallabies number 8 looking to keep season alive while Waratahs try to avoid winless season
Isi Naisarani isn't ready for his Super Rugby AU season to be over and vowed to do all he can to see Melbourne into the finals wit…
AAP
22 Apr 2021, 1:45
'Financially there's massive incentives for those type of uncapped players': Why Japan is a growing threat to Australian Rugby
Deans earlier this year told AAP the Top League had become the "new destination of choice" because of its unique, back-to-the-futu…
AAP
22 Apr 2021, 1:36
'We've probably been lucky': Why the fast-finishing Chiefs can't write off the fifth-placed Hurricanes
Friday night's Super Rugby Aotearoa match in Hamilton will see the second-placed Chiefs take on the visiting Hurricanes, who are w…
Tom Vinicombe
21 Apr 2021, 23:45
'We need Pollard in the squad': Springbok flyhalf Jantjies backs his injured rival to make it back for the British & Irish Lions
The 30-year-old, who made the last of his 37 Test appearances during 2019’s Webb Ellis trophy success, last week announced he wi…
Online Editors
21 Apr 2021, 21:35
'That would be the ultimate': Jamie Joseph reveals long-term hopes and short-term obstacles for Japan
Jamie Joseph has shed some light on Japan's plans for the coming season - as well as what he hopes to see from the Brave Blossoms …
Sam Smith
21 Apr 2021, 21:19
'It's certainly taking its time': Patrick Tuipulotu remains sidelined ahead of crunch Crusaders match
Ahead of Saturday's crunch game with the Crusaders, it appears that captain Patrick Tuipulotu will again be a key absence for the …
Sam Smith
21 Apr 2021, 18:38
Mana rising
Despite coming in as an interim coach, Clayton McMillan had no intentions of sitting on his hands.
LONG READ
Michael Pulman
21 Apr 2021, 17:52
Warburton names his Lions captain and identifies the six players he feels are bankers to start first Test versus the Springboks
Skipper in 2013 and 2017, Sam Warburton has identified his successor and named six players who will definitely start in the first …
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 16:00
RugbyPass Offload - Episode 26: Loyalty and legends with ex-England duo Mike Brown and Maggie Alphonsi
RugbyPass Offload - Episode 26 sees Christina Mahon, Ryan Wilson and Jamie Roberts joined by ex-England pair Mike Brown and Maggie…
RugbyPass
21 Apr 2021, 14:00
Etzebeth picks the Lions locks he expects to face in July with the Springboks
With just over 13 weeks to go before the first Test, Springboks talisman Eben Etzebeth has named the Lions locks he expects to be …
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 13:31
'That is just agents looking for more money': Wasps outline their next move at No10 after losing Lima Sopoaga to Lyon
With ex-All Blacks back Lima Sopoaga snapped up by Lyon for next season, Wasps have reflected on the gap his exit leaves in their …
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 13:27
Rusty Japan plan warm-up before taking on the Lions in June
It has been 20 months since Japan last played a match but they won't go into the June game versus the Lions cold as a warm-up is p…
PA
21 Apr 2021, 11:40
'Melbourne Storm went through a similar scandal to ourselves': McCall sets Saracens an ambitious Aussie-influenced target
Relegated Saracens are approaching the business end of the Championship and Mark McCall has set his team an ambitious target.
PA
21 Apr 2021, 10:48
The frightening reason why Wasps have booked Matteo Minozzi in for unexpected surgery
A doctor recently made a frightening discovery when he routinely checked out the eyesight of Wasps full-back Matteo Minozzi.
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 10:30
Long-term Wales absentee Gareth Anscombe has posted his latest ACL recovery update
It was August 2019 when Gareth Anscombe last played a match and the Wales out-half has posted his latest injury recovery video.
Josh Raisey
21 Apr 2021, 8:07
'He threatened the surgeon he better do a good job, the best job he has ever done'
According to Alex Sanderson, Lood de Jager has returned to the Sale set-up on a relentless mission to get fit for the Springboks i…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 7:28
'Probably the overall damage is in the region of £1billion': World Rugby's grim lost revenue forecast
World Rugby have unveiled a new strategic plan through to 2025 and it has arrived on the back of a dreadful lost revenue forecast.…
PA
21 Apr 2021, 6:51
Cross-hemisphere Rainbow Cup matches cancelled
Teams like the Bulls were expected in Europe in late May but that plan for the gimmicky Rainbow Cup has been cancelled due to the …
Sam Smith
21 Apr 2021, 5:26
'I bailed out of the tackle...': Sale's Rob du Preez cops ban for last weekend's red card
Sale out-half Rob du Preez was sent off by referee Adam Leal last weekend and appeared before an online disciplinary panel on Tue…
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 4:58
Darren Childs has quit as Premiership Rugby's CEO
It was August 2019 when Darren Childs joined Premiership Rugby as CEO but he is now stepping away after less than two years in the…
Sam Smith
21 Apr 2021, 4:39
Ex-Junior Springboks set for NFL trial after consistently kicking 75-yard field goals in practice
Lloyd Greeff made it as far as Junior Springboks in his rugby career but he will head to California next month dreaming of making …
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 4:21
The glass ceiling
They are one of the biggest clubs in the world but Munster are stuck on the second tier.
LONG READ
Jonathan Bradley
21 Apr 2021, 4:07
Sam Warburton unveils the Canterbury jersey the Lions will wear versus the Springboks
The countdown to the Lions tour in South Africa accelerated on Wednesday with the unveiling of the Canterbury jersey that will be …
Liam Heagney
21 Apr 2021, 3:47
'Over time if the competition is not an every-game-matters, it's not sustainable'
With no relegation this year, leaders Bristol have warned that all teams must keep trying their best or the Premiership loses cred…
PA
21 Apr 2021, 3:29
'I'm not convinced': Ex-All Black and broadcaster clash over whether NZR has 'the backbone or the stomach' to help Moana Pasifika succeed
Sky broadcaster Ken Laban and ex-All Black Sir John Kirwan have clashed over whether NZR has “the backbone or the stomach” to …
Alex McLeod
21 Apr 2021, 1:24
Damian McKenzie's positional merry-go-round continues as Chiefs lose All Black to concussion
Damian McKenzie has been shifted once more as the Chiefs chase their fifth win on the trot, with the pocket rocket slotting back i…
Tom Vinicombe
20 Apr 2021, 23:31
Clayton McMillan responds to Warren Gatland chatter: 'I know a lot has been written in the media'
Interim Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan has weighed in on speculation surrounding Warren Gatland’s future with the team.
Michael Pulman
20 Apr 2021, 23:31
Wallabies prospect likely to miss remainder of Super Rugby AU after being handed suspension
Promising Melbourne Rebels lock Trevor Hosea won't play again unless his team make the Super Rugby AU grand final after he was han…
AAP
20 Apr 2021, 22:13
'That's my gut feel': Hurricanes boss Jason Holland breaks silence on TJ Perenara's potential NRL move
Hurricanes boss Jason Holland is confident TJ Perenara will return to the franchise as rumours continue to swirl around about the …
Alex McLeod
20 Apr 2021, 21:50
Ruben Love retained at No 10 as Hurricanes name one debutant for Chiefs battle
Rookie first five Ruben Love will again be tasked with wearing the No 10 jersey for the Hurricanes this weekend against the high-f…
Tom Vinicombe
20 Apr 2021, 21:10
'I needed a break': Former Highlanders coach rules himself out of Moana Pasifika role
Former Highlanders boss Aaron Mauger has ruled himself out of becoming Moana Pasifika head coach in their inaugural season next ye…
Sam Smith
20 Apr 2021, 20:45
Chiefs bring in star Under 20s centre as injury replacement
While the Chiefs haven't been hit quite as cataclysmically hard by injuries this season as they were in 2020, they've not escaped …
Tom Vinicombe
20 Apr 2021, 19:48
On the hook
The fire that burns within Dane Coles is raging still, which is why he’s put off retiring.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
20 Apr 2021, 17:26
'He's another one that has to be on the radar': The 'big body' Crusader making a case for All Blacks selection
One man who impressed former Blues hooker James Parsons in the Crusaders narrow loss to the Chiefs was the makeshift openside flan…
Sam Smith
20 Apr 2021, 16:53
'What he was willing to sacrifice in wages to stay here...': Sale shed light on why Manu Tuilagi was convinced to stay
Sale pulled off a coup on Monday when announcing that Manu Tuilagi will stay at the club for another two years, pleasing boss Alex…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2021, 13:12
'Abject failure': Online England fans haven't taken kindly to the RFU verdict on Eddie Jones
Struggling England boss Eddie Jones has been given a vote of confidence but the RFU but many fans online are unhappy with this out…
Josh Raisey
20 Apr 2021, 12:16
World Cup winner Naholo has made a secret comeback after nightmare 14 months out at Irish
Ex-All Blacks wing Waisake Naholo hasn't played Premiership for London Irish since February 2020 but he made a secret comeback rec…
Chris Jones
20 Apr 2021, 11:58
Carl Fearns has joined Newcastle with immediate effect from the French Pro D2
It was 2015 when Carl Fearns left Bath for an adventure in France but he is now back in the Premiership at Newcastle after six yea…
Sam Smith
20 Apr 2021, 10:57
Contract extensions agreed for 10 Saracens staff members, including long-serving boss McCall
Promotion-chasing Saracens have announced they are keeping faith in long-serving boss Mark McCall and nine other staff at the Lond…
Sam Smith
20 Apr 2021, 10:28
Wales skipper Alun Wyn Jones signs on for more with Ospreys and the WRU
Any speculation Alun Wyn Jones might retire after the 2021 Lions tour has been quashed after the Wales skipper posted an Instagram…
Sam Smith
20 Apr 2021, 10:10
'The bone actually came through the skin...': Etzebeth on the gruesome injury that gave Springboks fans a recent fright
Eben Etzebeth recently gave Springboks fans a fright when it emerged he had been injured in a training ground accident with Toulon…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2021, 9:43
Eddie Jones to remain England head coach after RFU publishes in-depth Six Nations review
The RFU have outlined their stance on Eddie Jones 31 days after the 2021 England Six Nations campaign finished on a losing note in…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2021, 8:10
'Warren knows him, the character and the quality of player he is'
2017's Lions pick Jack Nowell only made his first appearance of this season last weekend with Exeter following injury last October…
PA
20 Apr 2021, 6:51
Bristol issue update on injured trio Sheedy, Radradra and Randall
With Premiership champions Exeter due at Ashton Gate on Friday, Bristol have issued an injury update concerning three of their sta…
PA
20 Apr 2021, 6:40
Edinburgh sign 'towering lock' Pierce Phillips from the Top 14
With Agen relegated from the Top 14 last weekend, the break-up of their squad has started with Edinburgh signing Pierce Phillips. …
Sam Smith
20 Apr 2021, 6:28
'That is why the football one has created a bit of a furore': Exeter wade into Super League debate and its relevance for rugby
With six Premier League football teams set to join a breakaway European league, Exeter boss Rob Baxter has given a rugby viewpoint…
Liam Heagney
20 Apr 2021, 6:01
What to expect from the Rainbow Cup, rugby's latest brand new competition?
The new Rainbow Cup swings into action this weekend and here is an explainer telling you everything you need to know about the tou…
PA
20 Apr 2021, 4:44
Bigger isn't always better
LIons need to learn lessons of 2009, when Heinrich Brüssow bossed the breakdown for the Boks
LONG READ
Jon Cardinelli
20 Apr 2021, 2:37
'You can't play for the All Blacks or Australia': New Super Rugby side Moana Pasifika reveal eligibility rules
Moana Pasifika has revealed key details over the eligibility of its playing roster a year out from its inaugural season in a new p…
Sam Smith
20 Apr 2021, 1:32
'How do we know that Warren's not involved?': How the Chiefs have bounced back from their horror season
In the space of a month, Clayton McMillan has taken the Chiefs from an 11-match losing streak to within sniffing distance of a spo…
Tom Vinicombe
20 Apr 2021, 0:22
Sydney Roosters star backs All Blacks halfback TJ Perenara to make successful NRL switch
A Sydney Roosters star, who played for the Australian Schools union team six years ago, is hoping the All Blacks star becomes a su…
AAP
19 Apr 2021, 22:18
'He's definitely playing well enough': Has Josh Ioane played himself back into the All Blacks?
An ex-All Black believes Josh Ioane has been "playing well enough" to "warrant selection" in the next national squad, but said it …
Alex McLeod
19 Apr 2021, 21:32
'The guy is made for league': Hurricanes teammate Dane Coles weighs in on TJ Perenara's potential code switch
Speaking to media after announcing a two-year deal with NZR and the Hurricanes until the end of 2023, Coles was asked for his thou…
Sam Smith
19 Apr 2021, 19:55
'We were getting ready to kick pretty much straight after that penalty': Why the Crusaders failed to pull the trigger
Against the Hurricanes in Wellington, the Crusaders had no reservations pulling the trigger and kicking a drop goal to win the mat…
Sam Smith
19 Apr 2021, 19:36
Push the pass
The All Blacks' offloading game has faded dramatically since Wayne Smith left the coaching fold.
LONG READ
Ben Smith
19 Apr 2021, 16:50
Which sides would make a 12-team European rugby union Super League?
The sporting headlines this weekend have been dominated by a highly controversial bid to launch a twelve-team European Super Leagu…
Josh Raisey
19 Apr 2021, 12:02
'With Scotland, Gatland used to stand next to the pitch on his phone, have lunch with us then b****r off'
Tim Visser has said that Scotland have always been “underrepresented” in Warren Gatland’s British and Irish Lions squad.
Josh Raisey
19 Apr 2021, 11:48
'I hate it' - How Gatland dealt with the source of a 2008 media leak in Wales camp
British and Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland has recalled how he dealt with the source of a leak in the Wales camp back in 20…
Ian Cameron
19 Apr 2021, 10:58
Joe Marler's brilliant take on Adidas 'Impossible is Nothing' campaign
Joe Marler has provided his own spin on the current social media campaign launched by Adidas.
Josh Raisey
19 Apr 2021, 10:12
Sexton ruled out of Leinster's Rainbow Cup game against Munster as he continues recovery from head injury
The province kick-off their Rainbow Cup campaign this Saturday and travel to play La Rochelle in the Champions Cup semi-finals on …
Ciarán Kennedy
19 Apr 2021, 8:51
Dwayne Peel released from Cardiff contract and confirmed as Scarlets' new head coach
The Blues have confirmed Peel will not be joining the club despite signing a three-year contract which was due to start in July 20…
Sam Smith
19 Apr 2021, 8:23
Dickinson swaps Bristol for Glasgow
Scrum coach Alasdair Dickinson will join Glasgow Warriors coaching staff ahead of the 2021/22 season, leaving his current role at …
Sam Smith
19 Apr 2021, 8:07
Ugo Monye to chair RFU's new diversity and inclusion advisory group
Monye will head the group, with former England star and current Wasps Ladies director of rugby Giselle Mather acting as vice-chair…
PA
19 Apr 2021, 7:58
Return of the Gat
Glorious free-flowing rugby, Lions talk and petty squabbles dominate the weekend's talking points
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
19 Apr 2021, 7:22
'I think it's disgusting' - Mike Phillips ruthlessly trolls former adversary Mike Brown on Twitter
Former Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips has taken what appears to be a good-natured swipe at Harlequins fullback Mike Brown on Twitt…
Ian Cameron
19 Apr 2021, 6:34
Harlequins sign up versatile back Nick David from Worcester Warriors
The versatile back came through the Worcester Warriors Academy and has represented the club 28 times to date.
Sam Smith
19 Apr 2021, 6:16
Ugo Monye may just have nailed the Lions with his revised XV
Only two Englishmen have made Ugo Monye’s British and Irish Lions XV to start against South Africa this summer.
Josh Raisey
19 Apr 2021, 5:51
John Afoa to move into coaching role with Bristol
Afoa will take over from Alasdair Dickinson ahead of the 2021/22 season and will carry out the role alongside his playing commitme…
Ciarán Kennedy
19 Apr 2021, 5:35
Springbok prop backs 'destructive' Joe Marler for Lions tour to South Africa
Tighthead Wilco Louw has seen first hand the destructive power of Marler’s scrum work and tackling this season.
Chris Jones
19 Apr 2021, 4:30
Manu Tuilagi signs new long-term deal with Sale Sharks
The 29-year-old England international joined Sale following his high-profile exit from Leicester Tigers last year.
Ciarán Kennedy
19 Apr 2021, 3:59
Why Shannon Frizell is in pole position to reclaim the All Blacks' No 6 jersey this year
If Shannon Frizell continues his strong form for the Highlanders, it will be increasingly difficult to deny him the All Blacks' No…
Alex McLeod
19 Apr 2021, 2:02
'I've seen how social media gets to some of the younger players and we've had that happen here'
After a run of four straight closely fought victories against their Kiwi rivals, the Chiefs are the in-form team in Super Rugby Ao…
Michael Pulman
19 Apr 2021, 0:24
Why are the All Blacks going to pick Retallick, Barrett and possibly Perenara out of Japan and not guys everywhere else?
If we are going to pick Beauden Barrett and Brodie Retallick (and maybe not TJ Perenara if John Kirwan’s telling the story) then…
Hamish Bidwell
18 Apr 2021, 23:29
Blues prop Alex Hodgman's Super Rugby Aotearoa season over following red card against Highlanders
Blues prop Alex Hodgman will play no further part in Super Rugby Aotearoa this season after copping a ban for his red card against…
Alex McLeod
18 Apr 2021, 22:25
Quade Cooper set for reunion with Robbie Deans following dramatic weekend of Top League play-offs
Japan's Top League has gained a major global promotional boost as Quade Cooper's Kintetsu Liners have been put on a collision cour…
AAP
18 Apr 2021, 19:48
All Blacks and Hurricanes star Dane Coles knocks back retirement rumours to re-sign with NZR
All Blacks and Hurricanes hooker Dane Coles has shot down rumours of retirement by re-committing to New Zealand Rugby and the Hurr…
Sam Smith
18 Apr 2021, 17:43
Pacific pathway
Moana Pasifika's genesis is the first step to helping Pasifika rugby thrive, but an important one nonetheless.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
18 Apr 2021, 17:00
Late Doncaster hits can't stop cool headed Owen Farrell - McCall
Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall saluted Owen Farrell after his return to action in a hefty 50-15 Greene King IPA Championsh…
PA
18 Apr 2021, 15:29
Bath score late to extend home dominance over Leicester
Leicester were denied a first Gallagher Premiership success at the Recreation Ground for 10 years after Ben Spencer’s late conve…
PA
18 Apr 2021, 12:23
Owen Farrell returns as Saracens put big score on Doncaster Knights
Owen Farrell returned to action for Saracens in their crushing 50-15 win at Greene King IPA Championship title rivals Doncaster Kn…
PA
18 Apr 2021, 12:12
'Players were turning around and saying 'how has this guy got 50 caps for England? He's useless'.'
British and Irish Lions boss Warren Gatland has been reflecting on one of his most memorable signing while head coach of Wasps.
Ian Cameron
18 Apr 2021, 9:18
Fiji may be forced to base Super Rugby team in New Zealand
Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer John O’Connor has revealed contingency plans are in place to base the Fijian Drua in Ne…
Chris Jones
18 Apr 2021, 8:17
John Dawes: The man with a chemistry degree who led Lions and Wales to success
The Welshman, who has died aged 80, is the only player to have captained the British and Irish Lions to a Test series victory agai…
PA
18 Apr 2021, 6:01
Text messages reveal how serious TJ Perenara is about NRL switch
TJ Perenara is serious about a switch to rugby league and is texting NRL players for tips on how to improve as a player.
Ian Cameron
18 Apr 2021, 5:39
Jordan Taufua decides his immediate playing future and it will be in France
Former Leicester Tigers' back row Jordan Taufua will be remaining in France after extending his stay with Lyon in the Top 14. 
Sam Smith
18 Apr 2021, 4:39
'So impressed with how good an athlete he is': Why England recall Joe Marchant has thrived at Harlequins following Super Rugby loan
Joe Marchant spent half of 2020 in New Zealand with the Blues and Harlequins are now reaping the reward of that ambitious loan spe…
Liam Heagney
18 Apr 2021, 4:00
Former Ireland international backs Danny Care for Lions squad inclusion
Danny Care has a shot of claiming a place on the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa, according to Harlequins assistant c…
PA
18 Apr 2021, 3:17
The Scottish sheep farmer's son called 'Bomber' whose insider knowledge of Saracens is about to be tested
It's been quite the career for farm-reared Robin Hislop but the Doncaster Bomber won't face his old Saracens friends due to untime…
Liam Heagney
18 Apr 2021, 3:14
The Lions selection snub that the Springboks are 'happy about'
World Cup winner Schalk Brits believes the British and Irish Lions have missed a golden opportunity to boost their chances of a te…
Chris Jones
18 Apr 2021, 2:44
Melbourne's Super Rugby AU season remains on a knife-edge after Rebels loss
Melbourne's Super Rugby AU season remains on a knife-edge after they fell to the Brumbies 26-20 in a thriller at AAMI Park on Sund…
AAP
18 Apr 2021, 2:44
'When Gregor spoke to me, I was angry... For me to be denied that opportunity hurts'
Sean Maitland has a smile on his face and a spring in his step as he trots down to breakfast in the Scotland team hotel.
Jamie Lyall
18 Apr 2021, 2:01
Chiefs loss caps off worst period in Scott Robertson's reign as wheels fall off the Crusaders' machine
It shows how good the Crusaders have been since Scott Robertson took over as coach in 2017 that Saturday night's loss to the Chief…
Sam Smith
17 Apr 2021, 23:34
Western Force provide update on Rob Kearney as former All Black set to miss Reds clash
Western Force coach Tim Sampson is hopeful superstar fullback Rob Kearney will be able to return for Friday night's season-definin…
AAP
17 Apr 2021, 21:48
'They left a bit of cattle at home': Chiefs captain Brad Weber not getting carried away following Crusaders victory
Chiefs captain Brad Weber isn't getting carried away following his side's victory over the table-topping Crusaders on Saturday eve…
Tom Vinicombe
17 Apr 2021, 21:34
Consistent Samisoni Taukei'aho's performance against the Crusaders puts him right in the All Blacks frame
It wasn't too long ago that Chiefs supporters used to hold their breath whenever hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho had the ball in his ha…
Tom Vinicombe
17 Apr 2021, 18:41
That winning feeling
After a torrid year, the Chiefs have finally rediscovered the lost art of winning.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
17 Apr 2021, 18:23
'The VAR of rugby': Captain's referral under the spotlight after fans question the spirit of the Crusaders' final challenge
With no visible reason to challenge, Crusaders captain Scott Barrett threw a last ditch referral under the new rules which allow f…
Sam Smith
17 Apr 2021, 17:29
Warren Gatland: Clubs don't need extra money for Lions duty
Warren Gatland has questioned the sense of English clubs demanding additional compensation for releasing their players.
PA
17 Apr 2021, 16:09
Captain Manuela Furlan scores hat-trick as Italy cruise to win over Scotland
Manuela Furlan scored a hat-trick as Italy cruised to a 41-20 win over Scotland in their Women’s Six Nations clash.
PA
17 Apr 2021, 14:08
Max Malins claims brace as Premiership leaders Bristol see off Newcastle
Premiership leaders Bristol put in a scintillating attacking display as they claimed a 34-17 bonus-point victory.
PA
17 Apr 2021, 14:03
England duo inspire Harlequins to dominant win over Worcester
Harlequins took advantage of excellent conditions and willing opponents to engineer a 50-26 victory over Worcester that returned t…
PA
17 Apr 2021, 13:07
France hammer Ireland to set up Six Nations title decider versus England
Ireland had hopes of causing a Women's Six Nations upset in Dublin but they were blown away by France who now meet England in the …
PA
17 Apr 2021, 11:17
'The only other thing is to start fining the lads...': Sanderson fuming over Sale discipline
Sale boss Alex Sanderson was chuffed by his team's resilience on Saturday but he was fuming over yet another card, this time a red…
PA
17 Apr 2021, 10:42
Wayne Barnes has a dig at himself on Twitter following Friday night's play-stopping gaffe at Northampton
Veteran referee Wayne Barnes unwittingly became London Irish's 16th man during one first-half incident at Northampton on Friday.
Liam Heagney
17 Apr 2021, 10:17
Lee Blackett's reaction to Wasps' dramatic second-half collapse
Wasps boss Lee Blackett pulled no punches after watching his team’s second-half demise against Gallagher Premiership champions E…
PA
17 Apr 2021, 10:08
Nigel Owens on his 'concerns' for an Itoje led Lions and why he prefers Alun Wyn Jones should
Nigel Owens has written that he thinks Alun Wyn Jones and not Maro Itoje should lead the British and Irish Lions tour to South Afr…
Ian Cameron
17 Apr 2021, 9:39
Sale just about hold on against Gloucester after first-half Rob du Preez red card
Rob du Preez was sent off in the 26th minute with Sale leading Gloucester 12-5 through tries from Faf de Klerk and Arron Reed.
PA
17 Apr 2021, 9:18
33 unanswered second-half points see Exeter impressively respond to European exit
Exeter consolidated second place behind runaway Premiership leaders Bristol with a convincing second-half flourish in their win ov…
PA
17 Apr 2021, 8:46
Force claim first home victory since 2017 in after-siren thriller win over Waratahs
The Western Force's finals hopes are still alive after Argentinian flyhalf Domingo Miotti nailed a penalty after the final siren t…
AAP
17 Apr 2021, 7:39
Agen relegated to ProD2 and on track for worst season in league's history
Agen were officially relegated from the Top 14 on Friday night, despite six games remaining until the season has run its course.
Ian Cameron
17 Apr 2021, 7:18
'You get your head kicked in by a lot of angry Welshmen, especially having the accent I have'
As lockdown birthdays go, James Lang’s was a howler. The centre spent the first night of his 27th year chasing shadows around Th…
Jamie Lyall
17 Apr 2021, 5:38
Crusaders player ratings vs Chiefs | Super Rugby Aotearoa
Round 8 of Super Rugby Aotearoa has delivered an absolute gem of a match seeing the Crusaders defeated 26-25 by the Chiefs, who on…
Nick Turnbull
17 Apr 2021, 4:49
Chiefs player ratings vs Crusaders | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The Chiefs sent Hamilton and surrounding cow country into a frenzy by pipping the Crusaders 26-25, showing belief and skill to und…
Mike Rehu
17 Apr 2021, 4:38
'I got on with the lads... but I never felt I played well enough to earn their respect'
Injuries have a habit of rearing their heads at the worst possible time for Cameron Redpath, but after his latest setback – a ne…
Gavin Harper
17 Apr 2021, 3:57
Chiefs edge Crusaders in one-point thriller to move into Super Rugby Aotearoa final spot
The Chiefs have edged the Crusaders 26-25 in a Super Rugby Aotearoa thriller at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton.
Alex McLeod
17 Apr 2021, 3:52
Northampton climb up to fourth in Premiership with London Irish win
Alex Mitchell and Ollie Sleightholme both scored two tries as Northampton moved up to fourth in the Gallagher Premiership table af…
PA
17 Apr 2021, 3:35
Watch: All Blacks trio cut Chiefs defence to shreds as Crusaders score scintillating try
A trio of All Blacks stars have combined to tear the Chiefs' defence apart during the two side's Super Rugby Aotearoa clash in Ham…
Sam Smith
17 Apr 2021, 3:20
'That is the eureka moment': What convinced Bristol to keep faith in their 30-something veterans
It's increasingly difficult in rugby to play on into your mid to late 30s but Bristol duo John Afoa and Dave Attwood are bucking t…
Liam Heagney
17 Apr 2021, 3:19
'I don't know if the coaches are talking about me at all' - Danny Care refuses to give up on Lions dream
Scrum-half Danny Care believes he can make his British and Irish Lions dream come true by defying the odds and winning a place in …
Chris Jones
17 Apr 2021, 3:18
Former cross-code star Sonny Bill Williams gives verdict on TJ Perenara's potential NRL move
Former All Blacks and rugby league star Sonny Bill Williams has given his verdict on TJ Perenara's potential move to the NRL.
Sam Smith
17 Apr 2021, 1:57
Tony Brown reveals the key to Highlanders win over Blues to keep Super Rugby Aoteaora hopes alive
Highlanders head coach Tony Brown has praised his loose forwards, playmakers, a young midfielder and a veteran lock for their stan…
Alex McLeod
17 Apr 2021, 0:39
Report: All Blacks set to face surprise opponent during multi-million dollar end-of-year tour
The All Blacks could reportedly square off against a surprise opponent in one of two additional tests to the three matches already…
Sam Smith
16 Apr 2021, 20:38
'We were trying to build the best combo in the country': Highlanders star Aaron Smith's devastation over Folau Fakatava injury
Highlanders co-captain Aaron Smith has revealed he is "brutally disappointed" for rising Highlanders star Folau Fakatava following…
Alex McLeod
16 Apr 2021, 19:35
Midfield muddle
More questions than answers continue to arise in the All Blacks’ quest to rebuild their midfield.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
16 Apr 2021, 17:58
'We've talked': Sydney Roosters boss confirms interest in All Blacks star TJ Perenara
Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has confirmed the side are in talks to bring All Blacks star TJ Perenara to the NRL club to…
AAP
16 Apr 2021, 17:48
Earning the right
Wanted by Scotland and England, Cam Redpath smashed a Calcutta Cup hoodoo on debut. This is his story.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
16 Apr 2021, 12:19
'Kept in dark' - Moana Pasifika must not become puppet team for NZR
Pacific Rugby Players Welfare chief Dan Leo has said players and unions from Moana Pasifika have told him that they have been 'kep…
Josh Raisey
16 Apr 2021, 11:58
British and Irish Lions confirm island training camp to be staged on Jersey
Jersey has been confirmed as the location for the British and Irish Lions’ training camp before they depart for South Africa.
PA
16 Apr 2021, 11:31
PRO14 champions Leinster react to 19 contract deals, 16 for players - including veteran Toner - who came through their academy
It has been a hectic week for PRO14 Leinster regarding player contracts and coach Leo Cullen has now summed up all the wheeling an…
Sam Smith
16 Apr 2021, 11:09
Former Wales and Lions captain and coach John Dawes dies
Dawes famously led the Lions to their only series victory over New Zealand in 1971.
PA
16 Apr 2021, 10:58
Scotland Test trio sidelined with potential season ending injuries
Huw Jones is set to miss the rest of the season and his Glasgow and Scotland team-mates Adam Hastings and Scott Cummings could joi…
PA
16 Apr 2021, 10:49
Picking a British and Irish Lions 'debutants XV'
There will be plenty of familiar faces in the British and Irish Lions squad this year returning for their second, third and, in th…
Josh Raisey
16 Apr 2021, 10:35
'I quite like tired defences, it would be an interesting change in the laws'
With his props playing the full 80 in a recent European match, Wasps boss Lee Blackett has spoken about rugby reducing its eight-m…
Liam Heagney
16 Apr 2021, 10:35
The dressing room message that got Bath over the line against Irish in Europe 12 days after losing to them in the Premiership
Bath needed a response coming up against Irish 12 days after losing to them in the Premiership and Stuart Hooper knew which button…
Liam Heagney
16 Apr 2021, 10:30
JP Doyle is back refereeing eight months after he was made redundant by the RFU
It was August when it emerged that popular referee JP Doyle has been made redundant by the RFU but he has now reappeared in the ML…
Liam Heagney
16 Apr 2021, 8:36
Flicking the switch
Nathan Sharpe talks about how Eddie Jones masterminded the 2003 World Cup win over New Zealand
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
16 Apr 2021, 7:24
'It's a little bit of science, a little bit of art': Why Bristol have never picked the same 23 week to week in the four-year Pat Lam era
Despite Bristol leading the Premiership, Pat Lam has revealed why he will always look to change his matchday 23 from one week to t…
Liam Heagney
16 Apr 2021, 7:10
Eleven Test players named in stacked Saracens team for Doncaster
Owen Farrell has recovered from a calf problem to lead Saracens in their Greene King IPA Championship match against Doncaster at C…
PA
16 Apr 2021, 6:56
Blues player ratings vs Highlanders | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The Blues' hopes of clinching a place in the Super Rugby Aotearoa final are hanging by a thread after they fell to their third los…
Mike Rehu
16 Apr 2021, 5:09
'We have the most loyal fan base in the world, and they haven't had a home game win yet'
Western Force players are determined to give the club's long-suffering fans a rare dose of joy in Saturday night's clash with the …
AAP
16 Apr 2021, 4:57
Highlanders player ratings vs Blues | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The Highlanders have kept their Super Rugby Aotearoa final hopes alive with a shock 35-29 win over the Blues in Dunedin on Friday.
Alex McLeod
16 Apr 2021, 4:48
'My body has definitely been struggling': Edinburgh's Fraser McKenzie has quit with immediate effect
The 33-year-old Fraser McKenzie hangs up his boots following a 15-year career that included the lock making 119 appearances for Ed…
Sam Smith
16 Apr 2021, 4:44
Goosen becomes the latest big-name signing by Jake White's Bulls
New Bulls signing Johan Goosen, the 13-cap Springboks utility back, has been playing his rugby in recent years with French side M…
Sam Smith
16 Apr 2021, 4:25
Highlanders re-enter race for Super Rugby Aotearoa final with drama-filled win over Blues
The Highlanders have kept themselves in the hunt for a place in the Super Rugby Aotearoa final by upsetting the Blues 30-29 in a d…
AAP
16 Apr 2021, 4:07
Parisse lines up Toulon extension but the outlook is reportedly different for ex-All Blacks duo Nonu and Toeava
Toulon had placed great fate in Sergio Parisse, Ma’a Nonu and Isaia Toeava - three veteran 30-somethings - for the 2020/21 Top 1…
Sam Smith
16 Apr 2021, 4:01
Ireland duo commit to Leinster with new deals
Sean Cronin and Luke McGrath have become the latest players to sign new deals with Guinness PRO14 champions Leinster.
PA
16 Apr 2021, 3:24
Using players as pawns was Gatland's first 2021 Lions mistake - Andy Goode
Players shouldn’t be used as pawns and Warren Gatland’s comments about the Premiership this week smack of political posturing.
Andy Goode
16 Apr 2021, 2:53
'I've had two contact me overnight': Tongan internationals eye up place in 2022 Moana Pasifika squad
Two Tongan internationals have already indicated their interest in playing for Moana Pasifika just days after it was announced the…
Sam Smith
16 Apr 2021, 0:17
How could the All Blacks midfield look without the injured Jack Goodhue?
With Crusaders star Jack Goodhue ruled out for the rest of the year due to a knee injury, here's what the All Blacks midfield may …
Finn Morton
15 Apr 2021, 22:26
'The best hooker in the competition': Hurricanes and All Blacks stars back TJ Perenara's potential NRL move
A number of TJ Perenara's Hurricanes and All Blacks teammates have backed the halfback's potential move to the NRL.
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 21:33
The three reasons why a Wallabies legend believes TJ Perenara would be a success in the NRL
TJ Perenara has been backed by a Wallabies legend to make a successful transition to rugby league following a shock report that th…
Alex McLeod
15 Apr 2021, 20:16
Rise from the ashes
NZ were once unstoppable at Under 20s level but the landscape has changed over the last decade.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
15 Apr 2021, 18:41
Julian Savea one of three players to sign contract extensions with Hurricanes
Former All Blacks wing Julian Savea has seemingly set his sights on the 2023 World Cup by signing a two-year contract extension wi…
Alex McLeod
15 Apr 2021, 18:09
'Forget Jacob, this is just normal young kids': The Wasps view on Umaga's challenging second season
Young Tana Umaga enjoyed a stellar breakthrough year at Wasps but his second Premiership season hasn't been without its difficulti…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2021, 11:41
2021 Lions tour: Who Warren Gatland will pick versus who he should pick
With the countdown on to the May 6 announcement of the 2021 Lions squad, RugbyPass picks its squad and the one Warren Gatland migh…
Alex Shaw
15 Apr 2021, 11:39
Training in sunglasses, golf simulators, casino nights and a fascination with The Inbetweeners - Gatland and O'Connell trade Lions stories
Lions coach Warren Gatland and 2009 skipper Paul O'Connell were guests this week on a revealing new tour show hosted by David Flat…
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 11:28
'Rugby has no gender' - Ugo Monye on being a male ally for women's rugby
Ugo Monye, the former England and Harlequins player, is taking some time out of his busy schedule to talk about why he decided to …
Milly McEvoy
15 Apr 2021, 11:02
'I've loved every minute' - Scott Fardy calls time on professional rugby career
Leinster have confirmed that former Wallaby Scott Fardy will retire from rugby at the end of the current season.
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 10:37
Stade's Gael Fickou to join Racing early but that isn't the reason for this weekend's Parisian derby postponement
Gael Fickou wasn't due to link up with Racing until the 2021/22 season but his move will be accelerated despite the postponed week…
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 10:26
Kurtley Beale's top five fly-halves
Racing 92 fullback Kurtley Beale has urged British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland to pick teammate Finn Russell at flyhalf a…
Josh Raisey
15 Apr 2021, 10:03
'He's a real standout leader for me' - Paul O'Connell's pick to lead the Lions
Paul O’Connell views England captain Owen Farrell as the outstanding candidate to lead the British and Irish Lions against South…
PA
15 Apr 2021, 8:23
Rainbow Cup adopts three trial law variations, including controversial use of red card replacement
With the troubled Rainbow Cup set to kick-off, organisers have jazzed things up by adopting some trial law variation approved by W…
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 7:27
Potential Springboks given 'reality check' after 500 days out of camp
Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber has given his potential Springboks prospect a 'reality check' as the British and Irish Lion…
Ian Cameron
15 Apr 2021, 6:54
Barbarians announce their return to action following last October's infamous cancellation versus England
Thirteen Barbarians players - including ex-England skipper Chris Robshaw - faced RFU misconduct charges after last October's cance…
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 6:52
'He's like a social glue player': Why Danny Care is back to his best aged 34 and winning individual awards with Harlequins
Such is the rich vein of form 34-year-old Danny Care is enjoying at Harlequins that he has been touted as a possible 2021 Lions to…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2021, 6:14
'It's already starting' - Overseas stars lining up for Fijian Super Rugby franchise
Fiji’s gold medal chasing Olympic Games sevens players and internationals who have represented other nations are set to join the…
Chris Jones
15 Apr 2021, 5:31
RugbyPass Offload - Episode 25: From Sydney to Paris... via Coventry, Kurtley Beale talks Champions Cup, the Lions and that infamous 2013 Test series slip
We are joined on RugbyPass Offload - Episode 25 by legendary Wallabies back Kurtley Beale to chat about his career from Sydney to …
RugbyPass
15 Apr 2021, 5:16
Bath the latest Premiership club to answer Gatland's Lions selection threat
Warren Gatland ignited a firestorm with his Lions selection threat and Bath have become the latest Premiership club to answer back…
Liam Heagney
15 Apr 2021, 4:04
Loyalty in question
Clubs need to make player welfare a priority, not an afterthought
LONG READ
David Flatman
15 Apr 2021, 3:34
All Blacks star poised for shock NRL switch?
All Blacks scrumhalf TJ Perenara could be saddling up for a switch to the NRL, according to reports from New Zealand.
Ian Cameron
15 Apr 2021, 3:02
Isi Naisarani to return via the bench for Rebels in crucial clash against the Brumbies
Melbourne have added some big bodies, including Wallabies No.8 Isi Naisarani in his first match of the Super Rugby AU season, as…
AAP
15 Apr 2021, 2:47
Mitchell Drummond to start in his 100th Crusaders match as one of 10 changes to starting XV
Scrumhalf Mitchell Drummond will become the 20th Crusader in the history of the decorated Super Rugby outfit to notch up a century…
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 1:33
'The choker label, it was a tough one to sit with me for 12 months until I guess the World Cup': Stephen Donald opens up on how that one kick changed his life
Stephen Donald, otherwise known as ‘” Beaver”, may have had one of the most turbulent careers in the history of All Blacks r…
Sam Smith
15 Apr 2021, 0:28
Chiefs shift Damian McKenzie for Crusaders clash while Lachlan Boshier makes first appearance for the year
Clayton McMillan has made four changes to his starting Chiefs side for their clash in Hamilton with the table-topping Crusaders, i…
Tom Vinicombe
14 Apr 2021, 23:48
Will Genia and Quade Cooper looking for a chance to take down former Wallabies coach Robbie Deans
Former Wallabies Quade Cooper and Will Genia begin their chase for the big prize in Japan on Sunday when their Kintetsu Liners ta…
AAP
14 Apr 2021, 21:36
Watch: Hurricanes' exciting midfield prospect carves up the Chiefs and Highlanders at Super Rugby under-20 tournament
One of the standout prospects this week has been Hurricanes' midfielder Riley Higgins, a school leaver in 2020 from St Pats Silver…
Sam Smith
14 Apr 2021, 21:19
'We know that playing that standard and intensity of rugby year on year is not really sustainable for our players'
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has warned that the intensity of the domestic Super Rugby Aotearoa competition is not sustainable afte…
AAP
14 Apr 2021, 21:01
Crusaders hit by bad news as they lose All Black centre Goodhue for remainder of the season
All Blacks Jack Goodhue and Joe Moody will both spend time on the sidelines, with the Crusaders confirming their injuries in a sta…
Sam Smith
14 Apr 2021, 19:32
'They need a win and we also need a win': Brumbies looking to bounce back from loss ahead of finals
Ahead of Sunday's Super Rugby AU clash with Melbourne the Brumbies are trying to take the positives out of their tight loss to Q…
AAP
14 Apr 2021, 17:55
Nothing is impossible
Passion and resilience underpin the MLR and make everyone confident the US competition will flourish.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
14 Apr 2021, 17:53
Hamish Watson has spoken about Lions selection hopes following his award-winning Six Nations campaign
Scotland back row star Hamish Watson has been talking about his Lions tour selection chances following a stellar Six Nations campa…
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2021, 12:12
Lions player release threat draws response from Exeter's Rob Baxter
Warren Gatland has seemingly ignited a firestorm regarding Premiership player release for the Lions and Exeter have taken issue ov…
PA
14 Apr 2021, 12:10
Bristol revise the heated first impression of their Champions Cup crash
The dust has settled on the Bristol Champions Cup exit, with boss Pat Lam taking frustrations out on the training ground and not o…
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2021, 11:48
Premiership officials furious over Gatland's Lions threat to English-based players
Lions boss Warren Gatland has seemingly stirred a hornet's nest with the timing of his threat over players at England's Premiershi…
Chris Jones
14 Apr 2021, 10:43
The prodigal son
Simon Zebo may have a happy-go-lucky nature but the returning Munster star doesn't shy away from the sport's biggest issue.
LONG READ
Owain Jones
14 Apr 2021, 10:25
'Ready to go': England winger Jack Nowell set to end his six-month Exeter absence
Jack Nowell hasn't played a match since Exeter defeated Wasps to win the Premiership title last October at Twickenham and clinch t…
PA
14 Apr 2021, 7:53
Simon Zebo opens door to Ireland Test recall after signing deal taking him back to Munster from Racing
It was 2018 when Simon Zebo joined Racing, putting his Ireland Test career on hold, but that can now resume as he is returning to …
Liam Heagney
14 Apr 2021, 7:36
Wasps lose assistant coach Costello to Munster five years after the Irish club sent him packing to England
It was 2016 when Munster told Ian Costello they were letting him go but he now goes back there after excelling at Wasps and Nottin…
Sam Smith
14 Apr 2021, 6:39
'Great day': Nemani Nadolo leads charge in hailing arrival of new Pasifika Super Rugby teams
With Super Rugby granting licences to two new teams, Fiji winger Nemani Nadolo believes it will transform rugby in the Pacific Isl…
Josh Raisey
14 Apr 2021, 6:16
'An under-appreciated gem': The online reaction to Tandy making the Lions three years after Ospreys sacking
Steve Tandy was a surprise choice as a Lions tour assistant but his appointment has been warmly received by fans and pundits onlin…
Josh Raisey
14 Apr 2021, 5:55
Newcastle lock Darren Barry has joined Nick Abendanon's Vannes with immediate effect
Top 14 promotion-chasing Vannes have made their second signing from the Premiership this week, this time netting Darren Barry of N…
Sam Smith
14 Apr 2021, 5:31
France-bound Trinder's posts parting message for Gloucester fans after 13 years at Kingsholm
Henry Trinder has been part of the furniture at Gloucester for a considerable time but he is now embarking on a new adventure in F…
Josh Raisey
14 Apr 2021, 5:10
Pair of Springboks fly to France to finish out the season in Top 14 while Bulls bring back flanker known as 'Sheep'
Two players capped by the Springboks - including Elton Jantjies - have taken up short-term Top 14 deals but it isn't all one-way t…
Sam Smith
14 Apr 2021, 4:47
'It's probably not like it was 12 months ago where some would have been the first names on the sheet': Gatland fires England warning
Lions boss Warren Gatland has been speaking about poor England form, Saracens players and why there is still no tour resolution wi…
PA
14 Apr 2021, 3:30
'We discussed 57 players. The door is never closed and it is going to be interesting': Where the Lions are with selection
Warren Gatland and his new Lions staff - including Scotland boss Gregor Townsend - have held the first selection meeting ahead of …
PA
14 Apr 2021, 3:13
Former Sunwolves star returns home to Australia as he aims for Wallabies selection
A former Sunwolves star has signed a two-year deal with the Waratahs as he aims to stake a claim in Dave Rennie's Wallabies squad.
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 23:32
Moana Pasifika and Fijian Drua confirmed to join revamped Super Rugby competition in 2022
Moana Pasifika and the Fijian Drua have been granted conditional licences to join a planned new professional competition next ye…
Online Editors
13 Apr 2021, 22:17
Tom Robinson retains captaincy as Blues make one change to starting side for Highlanders clash
Blues flanker Tom Robinson has retained the captaincy role for his side's Super Rugby Aotearoa clash against the Highlanders in Du…
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 21:57
Japan name 21 uncapped players in 52-man training squad ahead of British and Irish Lions test
Japan head coach Jamie Joseph has named his first squad since the 2019 World Cup ahead of the nation's historic clash with the Bri…
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 20:58
'Runs on the board aren't going to matter as much': Why the Springboks squad for the Lions is wide open for South African players
The late changes to the British & Irish Lions coaching staff ahead have been the talking points of the Lions tour this week, but t…
Sam Smith
13 Apr 2021, 20:36
Josh Ioane returns to starting lineup as Highlanders lose standout youngster ahead of Blues clash
Josh Ioane has returned to the Highlanders' starting side following his impressive cameo showing off the bench against the Chiefs …
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 19:56
Perofeta's comments may hurt his team's chances but give some much-needed spice to Super Rugby Aotearoa
It wasn’t that Perofeta’s comments were outrageous. More that they were a little naive and inclined to antagonise a Highlander…
Hamish Bidwell
13 Apr 2021, 18:32
Young Australian trio close to completing allegiance switch after being named in Japan squad
Australian trio Dylan Riley, Jack Cornelsen and Ben Gunter are a step closer to donning the colours of Japan after being named in …
AAP
13 Apr 2021, 18:21
Former All Blacks playmaker Lima Sopoaga confirms move to Top 14 club Lyon
Former All Blacks playmaker Lima Sopoaga will leave Premiership club Wasps to join Top 14 outfit Lyon at the end of the season, th…
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 17:51
Room to move
Analysis: Greater policing of the offside line has helped attacks flourish in Super Rugby Aotearoa 2021.
LONG READ
Ben Wylie
13 Apr 2021, 17:16
'What I was meaning...': Hamish Watson has again revisited his comments about Zander Fagerson's Six Nations red card
Scotland forward Hamish Watson had plenty to say at the time about the red card for Zander Fagerson and he has now revisited the c…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2021, 11:52
Second row injury jinx strikes the Springboks again as Eben Etzebeth becomes their latest lock to be ruled out for 'many weeks'
Injuries have hit the top Springboks locks since their World Cup win and Eben Etzebeth has now joined de Jager and Snyman on the s…
Chris Jones
13 Apr 2021, 10:50
Wasps address speculation linking Martin Gleeson to England and rumours concerning fellow assistants Everard and Munster target Costello
There have been rumours swirling around about Lee Blackett's staff at Wasps, including speculation that Martin Gleeson is wanted b…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2021, 9:48
'It's nothing to do with do I feel like I need an English coach?'
Warren Gatland has a Celtic-looking 2021 Lions staff, selecting none of Eddie Jones' assistants or a coach who is an England nativ…
PA
13 Apr 2021, 8:53
'The Brave and the Bald': Social media flooded with comments on the lack of hair amongst Gatland's Lions coaching staff
The assistant coaches that Warren Gatland has chosen for the Lions tour of South Africa definitely won't be known as the Hair Bear…
Josh Raisey
13 Apr 2021, 8:11
'It was last Wednesday week when I had a call': Steve Tandy on his whirlwind Lions appointment
Steve Tandy never knew he was on Warren Gatland's Lions staff radar for South Africa until a recent call from out of the blue.
PA
13 Apr 2021, 6:55
Dates confirmed for opening Rainbow Cup rounds but no indication the filler tournament can be played to a conclusion
Rainbow Cup organisers will press ahead with series of local derbies but there is no guarantee the South African sides will play i…
Sam Smith
13 Apr 2021, 6:39
Cited Lloyd Williams and red-carded Kyle Cooper learn fate after Challenge Cup disciplinary hearings
Recent Six Nations title winner Lloyd Williams had a case to answer following a Challenge Cup run for Cardiff as did Newcastle pro…
Sam Smith
13 Apr 2021, 6:05
A Scot and three Welshmen: A look at Warren Gatland's 2021 Lions coaching staff
With 2017 Lions staff Howley, Borthwick, Rowntree and Farrell all unavailable, Gatland has chosen Townsend, McBryde and Tandy to t…
PA
13 Apr 2021, 4:07
Warren Gatland names his four Lions tour assistants
It was November when Warren Gatland was initially due to name his Lions assistants but the announcement was pushed back until now.…
Liam Heagney
13 Apr 2021, 3:37
How the Melbourne Rebels plan to keep hold of Matt Toomua despite interest overseas
While big money overseas beckons, the Rebels are hopeful off-contract Wallabies playmaker Matt Toomua feels that his future lies …
AAP
13 Apr 2021, 1:54
Hurricanes hit with injury blow as captain Ardie Savea set for lengthy sideline spell
Hurricanes captain Ardie Savea will miss the next six-to-eight weeks of action after sustaining a knee injury in Sunday's Super Ru…
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 0:37
Have the Hurricanes uncovered their next long-term successor to Beauden Barrett at No 10?
Two Super Rugby stars believes the Hurricanes may have uncovered their next long-term first-five, two years after the departure of…
Alex McLeod
13 Apr 2021, 0:03
New eligibility laws could prevent Folau Fakatava from playing for the All Blacks upon return from injury
Folau Fakatava's ACL injury suffered in the Highlanders' loss to the Chiefs was a blow to the in-form halfback, but it could have …
Tom Vinicombe
12 Apr 2021, 23:59
David Havili's form in the Crusaders midfield has made him impossible for Ian Foster to ignore
David Havili has been banging on the All Blacks door for a few years now. Ironically, it could be that his move away from his favo…
Tom Vinicombe
12 Apr 2021, 22:58
Sir John Kirwan calls for Beauden Barrett and Brodie Retallick to be benched by All Blacks and urges NZR not to re-sign TJ Perenara
Sir John Kirwan believes Beauden Barrett and Brodie Retallick should be benched by the All Blacks later this year, and that NZR sh…
Alex McLeod
12 Apr 2021, 21:38
'I give you guys too much credit!': Crusaders halfback shuts down suggestions of sneaky drop goal ploy in extra-time win
Speaking on the latest episode of the Aotearoa Rugby Pod, halfback Bryn Hall has discussed what extra-time was like for his Crusad…
Tom Vinicombe
12 Apr 2021, 17:10
Guessing game
Some major All Blacks selections still remain a mystery ahead of the test season.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
12 Apr 2021, 16:27
Leinster announce signing of Crusaders prop Michael Alaalatoa
The tighthead has played 89 times for the Crusaders and won three Super Rugby titles as well as last year's Super Rugby Aotearoa c…
Ciarán Kennedy
12 Apr 2021, 14:02
Watch: Marty Banks is clutch once again as the Perenara-inspired Red Hurricanes almost shock the Top League
The NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes have almost pulled off a colossal upset in the Japan Top League over superpower Kobelco Steelers, Wa…
Sam Smith
12 Apr 2021, 12:53
Proper investment in women's rugby is about more than just money
Despite no professional contracts, Ireland out-performed Wales at the weekend due to much better preparation and player developmen…
Jess Hayden
12 Apr 2021, 11:27
Newcastle's Mulipola outlines ambition to help Samoa qualify for 2023 World Cup
The Newcastle Falcons prop has played in two Rugby World Cups but missed the 2015 tournament due to injury.
Chris Jones
12 Apr 2021, 9:50
Another Munster stalwart to retire after 14 years with home province
Fellow one-club man Billy Holland is also retiring at the end of the season, along with backrow CJ Stander.
Ciarán Kennedy
12 Apr 2021, 9:04
Club legend Trinder heading to France after 13 years with Gloucester
The 31-year-old made his Gloucester debut in 2008, and has scored 46 tries across 172 appearances for the club.
Ciarán Kennedy
12 Apr 2021, 8:43
Leinster announce plans to allow 2,000 supporters attend 'concept match' at RDS
Rugby fans in the Republic of Ireland have been locked out of sports stadiums since the first lockdown in March 2020.
Ciarán Kennedy
12 Apr 2021, 8:15
Laying down a marker
Leinster will be left to take on the power of the Top 14 and English contenders fell by the wayside in Europe
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
12 Apr 2021, 7:38
Robshaw suffers injury setback on debut for San Diego Legion
The former England captain impressed on his debut for the Major League Rugby club but was forced off late in the second half with …
Ciarán Kennedy
12 Apr 2021, 6:38
All Blacks captain Sam Cane uses pectoral surgery to 'tie up a few loose ends'
The flanker could be out of action for half a year after picking up the injury to his right pectoral in a win over the Blues on Ma…
Josh Raisey
12 Apr 2021, 5:39
Leinster confirm scrum-half to re-join after two-year stint with Munster
McCarthy came through the Leinster Rugby Academy system and scored four tries in 36 appearances before signing with Munster.
Ciarán Kennedy
12 Apr 2021, 4:21
Former Scotland scrum coach and Italy international Massimo Cuttitta dies aged 54
Cuttitta lined out for Italy 70 times between 1990 and 2000 and also captained the Azzurri on 22 occasions.
PA
12 Apr 2021, 3:18
'It's a real fight for the finals now': What the Force need to do to make the Super Rugby AU playoffs
Western Force players will treat their final two games like finals fixtures, and they're well aware bonus points could end up deci…
AAP
12 Apr 2021, 2:48
Future stars on show as Chiefs, Highlanders and Crusaders pick up wins in opening round of Super Rugby Aoteaora U20
The inaugural edition of the Super Rugby Aotearoa competition kicked-off with a bang on Sunday as the Chiefs, Highlanders and Crus…
Alex McLeod
12 Apr 2021, 1:38
'I'm better than that': Suliasi Vunivalu plans to win back respect as he eyes return from injury
Injured NRL convert Suliasi Vunivalu says he's likely to return for the next Queensland Reds game and is intent on winning back re…
AAP
12 Apr 2021, 1:26
'No one gave us a chance': How the Chiefs went from a record-equalling losing streak to play-off contenders
Just over a month ago, the Chiefs were staring down the barrel of a New Zealand record losing run in Super Rugby history. Now, the…
Sam Smith
11 Apr 2021, 22:54
Reece Hodge to miss remainder of Super Rugby season
Melbourne Rebels will be without Wallabies star Reece Hodge for the rest of their Super Rugby campaign after he suffered a knee …
AAP
11 Apr 2021, 21:02
'We're out': Tony Brown writes off Highlanders chances of making Super Rugby Aotearoa final
Highlanders head coach Tony Brown has ruled out his side qualifying for this year's Super Rugby Aotearoa final following Saturday'…
Alex McLeod
11 Apr 2021, 20:58
Watch: Beauden Barrett's mojo back? All Black flyhalf scorches with three-try cameo using pure speed in another impressive display
Star All Black recruit Beauden Barrett continued his rich vein of Top League form for Suntory Sungoliath, this time injecting into…
Online Editors
11 Apr 2021, 20:48
Watch: Jordan Petaia showcases AFL-style aerial theatrics to score screamer against the Brumbies
Jordan Petaia has been compared to a late All Blacks great following the Reds come-from-behind 24-22 win over the Brumbies on Satu…
Sam Smith
11 Apr 2021, 19:57
Hamish Watson 'too light for the Springboks' theory by Stephen Jones obliterated by Scottish fans and pundits like
His form has rightly put the 29-year-old into the debate over British & Irish Lions selection for the upcoming tour of South Afric…
Online Editors
11 Apr 2021, 19:12
Devil in the detail
New Zealand's rugby clubs are struggling - but aren't expecting a large piece of the Silver Lake pie.
LONG READ
Michael Pulman
11 Apr 2021, 18:01
The plays against the Crusaders that showed Julian Savea could still be a centre for the Hurricanes
Returning Hurricanes winger Julian Savea scored his 52nd Super Rugby try against the Crusaders but it was his handling as a floati…
Sam Smith
11 Apr 2021, 17:37
Romain Ntamack masters kicking game as Toulouse see off Clermont Auvergne
Romain Ntamack kicked all of his side’s points as Toulouse beat Clermont Auvergne 21-12 to secure their place in the Heineken Ch…
PA
11 Apr 2021, 11:56
Leinster face another away-day arm wrestle as Champions Cup semi-final draw confirmed
Following the weekend's Heineken Champions Cup and Challenge Cup quarter-final, the ECPR have confirmed the draw for the semi-fina…
Ian Cameron
11 Apr 2021, 11:21
Saracens issue update on Owen Farrell after star misses Bedford game with strained calf
Owen Farrell is expected to be fit for a pivotal fortnight in Saracens’ promotion push after missing Sunday’s 54-13 victory ov…
PA
11 Apr 2021, 10:14
Giant kick sees Bordeaux-Begles squeeze past Racing 92 to reach maiden Champions Cup semi-final
Bordeaux-Begles are through to the Heineken Champions Cup semi-finals for the first time after the kicking of Matthieu Jalibert se…
PA
11 Apr 2021, 9:33
Itoje and Vunipola make try-scoring returns as Saracens thump Bedford
Maro Itoje and Billy Vunipola made try-scoring returns for Saracens in a 54-13 victory over Bedford at StoneX Stadium that unmaske…
PA
11 Apr 2021, 9:08
Jake White's Bulls beat rivals to Du Plessis signature
Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White has reportedly managed to secure the signature of Jacques du Plessis. The former Junior Springb…
Sam Smith
11 Apr 2021, 6:35
Springboks' Lions prep in disarray after Sharks CEO suggests 'Rainbow Cup will be cancelled'
The Springboks will likely have to go back to the drawing board to reassess their preparations for the British and Irish Lions ser…
Ian Cameron
11 Apr 2021, 6:08
George Kruis' Wild Knights on top in Japan rugby
Former Australian Under-20 centre Dylan Riley scored three tries as the Panasonic Wild Knights crushed Yamaha Jubilo 55-19 to win …
AAP
11 Apr 2021, 4:32
Doubts cast over Rainbow Cup - report
Doubts have been cast over the feasibility of the much-vaunted Rainbow Cup - report Rugby 365.
RugbyPass
11 Apr 2021, 4:14
Montpellier reach last four of Challenge Cup with Benetton victory
Montpellier reached only their second ever European semi-final after edging out Benetton in an entertaining 31-25 victory in the C…
PA
11 Apr 2021, 3:42
Back in the running
After two years out with a potentially career-ending knee injury, Ellis Jenkins' comeback has been uplifting
LONG READ
Ross Harries
11 Apr 2021, 3:28
'I tried to get my thrill by drinking, being stupid and getting outrageously drunk... it took its toll in terms of my mental state'
Premiership title winner Tom Stephenson grew so tired of his mental health and drinking demons that he quit playing at the age of …
Liam Heagney
11 Apr 2021, 3:00
Chris Robshaw picks his British and Irish Lions XV
Chris Robshaw has picked his starting XV for the first Test of the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa.
Ian Cameron
11 Apr 2021, 2:48
Crusaders player ratings vs Hurricanes | Super Rugby Aotearoa
No doubt Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson will be relieved to see his team back to winning ways after a rare home defeat to th…
Nick Turnbull
11 Apr 2021, 2:35
Hurricanes player ratings vs the Crusaders | Super Rugby Aotearoa
The Hurricanes played heroically but will rue their ineptitude at the line out time ( just over 50% execution) and moments of indi…
Mike Rehu
11 Apr 2021, 2:18
David Havili's drop goal sails true as Crusaders snatch thrilling golden point win
For the second Super Rugby Aotearoa match on the trot, golden point was needed to separate the two sides.
AAP
11 Apr 2021, 0:38
Damian McKenzie's two match-winning plays highlight all that's great about the All Blacks fullback
The exploits of Damian McKenzie have been on full show in recent weeks during what’s best described as a remarkable turnaround f…
Michael Pulman
10 Apr 2021, 23:06
Abysmal goalkicking display on Saturday night harks back to 2011 World Cup absurdity
Mitch Hunt was a prominent figure in the Highlanders' shock win over the Crusaders last weekend, but the first five couldn't weave…
Sam Smith
10 Apr 2021, 22:02
'So it was game over': Chris Boyd pinpoints what went wrong in the second half for Northampton Saints in their defeat to Ulster
Northampton director of rugby Chris Boyd was disappointed with his side’s second-half performance as they surrendered a 22-14 ha…
PA
10 Apr 2021, 21:23
'Whether they were right or wrong penalties you can't do much about it': Brumbies captain Alaalatoa concerned over penalty count in loss to Reds
The skipper returned from a three-game suspension in Saturday's 24-22 loss to the Reds at Suncorp Stadium, the hosts rallying from…
AAP
10 Apr 2021, 20:47
Letter of the law or frivolous calls?: Coaches and players have their say on sizeable penalty count in Chiefs' win over Highlanders
Saturday's night match between the Highlanders and Chiefs in Dunedin was again laden with penalties, with 23 whistled up by Ben O'…
Sam Smith
10 Apr 2021, 19:44
'He's got energy, he's got an excitement factor, he's got pace': Why the Hurricanes' teenage pivot could cause havoc for the Crusaders
New Hurricanes first five Ruben Love will have a mission on his hands on Sunday afternoon, lining up against on-form All Black Ric…
Tom Vinicombe
10 Apr 2021, 18:51
Advantage over
Quirks of the law were brought to fore in the Chiefs' golden-point win over the Highlanders.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
10 Apr 2021, 18:40
'There was a move in the All Blacks: pass the ball to Jonah': Wallabies star filling Lomu-esque role for high-flying Reds
Fullback, centre or wing? It doesn't really matter when it comes to Jordan Petaia if you ask his Queensland Reds coach Brad Thorn …
AAP
10 Apr 2021, 18:10
Ulster end Northampton's European Challenge Cup dreams with entertaining victory
Northampton’s bid to reach their first European semi-final since 2014 ended in failure in a superb European Challenge Cup game.
PA
10 Apr 2021, 16:58
Rob Baxter's reaction to being dumped out of Europe by Leinster
Exeter boss Rob Baxter was left to reflect on what might have been after seeing his team’s Heineken Champions Cup defence ended.
PA
10 Apr 2021, 14:42
Ireland the latest to put a big score Wales in Women's Six Nations
Ireland thrashed Wales 45-0 in their Women’s Six Nations clash at Cardiff Arms Park.
PA
10 Apr 2021, 14:20

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