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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.

Fans' verdict on whether Jamie Roberts, last capped in 2017, should be recalled by Wales
Not since November 2017 has Jamie Roberts been capped by Wales but fans are backing him for a Test recall at the age of 34.
Josh Raisey
12 Jan 2021, 13:03
Question mark hangs over Six Nations as French government makes latest worrying statement
There are growing concerns about the state of play with France, who are due to visit Dublin and London in this season's Six Nation…
PA
12 Jan 2021, 12:53
Ex-All Black Kieran Crowley will finish up at Benetton a year earlier than planned
Things haven't worked out recently for Kieran Crowley at Benetton and a series of losses have forced the Italian club's bosses to …
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 12:06
Generation next
The progeny of a 1930 British and Irish Lion, Jesse Kriel longs to face the tourists in 2021.
LONG READ
Jon Cardinelli
12 Jan 2021, 12:02
'It's not ideal': Chris Ashton criticises Premiership's decision not to play on
Harlequins winger Chris Ashton isn't happy after the Gallagher Premiership opted for a rest period rather than rescheduling games.…
PA
12 Jan 2021, 11:40
CVC's £365million buy-in set to be confirmed before 2021 Six Nations kicks-off - reports
It has taken two years of negotiations but confirmation of a deal between CVC and Six Nations is due before the start of the 2021 …
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 11:21
Grassroots player gets 4-year ban in Wales for failed doping test
A grassroots player in Wales has failed in his appeal to get a four-year ban from sport for a doping violation overturned.
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 10:21
Surgery rules Nanai out for rest of season at Worcester
Melani Nanai was a huge signing for Worcester when he arrived in 2019 but he has now suffered a second serious injury in England.
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 9:43
PRO14 and Top 14 confirm revised fixtures list following European postponements
With blank weekends to fill after the suspension of their European fixtures, PRO14 and Top 14 have moved quickly to fill the void.…
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 8:36
Online petition launched for 2022 Lions tour
Amid fears the 2021 Lions tour could be played outside South Africa, an online petition has been launched to have it postponed unt…
Josh Raisey
12 Jan 2021, 8:03
Bristol sign Saracens scrum-half Tom Whiteley
Just days after singing the praises of Harry Randall, Pat Lam has recruited another scrum-half in the guise of Tom Whiteley of Sar…
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 7:34
France name 3 uncapped players in 37-strong Six Nations squad
France have been fastest out of the blocks ahead of the 2021 Six Nations, naming a 37-strong squad that contains three newcomers.
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 7:10
Reports in France claim Brookes signed by Toulon, du Preez also on their radar
Toulon have reportedly signed Wasps prop Kieran Brookes, who has spent a decade playing in the Premiership for 4 different clubs. …
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 6:27
Two-year Ian Keatley deal at Benetton is terminated early
Ian Keatley wasn't due to finish at Benetton until the end of the 2020/21 season but his deal has reportedly been terminated early…
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 5:51
Edinburgh complete double transfer swoop, snapping up pair from Harlequins including James Lang
Traffic last week was from Edinburgh to the Premiership but the signings of James Lang and Glen Young from Harlequins reverses tha…
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 5:00
Short circuit
Why Premiership Rugby's egregious circuit-break reeks of inflexibility, short-sightedness and politicking.
LONG READ
Owain Jones
12 Jan 2021, 4:33
Tomas Francis quits Exeter to join Ospreys and keep alive his Wales Test career
The Welsh Rugby Union's 60-cap rule for players at clubs outside Wales has finally forced 52-cap Tomas Francis to quit Exeter.
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 4:33
Agen president has pop at Ibitoye amid transfer speculation
Gabriel Ibitoye only signed for Agen last July but it's now speculated he is on the move from the club facing Top 14 relegation af…
Online Editors
12 Jan 2021, 4:10
Irish great Rob Kearney reveals unorthodox training method as he quarantines for Super Rugby
Rob Kearney has spent his entire club life at Irish outfit Leinster, but the star fullback jumped at the chance to experience som…
AAP
12 Jan 2021, 0:47
'We feel threatened': COVID-19 robs Wallabies captain Michael Hooper of star-studded Top League debut
Wallabies captain Michael Hooper's Top League debut has been delayed by a COVID-19 outbreak sweeping through Japanese rugby.
AAP
12 Jan 2021, 0:02
Report: New Zealand Rugby for sale in multi-million dollar deal
New Zealand Rugby's negotiations with US private equity firm Silver Lake are advancing, with reports suggesting a minority stake o…
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 22:52
Ex-Highlanders speedster Josh McKay and a former All Black win Super Rugby lifelines from Crusaders
Former Highlanders outside back Josh McKay has been handed a second chance at Super Rugby by the Crusaders ahead of the upcoming S…
Alex McLeod
11 Jan 2021, 22:23
Kieran Read and Beauden Barrett denied Japanese reunion as two Top League matches cancelled
Two Top League matches scheduled for this weekend have been cancelled due to COVID-19 outbreaks at three of the clubs involved.
AAP
11 Jan 2021, 21:10
Fullback gambit
The All Blacks' dual-playmaker strategy requires a demanding skillset from NZ fullbacks.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
11 Jan 2021, 18:41
Report: Standout Mitre 10 Cup star one of three new players signed by Highlanders
After missing out on a place in the 2021 Highlanders squad last month, it appears standout Otago wing Freedom Vahaakolo has earned…
Alex McLeod
11 Jan 2021, 16:37
Watch: Argentinian enforcer Marcos Kremer's hot-headed moment sparks 30-man pile-on in fiery Top 14 clash
Returning to action in the Top 14 for Stade Francais, Kremer is earning a reputation as one of rugby's biggest agitators after spa…
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 15:43
Israel Folau linked with return to rugby union
Controversial cross-code athlete Israel Folau has been linked - albeit tenuously - with a move back to rugby union.
Ian Cameron
11 Jan 2021, 14:03
Ellis Genge wins the internet with hilarious spin on Will Greenwood Tweet
England and Leicester Tigers’ Ellis Genge continues to show why he is such a popular figure online.
Josh Raisey
11 Jan 2021, 13:13
Premiership Rugby to take mid-season break after suspension of Champions Cup and Challenge Cup seasons
The two European Cups were put on ice on Tuesday after the French government directed its clubs to postpone their participation in…
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 12:40
Postponement should give Women's Six Nations long-overdue shake-up
The postponement of the Women’s Six Nations has been all but confirmed, with the tournament now set to take place in April/May 2…
Jess Hayden
11 Jan 2021, 12:37
Champions Cup and Challenge Cup seasons officially suspended by EPCR
EPCR say they remain committed to trying to find a solution which will enable it to resume and complete the tournaments.
Ciarán Kennedy
11 Jan 2021, 11:42
'We must stop this' - The weekend referee respect in rugby took an ugly turn
The past weekend’s action was marred by a series of encounters with referees which have brought rugby’s values into question.
Josh Raisey
11 Jan 2021, 10:48
French withdrawal
France is no longer a haven for foreign players. Its shifting tides that could redefine world rugby.
LONG READ
Johnnie Beattie
11 Jan 2021, 10:21
Mike Ruddock explains origin of Tadhg Furlong's famous nickname and how he used to address the prop
Tadhg Furlong is currently returning from a long injury lay-off is fighting to make it make in time to throw his hat in the ring f…
Ian Cameron
11 Jan 2021, 10:18
Greig Laidlaw set for long-awaited Japanese debut
Former Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw is set to make his debut for NTT Communications Shining Arcs this weekend in the first round…
Josh Raisey
11 Jan 2021, 8:54
Boost for Andy Farrell as Lowe returns to Leinster training
The wing, who made his international debut in November, hasn't played any rugby since the Autumn Nations Cup loss to England.
Ciarán Kennedy
11 Jan 2021, 8:15
Italy would be 'crazy' to ignore Odogwu says Blackett
Wasps boss Lee Blackett believes Italy would be “crazy” not to offer in-form Paolo Odogwu the chance to play international rug…
Chris Jones
11 Jan 2021, 8:12
Former England prop cites Kyle Sinckler for foul-mouthed exchange with referee
Sinckler, who subsequently posted an apology on Twitter, will appear before a disciplinary panel on Tuesday.
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 7:46
99 per cent tackle completion rate helps Tom Gordon win new Glasgow Warriors deal
Glasgow flanker Tom Gordon will be remaining at Scotstoun for the foreseeable future, after he put pen-to-paper on a new long term…
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 7:38
Champions Cup and Challenge Cup won't be abandoned if French teams pull out - EPCR boss
The French government are today expected to pull their teams from rounds three and four of the two competitions due to fresh Covid…
Ciarán Kennedy
11 Jan 2021, 6:43
Sinckler-Dickson incident was three refereeing conundrums rolled into one
Premiership referee and former Harlequins scrum-half Karl Dickson had a taste of this experience on Saturday – and to his credit…
Paul Smith
11 Jan 2021, 6:18
Catch me if you can
Randall admiration, Six Nations fears, Falcons march on, flying ref sees red, Ospreys renaissance, Irish elite
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
11 Jan 2021, 5:29
'Some people may consider that sacrilege' - McGeechan offers support for controversial Lions Tour alternative
It is looking increasingly unlikely that the tour can go ahead as planned due to the escalating Covid crisis in South Africa.
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 5:05
Watch: French halfback Antoine Dupont shows why he's the world's best with stunning tap-on try assist
His skill was once again on display as he miraculously tapped on a bouncing ball in the backfield after a clearing kick from Thoma…
Online Editors
11 Jan 2021, 0:10
'Send out a big message to the South Africans': Sir Clive's strategic plan for the British & Irish Lions to flummox the Boks
As doubts grow over whether the British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa will go ahead, former coach Sir Clive Woodward has tabl…
Online Editors
10 Jan 2021, 23:02
Tonga Rugby Union announce new chief executive as five-year blueprint unveiled
The Tongan Rugby Union have announced a new chief executive as part of the union's plans to improve governance and administrative …
Online Editors
10 Jan 2021, 21:30
All Blacks, Wallabies and Springboks abroad: The all-star 2021 Top League foreigners XV
In anticipation of the Top League kicking off this weekend, here is a XV made up of the best foreign talent set to grace the Japan…
Alex McLeod
10 Jan 2021, 20:22
'We've got to create space': Premiership bosses want games moved forward if European fixtures called off
Rob Baxter and Pat Lam believe that Gallagher Premiership games should be moved forward if necessary to free up fixture schedule s…
PA
10 Jan 2021, 19:17
'I think we shouldn't be alarmed': French rugby boss Laporte confident Six Nations will go ahead as scheduled
On Saturday, the French sports ministry recommended that European rugby union games against British clubs be postponed amid the…
AAP
10 Jan 2021, 13:52
'It's deja vu... The team is hurting' - Paul Gustard bemoans another Harlequins collapse
Paul Gustard lamented an all-too familiar implosion by Harlequins as a comfortable lead against London Irish ended in a 27-27 Gall…
PA
10 Jan 2021, 13:35
Alex Sanderson to be unveiled as new Sale Sharks DoR
Saracens' long-time forward guru Alex Sanderson is set to take over at Sale Sharks as director of rugby, RugbyPass understands.
Ian Cameron
10 Jan 2021, 13:00
Former Lions scrumhalf has Twitter account hacked
Former Scotland and British and Irish Lions scrumhalf Chris Cussiter has had his Twitter account hacked.
Ian Cameron
10 Jan 2021, 12:34
Paddy Jackson denies Harlequins at the death
Paddy Jackson landed a tricky conversion in the final minute to rescue London Irish a 27-27 Gallagher Premiership draw at The Stoo…
PA
10 Jan 2021, 11:41
Mike Brown to sign for Newcastle Falcons
Former England stalwart Mike Brown is set to swap London for Newcastle, with the fullback set to link back up with former Harlequi…
Ian Cameron
10 Jan 2021, 11:00
Women's Six Nations set to be postponed
The Women’s Six Nations is set to be postponed as a result of the escalating coronavirus crisis at a time when uncertainty conti…
PA
10 Jan 2021, 10:17
'He is getting there... However, he will be the first to say there is a still lot more to come from him'
Dean Richards watched Newcastle wing Adam Radwan embarrass England’s Jonny May with a combination of pace and footwork and then …
Chris Jones
10 Jan 2021, 8:50
Saracens reveal new stadium and kit sponsor after 2020 split with Allianz
A year on from the peak of the salary cap scandal that preceded their split with Allianz and Saracens have revealed their new main…
Online Editors
10 Jan 2021, 8:07
'I grew up in a house with no internet. I didn't really know a whole lot about rugby'
After an avalanche of paperwork and form-filling, the Kalamafoni family - the Scarlets number eight, his wife and three young chil…
Jamie Lyall
10 Jan 2021, 6:34
Francois Hougaard said to have signed for the Bulls
Francois Hougaard could be the latest Springbok to be lured back to South Africa by Jake White's Blue Bulls franchise.
Online Editors
10 Jan 2021, 5:18
'Disappointing from a British Lion' - Liam Williams ref comment after red card didn't play well with some fans
A comment made by Wales star Liam Williams after he was sent off in Scarlets derby match with Cardiff Blues has not played well wi…
Ian Cameron
10 Jan 2021, 4:21
Split loyalties
Half-Irish, half-Welsh, Mike Ruddock is back 'home' after getting an SOS call from the Ospreys.
LONG READ
Ross Harries
10 Jan 2021, 2:54
Manu Tuilagi's projected return date as England centre races to be fit for Lions
Manu Tuilagi's race to be fit in time in for the Lions could come down to the wire, with Sale Sharks teammate Josh Beaumont projec…
Ian Cameron
10 Jan 2021, 2:09
'There were a number of clubs interested. We got to quite far down the line with discussions'
In these strained days of seemingly relentless bleak news for Scottish rugby, the retention of Hamish Watson by Edinburgh is a tim…
Jamie Lyall
10 Jan 2021, 1:54
Picking a 30+ Lions XV that could feasibly compete in a series
Warren Gatland will be returning this summer to take on his third British and Irish Lions tour as head coach.
Josh Raisey
10 Jan 2021, 1:44
Bath's young star ends England chances by signing for French club Montpellier at 23-years-old
Bath Rugby's young back rower Zach Mercer has signed with French club Montpellier for next season according to a report by the Dai…
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 22:00
'The Irish had no answer for the pace and power of the world champions' backline': The night Julian Savea arrived on the world stage for the All Blacks
Just three minutes into the second half his hat-trick was complete, when a smart All Blacks launch play set Israel Dagg away down …
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 20:35
Warren Gatland's sticky situation: where to for the Kiwi coach if the Lions tour is canned?
The possible postponement of the 2021 British and Irish Lions Tour could create a sticky situation for Warren Gatland and the Chie…
Tom Vinicombe
09 Jan 2021, 20:26
'He is only 70kg, but it is not the size': The lightweight Bristol Bear with dual eligibility who is tipped for international honours
Bristol replaced Exeter as league leaders following an outstanding display, with victory secured through tries by centre Semi Radr…
PA
09 Jan 2021, 16:53
Munster survive late Connacht fightback to claim valuable victory at the top of Pro14 table
Munster’s power-packed maul provided the platform for the night’s first try, collecting a penalty advantage before centre Farr…
PA
09 Jan 2021, 16:45
First-half Liam Williams red card condemns Scarlets to loss at Cardiff Blues
Liam Williams was sent off in the 37th minute to ruin Scarlets’ chances of a hat-trick of Welsh derby wins, as Cardiff Blues ran…
PA
09 Jan 2021, 16:36
Charmed life
All Blacks captains have seemingly been subject to different rules because of their reputation.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
09 Jan 2021, 15:50
Former England 10 boots Ospreys to PRO14 win over Dragons
Ospreys edged out Welsh rivals Dragons with a hard-fought 28-20 Pro14 victory on a freezing evening in Newport.
PA
09 Jan 2021, 15:24
Kyle Sinckler issues Twitter apology for 'heat of the moment' comment to referee Karl Dickson
Bristol Bears prop Kyle Sinckler has issued a Twitter apology after a comment he made to referee Karl Dickson during his side's vi…
Ian Cameron
09 Jan 2021, 14:23
'I'm very disappointed' - Bottom dwelling Gloucester rue leaving Kingston Park empty handed
Gloucester boss George Skivington feels his side lacks a killing instinct after a 22-10 loss at Newcastle left them rooted to the …
PA
09 Jan 2021, 13:59
Semi Radradra strikes with the telling blow as champions Exeter lose again
The top of the Gallagher Premiership table clash at Exeter swung the way of Bristol with a try from Semi Radradra on 69 minutes. …
PA
09 Jan 2021, 13:23
'If you go to court tomorrow, you aren't going to kiss or lift the judge to thank him for not fining you'
Upset Nevers boss Xavier Pemeja has revisited his comments on the bizarre Pro D2 red card for his player Josaia Raisuque on Friday…
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 13:01
'Unacceptable' - Kyle Sinckler slammed after audio picks up comment directed at referee Karl Dickson
A foul-mouthed remark made by Bristol Bears prop Kyle Sinckler to referee Karl Dickson during their clash with Exeter hasn't gone …
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 12:19
'It ain't on': Yellow carding of 2 props at same time in Exeter versus Bristol game criticised by Ellis Genge
The top of the table Premiership meeting between Exeter and Bristol struggled for first-half momentum due to a malfunctioning scru…
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2021, 11:57
Former Munster No.8 to captain Bulls with Vermeulen rested
Former Munster back row Arno Botha is set to captain Jake White's Bulls as they take on the Phakisa Pumas in their final regular-s…
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 11:05
Radwan steps England star Jonny May as Newcastle put struggling Gloucester on ice
Newcastle continued their fine start to the Premiership season with a 22-10 victory over struggling Gloucester at a frozen Kingsto…
PA
09 Jan 2021, 10:38
Mbanda on the mark as Zebre double up against Benetton
Italian bragging rights were on the line on Saturday and the PRO14 spoils eventually went the way of Zebre against Benetton.
PA
09 Jan 2021, 9:55
Final rounds of Champions Cup pool games to be postponed
The final two Champions Cup pool fixture rounds were due to be played on successive January weekend but the French ministry have i…
AAP
09 Jan 2021, 8:05
'It's scary actually' - How one Sale Sharks teammate tells the Curry twins apart
Sale Sharks No.8 Josh Beaumont explains how he can tell Tom and Ben Curry - the club's identical twins - apart.
Ian Cameron
09 Jan 2021, 6:52
Nemani Nadolo can't get his head around criticism of 11-try Bath vs Wasps thriller
The online reaction to the Friday night Gallagher Premiership try-fest featuring Bath and Wasps has bemused Leicester winger Neman…
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2021, 6:51
'It would be a lie if I didn't say there were some markers we wanted to put down'
There were fears the 2020/21 Premiership could suffer without the Exeter versus Saracens rivalry but Chiefs versus Bristol can fil…
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2021, 5:29
Springbok skipper Kolisi linked with Sharks
On the back of the landmark buyout of the Sharks in South Africa, rumours are now swirling linking Springbok captain Siya Kosili t…
Ian Cameron
09 Jan 2021, 4:55
Video: It's edge-of-your-seat stuff as two-try Paolo Odogwu lights up The Rec
Paolo Odogwu wasn't part of the Wasps XV at the start of the season but his form in recent weeks at No13 and right wing has been e…
Online Editors
09 Jan 2021, 4:42
'He's a tough bugger': Bristol's verdict on the progress of 79kg scrum-half Harry Randall
Bristol boss Pat Lam was smitten when he first saw scrum-half Harry Randall play for Hartpury against the Bears in the 2017/18 Cha…
Liam Heagney
09 Jan 2021, 4:05
Loyalty and legacy
England's new tyro talks LeBron James, Eddie Jones and making an indelible footprint.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
09 Jan 2021, 2:34
Six of the best signings for 2021/22 so far
Though the 2020/21 season is nowhere near reaching its conclusion yet, clubs are already looking ahead to next season in terms of …
Josh Raisey
09 Jan 2021, 2:28
'We've still got a lot of areas to improve on': Sale boss vents frustration despite Sharks win over Worcester
Sale interim head coach Paul Deacon was unhappy with the display against Worcester Warriors, despite seeing his side secure a seco…
PA
08 Jan 2021, 23:34
'Probably his biggest weakness as a winger was probably the lack of involvements in the game'
Lee Blackett hailed Wasps’ clinical finishing after they beat Bath 52-44 in an 11-try Gallagher Premiership spectacular at the R…
PA
08 Jan 2021, 23:24
'It's intolerable': Player sent off for lifting referee by waist as part of victory celebration in Pro D2
Bizarre scenes played out in France's second-tier Pro D2 on Friday when a player was red carded for celebrating his side's win by …
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 23:09
Five Super Rugby Aotearoa rookies who could push for All Blacks selection in 2021
Every year, at least one Super Rugby rookie earns All Blacks honours at the first time of asking - but who exactly could make that…
Alex McLeod
08 Jan 2021, 21:56
'For the Lions to be in England would be a bit odd, but I can't complain - if I got picked, I wouldn't care where it is'
The centre is among the England internationals returning to action after a rest period.
PA
08 Jan 2021, 17:15
Sale make it back-to-back Premiership wins with battling triumph over Worcester
Sale Sharks secured their second consecutive Gallagher Premiership victory under interim head coach Paul Deacon with a battling 20…
PA
08 Jan 2021, 16:42
How Lima Sopoaga's 'scary but liberating' therapy inspired return to form
Ex-All Blacks first-five Lima Sopoaga has opened up about how a therapist helped turn around his rugby form on English soil, sayin…
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 16:24
Wasps continue winning run by edging out Bath in high-scoring clash
Wasps recorded a fifth successive victory in all competitions as they beat Bath 52-44 in an epic Gallagher Premiership encounter.
PA
08 Jan 2021, 16:15
Leinster exorcise interpro ghosts by ending Ulster's unbeaten run
Leinster came good in the second half to claim a crucial 24-12 Guinness PRO14 bonus-point win over previously-unbeaten Ulster.
PA
08 Jan 2021, 16:07
Glasgow's clash with Edinburgh called off 20 minutes before kick-off
Glasgow’s Guinness PRO14 clash with Edinburgh was called off about 20 minutes before kick-off.
PA
08 Jan 2021, 15:10
French clubs to learn European fate on Saturday after crunch talks
Decisions on continued participation in the Heineken Champions and Challenge Cups could have implications for the Six Nations.
PA
08 Jan 2021, 13:45
Better late than never
Touring is key to the Lions' survival, so do fans want a waiting game or no game?
LONG READ
Giles Morgan
08 Jan 2021, 11:33
'Not enough games disrupted for that to be a reason to force a ring-fencing'
There have been calls for Premiership relegation to be scrapped but the message coming out of Bath is very different to that.
Liam Heagney
08 Jan 2021, 10:40
Calling a halt to the Champions Cup seems like common sense - Andy Goode
The French clubs and government have thrown the future of this season’s Champions Cup into doubt and if we’re honest, they hav…
Andy Goode
08 Jan 2021, 10:34
RFU to come down hard on persistent Covid-19 offenders
Any players, staff or clubs in the Gallagher Premiership who persistently breach minimum operating standards for coronavirus guide…
PA
08 Jan 2021, 10:19
Ex-England wing Wade gives update on his American football future, a sport where he hasn't played a match in 17 months
Christian Wade left the Gallagher Premiership in 2018 with the dream of making it in the NFL but he has had to to be patient at Bu…
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 9:12
Fresh twist in doping case of disgraced Springbok Aphiwe Dyantyi
Springbok Aphiwe Dyantyi has reportedly opted to appeal his four-year doping ban in a fresh twist to the ongoing saga.
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 9:03
Rob Baxter called out by senior Exeter players during internal meeting over media comments
Rob Baxter’s recognition in the New Year Honours list did not deter his players from taking him to task in the aftermath of Exet…
PA
08 Jan 2021, 8:09
Wasps sign Georgian international Lasha Jaiani
Wasps have signed Georgian international Lasha Jaiani, who featured for the Lelos in the recently concluded Autumn Nations Cup.
Ian Cameron
08 Jan 2021, 6:55
Exeter recall England 4, Bristol make 6 changes
Defending champions Exeter hosting joint top rivals Bristol is the game of the weekend it the latest round of Gallagher Premiershi…
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 6:45
French government intervention threatens next weekend's Champions and Challenge Cup matches
French clubs were not happy with a number of situations that developed in last month's Champions and Challenge Cup fixtures.
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 6:16
There's an air of caution around Paul O'Connell's appointment
Paul O’Connell’s appointment as Ireland’s new forwards coach has been met with a wide spectrum of responses from the Irish p…
Josh Raisey
08 Jan 2021, 5:35
'Snowball fight to decide the winner, Gloucester?'
The pandemic has done much to affect the Premiership but bad weather is the latest headache ahead of the Gloucester visit to Newca…
Liam Heagney
08 Jan 2021, 5:15
'Would I like to play myself if I was a young loosehead? No, I wouldn't.'
All Black prop Jeff Toomaga-Allen loves to make an impact and the decibel level will significantly increase when he takes to the p…
Chris Jones
08 Jan 2021, 4:58
'The main thing for me at Sale is I can't really slag anyone off, I probably wasn't all there myself'
Bath had to pay a fee in excess of £100,000 to Sale last February to recruit Cameron Redpath and they seem to now be reaping the …
Liam Heagney
08 Jan 2021, 4:34
17,000 may attend Japan's university final despite COVID-19 limits - JRFU
Japan's university rugby championship final will go ahead in Tokyo on Monday with 17,000 supporters.
AAP
08 Jan 2021, 3:39
The game of the Top 14 weekend between 1st and 3rd has been called off
A statement by league leaders La Rochelle has put the brakes on their Top 14 match which was scheduled to take place this Saturday…
Online Editors
08 Jan 2021, 3:39
'You'll no longer be warming up at the normal end, you swap ends so you're always behind the defensive end'
Harlequins boss Paul Gustard admits players will have to fight their instincts to comply with enhanced Premiership Rugby regulatio…
PA
08 Jan 2021, 3:11
'You could see some ridiculous celebrations'
London Irish have scored just three tries in the Premiership but Declan Kidney has predicted what may happen after a clampdown on …
Liam Heagney
08 Jan 2021, 3:00
Melbourne Rebels caught in COVID-19 chaos on eve of Super Rugby season
Melbourne Rebels are the latest sports team to get caught up in border mayhem with five Super Rugby players left in training limbo…
AAP
07 Jan 2021, 21:30
'He's an exciting, damaging player': Waratahs confirms signing of cross-code ex-Wallabies prospect
The Waratahs have bolstered their backline stocks with the signing of a former Brisbane NRL star for the 2021 Super Rugby season.
AAP
07 Jan 2021, 20:09
Argentina's second franchise gets cut as Jaguares find new home
Perhaps the biggest losers from the relatively sudden reformating of Super Rugby are Argentina and, more specifically, the Jaguare…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 19:49
Brumbies players skip Christmas in pursuit of consecutive Super Rugby AU titles
The Brumbies have proven their commitment to winning back-to-back Super Rugby AU titles with some players skipping Christmas with …
AAP
07 Jan 2021, 18:33
World Cup wild card
By 2023, Fiji could be a team with the potential to cause a major surprise at the World Cup.
LONG READ
Christy Doran
07 Jan 2021, 17:12
Blues star nearly beats Beauden Barrett's fitness record as Super Rugby pre-season training kicks-off
Super Rugby sides across New Zealand have returned to training ahead of the 2021 campaign, kicking-off their pre-seasons in gut-bu…
Alex McLeod
07 Jan 2021, 17:05
Rachael Burford: 2021 is the year for women's rugby
2021 is set to be a monumental year for women’s rugby. We have the Women’s Six Nations in February, Sevens at the Olympics thi…
Rachael Burford
07 Jan 2021, 12:45
The Bath verdict on Ben Spencer after 14 appearances since his switch from Saracens
Ben Spencer won a load of trophies with Saracens and the scrum-half is now bringing that experience into the mix at ambitious Bath…
Liam Heagney
07 Jan 2021, 12:45
16 Premiership rugby players at eight clubs test positive
Premiership Rugby have reported a drop in coronavirus cases in the latest round of testing conducted on Monday and Tuesday.
PA
07 Jan 2021, 11:42
Dai Young takes over at Cardiff Blues
Dai Young returns to Cardiff Blues as interim head coach following the departure of John Mulvihill, the regions have confirmed.
Ian Cameron
07 Jan 2021, 10:50
World Rugby agrees measures to ensure no repeat of last year's Francis Kean election gaffe
World Rugby generated negative headlines around the world last year when Francis Kean was controversially nominated as an election…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 10:04
Duncan Weir: I'd only return to Scotland 'for the right reasons'
Duncan Weir believes the signing of Duhan van der Merwe is a major coup for Worcester Warriors ahead of next season.
Gavin Harper
07 Jan 2021, 9:49
US consortium take over Sharks in landmark deal
US consortium MVM Holdings have effectively taken over South Africa's Sharks franchise as their majority partner, the team have co…
Ian Cameron
07 Jan 2021, 9:12
Gloucester lock Ed Slater banned for 4 games
Last Saturday's Gloucester vs Sale match at Kingsholm was a feisty affair and an incident has resulted in a ban until February 2 f…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 9:09
The French evolution
After a decade of turmoil, things are finally looking up for Les Bleus.
LONG READ
Gavin Mortimer
07 Jan 2021, 8:54
McFarland agrees to contract extension at Ulster
Irish side Ulster were in a state of flux when they reached out in 2018 to recruit Dan McFarland who was working at the time in Sc…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 8:40
Dan du Preez banned for 3 weeks after clash with Gloucester's Chris Harris
The intervention by Dan du Preez at a ruck in Kingsholm last Saturday generated much commentary and the Sale player has now been b…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 8:22
'I don't think it's really appropriate when people are quite ill'
Irish got four points despite being to blame for two Premiership cancellations but Declan Kidney deems it inappropriate to talk ab…
Liam Heagney
07 Jan 2021, 7:49
Scotland U20s star one of two Glasgow Warriors debutants for 1872 Cup decider
Glasgow will hand Scottish Rugby Academy graduates Ross Thompson and Rufus McLean their first starts in Friday’s Guinness PRO14 …
PA
07 Jan 2021, 6:57
'For me to sit here now and say it should shut up shop, I just couldn't do that and be honest with myself'
It was 2010 when Exeter first joined the Premiership and Rob Baxter has now shared his thoughts on the current ring-fencing debate…
Liam Heagney
07 Jan 2021, 6:51
Sexton declared fit by Leinster, resulting in start in new position for Ross Byrne
Leinster have rung 13 changes to their starting XV after last weekend's loss, but retention of Johnny Sexton means a new role for …
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 6:37
Former England fullback to make first Premiership start of the season for Worcester Warriors
England full-back Chris Pennell will make his first Gallagher Premiership appearance of the season for Warriors against Sale Shark…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 6:29
Lyon confirm Puma Patricio Fernandez is leaving the club for long-term ProD2 deal
Lyon have confirmed that sometime Los Pumas flyhalf Patricio Fernández has left the club for Perpignan in the ProD2.
Ian Cameron
07 Jan 2021, 5:54
Andy Farrell brings in Paul O'Connell to bolster Ireland management ahead of Six Nations
Ex-Ireland skipper Paul O'Connell hasn't coached since leaving Stade Francais in 2019 but he will now be part of Andy Farrell's se…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 4:45
Saracens back in action on January 16, taking part in three-team pre-Championship season tournament
Relegated Saracens will have gone 15 weeks without a competitive match by the time they face Championship rivals Ealing on January…
Online Editors
07 Jan 2021, 4:00
'At least my player rating is good': Joe Rokocoko's take on arguably his crowning rugby achievement
There are some accomplishments in the world of professional rugby that only a minority of players are ever able to achieve. There'…
Tom Vinicombe
06 Jan 2021, 22:11
Why it's absolutely important that the Lions tour of South Africa goes ahead - even for New Zealand
While the world got through 2020 reasonably unscathed, the game can’t absorb another year of that nature. We need meaningful com…
Hamish Bidwell
06 Jan 2021, 18:20
The 'pretty critical' absences with no like-for-like replacements that could haunt the Hurricanes
When the Hurricanes made back to back finals appearance in Super Rugby, it was on the back of some exceptional performances from t…
Online Editors
06 Jan 2021, 16:23
An 'alignment group' and 'ABC' analysis - how Bristol have upped the dressing room ante during recent Premiership intervals
Bristol have looked a transformed team in recent Premiership second-halves and Pat Lam has explained what they get up to at half-t…
Liam Heagney
06 Jan 2021, 12:35
Freddie Burns suggests bizarre Japanese way to decide points split for cancelled Premiership games
Ex-Bath out-half Freddie Burns is now playing in Japan and he has come across a novel way for the Premiership to decide its cancel…
Josh Raisey
06 Jan 2021, 11:53
Ice baths and face-to-face try celebrations banned as Premiership introduce a raft of tightened protocols
With five games cancelled in twelve days, Premiership officials have introduced a list of new protocols, including a ban on try ce…
PA
06 Jan 2021, 11:32
Sizing up
Bigger is better for Test coaches, but it isn't for player welfare
LONG READ
Andy Clarke
06 Jan 2021, 11:16
Promotion for Thomas at Worcester, new deal for loan recruit Moyle at Gloucester
Jonathan Thomas returned to Worcester from Bristol during the first lockdown while Kyle Moyle made the Premiership step-up from Co…
Online Editors
06 Jan 2021, 10:56
Light shed on Alex Cuthbert's latest injury absence which is now 14 weeks and counting
Ex-Wales winger Alex Cuthbert made an instant impact at Exeter when he joined in 2018 but he has since been struck by series of in…
Liam Heagney
06 Jan 2021, 10:21
Troubled Perese grabs Waratahs lifeline after backing out of Bayonne
Izaia Perese has experienced a roller coaster union and league career and the latest twist for the 23-year-old is a lifeline deal …
Online Editors
06 Jan 2021, 9:27
Edinburgh fans hope Watson's loyalty can be a game-changer after bad few days
Edinburgh fans are hoping Wednesday's contract extension for Hamish Watson has put an end to a run of bad news about players leavi…
Josh Raisey
06 Jan 2021, 8:52
New ground set to be broken as unknown Georgian referee handed plum round three Champions Cup tie
Boundaries will be pushed back next weekend in European when an unknown Georgian referee takes charge of a Champions Cup game in P…
Online Editors
06 Jan 2021, 7:21
'It does impact on the integrity of the competition': Number of cancelled Premiership matches now stands at 5
Tensions are rising near the foot of the Gallagher Premiership table due to the glut of cancellations involving Worcester and many…
Chris Jones
06 Jan 2021, 6:57
Defending champions Exeter react to drastic call from France to cancel this season's Champions Cup
Exeter are hoping to welcome Toulouse to Sandy Park this month but there are calls elsewhere in France to scrap the 2020/21 Champi…
Liam Heagney
06 Jan 2021, 6:31
Northampton shut training ground after cancellation of next Saturday's derby with Leicester
Fears initially emerged on Tuesday that next weekend's Gallagher Premiership derby between Northampton and Leicester was in jeopar…
Online Editors
06 Jan 2021, 6:15
Hamish Watson gives Edinburgh boost, extending his deal after two other players headed to the Premiership this week
It has been a tough week for Edinburgh, losing two players to the Premiership, but Scotland back row Hamish Watson has agreed a fr…
Online Editors
06 Jan 2021, 5:11
Currie Cup hit by another cancellation, this time in Cape Town
With the pandemic proving really difficult to control in South Africa, Saturday's Currie Cup game at Western Province has been can…
Online Editors
06 Jan 2021, 4:51
Beauden Barrett unveiled to media at Suntory, explains why he chose Japan and not France
All Blacks talisman Beauden Barrett has been unveiled to media ahead of the new Japanese Top League season, explains reasons for m…
AAP
06 Jan 2021, 4:18
It is difficult for any side to fill a void as large as the one that Brodie Retallick left at the All Blacks
If the All Blacks had the mongrel, commitment, passion and steely resolve that Retallick so often brings to the fore, they might h…
Alex McLeod
05 Jan 2021, 23:22
New Zealand's unluckiest player lands Super Rugby gig in Australian capital
Former NZ Under 20s player James Tucker has always been earmarked for great things but injuries have curtailed his career to date.…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 20:12
'More luck getting blood out of a stone': Brodie Retallick recovers Instagram account following comical exchange with hacker
All Blacks star Brodie Retallick has apologised to fans and promised to secure his Instagram account with a stronger password afte…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 19:56
Leon MacDonald hints that talented 20-year-old could take Beauden Barrett's spot at the Blues
After a rejuvenation of sorts in 2020, the Blues will have to reinvent themselves again in the coming Super Rugby Aotearoa season,…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 18:01
'This isn't boxing where you can dodge opponents that threaten your title': The case for stripping the Springboks of the number one ranking
By the time they face the British and Irish Lions in July, that drought will be stretched to 20 months, and even then it's increas…
RugbyPass
05 Jan 2021, 17:01
'He got by on the fact that he was smart': Why former wing Cory Jane is a perfect defence coach for the Hurricanes
As a player, outside back Cory Jane was known for his powerful fend and deceptive pace. It therefore came as somewhat of a surpris…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 16:04
Young is fans' favourite to replace axed Mulvihill at Cardiff
With John Mulvihill unceremoniously axed at Cardiff, many fans want to see the clock turned back and Dai Young allowed to have a s…
Josh Raisey
05 Jan 2021, 12:58
'Semi definitely has an intention and a desire to play in the Olympics'
After December friction between Bristol and Fiji over their Nations Cup use of Semi Radradra, 7s boss Gareth Baber is set for Olym…
Chris Jones
05 Jan 2021, 12:55
'Can you imagine Siya Kolisi living in Cov?' The Rugby Pod on the Wasps-in-for-Springboks-skipper rumour
The Rugby Pod have their say on a Christmas cracker, the rumour that Premiership finalists Wasps are in for South Africa skipper S…
Liam Heagney
05 Jan 2021, 12:43
Lions playing South Africa at home in Britain and Ireland is one of 3 contingency plans under consideration
The ongoing situation with the pandemic has left the Lions developing alternatives to the tour not going ahead in South Africa in …
PA
05 Jan 2021, 11:06
The hard line
Talent only takes you so far, you need selflessness and a team-ethic to become a true great
LONG READ
David Flatman
05 Jan 2021, 10:37
Gloucester snap up another recruit from Scotland, this time Edinburgh's Andrew Davidson
With Adan Hastings already signed for next season, Gloucester have gone back to Scotland to snap up Edinburgh forward Andrew David…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 9:51
Doubts emerge over Northampton's Premiership derby with Leicester
Having had their Premiership game las Sunday cancelled at London Irish, Northampton now have doubts about their next game with Lei…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 9:29
'The Dan du Preez incident has been blown out of all proportion': Sale latest on citing and brawl-causing water carrier incidents
A citing involving Dan du Preez from Saturday versus Gloucester has generated headlines for Sale as has a brawl involving their wa…
Liam Heagney
05 Jan 2021, 8:00
Ex-Wales wing Jones leaves Crusaders for a stint coaching in the Gallagher Premiership
Mark Jones pitched up at Crusaders following the 2019 World Cup with Namibia but he has now decided to coach in the Gallagher Prem…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 6:44
'I said take a bit off the back and sides and then just make the top a bit fluffier'
An extraordinary head of hair accompanied Duncan Weir when he returned to the Scotland No10 shirt last November and he has now had…
Liam Heagney
05 Jan 2021, 6:16
Six Nations agreement reached in France to ensure no repeat of Autumn Nations Cup friction
Last autumn's Test window was fraught in France but a player availability deal has been reached with Top 14 clubs ahead of the Six…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 5:14
John Mulvihill has left Cardiff with immediate effect - reports
John Mulvihill was appointed as successor to Danny Wilson but his two-and-a-half-year stint at Cardiff hasn't seen fortunes improv…
Online Editors
05 Jan 2021, 4:15
Six players who could benefit from a postponed Lions tour
This year’s British and Irish Lions series against the Springboks could be in jeopardy amid a spike in Covid-19 cases in South A…
Josh Raisey
05 Jan 2021, 2:49
Rugby Wrap Up | Episode 28
Rugby Wrap Up celebrates the end of 2020 with Alex Corbisiero, George Hook, Steve Lewis and host Matt McCarthy.
Rugby Wrap Up
04 Jan 2021, 23:49
'Akira has decided personally to make a change': Blockbusting Blues loose forward set for another massive season
It took until the All Blacks' final test match of the year, but fans and critics across New Zealand were finally treated to an exe…
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 20:25
Western Force eye trans-Tasman supremacy following announcement of new chief executive
A former NZ rugby administrator has been handed the job of turning the Western Force into a trans-Tasman powerhouse after being na…
AAP
04 Jan 2021, 20:03
'Sad to see that two teams bottom of the Premiership can take such talent': Duhan van der Merwe's move leaves Scotland fans questioning eligibility rules
The announcement of recently capped Scottish wing Duhan van der Merwe's move to Premiership club Worcester Warriors was met with d…
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 17:36
The new darts world champion who 'could have played rugby for the Lions'
It's not often darts and rugby share athletes in the way that union does with league and American football, but Gerwyn Price isn't…
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 16:39
Annus mirabilis
He started the year a hopeful sevens player but Caleb Clarke ended 2020 as a global superstar.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
04 Jan 2021, 16:35
'I didn't feel like I belonged there': Leon MacDonald sheds light on Blues move
Leon MacDonald's appointment as head coach of the Blues in 2019 came as a surprise not because the former All Blacks hadn't proven…
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 16:05
Sonny Bill Williams' signature chased by broadcaster as post-playing career switch beckons
An off-field career switch could be in the offing for former All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams ahead of the new Super Rugby AU s…
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 15:35
Report: Priestland in 'talks' over Welsh return
Rhys Priestland's return to Wales looks increasingly like a done deal, with the BBC reporting that the flyhalf is in 'talks' with …
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 13:04
Leinster's 'farmed out' XV plying their trade for other Irish provinces
The movement of players from Leinster to the other provinces has at times been a source of frustration for the club.
Ciarán Kennedy
04 Jan 2021, 12:53
No summer Six Nations on cards say organisers
The competition is due to kick off on February 6.
PA
04 Jan 2021, 12:34
EPCR statement: Covid-19 protocols review
The EPCR have held a meeting to discuss their Covid-19 protocols, hot on the heels of rumblings from France suggesting a number of…
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 12:11
Two players cited following fiery Gloucester Sale game
Gloucester lock Ed Slater and Sale number eight Daniel Du Preez have been cited following Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership match…
PA
04 Jan 2021, 11:55
Sexism and online abuse are alive and well in rugby union
If you think sexism and online abuse of women is a 'football thing', than think again. Rugby union is by no means immune, write Je…
Jess Hayden
04 Jan 2021, 11:28
On a cliff edge
South Africa's future could depend on the British & Irish Lions tour getting the go-ahead.
LONG READ
Craig Ray
04 Jan 2021, 10:50
Duhan van der Merwe signs for Worcester Warriors
In a move rumoured for weeks, Worcester Warriors have confirmed the recruitment of Scotland international wing Duhan van der Merwe…
PA
04 Jan 2021, 10:50
England injury scare over as Jack Willis all but ready to roll
England flanker Jack Willis is hopeful of being available for Wasps’ Gallagher Premiership clash with Bath after making encourag…
PA
04 Jan 2021, 10:08
Scotland prop Welsh rejoins Newcastle Falcons
Former Scotland prop Jon Welsh has rejoined Newcastle Falcons, the club have confirmed.
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 9:26
The specialist training making Wasps Premiership breakdown kings
Defence coach Ian Costello has revealed the specialist training that has turned Wasps into the outstanding breakdown team in the G…
Chris Jones
04 Jan 2021, 9:05
Leinster issue lengthy injury update following defeat to Connacht
Leo Cullen's squad have been left with a number of players facing fitness battles ahead of Friday's showdown with Conference A lea…
Ciarán Kennedy
04 Jan 2021, 8:53
Saracens vs South Africa makes perfect sense in 2021
Time to run it back? Saracens and South Africa are two teams that have played very little rugby over the past year, and are still …
Josh Raisey
04 Jan 2021, 8:47
Bulls sign 'visionary' Hitoshi Ipponsugi in groundbreaking appointment
Jake White's Blue Bulls have created a new role in their coaching team, signing Hitoshi Ipponsugi as their Head of Athletic Perfor…
Ian Cameron
04 Jan 2021, 8:00
Not a single Scot has made Sam Warburton's latest Lions XV and there's no room for 3 Welsh legends
Former tour skipper Sam Warburton hasn't included a single Scotland player in his lastest Lions selection, but he has found room f…
Ian Cameron
04 Jan 2021, 7:43
Club tug of war over one of rugby highest paid players
The return of Johan Goosen to South Africa seems to be locked in, but whether the Cheetahs or the Bulls win the heart of the forme…
Ian Cameron
04 Jan 2021, 6:29
Family tragedies behind Diamond quitting Sale Sharks
Former Sale Sharks Director of Rugby Steve Diamond has opened up about a string of family tragedies that lead to him making the de…
Ian Cameron
04 Jan 2021, 4:18
Bayonne refuse to play Leicester and Zebre in Challenge Cup
Bayonne had their Top 14 fixture against Castres on December 26 postponed following a number of positive tests.
Online Editors
04 Jan 2021, 3:54
Bath DoR gives verdict on Leicester Tigers' star George Ford
Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper lauded George Ford’s performance as the Leicester fly-half steered his side to a 36-31 come…
PA
04 Jan 2021, 3:30
Ex semi-pro rugby player Price clinches darts world championship
Welshman Gerwyn Price has won darts' world championship, beating Scotland's Gary Anderson 7-3 in the final to earn his biggest car…
AAP
04 Jan 2021, 3:09
'So inconsistent' - Scottish international who had to leave field after brutal hit calls out TMO decision
Gloucester star Chris Harris has called out a decision that led him being removed from the field for a HIA, yet saw no repercussio…
Ian Cameron
03 Jan 2021, 11:58
George Ford shines as Leicester battle back to beat Bath in thriller
England star George Ford kicked 21 points against his former club as Leicester overturned a 14-point deficit to beat Bath 36-31 in…
PA
03 Jan 2021, 11:47
Northampton Saints awarded win over London Irish following cancellation
Northampton Saints have been awarded four league points by Premiership Rugby, following the cancellation of the club’s Gallagher…
Online Editors
03 Jan 2021, 11:05
Montpellier sack Xavier Garbajosa mid-season, appoint former French boss Philippe Saint-Andre
Montpellier have parted ways with head coach Xavier Garbajosa and appointed former French head coach Philippe Saint André as his …
Ian Cameron
03 Jan 2021, 10:46
'I'd buy a ticket' - Alex Payne floats a compelling alternative 'Home Lions Tour' itinerary
With major doubt now cast over the viability of the British and Irish Lions to South Africa this summer, the suggestion that the L…
Ian Cameron
03 Jan 2021, 8:30
England prospect Alfie Barbeary could be out for up to 3 months
Standout Wasps forward Alfie Barbeary is likely to be out for up to twelve weeks, Wasps' head coach Lee Blackett has confirmed.
Online Editors
03 Jan 2021, 6:57
Gwent Police investigating racial abuse of Dragons winger Ashton Hewitt
The club reported a post on Twitter after their defeat to Scarlets.
PA
03 Jan 2021, 3:25
Waterboy incident: 'Emotions boil over, and I think a lot of people make it a bigger issue than it actually is'
Sale Sharks interim head coach Paul Deacon saluted his players’ “commitment to the cause” after they toppled Gloucester 22-1…
PA
03 Jan 2021, 3:08
Beauden Barrett jumps to the rescue to warn fans after All Blacks star's social media account hacked
All Black lock Brodie Retallick is the latest rugby star to become victim to hackers, after his Instagram social media account was…
Online Editors
02 Jan 2021, 22:24
Connacht break 18-year hoodoo with seismic win over Leinster
Connacht won in Dublin for the first time since September 2002 as fly-half Jack Carty masterminded a seismic 35-24 bonus-point win…
PA
02 Jan 2021, 16:05
Set for lift-off
The XV has enlisted experts all over the world to select players they expect to make a big impression in 2021
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
02 Jan 2021, 14:51
Ulster beat Munster to maintain unbeaten start to PRO14 season
Ulster maintained their 100 per cent start in the Guinness PRO14 as they began the new year by beating Irish rivals Munster 15-10,…
PA
02 Jan 2021, 14:25
Waterboy incident ignites sideline brawl as Sale Sharks grab win over Gloucester
Sale Sharks claimed a first victory of interim head coach Paul Deacon’s reign as they beat Gloucester 22-19 at Kingsholm thanks …
PA
02 Jan 2021, 13:12
Video: Rees-Zammit starts 2021 with electric try just days after Ian McGeechan name-checks him as Lions tour bolter
Louis Rees-Zammit was name-checked as a Lions tour bolter earlier this week and he started his 2021 with Gloucester with an exhila…
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2021, 11:46
Magnus Bradbury try edges Edinburgh to victory over Glasgow
Magnus Bradbury’s try was enough to seal a 10-7 win for Edinburgh over Glasgow after a late surge of points at Murrayfield.
PA
02 Jan 2021, 11:16
'We wanted to send out a statement, wanted to almost shock them with our physicality'
Beaten in the London rain ten weeks ago in the 2019/20 final, Wasps were in a mission in their Premiership rematch with champions …
Online Editors
02 Jan 2021, 11:01
Bonus-earning Wasps hammer champions Exeter despite loss of Jack Willis to injury
Exeter completed their league and cup double with a Premiership final win over Wasps 10 weeks ago but revenge was served in Ricoh …
PA
02 Jan 2021, 10:21
Luca Bigi double gives Zebre win over Benetton
Zebre claimed bragging rights in the Italian derby with a 24-15 victory over Benetton in the Guinness Pro14.
PA
02 Jan 2021, 9:33
Lions issue official statement as report casts doubt on future of summer South Africa tour
Decision to be made sooner rather than later due to coronavirus, says Lions managing director.
PA
02 Jan 2021, 9:23
'This is disgusting' - Rugby reacts as a police called in to investigate racist abuse directed at Ashton Hewitt
The rugby community has come out to roundly condemn racist abuse directed at Dragons wing Ashton Hewitt.
Ian Cameron
02 Jan 2021, 9:07
Bastareaud's message from hospital following surgery on his season-ending knee injury
New signing Mathieu Bastareaud had featured in all 10 of the Top 14 games at Lyon this season but his season is now over after ser…
Online Editors
02 Jan 2021, 8:08
The grape-into-wine analogy that left Pat Lam smiling heading into 2021 with his Bristol Bears
2020 Premiership rugby will be remembered for the difficulties caused by the pandemic but Bristol boss Pat Lam isn't all doom and …
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2021, 7:08
'Consideration must surely be given' - Should the Six Nations be moved?
A radical Six Nations alternative is being suggested that could see fans back in stadiums and watching rugby - in the northern hem…
Ian Cameron
02 Jan 2021, 6:52
Video: How referee Nigel Owens reacted when he realised he had no yellow card to sin-bin a Dragons player
Referee Nigel Owens has a much-lauded reputation for his way with words and events in Llanelli on New Year's Day have added to his…
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2021, 6:27
Welsh rugby star asks for help to track down racist Tweeter
Dragons rugby player Ashton Hewitt has asked the public for help in tracking down the person behind a racist Twitter account who t…
Ian Cameron
02 Jan 2021, 5:51
Wasps' verdict on winger Paolo Odogwu's rare four-game run as their starting No13
Paolo Odogwu is more recognised as a winger at Wasps but he recently enjoyed a four-game run as Lee Blackett's starting No13.
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2021, 5:41
Premiership statement: Worcester and Quins split points over abandoned match
Harlequins and Worcester have split their points following their abandoned match, with Warriors getting four points and the win an…
Online Editors
02 Jan 2021, 5:18
Exiting Springbok star Marcell Coetzee benched by Ulster
Springbok back row bruiser Marcell Coetzee has found himself in a usual position: he's been benched by Ulster.
Online Editors
02 Jan 2021, 5:00
'Everyone needs to be a little careful' - Double-winning Exeter's response to latest Esportif Premiership player salary report
Esportif's salary report claims No10 is best-paid Premiership position and openside the worst, but Exeter aren't reading much into…
Liam Heagney
02 Jan 2021, 4:31
Three Ben Whitehouse yellow cards hamper Cardiff Blues as Ospreys secure victory
Cardiff Blues had to play with 14 men for 30 minutes as referee Ben Whitehouse hit them with three yellow cards in a 17-3 defeat t…
PA
02 Jan 2021, 4:31
Report: Lions tour on verge of cancellation
The British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa is now in serious danger of not going ahead this year due to the COVID-19 pandemi…
Online Editors
02 Jan 2021, 4:11
'It has always been a perception based on how I conduct myself away from the pitch'
Wasps captain Joe Launchbury has cranked up his physicality in the belief his calm demeanour has created a false perception.
PA
02 Jan 2021, 3:56
Scarlets grind out Guinness PRO14 win over Dragons
Scarlets ground out a hard fought 20-3 Guinness PRO14 victory over a resilient Dragons outfit in Llanelli.
PA
02 Jan 2021, 3:42
Tough at the top
The pressure and expectation that comes with the All Blacks captaincy has been too hard for some players to handle.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
01 Jan 2021, 14:55
Bristol end Newcastle's winning start to the season
Newcastle suffered their first defeat of the Gallagher Premiership season as Bristol claimed a 29-17 bonus-point win on New Year…
PA
01 Jan 2021, 11:46
'We've got a list of 14 players unavailable to us at the moment and a chunk of those are internationalists'
Danny Wilson admits there may be more short-term pain in store for injury-hit Glasgow but the Warriors coach is convinced long-ter…
PA
01 Jan 2021, 11:38
'This makes perfect sense' - postponed Glasgow-Edinburgh derby rescheduled
Glasgow and Edinburgh’s postponed Guinness PRO14 derby clash has been rescheduled for next Friday after league chiefs decided to…
PA
01 Jan 2021, 11:30
'I am fine' - Leicester Tigers boss Borthwick working remotely after testing positive
Leicester Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick is having to work remotely after testing positive for COVID-19.
Chris Jones
01 Jan 2021, 8:28
Ryan Baird switches to blindside for Leinster, as Ireland No.8 ruturns from injury
Ryan Baird is to set to start at six for Leinster, as Leo Cullen looks to run the positional experiment denied to him by the cance…
Online Editors
01 Jan 2021, 8:19
'We've got a plan and it's a very similar plan to what we were going to use in the final'
A rematch of the Gallagher Premiership final sees Baxter’s double winners look to improve on a poor record at the Ricoh Arena.
PA
01 Jan 2021, 7:52
Glasgow and Scotland hit by triple injury blow
Glasgow and Scotland have been hit with a triple injury blow after internationals Fraser Brown, George Horne and Alex Allan were r…
PA
01 Jan 2021, 6:20
England name 32-man U20s Elite Player Squad
England U20s head coach Alan Dickens has named his 32-man Elite Player Squad (EPS) for 2021, including six players who have been c…
Online Editors
01 Jan 2021, 6:17
Reasons to be cheerful?
As we enter 2021, there are no guarantees a new year will signal a new dawn.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
01 Jan 2021, 3:59
Ten of rugby's brightest young talents set to shine in 2021
We have scoured the globe for 10 of rugby's top young talents to keep an eye on in 2021, with age-grade rugby having been cancelle…
Alex Shaw
01 Jan 2021, 3:57
Ending the worst year ever on the best possible note - Andy Goode
It may have been the worst year for rugby in living memory but it’s ended on the most positive note possible that should give us…
Andy Goode
31 Dec 2020, 13:57
'I asked someone what do they mean by hairdryer. I'd never heard that expression'
Pat Lam was compared to Alex Ferguson following the Boxing Day win at Harlequins but the comparison was lost on the Bristol boss. …
Liam Heagney
31 Dec 2020, 12:50
Exeter and Wasps dominate 2020's Premiership stats
The pandemic threw unprecedented amounts of disruption at the sport across the globe, as it did with all aspects of life, and Gall…
Online Editors
31 Dec 2020, 10:48
'I do feel for Danny. He's had a whole bunch of stuff to deal with' - Fagerson back Wilson despite horror start
The Covid-19 crisis may have hampered Danny Wilson’s attempts to get his feet under the table at Scotstoun but Zander Fagerson b…
PA
31 Dec 2020, 10:34
Jamie Roberts self-isolating despite already testing positive earlier in the year
The Dragons have revealed that former Wales centre Jamie Roberts is self-isolating, despite having already tested positive for Cov…
Online Editors
31 Dec 2020, 10:06
England centre Ollie Devoto linked with shock move to Wasps
England centre Ollie Devoto has been linked with a shock move away from double-winning Exeter Chiefs, with speculation suggesting …
Ian Cameron
31 Dec 2020, 9:30
ProD2 club swoop for Puma backrow Rodrigo Bruni
Backrow Rodrigo Bruni has become the latest Argentinian star to pick up a contract in Europe, with ProD2 side Vannes confirming th…
Ian Cameron
31 Dec 2020, 8:43
Los Pumas centre Orlando set for Premiership bow
Los Pumas centre Matias Orlando is set to make his Gallagher Premiership debut as Newcastle Falcons name him in their starting lin…
Online Editors
31 Dec 2020, 6:41
Owens, Baxter and Leo among 5 nominees for Rugby Union Writers' Club award
Baxter, Nigel Owens, Dan Leo, Alun Wyn Jones and Antoine Dupont are nominated for the Pat Marshall Memorial Award.
PA
31 Dec 2020, 6:21
Piutau and Sinckler set for Bristol Bears return
Charles Piutau is set to play his first game for Bristol Bears kick since injuring himself last October, as Pat Lam's side take on…
Online Editors
31 Dec 2020, 6:16
The one Premiership Covid-19 protocol that Northampton boss Chris Boyd still can't fully get his head around
Chris Boyd is chuffed with how Northampton have risen to the challenge of Covid but one Premiership protocol continues to bemuse t…
Liam Heagney
31 Dec 2020, 5:43
Brutal injury leaves Zebre captain out for 5 months
Zebre captain Giulio Bisegni is set to be sidelined for the rest of the PRO14 season, the club have confirmed.
Ian Cameron
31 Dec 2020, 5:11
'I had a two-year deal with them' - Why Cobus Wiese turned down Saracens
The final month of an unprecedented year has seen Cobus Wiese face the shock exit of Steve Diamond, Sale Shark’s director of rug…
Chris Jones
31 Dec 2020, 4:07
'I'm a late developer... I was 100 kilos coming out of the under-20s'
Jamie Hodgson feels he is ready to make his mark in the Edinburgh team after seizing his opportunity to step up a level.
PA
31 Dec 2020, 3:12
'I thought it was spam!' - Exeter boss Rob Baxter suspected OBE email was prank
The Chiefs boss and his captain and fly-half Joe Simmonds have both been honoured in the new year list.
PA
31 Dec 2020, 2:53
Teenage kicks
Just 19, Ioan Lloyd has had a breakthrough year and 2021 promises to be even better
LONG READ
Owain Jones
31 Dec 2020, 2:43
Irish have second successive match cancelled as Premiership officials confirm 33 positive tests across 10 clubs
Hopes that London Irish could bounce back healthy this week following their Premiership game cancellation at Bath have been unfrui…
Online Editors
30 Dec 2020, 13:33
Testing change ensures Bristol's New Year Day game goes ahead despite absence of all 6 front rowers from win at Quins
Bristol have lost 1 front row to Covid and 5 others to isolation protocols but their Premiership game against Newcastle will still…
Liam Heagney
30 Dec 2020, 10:18
Front row issue sees Harlequins' January 1 game at Worcester cancelled
Having lost two Premiership games to Covid in the Boxing Day round of fixtures, Harlequins vs Worcester this New Year weekend is a…
Online Editors
30 Dec 2020, 8:48
'Missing them? I wouldn't think so' - League leaders Exeter on Premiership life without fierce rivals Saracens
Exeter have netted four bonus-point wins in four Premiership games but they insist the league isn't suffering from the absence of …
Liam Heagney
30 Dec 2020, 7:18
'He's grafting and doing all he needs to do': The latest from Sale on Tuilagi's race for Lions tour fitness
Injury robbed England's Manu Tuilagi of 2017 Lions selection and the Sale centre is in a race to be fit for the 2021 tour to South…
Chris Jones
30 Dec 2020, 6:24
Exeter deliver update on severity of Stuart Hogg's hamstring injury five and a half weeks before 2021 Six Nations start
The sight of Stuart Hogg limping away from the Exeter fray with a hamstring injury six weeks before Six Nations left Scotland fans…
Liam Heagney
30 Dec 2020, 5:11
'I had to have a word with him and I used the word stupid'
Charlie Atkinson has bounced back from being recklessly hit by Owen Farrell, but his teenage exuburence isn't fully to the liking …
Liam Heagney
30 Dec 2020, 3:46
Collision course
Rugby’s tragic flaw is that the more players improve, the more dangerous they are to one another.
LONG READ
Michael Aylwin
30 Dec 2020, 2:12
Chris Boyd's blunt verdict on Northampton's underwhelming 2020
Northampton were tipped to challenge for honours at the start of 2020 but the Chris Boyd set-up won just 6 of 24 matches this cale…
Liam Heagney
29 Dec 2020, 12:01
No10 now the best paid position in the Premiership and Top 14, but it remains tough love for those at hooker
The Esportif Intelligence comparison of rugby player salaries in England, France and PRO14 is a talking point at this time every y…
Liam Heagney
29 Dec 2020, 10:25
The boot-iful game
A reliable and accurate place-kicker can make all the difference at Test level
LONG READ
Andy Clarke
29 Dec 2020, 9:58
'We wouldn't even dare consider him for this week': Lee Blackett issues update on injured Wasps duo Kibirige and Barbeary
Sunday's Premiership win for Wasps at Sale came at a price and boss Lee Blackett has now given an update on Zach Kibirige and Alfi…
Liam Heagney
29 Dec 2020, 9:23
Jake Ball to quit Scarlets and Wales after nine-year stint
Jake Ball was an unknown quantity when he arrived at Scarlets in 2012 but he will leave next summer as a stalwart of the club and …
Online Editors
29 Dec 2020, 8:12
Scott Cummings signs on for more at struggling Glasgow
The Danny Wilson reign at Glasgow hasn't been short of problems but Scotland lock Scott Cummings has given the set-up a vote of co…
Online Editors
29 Dec 2020, 6:48
'Support ring-fencing for a period of time to let clubs get their finances in order'
The 2020/21 Gallagher Premiership table has an asterisk alongside four of the twelve clubs - including Newcastle - following cance…
Chris Jones
29 Dec 2020, 6:10
Leinster issue statement confirming 2 senior players have tested positive for virus
On-song Leinster have had their progress hampered by last weekend's PRO14 match call-off and fresh concerns about Covid-19 in thei…
Online Editors
29 Dec 2020, 5:36
McGeechan's latest Lions despatch tips Lawrence, Doris and Rees-Zammit as bolters and outlines specific role for veteran Jones
Speculation about Lions selection will dominate in 2021 but Ian McGeechan has set out his stall early with identification of three…
Online Editors
29 Dec 2020, 5:02
Best of 2020: Looking back at the two upset wins from the Tri Nations
Even though the All Blacks have their hands on the trophy, both the Wallabies and Pumas had famous wins which need to be celebrate…
Finn Morton
29 Dec 2020, 0:29
Coach Clark Laidlaw 'hopeful' that Caleb Clarke can join All Blacks Sevens for Tokyo Olympics
All Blacks Sevens coach Clark Laidlaw remains positive of having the services of several Super Rugby players for their Tokyo Olymp…
Online Editors
28 Dec 2020, 21:52
'Likely to be the player of the decade': The dizzying hype Rieko Ioane got after his first test season in 2017
It seemed that he was destined to break all sorts of records after scoring 10 test tries in his first full season as an All Black …
Online Editors
28 Dec 2020, 21:43
UAR announce findings of investigation into Matera social media posts
The UAR have announced the findings of what they state was "an exhaustive investigation process" by a disciplinary commission whic…
Ciarán Kennedy
28 Dec 2020, 15:49
Lyon's Bastareaud suffers season-ending knee injury
The 32-year-old was forced off 15 minutes into Lyon's 12-8 Top 14 defeat to Brive on Sunday.
Online Editors
28 Dec 2020, 11:19
Ntamack's Six Nations in doubt after fly-half suffers horror jaw injury
France are due to begin their Six Nations campaign in just under six weeks time when they take on Italy in Rome (February 6).
Ciarán Kennedy
28 Dec 2020, 8:42
Cardiff Blues find temporary home venue for Pro14 derbies
Cardiff have been unable to play at the Arms Park this season due to its use as part of the Dragon's Heart Hospital.
Online Editors
28 Dec 2020, 7:30
Premiership Rugby announce points decisions for Christmas games cancelled due to COVID
The Newcastle Falcons v Leicester Tigers and Bath v London Irish games were cancelled over the weekend due to small outbreaks of C…
Online Editors
28 Dec 2020, 6:11
Bulls confirm terms of Coetzee contract
Ulster had revealed that the South African would be returning home at the end of the season in a statement last week.
Online Editors
28 Dec 2020, 3:20
Ian Madigan stars as Ulster beat Connacht
Ian Madigan helped himself to 22 points in Ulster’s 32-19 Guinness PRO14 derby win over Connacht at the Sportsground.
PA
27 Dec 2020, 16:05
The lost art of winning
Rugby in Australia isn't going to boom again until the Wallabies rediscover the art of winning consistently.
LONG READ
Christy Doran
27 Dec 2020, 15:59
Siya Kolisi withdrawl was due to wife contracting Covid-19
Siya Kolisi's wife has taken to social media to confirm that she had contracted Covid-19, warning others to take the virus serious…
Online Editors
27 Dec 2020, 15:01
'There seems to be an issue with mindset with some of them. Some of the decision-making isn't always there'
The mindset of certain players could be an issue at Sale according to interim boss Paul Deacon as he suffered defeat in his first …
PA
27 Dec 2020, 14:25
'I knew I needed to get out of there' - Jamie Bhatti on why he simply had to leave Edinburgh
Jamie Bhatti was two reps into the dreaded bronco test, a hideous assortment of sprints that is rugby’s universal fitness benchm…
Jamie Lyall
27 Dec 2020, 12:28
Nasty looking Zach Kibirige injury mars Wasps win over Sale Sharks
Interim head coach Paul Deacon suffered defeat in his first Premiership game in charge of Sale as they were edged out 26-23 by Was…
PA
27 Dec 2020, 11:50
Report: Edinburgh to sign yet another South African
Richard Cockerill's Edinburgh are apparently set to import another South African, according to reports from the Rainbow Nation.
Ian Cameron
27 Dec 2020, 5:34
Pablo Matera to make Stade Francais return
Argentinian captain Pablo Matera is set to make his Stade Francais return off the bench against Pau in the Top 14 today.
Ian Cameron
27 Dec 2020, 3:41
Heavy mettle
Duane Vermeulen says it would be a mistake to write off the Springboks next summer.
LONG READ
Jon Cardinelli
27 Dec 2020, 2:32
'I don't want to be the Christmas grinch...but one swallow doesn't make a summer'
.Chris Boyd had mixed feelings after his Northampton side ended their winless start to the season with a Boxing Day triumph over W…
PA
27 Dec 2020, 1:17
'One of the greatest all-round performances anyone's ever seen' - Dan Carter's incredible 33-point haul against the 2005 British and Irish Lions in Wellington
Dan Carter shot to superstar status as a test rugby flyhalf, with a mesmerising performance against the 2005 British and Irish Lio…
Online Editors
26 Dec 2020, 22:18
Welsh website ranks seven All Blacks in this year's top 50 players
All Blacks stars Aaron Smith and Beauden Barrett have been ranked among the top 10 in a Welsh news website's annual 50 best rugby …
Online Editors
26 Dec 2020, 21:14
Time for change
Empty words aren't enough, real action is needed on equality and diversity
LONG READ
Nolli Waterman
26 Dec 2020, 16:31
O'Brien try the difference in dour Welsh derby
A late converted try from Angus O’Brien proved just enough for Scarlets to scrape a 16-14 win over Ospreys in a dour West Wales …
PA
26 Dec 2020, 13:56
Northampton Saints end home hoodoo in last game of 2020 against Worcester
Northampton Saints finally ended their Franklin’s Gardens losing streak in their last game of 2020 as they beat Worcester Warrio…
PA
26 Dec 2020, 12:58
'Some of those lads had virtually no time on the training field in two weeks and yet we scored four tries against another Premiership side'
Rob Baxter revealed that Exeter engineered a 28-20 Gallagher Premiership victory over Gloucester despite their team being unable t…
PA
26 Dec 2020, 12:46
'Just step on to the bus' - Pat Lam on what he said to his Bristol players during half-time team talk
Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam gave his players two choices before they came from behind to defeat Harlequins 27-19 in th…
PA
26 Dec 2020, 12:26
Cardiff Blues claim local bragging rights over Dragons
Josh Turnbull was the hero for Cardiff Blues with a late try to secure derby bragging rights against the Dragons at Rodney Parade.
PA
26 Dec 2020, 12:12
Covid outbreak fails to slow Exeter's perfect Premiership start
Exeter bounced back from the outbreak of coronavirus that had swept through Sandy Park to maintain their perfect start to their Ga…
PA
26 Dec 2020, 12:02
Steven Luatua stars in Bristol's comeback win over Harlequins
Captain Steven Luatua inspired Bristol Bears to a 27-19 victory at Harlequins in the Gallagher Premiership as they came from behin…
PA
26 Dec 2020, 10:15
Ulster confirm Marcell Coetzee exit
Ulster Rugby have confirmed that they have reached an agreement with back-row Marcell Coetzee to allow the player to return home t…
Online Editors
26 Dec 2020, 9:36
Bulls let slip they've signed Marcell Coetzee
The Bulls may just have let the cat out the bag with their latest transfer teaser, revealing they've signed Marcell Coetzee.
Online Editors
26 Dec 2020, 4:03
Captain's knock
A broken foot, a ripped testicle, whatever the injury, an All Blacks captain will find a way to play on.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
25 Dec 2020, 16:38
Best in show
The best All Blacks captains are, more often than not, the All Blacks' best players.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
25 Dec 2020, 16:21
PRO14 scrap another Christmas derby
The PRO14 have scrapped a further Christmas derby due to the pandemic.
Online Editors
25 Dec 2020, 9:58
SA Rugby statement: CEO Jurie Roux ordered to pay back £1.8m to Stellenbosch University
SARU have referred to legal advisers following revelations that current CEO Jurie Roux has been ordered to return £1.8m worth of …
Online Editors
24 Dec 2020, 11:58
Leinster were set to switch Ryan Baird's position for Munster derby
Leinster were set to switch up the position of highly-rated second row Ryan Baird for their now postponed clash against Munster.
Ian Cameron
24 Dec 2020, 10:18
England star Ollie Thorley secures long-term future with three year deal
England flyer Ollie Thorley has secured his long-term future by signing a three year deal with Gloucester Rugby.
Online Editors
24 Dec 2020, 9:36
Wales duo return to Dragons team that boasts 215kg midfield pairing
Dragons have welcomed back two Wales stars to a side that boasts a heavyweight midfield pairing for their PRO14 derby with Cardiff…
Online Editors
24 Dec 2020, 7:49
Gloucester sign 'powerful and abrasive' Seb Nagle-Taylor
Gloucester have confirmed that Hartpury product Seb Nagle-Taylor has signed a permanent contract with the Premiership side for the…
Online Editors
24 Dec 2020, 7:25
Every starting line-up for the Gallagher Premiership Christmas derbies
All of the starting line-ups for the Gallagher Premiership Round Four action this Boxing Day and Christmas weekend.
Ian Cameron
24 Dec 2020, 6:50
Semi Radradra returns as Bristol Bears and Quins name teams for Boxing Day clash
Fijian superstar Semi Radradra returns to the Bristol Bears starting line-up ahead of the Boxing Day showdown versus Harlequins on…
Online Editors
24 Dec 2020, 6:16
'Maybe Epi Taione could look at himself in the mirror and look at how he ran that union when he was president'
A former senior executive at World Rugby has criticised Dan Leo's 'Oceans Apart' documentary, which sought to lift the lid on the …
Ian Cameron
24 Dec 2020, 5:15
PRO14 statement: Munster versus Leinster postponed
The PRO14 have postponed Munster and Leinster's St Stephen's Day derby in Limerick after as Leinster 'investigate' findings of a r…
Ian Cameron
24 Dec 2020, 5:04
Montpellier fullback Henry Immelman banned for red card hit on Wasp
Montpellier full back Henry Immelman has been suspended for three weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing by video con…
Online Editors
24 Dec 2020, 3:33
Scotland Women appoint Bryan Easson as permanent head coach
Bryan Easson has been appointed head coach of Scotland Women full-time after leading the team on an interim basis for the past few…
PA
24 Dec 2020, 3:21
The PRO-blem child
The PRO14's future will be defined by the arrival of South Africa's 'big four' in 2021.
LONG READ
Jonathan Bradley
24 Dec 2020, 3:11
'Now they've got a guy off one NPC season': Richie McCaw's All Black debut answered doubts over his selection as a 20-year-old
The young McCaw was industrious without being totally dominant, putting on two important cover tackles early on Brian O'Driscoll w…
Online Editors
23 Dec 2020, 17:17
'I stood all over Mike Blair. He just looked up and was like 'What are you doing?'
Edinburgh host Glasgow Warriors at BT Murrayfield on January 2nd in a fixture which John Barclay and Chris Paterson are no strange…
Ciarán Kennedy
23 Dec 2020, 12:13
Northampton's Tom Wood and Sale's Jean-Luc du Preez both handed bans by EPCR
Northampton flanker Wood was cited for a dangerous clearout on Leinster's Josh van der Flier during the Saints' 35-19 defeat in Du…
Online Editors
23 Dec 2020, 11:45
'I could see him being a success wherever he ends up' - Paterson's praise for Glasgow target Ben Healy
The 21-year-old is Scottish-qualified and has become a target for Glasgow, who recently confirmed that out-half Adam Hastings is j…
Ciarán Kennedy
23 Dec 2020, 9:40
London Irish Covid-19 outbreak forces Bath game to be called off
The round four fixture suffers the same fate as Newcastle’s clash with Leicester.
AAP
23 Dec 2020, 8:14
Erasmus says timing is 'perfect' as Pro14 confirm new Rainbow Cup competition with South African teams
The current Pro14 campaign is now set to end in March with a new competition, The Rainbow Cup, kicking-off in April.
Ciarán Kennedy
23 Dec 2020, 7:49
Pro14 confirm South African sides to join for new 'Rainbow Cup' ahead of 2021 Lions tour
The current Pro14 season will end in March before the existing Pro14 clubs finish the season with a 16-team 'Rainbow Cup' competit…
Ciarán Kennedy
23 Dec 2020, 7:18
Cotter's warning for Fiji star Mata over potential Edinburgh exit
If Mata does leave Edinburgh, who he joined in 2016, a club in France is the most likely option for the No8.
Chris Jones
23 Dec 2020, 6:16
Baxter says Exeter are on top of Covid-19 outbreak ahead of Gloucester game
The Chiefs had to forfeit last weekend’s clash with Toulouse after returning a significant amount of positive coronavirus tests.
PA
23 Dec 2020, 4:42
Pro14 forced to move Ospreys v Scarlets fixture as Liberty Stadium pitch requires 'urgent works'
Pro14 organisers have today confirmed that the game will now be played at Parc y Scarlets instead.
Online Editors
23 Dec 2020, 3:56
Rainbow Cup: Ex-pros from Wales, Ireland and Scotland on what the South African teams will add
We caught up with six former pros from Wales, Ireland and Scotland to get their thoughts on what the addition of the South African…
Ciarán Kennedy
23 Dec 2020, 3:37
Rugby Australia name former Wales international as new chief executive
Marinos played for the then-Natal Sharks, Western Province and the Stormers before moving to Newport and playing 97 times for the …
AAP
23 Dec 2020, 2:50
All Blacks on the mind as David Havili re-signs with Crusaders
Birthday boy David Havili has inked a new contract with the Crusaders which will keep him in New Zealand until the end of 2023.
Online Editors
22 Dec 2020, 17:12
Where Scott Robertson's coaching future lies: 'There's going to be a point where I'm just going to say 'Thanks' and go another direction'
When Scott Robertson called time on his playing career in New Zealand, the maverick loose forward headed offshore in search of new…
Online Editors
22 Dec 2020, 16:30
'I was waking up every three or four hours to ice it': The story behind Christian Cullen's magical debut for the All Blacks
In 1996 Christian Cullen was selected for his All Black debut after a Sevens season where he and Jonah Lomu tore apart everyone on…
Online Editors
22 Dec 2020, 15:28
Bargain hunters
The Six Nations need to admit their obsession with New Zealand and now South Africa is hurting them.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
22 Dec 2020, 14:13
Boxing Day meeting of Newcastle and Leicester called off due to coronavirus outbreak in Tigers squad
The Tigers returned a small number of positives tests in this week's round of PCR testing.
PA
22 Dec 2020, 12:31
Saracens lie in wait as the smallest club in the Championship prepare for their toughest season ever
Ampthill's story highlights the very human effects of the pandemic on the second tier of rugby in England.
Chris Jones
22 Dec 2020, 11:42
Ticking time bomb
Neil Spence's legal case against the game's authorities is leading to more players coming forward
LONG READ
Sam Peters
22 Dec 2020, 10:54
Tom Shanklin on the area where the Welsh regions 'can't compete' with the Irish provinces
Shanklin, who played 114 times for Cardiff Blues, believes the Welsh regions simply don't have the resources to match the Irish pr…
Ciarán Kennedy
22 Dec 2020, 10:22
Newcastle Falcons announce double-signing of Argentina duo
The Falcons had already secured the signature of Argentina centre Matias Orlando, who arrived on Tyneside just over a week ago.
Online Editors
22 Dec 2020, 8:11
Barclay's concern for Glasgow over ability to replace departing stars
Adam Hastings became the latest high-profile player to secure a move away from the club when his move to Gloucester was confirmed …
Ciarán Kennedy
22 Dec 2020, 6:18
Ireland loosehead back in training with Munster but doubts over O'Mahony ahead of Leinster visit
Kilcoyne has yet to feature for either Munster or Ireland this season following surgery on an ankle injury.
Ciarán Kennedy
22 Dec 2020, 5:43
Major funding announcement provides huge boost for Great Britain's Olympic 7s hopes
GB men’s and women’s teams will compete in the HSBC World Sevens Series before and after next summer’s delayed Tokyo Games.
PA
22 Dec 2020, 4:24
Shane Williams picks his top 4 players to watch in the Christmas Pro14 Welsh derbies
The four Welsh regions will all play each other over the next three weeks as part of the Pro14's traditional Christmas derby windo…
Ciarán Kennedy
22 Dec 2020, 3:28
Figures show concussion in English rugby at an all-time high
A total of 407 games were included in the analysis, examining 763 players from across 12 Premiership clubs.
PA
22 Dec 2020, 3:04
Soldiering on
The second weekend of Champions Cup action brought Covid chaos, comebacks and Christmas cheer
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
22 Dec 2020, 1:48
Australian rugby on the hunt for 'a few more Marikas'
Rugby Australia has implemented new pace benchmarks in a bid to get more players running like speed demon Marika Koroibete.
AAP
21 Dec 2020, 18:47
'I'd really love if Maro Itoje came to the Chiefs': The international stars that NZ coaches would bring to Super Rugby
South Africa's and Argentina's absences from Super Rugby in 2021 removes some of the competition's international flavour, but some…
Online Editors
21 Dec 2020, 18:08
'I thought I wanted to coach the All Blacks': Tony Brown's journey from reluctant head coach
During the All Blacks head coach recruitment process, Tony Brown was shoulder-tapped by both Ian Foster and Scott Robertson to joi…
Online Editors
21 Dec 2020, 16:08
From boy to man
James O'Connor was once the enfant terrible of Australian rugby. Now he's the Wallabies' saviour.
LONG READ
Ben Kimber
21 Dec 2020, 14:35
Reaction to uncomfortable truth about concussion in women's rugby shows hope for the game
Last week, I wrote about ongoing research from Dr Elisabeth Williams at Swansea University, which found that concussion is likely …
Jess Hayden
21 Dec 2020, 13:31
Former Ireland internationals Ferris and Cave outline 'genuine concerns' over IRFU contracts issue
All contract negotiations between players and the IRFU have been delayed until at least the early New Year.
Ciarán Kennedy
21 Dec 2020, 12:35
Brave new world
World Rugby's Mark Egan talks about a year of upheaval and the future of the game
LONG READ
Owain Jones
21 Dec 2020, 11:42
Report: Montpellier to sign Wallaby Paenga-Amosa to fill Springbok void
Midi Olympique report that MHR have agreed terms with Wallaby hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa and that the Australian will join the cl…
Ian Cameron
21 Dec 2020, 9:23
Saracens to set up 'separate cup competition' in bid to keep stars sharp
The revamped Championship format will be played in two conferences.
PA
21 Dec 2020, 8:47
Leinster's Garry Ringrose ruled out of Munster PRO14 derby and doubts remain over three others
Leinster have ruled out centre Garry Ringrose from selection for their upcoming PRO14 derby with Munster at Thomond Park.
Online Editors
21 Dec 2020, 8:26
Bristol sign Los Pumas tighthead as cover for Sinckler
Bristol Bears have signed 'formidable Argentina international' Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro on a short-term deal from January 2021.
Online Editors
21 Dec 2020, 7:43
Kurtley Beale's outrageous Champions Cup stats and other factoids
The cream is rising to the top in Europe following two rounds of the Champions Cup which, despite cancellations, has seen some exc…
Online Editors
21 Dec 2020, 6:10
'Seeing a teammate getting the abuse I'm seeing on Twitter is ridiculous' - Connacht prop defends his captain
Connacht prop Paddy McAllister has jumped to the defence of his captain - Paul Boyle - who has been criticised online following hi…
Online Editors
21 Dec 2020, 5:51
RFU reveal shortened Greene King IPA Championship season and kick off date
The RFU have revealed a new, shorterned 2020/21 Greene King IPA Championship season, which will commence the weekend of 6th March,…
Online Editors
21 Dec 2020, 5:16
Bath sign Scotland international Bhatti
Bath have announced the signing of Scotland international prop Jamie Bhatti. Bhatti, who has won 16 caps.
PA
21 Dec 2020, 4:07
LA Giltinis franchise pick off another Super Rugby veteran
The threat to Australia's Super Rugby stocks from the United States has deepened with veteran forward Angus Cottrell to play in Lo…
AAP
21 Dec 2020, 4:03
'It's something I have to live with for the rest of my life' - Sonny Bill Williams' All Blacks regret
Cross code great Sonny Bill Williams has reflected on being the first All Black to be red-carded in 50 years during the British an…
Ian Cameron
21 Dec 2020, 3:43
The Queensland Reds announce groundbreaking partnership with powerhouse Japanese Top League club
Queensland Reds coach Brad Thorn welcomed a groundbreaking alliance between the Super Rugby franchise and the Japanese Top Leagu…
AAP
20 Dec 2020, 21:58
'I was an immature boy, quite a rebellious boy': Rueful Pablo Matera opens up on tweets fallout, saddened by messages sent to his family
Argentina rugby captain Pablo Matera has revealed how his family was hammered with abusive messages over his tweets which were d…
AAP
20 Dec 2020, 21:33
This has been as bad an All Blacks season that we could have imagined
All’s right in the rugby world. The All Blacks are home and out of quarantine, captain Sam Cane has been crowned player of the y…
Hamish Bidwell
20 Dec 2020, 21:00
'I got to the end and thought, is that it?: When Dan Carter scored 20 points against Wales in his first start as an All Black
The fleet-footed Carter dazzled on debut, showing glimpses of what he would eventually become. After starting the game wearing num…
Online Editors
20 Dec 2020, 17:20
'I just think we did some dumb stuff out there': Connacht head coach's honest assessment of his side's loss to Bristol
Connacht turned down a kickable last-minute penalty which could have earned them a losing bonus point. From the resulting scrum, t…
PA
20 Dec 2020, 16:40
Aki binned as Connacht fail to topple Pat Lam's Bristol Bears
Pat Lam had a happy return to the Sportsground as his Bristol side bagged a 27-18 Heineken Champions Cup bonus-point win over Conn…
PA
20 Dec 2020, 14:38
Chris Budgen consents to extradition over rape allegation
Former New Zealand rugby union star Chris Budgen may be extradited from the United Kingdom to face trial over a rape allegation fr…
Online Editors
20 Dec 2020, 13:32
James Stokes double sets up London Irish win
James Stokes scored two tries as London Irish regained first place in their European Challenge Cup pool with a 26-17 bonus point v…
PA
20 Dec 2020, 13:23
'We were off in the warm-up' - Gustard felt something was wrong with Harlequins prior to kick-off
Harlequins head of rugby Paul Gustard will investigate the reasons why his players were off the pace during the warm-up for their …
PA
20 Dec 2020, 12:52
'The most naturally gifted flyhalf in world rugby' - Plaudits flood in for Racing star Russell
The virtuoso performance put on by Racing 92 flyhalf Finn Russell has seen a deluge of plaudits rain in for the Scotland star.
Ian Cameron
20 Dec 2020, 12:23
Harlequins suffer Champions Cup thumping at hands of Racing 92
Harlequins’ hopes of making an impression on the Champions Cup campaign came to a brutal end as they were crushed 49-7 by Racing…
PA
20 Dec 2020, 11:39
'It means a lot... we've had a tough run these last couple of months' - McInally
Stuart McInally feels Edinburgh’s comeback triumph at Sale can be a pivotal moment in their season.
PA
20 Dec 2020, 9:50
Sam Parry posts gruesome image of injury that saw him needing nearly 20 stitches
Ospreys hooker Sam Parry has posted social media images of a gruesome-looking leg injury sustained playing against Worcester Warri…
Ian Cameron
20 Dec 2020, 8:57
England prop courts controversy with social media posts on latest UK lockdown measures
England prop Alec Hepburn has courted controversy after criticising the UK government over the imminent return to Tier 4 lockdown.…
Ian Cameron
20 Dec 2020, 8:24
Former RFU chief Nigel Melville handed key role with England's top clubs
Nigel Melville has been appointed to two key roles with Premiership Rugby and given the job of changing the image of the umbrella …
Chris Jones
20 Dec 2020, 7:51
Bath to sign Jacques du Toit from Cheetahs
Jacques du Toit is set to become the latest South African addition to the Gallagher Premiership by signing a short term deal with …
Robert Rees
20 Dec 2020, 6:41
Report: Alan Gilpin a 'sure thing' to replace Gosper as World Rugby CEO
Alan Gilpin is reportedly a sure thing to take over from Brett Gosper as the CEO of World Rugby, according to reports in the UK to…
Ian Cameron
20 Dec 2020, 6:19
'The defence will probably carve some of the plaintiffs to pieces' - Ethienne Reynecke fears concussion lawsuit will turn ugly
Ethienne Reynecke predicted in 2016 that rugby faced the ticking concussion lawsuit timebomb: now it's here he assesses how it wil…
Liam Heagney
20 Dec 2020, 4:27
Toulon's bitter statement: We were forced into 'heartbreaking decision'
Toulon have claimed that they were forced to back out of their Heineken Champions Cup clash and say they are filled with 'bitterne…
Online Editors
20 Dec 2020, 4:06
Edinburgh struggling to keep 'Big Bill' Mata
Edinburgh are struggling to hold on to the services of Fijian No.8 Viliame Mata, who has attracted the interest of clubs in both E…
Ian Cameron
20 Dec 2020, 3:42
Money worries
Covid-19 has hit all Premiership clubs in the pocket but some are worse off than others
LONG READ
Andy Clarke
20 Dec 2020, 2:08
'That's what I keep telling the players': Edinburgh finally taking in the message from head coach Cockerill
Mark Bennett’s converted try and three penalties from Jaco Van Der Walt snatched the win from Sale, whose scores came from Denny…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 22:44
'That's not what we expect from an All Blacks side': Reflecting on Sam Cane's turbulent season
The All Blacks team as a whole didn't impress quite as much on the park as new captain Sam Cane did, with the 2015 and 2019 champi…
Online Editors
19 Dec 2020, 20:43
'Two players hadn't played senior professional rugby before'
Dragons head coach Dean Ryan was forced to give two players their first taste of senior professional rugby in the cauldron of a He…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 20:43
'Lions Test 8 at the moment': Munster fans ecstatic with Stander's performance in all-time great European win
Three turnovers from Irish loose forward CJ Stander helped Munster turn the tide and reverse a 19-point deficit as they downed Cle…
Online Editors
19 Dec 2020, 18:15
Argentine star Santiago Cordero claims hat-trick as Bordeaux ease past Dragons
Coming on top of their 24-8 home defeat in the opening round against Wasps, it means the Welsh region are unlikely to progress, wh…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 17:04
What coach Johann Van Graan said to his Munster team at halftime before massive comeback at Clermont
The Irish province were 28-9 down against a rampant Clermont Auvergne side after first-half scores from Alivereti Raka, Damian Pen…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 16:51
Leicester secure superb win at Bayonne to continue hot Challenge Cup form
Tommy Reffell, Cameron Henderson and Kini Murimurivalu crossed for tries as Leicester claimed a fine 28-20 Challenge Cup victory o…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 16:03
Edinburgh stun Sale with dramatic comeback victory
Edinburgh produced an excellent comeback from 12 points down to keep their Champions Cup hopes alive following a 16-15 triumph ove…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 15:57
'The game has got so physical and so brutal': All Black captain Sam Cane reveals he holds worries over past head knocks
In the wake of litigation by former players experience post-career struggles due to concussion, All Blacks captain Sam Cane has sh…
Online Editors
19 Dec 2020, 15:09
Cardiff become the sixth club to be awarded a 28-0 European win
It has been a rotten weekend for European officials as Cardiff vs Stade Francais in the Challenge Cup became the sixth game to be …
PA
19 Dec 2020, 15:08
Munster stage remarkable fightback to breach Clermont Auvergne fortress
The French side looked en route to a bonus-point win following a blistering start which brought them tries from Alivereti Raka, Da…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 14:29
'A player leaving under any circumstances can always be a distraction... but they have got on with the job'
Gloucester had to quickly adjust to life without Danny Cipriani as their game against Ulster came four days after he quit the King…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 13:39
It's now 13 defeats in a row for Northampton, but Chris Boyd hasn't lost all hope yet
It's August 22 since Northampton last won a match, but Chris Boyd hasn't lost all hope yet in his Saints despite latest defeat at …
Liam Heagney
19 Dec 2020, 13:05
Bloodied Gloucester make dramatic winning start to life after Cipriani
Danny Cipriani quit Gloucester last Tuesday and their first match since his exit was a Champions Cup roller coaster versus visitin…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 12:27
Scarlets awarded 28-0 win following Toulon's refusal to play this weekend
Toulon refused to get on the bus to their game on Friday at Scarlets, leaving Champions Cup officials to determine a result in the…
Online Editors
19 Dec 2020, 11:00
'I don't see Tom Wood as a dirty player necessarily': Leinster react to incident with van der Flier
The main talking point with Leo Cullen in Dublin after Leinster defeated Northampton was Tom Wood's breakdown tackle on Josh van d…
Liam Heagney
19 Dec 2020, 10:31
Northampton lose yet again but the margin wasn't the rout predicted for bonus-earning Leinster
It was always expected Northampton would give second best to Leinster in Dublin but they went down fighting after a very slow star…
Liam Heagney
19 Dec 2020, 9:13
Benetton's Challenge Cup game against Agen cancelled
Kieran Crowley's Benetton were due to host Top 14 side Agen on Saturday in Treviso in the Challenge Cup, but the match has been ca…
PA
19 Dec 2020, 4:46
'He says he wants to play centre and I'm not sure whether he's joking or not'
Young Alfie Barbeary is supposed to be a hooker but his ability to play other positions currently knows no bounds at Wasps.
Online Editors
19 Dec 2020, 4:24
Schools level tackle ban call by English university academics hasn't gone down well online
Recent calls by university academics in England for a tackle ban in schools rugby has provoked a feisty response among rugby fans …
Josh Raisey
19 Dec 2020, 3:56
'Neil Best picked up the goldfish out of bowl, put it in his pint and downed it. The fish was never seen again'
Christmas parties were a topic on this week's RugbyPass Offload and Dylan Hartley told an incredible story about high jinx at Nort…
Liam Heagney
19 Dec 2020, 3:54
Singleton's permanent exit ignites speculation about Saracens' other on loan players
Jack Singleton's decision not to return to Saracens at the end of his loan has sparked speculation about the future of others like…
Josh Raisey
19 Dec 2020, 3:49
'This the first time we have played against each other since backyard rugby'
The van der Merwe brothers, 29-year-old Akker and 25-year-old Duhan, are set for a reunion when Sale host Edinburgh on Saturday ni…
Chris Jones
19 Dec 2020, 3:35
Redemption man
Once a hot-headed youngster with a short fuse Scott Baldwin has matured into a better player and person.
LONG READ
Ross Harries
19 Dec 2020, 2:19
Young Alfie Barbeary to the fore as Wasps see off 14-man Montpellier
Wasps rested a raft of their international players but they had too much for 14-man Montpellier with the likes of Alfie Barbeary o…
PA
18 Dec 2020, 16:26
'We're getting data every day on every player': How the All Blacks plan to get back on top of the pack in 2021
When the All Blacks take on the Springboks, the game doesn’t really start on a Saturday evening at Eden Park, it kicks off in th…
Online Editors
18 Dec 2020, 15:23
Andrew Brace brandishes red card just seven minutes into his latest Anglo-French fixture
Referee Andrew Brace was in the eye of an England-France Nations Cup final storm and he was quickly centre of attention again on F…
Liam Heagney
18 Dec 2020, 14:53
Bath, Glasgow and defending champions Exeter all handed 28-0 defeats after round two cancellations
Virus outbreaks have led to EPCR taking draconian action against Bath, Glasgow and Exeter following Champions Cup round two cancel…
Liam Heagney
18 Dec 2020, 12:25
Massive win for BT Sport as they secure £110million Premiership live TV deal through to 2024
Fears on Wednesday that BT Sport would lose their live TV rights with the Premiership have been allayed with hands shaken on a fre…
Online Editors
18 Dec 2020, 11:49
European game at Scarlets is off as Toulon fail to turn up after travelling to Wales
A fourth round two match in the Champions Cup has been called off after Toulon refused to turn up at Scarlets on Friday night.
Liam Heagney
18 Dec 2020, 11:21
Lenient Challenge Cup ban for alleged testicles grab revives debate over England's Marler
A midweek decision by a European disciplinary committee has revived memories of the case last March that involved England prop Joe…
Josh Raisey
18 Dec 2020, 10:31
Exeter outbreak has now had game-cancelling consequences for the PRO14
The fallout from Exeter's Champions Cup win last Sunday over Glasgow at Sandy Park has now impacted on the PRO14 festive fixtures …
Online Editors
18 Dec 2020, 9:57
Chris Boyd follows through on promise, making 8 changes for Northampton trip to Leinster
Chris Boyd said he would likely send a much-changed Northampton XV to Leinster and that is what he has done despite a 12-game losi…
Online Editors
18 Dec 2020, 6:30
England legend Daley-Mclean has retired with immediate effect
Katy Daley-Mclean has been an icon of women's rugby for quite a long time but the revered England international has now decided to…
Online Editors
18 Dec 2020, 5:17
'Cipriani was never that good anyway': Ex-England player launches withering attack
Danny Cipriani quit Gloucester on Tuesday and his sudden exit has drawn the ire of one ex-England international in his Telegraph c…
Liam Heagney
18 Dec 2020, 4:50
Barbarians make donation to Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation eight weeks after cancellation of England game in his honour
The Barbarians have a charitable move to help clean up their damaged reputation following the cancellation of their match versus E…
Online Editors
18 Dec 2020, 4:23
The harrowing testimony of the latest two ex-players to join concussion lawsuit
Two more players involved in the concussion lawsuit against World Rugby, the RFU and the WRU have gone public with their harrowing…
PA
18 Dec 2020, 4:00
Is there more to Cipriani's Gloucester exit than meets the eye? - Andy Goode
Something has gone badly wrong for Danny Cipriani to go from eulogising George Skivington to leaving Gloucester just six months la…
Andy Goode
18 Dec 2020, 3:35
Watch the World School Sevens Aotearoa LIVE on RugbyPass
Catch all the action live from Field 1 right here on RugbyPass as 8 mens and 8 women's teams do battle at Pakuranga Rugby Club fro…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 17:57
James O'Connor's move to the Chiefs reportedly blocked by Rugby Australia
James O'Connor's quest to join the Chiefs next year is over before it began with Rugby Australia blocking his request for a releas…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 16:35
Sam Cane's rollercoaster year capped off with NZ's most prestigious rugby award while Black Ferns Sevens' dominance continues
Sam Cane has received double recognition at the New Zealand Rugby awards - while the Black Ferns Sevens' domination on the world s…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 16:29
Fresh start
After four years at the Chiefs, fullback Solomon Alaimalo hopes a move to the Highlanders will reignite his career.
LONG READ
Tom Vinicombe
17 Dec 2020, 16:10
Champions Cup plunged into further chaos as La Rochelle vs Bath becomes third game to be cancelled
Stuart Hooper's Bath were due to play La Rochelle in France this weekend but that Champions Cup round two match has now been cance…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 14:26
Jack Singleton won't be returning to Saracens at the end of his Gloucester loan
England hooker Jack Singleton was due to return to Saracens, his parent club, in summer 2021 following his loan spell at Glouceste…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 14:04
Cocoa butter, hair dryers, nail filing and John Barclay's bush: Some of rugby's extreme grooming habits
Bizarre grooming was a topic of discussion on RugbyPass Offload, with ex-Scotland back row John Barclay among the players mentione…
Liam Heagney
17 Dec 2020, 13:30
'There has been a lot of upheaval but none of those decisions were made to deliberately get them wrong'
European rugby for Ben Kay meant winning Champions Cup with Leicester, not competing in the second-tier Challenge Cup which the cl…
Liam Heagney
17 Dec 2020, 13:14
James Haskell's latest colourful stunt is trying to get a Christmas No1 with Rig Aid
You'd never have imagined James Haskell could sing but the ex-England forward is part of a group aiming for a Christmas No1.
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 12:44
Bill Beaumont pens open letter just hours after World Rugby receives concussion legal case papers
World Rugby have been busy since the receipt of a legal letter regarding concussion, an open letter from Bill Beaumont their lates…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 10:51
Ireland's Cull
Why is it so hard for Irish coaches to be prophets in their own land?
LONG READ
Jonathan Bradley
17 Dec 2020, 10:05
Glasgow fans fear 'unfair' Champions Cup cancellation punishment
Fans of Glasgow Warriors fear they could be undeservedly punished following the cancellation of their Champions Cup game versus Ly…
Josh Raisey
17 Dec 2020, 9:03
Wales skipper Alun Wyn Jones set to miss start of 2021 Six Nations
Wales skipper Alun Wyn Jones limped out of their last match versus Italy and his Ospreys coach has now provided a worrying injury …
PA
17 Dec 2020, 8:47
Wasps 'rest' 4 internationals for the visit of Montpellier
Wasps went all out with their Champions Cup XV at Dragons but Joe Launchbury is among those on the missing list to face Montpellie…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 7:35
World Rugby, RFU and WRU issue joint statement following receipt of concussion legal case letter
Response issued by rugby authorities following legal letter on behalf of 9 concussion test cases, including ex-England player Stev…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 6:32
'Until last week I didn't know dementia was a potential outcome for any rugby player. That wasn't educated or taught to us'
Former England captain Dylan Hartley has his say on rugby's dementia concern following last week's revelations regarding Steve Tho…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 6:02
Pre-action legal letter listing 24 'failures' delivered to World Rugby as six more ex-players join concussion lawsuit
Concussion lawsuit involving Steve Thompson and co has stepped up in pace following the delivery of pre-action legal letter to Wor…
PA
17 Dec 2020, 5:30
Championship club Nottingham issue statement after tragic death of new signing Tom Miller
Tom Miller recently signed his first professional contract at Nottingham but he has tragically passed away ahead of the Championsh…
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 4:44
Insta-famous: The top performing Rugby players on social media in 2020
The rise of social media platforms has given athletes a new way to connect with fans, promote themselves and of course cash-in in …
Online Editors
17 Dec 2020, 2:02
'I only have enough competitive will and physical strength left for this one last season': Japan's first World Cup hero announces upcoming retirement
Japan's first World Cup hero Ayumu Goromaru has announced the next Japanese Top League season will be his last, confirming that he…
Online Editors
16 Dec 2020, 17:56
Prime target
Aaron Smith is off contract next year and the All Blacks know the importance of locking him in until 2023.
LONG READ
Gregor Paul
16 Dec 2020, 14:09
Paul Gustard responds to Munster's inflammatory 'late hits' accusation
Munster were fuming on Sunday over alleged deliberate Harlequins tactics: Paul Gustard has now responded to the inflammatory accus…
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2020, 13:54
'It was a little bit scary' - Paul Deacon on filling the Sale shoes of the texting Steve Diamond
Life after Dimes at Sale wasn't something Paul Deacon thought he would ever have to experience but he has now done a week as caret…
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2020, 13:02
9 weeks of suspensions handed down but alleged testicles grab merits just 2-week sanction
Stade Francais flanker Charlie Rorke was one of three players who had foul play cases to answer after last weekend's Challenge Cup…
Online Editors
16 Dec 2020, 10:26
The after life
Dark thoughts can envelop former pros but Tom Stephenson says there is light at the end of the tunnel
LONG READ
Will Hooley
16 Dec 2020, 9:50
Exeter's European title defence suffers major blow as pair of round two matches cancelled
Exeter began their Champions Cup title defence in wonderful fashion last weekend but a sudden stop has now been put to their gallo…
Online Editors
16 Dec 2020, 8:54
Gloucester snap up Georgian centre Kveseladze, scorer of that incredible solo try last month versus Ireland
The Autumn Nations Cup displays of Georgia midfielder Giorgi Kveseladze have resulted in Gloucester signing the 23-year-old semi-p…
Online Editors
16 Dec 2020, 7:59
'The headaches are horrible... really nasty': Alex Lozowski had Steve Thompson in his thoughts when recently recovering from concussion
Exiled England midfielder Alex Lozowski recently had his first experience of concussion and it was traumatic for the Montpellier p…
Chris Jones
16 Dec 2020, 7:24
'Goodnight Scotland, no quarter-finals again': The Rugby Pod's World Cup 2023 draw verdict
Scotland failed to emerge from their pool at the 2019 World Cup and Andy Goode is now tipping them for failure at the 2023 edition…
Online Editors
16 Dec 2020, 5:32
Premiership turns down BT Sport's £40million-a-year rights bid - reports
The buy-in by CVC into the Premiership was always likely to up the financial ante and BT Sport could be a casualty for the 2021/22…
Liam Heagney
16 Dec 2020, 4:00
With England set to face Japan at France 2023, the RFU have made a decision on Eddie Jones' Suntory consultancy
It has been claimed that England boss Eddie Jones has a conflict of interest following last Monday's draw for the 2023 World Cup i…
AAP
16 Dec 2020, 3:28
Rugby Wrap Up | Episode 27
With the cold weather comes the end of Autumn and the conclusion of Autumn Rugby.With that, George Hook, Steve Lewis & Matt McCart…
Rugby Wrap Up
15 Dec 2020, 23:08
'Easiest draw imaginable' - Confident Springboks fans already think they have 2023 in the bag after World Cup draw
After being named in the same pool as Scotland and Ireland, Springboks fans were ecstatic at having obtained an 'easy' path to the…
Online Editors
15 Dec 2020, 20:53
'So much anger in this guy' - Eben Etzebeth losing his cool with his Toulon teammate has surprised even South African fans
Vision of Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth getting into an altercation with his Toulon teammate while warming up before a Top 14 game …
Online Editors
15 Dec 2020, 17:43
Beauden Barrett reveals focus as preparation for Top League season begins
Beauden Barrett has been officially unveiled by his new club Suntory Sungoliath.
Online Editors
15 Dec 2020, 16:01
Gloucester explain why Cipriani was allowed to quit Kingsholm
There never seems to be a dull moment in Premiership rugby, the swift exit of Danny Cipriani from Gloucester the latest seismic st…
PA
15 Dec 2020, 13:25
'Oh my Bastareaud, have you seen the size of him at No8?'
The Rugby Pod couldn't allow the Champions Cup impact of Mathieu Bastareaud for Lyon last Sunday to pass without discussion.
Liam Heagney
15 Dec 2020, 10:51
The hardest Yarde
Campaigner, crusader, winger, Marland Yarde is a voice for change in rugby.
LONG READ
Jamie Lyall
15 Dec 2020, 10:36
Danny Cipriani's farewell social media message to Gloucester fans
Danny Cipriani took to social media on Tuesday to reveal he was leaving Premiership outfit Gloucester with immediate effect.
Josh Raisey
15 Dec 2020, 9:51
Pat Lam has now spoken with Fiji boss Vern Cotter after publicly airing grievances over Semi Radradra injury
Pat Lam has been fuming over the unavailability of Semi Radradra for Bristol after he played on for Fiji while injured earlier thi…
PA
15 Dec 2020, 8:51
Danny Cipriani has left Gloucester with immediate effect, Hastings signing made official
Less than a day after RugbyPass revealed Gloucester would sign Adam Hastings, Danny Cipriani has quit the Premiership club.
Liam Heagney
15 Dec 2020, 8:15
'Although you do have to rest your internationals, when you hear that European music you want to play'
Reintegrating Test players for Champions Cup action has been a tricky balancing act for clubs suggests Wasps boss Lee Blackett.
Chris Jones
15 Dec 2020, 6:23
How England fans reacted to France 2023 pool draw
There are 33 months to go yet before World Cup 2023 in France, but England fans haven't been slow in making predications after the…
Josh Raisey
15 Dec 2020, 5:30
'I think my wife has already bought a half-English, half-Japanese shirt'
Eddie Jones was pivotal to the Miracle of Brighton but the England coach will now be doing everything to disappoint Japan at World…
PA
15 Dec 2020, 3:28
Blessings and boredom: Why repeating history in 2023 won't be the undoing of Kiwi coaches
Rugby’s flagship event likely won’t throw out too many surprises in France - and the many Kiwi coaches across the globe have e…
Tom Vinicombe
14 Dec 2020, 23:01
Strength of the schedule: Major League Rugby's Western Conference
Major League Rugby released their 2021 season schedule last Tuesday, with the competition set to return on March 20th.
Finn Morton
14 Dec 2020, 21:58
NRL star commits future to rugby league following failed cross-code Top League stint
A year after a deal with the Panasonic Wild Knights threatened to end his time in the NRL, Jordan Rapana has signed a new one-year…
AAP
14 Dec 2020, 21:35
'It makes absolutely no difference': Former World Cup-winning coach's warning to England following 2023 RWC draw
Former World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward has issued a stern warning to England in the wake of the draw for the 2023 World…
Online Editors
14 Dec 2020, 20:38
French resistance
The All Blacks and France have been drawn in the same pool for the 2023 tournament. Drama is guaranteed.
LONG READ
Patrick McKendry
14 Dec 2020, 20:25
Michael Hooper wins John Eales Medal as best Wallabies player in 2020
Michael Hooper won a third John Eales Medal to finish the international season, in which he had his captaincy questioned, on a hig…
AAP
14 Dec 2020, 19:05
'Preposterous': 2023 Rugby World Cup draw slammed as England and Australia get dream rides
There have been widespread attacks by world media on rugby bosses for making the draw three years out from the tournament in Franc…
Online Editors
14 Dec 2020, 17:56
If Rugby wants to survive long term, then it can't just talk about player safety
The game faces a massive challenge in dealing with the legal issues that are potentially coming its way. Brain trauma is real and …
Hamish Bidwell
14 Dec 2020, 14:44
Adam Hastings to sign for Gloucester
Adam Hastings is set to become the next Scotland star to leave Glasgow Warriors after agreeing a move to Gloucester next season.
Jamie Lyall
14 Dec 2020, 13:51
Long-term brain damage likely a significantly bigger issue in women's rugby than men's, says lead concussion doctor
According to a lead researcher on concussion in men and women’s rugby, the story of long-term brain damage for women’s rugby p…
Jess Hayden
14 Dec 2020, 12:20
'If there is any player that can do it, then Alun Wyn is that guy' - Pivac backs his captain for 2023 World Cup
Wales face a reunion with Australia and Fiji in the group stage of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
PA
14 Dec 2020, 11:52
Eddie Jones talks up 'most interesting' pool after dream World Cup draw
Argentina and Japan are among the teams England will face in Pool D of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
PA
14 Dec 2020, 11:39
The YouTube generation
Robbie Owen and his fellow content creators are revolutionising the way fans watch the game
LONG READ
Jack Zorab
14 Dec 2020, 11:19
The talking points from the 2023 Rugby World Cup draw
Hosts France, resurgent under head coach Fabien Galthie, have been drawn in the same group as three-time world champions New Zeala…
PA
14 Dec 2020, 11:05
'It will be phenomenal' - Nienaber, Farrell and Townsend all want Pro16 to happen
Pool B at the 2023 World Cup is likely to have a familiar feel to it, with talks surrounding an expanded Pro16 at an 'advanced sta…
Ciarán Kennedy
14 Dec 2020, 10:25
Gregor Townsend believes Scotland landed in 'toughest pool' alongside South Africa and Ireland
South Africa top the rankings and are the reigning world champions, while Scotland hold a miserable recent record against the Iris…
PA
14 Dec 2020, 9:33
Ireland set for three-Test tour of New Zealand in 2022
Ireland, who have never beaten the All Blacks in New Zealand, are also set to play Ian Foster's side in Dublin in 2021.
Ciarán Kennedy
14 Dec 2020, 9:20
Owen Farrell reacts to 'great pool' as England draw Argentina and Japan in 2023 World Cup
Completing the group when regional qualifying has finished will be Oceania 1 and Americas 2.
PA
14 Dec 2020, 7:39
Revealed: The full draw for the 2023 Rugby World Cup pool stages
Defending champions South Africa have been drawn in Pool B against Ireland and Scotland.
Ciarán Kennedy
14 Dec 2020, 6:21
Lions prop encourages ambitious Scottish players to leave Scotland
Wright was speaking after both Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors made losing starts to their Heineken Champions Cup campaigns.
Online Editors
14 Dec 2020, 5:04
Gloucester sign highly-rated young Argentina star until end of the season
The 22-year-old arrives with 8 Argentina caps to his name after starting his international career during the 2019 Rugby World Cup …
Online Editors
14 Dec 2020, 4:22
'It was quite clearly a tactic to hit him late' - Van Graan hits out at Quins' treatment of Healy
The 21-year-old fly-half is an injury doubt for Saturday’s trip to Clermont Auvergne after shipping a couple of late hits agains…
PA
14 Dec 2020, 3:23
The toughest 'Pool of Death' your side could feature in ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup draw
It has been little over a year since the Springboks became World Cup champions for the third time, but all eyes will be on Paris i…
Alex McLeod
13 Dec 2020, 22:43
Mo'unga, McKenzie, then who? The increasingly desperate search to find the next great All Black first-five
New Zealand's greatest ever crop of first-fives surfaced during the 2010s as each Super Rugby franchise, at any given time, laid c…
Ben Smith
13 Dec 2020, 22:42
New details of 'Super Round' released for Super Rugby's Trans-Tasman competition
The draw for the combined 10-team competition, to be played after both countries contest their respective domestic competitions, w…
AAP
13 Dec 2020, 17:09

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