SBW commits to All Blacks, jumps ship to Blues

10:13 PM GMT

Sonny Bill Williams has committed to the All Blacks and New Zealand Rugby through to the end of 2019.

But he has opted for a change of Super Rugby franchise, and will move from the Chiefs to the Blues from the start of next season.

Williams will again link with Tana Umaga in Auckland, having previously played under the Blues coach at French club Toulon and New Zealand provincial side Counties Manukau.

"Sonny is a marquee international player, and first and foremost he is here to play," Umaga said. "His experience and expertise will be a major asset to a young backline.

"Off the field he brings leadership and a thoroughly professional attitude and approach that will hugely benefit our club and our players."

Williams had been the target of NRL clubs and cashed-up European sides, but the desire to cement his place in All Blacks folklore with a third World Cup triumph proved too strong to ignore.

With Ma'a Nonu having departed for Toulon, Williams also now has the chance to nail down the No.12 jersey rather than be a stopgap solution like he has been at Test level to date.

"It's great news for New Zealand Rugby having Sonny available for the next three years," All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said.

"He is an extraordinarily gifted athlete and thoroughly professional in everything he does. His recommitment will bring a stability to the midfield and will allow us to build a world-class centre combination. Sonny's professionalism, both on and off the field, will not only be an asset to his fellow midfielders, but also the rest of the team.

"Sonny is part of the new leadership group in the All Blacks and it's good to know that he'll be contributing in that role over the next three years.

"He's currently one of the best players in the world. His understanding of the game is now allowing him to play instinctively and I believe he'll only get better and better. He could end up being one of the greats of our game."

Williams has spent this season with the New Zealand Sevens and is expected to be included in Gordon Tietjens' squad for the Rio Olympics.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

SBW commits to All Blacks, jumps ship to Blues

Strauss to skipper Springboks for Ireland series

New head coach Alister Coetzee, left, announced Adriaan Strauss as his new skipper. 

9:26 AM GMT

Hooker Adriaan Strauss will captain South Africa for the visit of Ireland in June.

The 30-year-old succeeds former captain Jean de Villiers, who retired from international action after suffering a broken jaw during last year's World Cup.

Strauss skippers the Bulls Super Rugby franchise and will lead a new-look Springboks line-up for the three-Test series against Ireland, with new coach Allister Coetzee calling up nine uncapped players.

"Adriaan has always fulfilled a leadership role, wherever he played, since coming through the junior national structures," said Coetzee.

"He has shared the vice-captaincy role with Bismarck du Plessis for the Springboks and is also a former Cheetahs skipper and current Bulls captain. I have been impressed in my interactions with him and I have the utmost faith in him."

Strauss appears to have made the hooker's role his own over Du Plessis, with whom he has shared the No.2 jersey since the retirement of former skipper John Smit.

"I am very grateful to the coach for entrusting me with this enormous responsibility," Strauss said. "I am incredibly humbled by this huge honour and also excited about the role," he said.

South Africa welcome Ireland to Cape Town on June 11 before facing them in Johannesburg on June 18 and Port Elizabeth on June 25.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Strauss to skipper Springboks for Ireland series

Sonny Bill set to play in 2019 World Cup

9:24 AM GMT

Sonny Bill Williams will reveal his next contract signing on Wednesday when it's expected he'll announce he's turned down an NRL return to recommit to New Zealand Rugby through to the 2019 World Cup.

Williams will front a media conference in Auckland following weekend reports in New Zealand saying the cross-code star wants to chase a third World Cup campaign with the All Blacks.

The 30-year-old is a good chance to leave the Chiefs to join under-performing Super Rugby rivals the Blues, where he'd come under the tutelage of coach and former All Blacks centre Tana Umaga.

Williams is currently competing for a spot in the 12-man All Blacks Sevens squad for the Rio Olympics.

NZ Rugby chief executive Steve Tew wouldn't be drawn into speculation on Williams' future at the naming of the All Blacks squad on Sunday.

"Everyone knows we're keen to keep Sonny Bill and we're working our way through that," he told Fairfax Media.

Williams was part of the Rugby World Cup-winning teams in 2011 and 2015 after making the shift to rugby from NRL outfit Canterbury mid-season in 2008.

He returned to the NRL for two seasons with the Sydney Roosters in 2013, picking up a premiership title in the process before returning to the 15-man code in September 2014.

It was rumoured Williams would return to the cashed-up Sydney Roosters after the Rio Olympics.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Sonny Bill set to play in 2019 World Cup

Mike Ford: George's poor form down to me

8:31 AM GMT

Former Bath coach Mike Ford believes his sacking has affected the form of his England fly-half son George.

Ford was booed after missing six of his seven kicks at goal in Sunday's 27-13 victory over Wales at Twickenham and has now come under pressure from Owen Farrell for the number 10 jersey for the Test series against Australia.

However, Mike Ford is confident that George has the mental strength to rebound from that poor outing and has the ability to lead the England line against the Wallabies in Brisbane on June 11.

"George is a strong kid and has achieved quite a lot in his short career so far and you forget how young they are, these kids, and also the affect of my sacking on him," Mike Ford told The Telegraph.

"We are unbelievably tight and close and it affects him that I got sacked. He doesn't want that, he is like every child whose dad loses his job but, with George, he has then got to go out and play for England.

"It affects your life and he took it badly, like we all did. We talked about it and I told him he would be all right, just go out and train well.

"But the thing about him -- and there have been times when he has missed kicks at Bath -- is that it never affects his performance.

"He doesn't shrink away from things, he keeps getting ball on the front foot and keeps trying things. He is pretty courageous.

"It has been a long season for them all and there is fatigue but I have no doubt that he will bounce back. He has done it many times in his career."

"You want your son to do really well and, when he misses a kick, it affects you. But he will bounce back. He has started 19 games and England have won 17 out of the 19 games. People soon forget.

"George's greatest thing at the minute is the way he brings other people into the game -- JJ [Jonathan Joseph] and Anthony [Watson] will vouch for that and Luther [Burrell] on Sunday."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Mike Ford: George's poor form down to me

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika ignores Eddie Jones' baiting

Michael Cheika is refusing to become embroiled in a war of words with Eddie Jones 

7:56 AM GMT

• Vince Rugari

Michael Cheika is holding his tongue, vowing to let his Wallabies fire back at Eddie Jones on his behalf as preparations ramp up for the three-Test home series against England.

It's so far been a one-way war of words between serial pot-stirrer Jones, who lands in Brisbane with his England squad early on Thursday morning, and his former Randwick teammate Cheika, who is playing the straight man role to a tee.

Ex-Wallabies coach Jones has already warned he's bringing a team ready to play "Bodyline" rugby and last week said anything but a maiden series win by England in Australia would be a "failure".

His hand-picked assistant Glen Ella has followed Jones' example, with Cheika revealing the former Wallaby fullback has started to "wind (him) up" with a few missives from abroad. Cheika still isn't biting.

"I'll have to leave that to my more experienced campaigner," Cheika said.

"It's all in good fun.

"Like I've always said, the grenades will start going when we're on the field - the 15 guys run out there, the whistle blows and that's when the real action should start, and I'm sure it's going to."

Second-year national mentor Cheika then showered Jones, Ella and the rest of the English coaching panel in praise, saying their vast experience is a great benefit for England - in contrast to the Wallabies and Cheika's offsiders, Stephen Larkham, Nathan Grey and Mario Ledesma, who are "still learning".

"Guys like Eddie, Glen - there's no doubt having that type of input is going to be helpful to them," he said.

"I'm really pleased with the way our coaching staff's come back together - young guys, we haven't got a lot of experience. They've got a lot of experience coaching international footy between them all."

The Wallabies trained at their Caloundra base on Tuesday morning, where Cheika led a willing session and rifled through some interesting backline combinations.

But a clearer picture of what the team for the first Test at Suncorp Stadium on June 11 might look like won't emerge until Christian Lealiifano joins the squad after the birth of his child.

A strong contender for the No.12 jersey, Lealiifano remains in Canberra with his pregnant wife, who is overdue by more than a week.

Mystery still surrounds Cheika's plans for the centres, with Kurtley Beale's injury, Matt Giteau's absence, Israel Folau's scintillating Super Rugby form at No.13 and the likelihood England will roll out Ben Te'o in the series opener giving him plenty of food for thought.

"It's a matter of just getting the right balance of players for the game as a whole, for the start and the finish, picking the right guys to do both jobs," Cheika said.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika ignores Eddie Jones' baiting

Wallabies' back-row a mystery to David Pocock

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika is keeping David Pocock in the dark over the make up of the team to face England 

7:39 AM GMT

• Vince Rugari

David Pocock says he has no idea if Wallabies coach Michael Cheika will stick with the 'Pooper' back-row combination that worked so well at last year's World Cup, or cook up an entirely new formula to tackle England in June.

Cheika went against his own instincts to select Pocock at No.8 and Michael Hooper at openside flanker last year, a move that paid handsome dividends in both the Rugby Championship and World Cup.

As if the competition for back-row spots wasn't already the hottest in the team, the wildcard selection of Leroy Houston has added only further intrigue.

However, with both Pocock and Hooper in great form in Super Rugby, the pair - so integral in Australia's World Cup pool win over England at Twickenham - is set to reform for the forthcoming three-Test series which begins in Brisbane on June 11.

Brumbies back-rower Scott Fardy, a regular at blindside flanker for the Wallabies over the past three seasons, is the front-runner to retain his No.6 jersey given his lineout skills and rugged presence at the breakdown.

Sean McMahon has a reasonable claim to a starting spot, having barely put a foot wrong for the Melbourne Rebels, and while Houston still has to prove himself, Cheika wouldn't have lured him back from English club Bath if he didn't intend to use him at some stage.

"You look around, there's so much competition and as a player, that's what you want," Pocock said.

"It's good for the squad.

"There's no point trying to guess what Cheik's thinking, just rip into training and see what happens."

Then there's Liam Gill, whose form at No.7 has been Wallaby-standard for the Queensland Reds over the last two seasons - but he remains stuck behind Hooper, Pocock, McMahon in the pecking order.

Gill intends to give his all in his first proper Wallabies camp under Cheika, knowing he will be ineligible for selection when he moves to French club rugby next year.

"I understand what's in front of me, I'm well aware," he said.

"It'll be tough. I haven't quite played under the structure he wants to play but hopefully with a couple of weeks under my belt, I'll fit in nicely.

"I've just got to keep playing decent footy like I've tried to do this year and last year, come to camps, have a crack, put the ball back in his court - and if he goes down the same path he has been, then I've done everything I can."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Wallabies' back-row a mystery to David Pocock

Ireland's Fitzgerald out of South Africa tour

7:54 PM GMT

Luke Fitzgerald has been ruled out of Ireland's summer tour to South Africa because of a knee problem and is likely to be replaced in the squad by the uncapped Matt Healy.

Fitzgerald sustained the injury in Leinster's Guinness PRO12 final defeat by Connacht on Saturday with the newly-crowned champions' Healy the favourite to be rewarded for a superb season.

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt views Healy as a like-for-like replacement for Fitzgerald, but Tiernan O'Halloran is also in contention.

"Unfortunately Luke Fitzgerald picked up a knee injury in the game and he will be replaced," said Schmidt.

"Due to Luke picking up the knee injury one of those Connacht players is likely to be in the frame to be his replacement.

"One of the advantages with Matt is that he's a left-footed left winger and like for like with Luke. He's certainly a guy who's in contention."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Ireland's Fitzgerald out of South Africa tour

Launchbury puts down marker against Wales

Saracens bask in the glow of domestic domination

Uncapped Jenkins replaces Lydiate in Wales squad

5:37 PM GMT

Dan Lydiate looks certain to miss Wales' New Zealand tour after being injured during the 27-13 defeat against England on Sunday.

Lydiate, who captained Wales in the absence of Sam Warburton at Twickenham, went off midway through the first half.

And Wales head coach Warren Gatland gave a bleak update ahead of Wales flying to New Zealand on Monday for a three-Test series.

"He is struggling," Gatland said. "He has got a hamstring and potentially an AC (shoulder) injury as well."

Gatland said no decision had been made on a possible replacement for the 57-times capped Ospreys flanker, but admitted a "miracle" would be required for Lydiate to recover in time.

And it could put uncapped Cardiff Blues flanker Ellis Jenkins -- a former Wales Under-20 captain -- in strong contention for a call-up.

"I think Dan has got to process it himself in terms of the tour could already be over for him," Gatland added.

"It is incredibly disappointing that it is unlikely he is going to be getting on the plane tomorrow.

"He will go back to the hotel to have ice and stuff. The assessment from our physios doesn't look very positive at the moment."

Wales were already without wing Alex Cuthbert and flanker Justin Tipuric through injuries for the New Zealand trip, while Warburton is recovering from a shoulder injury that sidelined him this weekend.

Warburton, though, is expected to be fit for the opening Test against New Zealand in Auckland on June 11.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Uncapped Jenkins replaces Lydiate in Wales squad

Eddie Jones leaps to Ford's defence

6:04 PM GMT

Eddie Jones turned on George Ford's critics and backed the England fly-half to recover from the jeering that greeted his dismal kicking in a 27-13 victory over Wales.

Ford missed six of his seven shots at goal, comprising of four conversions and two penalties, and it was not until the 48th minute that he was able to make his mark on the scoreboard despite a succession of easy attempts.

As the misses piled up, a sold-out 80,000 crowd at Twickenham responded with boos and it was an ironic cheer that greeted his conversion of Jack Clifford's try.

Ford had been earmarked to start the first Test against Australia in a fortnight's time and in response to demand for Owen Farrell to be given the 10 jersey for the tour opener in Brisbane, Jones mounted a strong defence of the 23-year-old.

"That's not very nice is it? We have got to be careful of that in rugby," England head coach Jones said when asked about the jeering. "He's a tough boy. I'm not worried about him, he'll be fine. He's a fantastic rugby player. Everyone has experiences which aren't pleasant, but he will be fine.

"I have seen Tiger Woods miss putts, I have seem Michael Jordan miss jump shots, everyone has a bad day and he had a bad day kicking but I thought the rest of his play was brilliant. He knew when to run and he knew when to kick and he had a few dabs himself.

"We scored five tries, one was a bit how's your mother, and the other four were scored by backs. If you score four tries against Wales your stand-off is doing something right. The thing that strikes me is that we've just beaten Wales five tries to one and we're talking about a guy who can't kick a few goals.

"It's quite amazing and just shows the negative reaction in English rugby. It's quite sad....I find it quite sad to be honest. Wales are literally full strength, we're missing 11 players and we're talking about a young kid who misses some kicks. We need to get some perspective on where we're going in the game here."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Eddie Jones leaps to Ford's defence

Lydiate 'struggling' to make New Zealand tour

5:37 PM GMT

Dan Lydiate looks certain to miss Wales' New Zealand tour after being injured during the 27-13 defeat against England on Sunday.

Lydiate, who captained Wales in the absence of Sam Warburton at Twickenham, went off midway through the first half.

And Wales head coach Warren Gatland gave a bleak update ahead of Wales flying to New Zealand on Monday for a three-Test series.

"He is struggling," Gatland said. "He has got a hamstring and potentially an AC (shoulder) injury as well."

Gatland said no decision had been made on a possible replacement for the 57-times capped Ospreys flanker, but admitted a "miracle" would be required for Lydiate to recover in time.

And it could put uncapped Cardiff Blues flanker Ellis Jenkins -- a former Wales Under-20 captain -- in strong contention for a call-up.

"I think Dan has got to process it himself in terms of the tour could already be over for him," Gatland added.

"It is incredibly disappointing that it is unlikely he is going to be getting on the plane tomorrow.

"He will go back to the hotel to have ice and stuff. The assessment from our physios doesn't look very positive at the moment."

Wales were already without wing Alex Cuthbert and flanker Justin Tipuric through injuries for the New Zealand trip, while Warburton is recovering from a shoulder injury that sidelined him this weekend.

Warburton, though, is expected to be fit for the opening Test against New Zealand in Auckland on June 11.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Lydiate 'struggling' to make New Zealand tour

Connacht boss Lam: Let the good times roll

12:53 PM GMT

Pat Lam has challenged his Connacht side to make their Guinness PRO12 triumph the start of a golden era in Galway.

Connacht clinched their first major trophy as they put on a daring display to beat Leinster 20-10 at Murrayfield.

The victory put the seal on a remarkable season during which Connacht tossed aside their traditional tag of being Ireland's underdogs as they were transformed by Lam's ultra-attacking philosophy.

"True success doesn't rely on trophies because only one team takes the trophy home," Lam said. "We've won it this time and it's fantastic for everyone but we've got a plan and we have to keep going.

"We're back on June 30 for pre-season and I've already set the goals for next year. We've got to defend this title and go back-to-back. It's realistic for us to win this PRO12 again.

"The second aim is to get into the knockout stages of the Champions Cup. I'll put that out there because come June 30 we start the work again.

"We know what we're building. That's the key, to set goals and work every day to achieve that."

Leinster were chasing their third title in four years but ended up being stunned when Connacht's Tiernan O'Halloran and Niyi Adeolokun struck before half-time, with Matt Healy crossing over after the break.

Sean Cronin pulled a try back deep into the second period for the Blues but it was far too little, far too late.

That left it to delighted Connacht skipper John Muldoon to take his place in the history books as he hoisted the trophy aloft in front of almost 35,000 fans in Edinburgh.

And even deflated Leinster captain Jamie Heaslip could not deny the victors deserved their fairytale ending.

He said: "I don't think we were the big bad wolf. I thought they were favourites coming in because they were going well all season. They were the pace-setters, the highest try-scoring team.

"They are a tough side to defend against. The punish you in all sorts of different ways and a very good defensive side as well. The better side won and there's not a whole lot more that I can say. All credit to Connacht, though, they were very good all season."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Connacht boss Lam: Let the good times roll

Pocock signs for Panasonic Wild Knights

10:55 AM GMT

Wallabies star David Pocock has secured a three-season deal with Japanese Top League champions Panasonic Wild Knights which also keeps him in Australian rugby and ensures he gets a rest leading up to the 2019 World Cup.

Australia's 2015 World Cup hero will commence playing for the Wild Knights - who are coached by former Wallabies mentor Robbie Deans - following the conclusion of the Wallabies' spring tour to Europe in December this year.

From February 2017, Pocock will take a six-month sabbatical away from the game to pursue study and interests outside of rugby.

In mid-August 2017 he heads into a heavy schedule by resuming with the Wild Knights for his second Top League season before returning to the Brumbies for Super Rugby in 2018 and 2019, knowing he can also expect to play a hefty Wallabies schedule in those years.

The 28-year-old back rower will then skip the 2018-19 Top League season to enjoy a much-needed off-season ahead of the 2019 World Cup before completing his deal with the Wild Knights after the World Cup.

It's a schedule nutted out with the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) as well as the Wild Knights.

"I really appreciate the opportunity the ARU have offered me to stay in the Australian rugby union set up," said Pocock said in a statement confirming his deal on Sunday.

"My goal is to continue to improve and be at my best in 2019."

Deans apart, Pocock is set to link up at the Wild Knights with another person with Wallabies connections in former Test five-eighth Berrick Barnes.

"I'm really looking forward to working with Robbie (Deans) and Berrick again," Pocock said.

"When George Smith came back from Japan in 2012 he had added a few things to his game that we talked about quite a bit, so I'm keen to use the time over there to work on various aspects of my game.

"Playing with the Wild Knights will hopefully give me a chance to practice new skills and experience a different style of rugby."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Pocock signs for Panasonic Wild Knights

Steenson: Sky's the limit for Exeter Chiefs

12:10 PM GMT

Gareth Steenson has predicted an exciting future for Exeter following a season when they confirmed their place at English rugby's top table.

Although the Chiefs' hopes of landing a first Aviva Premiership title just six years after being promoted were dashed by domestic and European double winners Saracens at Twickenham, Steenson believes Exeter are here to stay.

For much of the second half, they had Saracens rattled to the core, recovering from 23-6 down at half-time to just three points behind before Alex Goode's late try halted Exeter's comeback at 28-20.

The Chiefs were also European Champions Cup quarter-finalists this term, beaten by Wasps with the final kick of a pulsating clash, while they finished second behind Saracens across the 22-game regular league season.

"The sky is the limit for this club, and I do genuinely believe that," Exeter skipper Steenson told Press Association Sport. "It has been our best season by a long way in the Premiership, and it just shows with the squad we are putting together.

"People want to come to the club, and you can see with the support we get, it's a great place to be. It is another step on the ladder. There were a lot of young players out there on Saturday who are going to be better for the experience.

"The final was never going to be the be-all and end-all for us. We always talk about being better, and there is no way we are not going to be better for this experience. We have jumped forward in Europe, and we have got ourselves a bit further along in the Premiership as well.

"It hasn't been something that has happened overnight. It has always been a steady increase. We have taken the right steps at the right time."

Steenson, meanwhile, paid tribute to Exeter wing Jack Nowell, who scored his team's second try and was arguably the best player on the pitch, showcasing brilliant form as he prepares for England's three-Test Australia tour.

"Jack was magnificent," Steenson said. "Defensively, his covering, his work-rate, his try - he was outstanding. He would be right up there as one of the best wings in the world at the minute.

"It's a great credit to him that he is getting himself on the plane, as are a lot of our other players, although we are probably a couple of guys short in my opinion, which is a little disappointing."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Steenson: Sky's the limit for Exeter Chiefs

McCall hails 'remarkable' Saracens double

Six newcomers named in All Blacks squad

11:53 PM GMT

Coach Steve Hansen has named six uncapped players in his All Blacks squad to face Wales in June.

The outstanding Highlanders loose forward duo of Elliot Dixon and Liam Squire are joined by young Blues prop Ofa Tu'ungafasi, talented Hurricanes loose forward Ardie Savea and exciting young Chiefs teammates Damian McKenzie and Seta Tamanivalu.

Two further players will join the 32-strong squad as possible injury replacements, including another new face in Highlanders lock Tom Franklin for Sam Whitelock, in doubt after suffering a hamstring strain last week.

Hurricanes halfback TJ Perenara was named as cover for Tawera Kerr-Barlow, who is recovering from a broken right hand.

Kieran Read takes over the captaincy from Richie McCaw, while Ben Smith has been named vice-captain.

Hansen says despite the loss of a large group of experienced players, he's confident the All Blacks are as strong as ever.

"Many people, including our opponents, may be thinking we're vulnerable and are rebuilding," he said in Auckland on Sunday.

"We don't have that mindset.

"It's often said that when the tall trees that cast the largest shadows are cut down, the remaining smaller trees grow more rapidly.

"We believe we'll see players stand tall and take their game to a higher standard this season."

The squad, which has an average age of 25, comprises 18 forwards and 14 backs.

Players assembled in Auckland on Sunday to begin preparations for the first Test against Wales at Eden Park on June 11.

The second Test is in Wellington a week later with the third and final Test in Dunedin on June 25.

Backs: Ben Smith, Israel Dagg, Damian McKenzie, Waisake Naholo, Julian Savea, Malakai Fekitoa, Seta Tamanivalu, Charlie Ngatai, Ryan Crotty, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Cruden, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, TJ Perenara*.

Forwards: Kieran Read (captain), Sam Cane, Ardie Savea, Jerome Kaino, Elliot Dixon, Liam Squire, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Patrick Tuipulotu, Luke Romano, Tom Franklin* Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Charlie Faumuina, Owen Franks, Wyatt Crockett, Joe Moody, Dane Coles, Codie Taylor, Nathan Harris.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Six newcomers named in All Blacks squad

Jones: England went soft after World Cup win

9:14 PM GMT

Eddie Jones believes England's lack of success since claiming the 2003 World Cup is a result of successive regimes allowing the team to develop a soft underbelly.

Until Jones masterminded a first Grand Slam in 13 years, the Red Rose had managed to win just a solitary RBS 6 Nations title since Martin Johnson raised the Webb Ellis Cup in Sydney.

The Australian's priority after succeeding Stuart Lancaster in December has been to restore the snarl to the team which he reckons was lost amid players' pursuit of commercial interests.

When asked if the team had become soft since 2003, Jones said: "Without a doubt. I came up against them as Wallabies coach in 2004 and they came out for a holiday. We put 50 points on them in Brisbane.

"You cannot accept that -- as soon as it was accepted, it was the end of that team and era. In reality, England rugby has never recovered since.

"Commercial activity took over for England's players after that World Cup success. And significant senior players retired at the same time.

"I don't mind players having agents and agents doing good things for them. If you play the game well, and that means training well, you should get financial rewards.

"It's when they start taking short cuts, going to a function instead of having proper recovery, that I have a problem.

"Every time you play a Test match and wear the rose, it is important that you give it everything you've got. If you are too tired to go on tour, don't go on tour.

"I've said to the players, 'if you do not want to come on tour and work hard, stay at home. Go to Portugal, Spain, Tunisia, Egypt, wherever you want and have a great time'. It is a choice you make."

England play three Tests against World Cup runners-up Australia in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney and Jones believes the tour will expose players who lack the commitment he demands.

"We are taking baby steps at the moment, but significant ones," said Jones, whose side face Wales at Twickenham on Sunday. "The tour will be hard -- we've got three difficult Tests there and we know that Australia have picked a strong squad.

"It will be all hands to the deck and we will separate the men from the boys. It's not about players having a nasty edge, but being desperate to play for England. That's what I want.

"Owen Farrell would be top of the tree and he is from Wigan. It's all about how desperate you are and George Ford is the same. They are kids who desperately want to play for England and get better. They are the players we want.

"There is no doubt that players have had it too easy and been handed caps."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Jones: England went soft after World Cup win

Boks call up nine uncapped players for Ireland

5:21 PM GMT

South Africa have called up nine uncapped players for their three-Test series against Ireland.

The Springboks are without a host of players due to Sevens and injuries while Ruan Pienaar has ruled himself out of contention for the June matches.

New Boks coach Allister Coetzee has used their unavailability to blood a number of fresh faces with fly-half Garth April the headline inclusion.

The uncapped players who have forced their way into the Springbok squad are April (fly-half), Ruan Combrinck (wing), Faf de Klerk (scrum-half), Nic Groom (scrum-half), Steven Kitshoff (prop), Jaco Kriel (flanker), Bongi Mbonambi (hooker), Sikhumbuzo Notshe (flanker) and Scarra Ntubeni (hooker).

The following group were ruled out of the tour: JC Janse van Rensburg, Sti Sithole, Marcell Coetzee, CJ Velleman, Chris Cloete, Thembelani Bholi, Schalk Burger, Cobus Reinach, Jano Vermaak, Elgar Watts, Robert du Preez, Kurt Coleman, Handré Pollard, Harold Vorster, Cornal Hendricks, Andries Coetzee, Dillyn Leyds, Jaco van der Walt all miss out through injuries or illness while Francois Hougaard, Bryan Habana, Juan de Jongh, Seabelo Senatla, Cheslin Kolbe, Warrick Gelant and Siviwe Soyizwapi are all on Sevens duty.

"The announcement of the squad, while hugely challenging, is a highlight of my career and a result of a lot of hard work and a huge amount of planning since my appointment," said Coetzee. "The selection of this squad was based on rewarding form and exposing young and upcoming local players to the Springboks, which is why priority was given to locally based players. We have many experienced players still available for selection, but we just felt that the time was right to look at the next generation.

"Our depth was obviously tested in certain positions, but this also created opportunities for new players, who have found their feet at Vodacom Super Rugby level, and to make the step up to the Springboks.

"I was appointed to win Test matches and I believe we have picked the best possible, available squad to do that. During my recent visits to the various franchises, I witnessed an unbelievable desire and passion from our players to play for South Africa, which was really heartening.

"We will now start with our preparations in earnest in Stellenbosch so that we can be ready for Ireland in Cape Town in two weeks' time."

South Africa are yet to name their captain for the three Tests against Ireland.

South Africa squad:

Forwards: Lood de Jager, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Steven Kitshoff, Siya Kolisi, Jaco Kriel, Francois Louw, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Tendai Mtawarira, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Scarra Ntubeni, Trevor Nyakane, Julian Redelinghuys, Adriaan Strauss, Duane Vermeulen, Warren Whiteley

Backs: Garth April, Ruan Combrinck, Damian de Allende, Faf de Klerk, Nic Groom, Elton Jantjies, Jesse Kriel, Patrick Lambie, Willie le Roux, Lionel Mapoe, Lwazi Mvovo, Rudy Paige, JP Pietersen, Jan Serfontein

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Boks call up nine uncapped players for Ireland

Preview: Saracens vs. Exeter

11:42 AM GMT

Saracens vs. Exeter Chiefs

Twickenham

Saturday, 15.00 GMT

After 22 rounds, two semifinals and eight months of domestic rugby, we're finally here. The Aviva Premiership final will grace the famous Twickenham turf once more this Saturday, with reigning and defending champions Saracens facing first-time finalists Exeter. Mark McCall's side have won their last nine games and look seemingly unstoppable. However, the Chiefs relished their first-ever Premiership semifinal against Wasps last week and moved one step away from being crowned champions. South west London is in for a cracker.

Team news

The big news for Saracens in their quest for a historic double is that fly-half Owen Farrell has been passed fit for this weekend. The No.10 suffered damaged ribs in Saracens' semifinal victory over Leicester last weekend, but head coach McCall is now able to count on his star man.

As a result, McCall has named an unchanged starting XV from the side that defeated Tigers. Mako Vunipola will make his 100th appearance for the club.

Exeter, meanwhile, have also named an unchanged XV from the side that beat Wasps. Rob Baxter has kept faith, with the Chiefs' only three changes coming on the bench.

Kai Horstmann and Michele Campagnaro come into the fray, while Damian Welch has recovered from a knee injury to take place as a replacement.

Saracens: Goode, Ashton, Taylor, Barritt, Wyles, Farrell, Wigglesworth; M. Vunipola, Brits, Du Plessis, Itoje, Kruis, Rhodes, Fraser, B. Vunipola.

Replacements: George, Barrington, Figallo, Hamilton, Wray, De Kock, Hodgson, Bosch.

Exeter: Dollman, Nowell, Slade, Whitten, Woodburn, Steenson, Chudley; Moon, Cowan-Dickie, Williams, Lees, Parling, Ewers, Salvi, Armand.

Replacements: Yeandle, Hepburn, Francis, Welch, Horstmann, Lewis, Campagnaro, Short.

Key head-to-head

The two best Premiership defences will pit themselves against each other this weekend -- making headway in the engine room will be key. Expect a fierce battle between Saracens duo Maro Itoje and George Kruis and Exeter's Mitch Lees and Geoff Parling.

Key stats

• Exeter Chiefs become the tenth side to play in the Aviva Premiership final, although their Twickenham record isn't exactly sparkling: they've played five, lost five at the national stadium.

• Saracens have only lost once in their last six visits to Twickenham: their last defeat their came in the 2014 final to Northampton Saints.

• This final will pit the two staunchest Premiership defences against each other: Exeter finished top with Saracens' famous 'Wolf Pack' a close second in the rankings.

Form guide

Saracens - WWWWW

Exeter - LLWWW

Odds

Unsurprisingly, Saracens are overwhelming favourites to successfully defend their Premiership title. They are priced at 21/100 with Unibet, while Exeter are 100/30 with the same company.

Prediction

It would be wrong to discredit the bookmakers' views on this: Saracens have been brilliant in the business end of the season and will be victorious once again. Sarries to win by 7 points.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Preview: Saracens vs. Exeter

Hartley: One more concussion could end career

Farrell passed fit to start Premiership final

11:32 AM GMT

Saracens fly-half Owen Farrell has been passed fit for Saturday's Aviva Premiership final against Exeter at Twickenham.

There were doubts as to whether Farrell would be available after the No.10 suffered rib damage during Sarries' semifinal victory over Leicester last weekend.

However, Farrell starts with Mark McCall naming an unchanged XV from their win over Tigers. With newly-crowned European champions Saracens chasing back-to-back Premiership titles and a historic double, Mako Vunipola will make his 100th appearance for the club when the teams run out on Saturday.

He is joined by Schalk Brits and Petrus Du Plessis in the front row, with Maro Itoje and George Kruis named at lock. Michael Rhodes, Will Fraser and Billy Vunipola complete the back row. Richard Wigglesworth partners Farrell in the halves.

Alex Goode starts at fullback, with Chris Wyles and Chris Ashton making up the back three. Duncan Taylor and Brad Barritt complete the line-up in the centres.

Exeter have also named an unchanged starting XV, with Rob Baxter keeping faith in the side that beat Wasps last weekend. Their only changes come on the bench, with Thomas Waldrum and Sam Hill both missing out through injury.

Kai Horstmann and Michele Campagnaro come into the fray, while Damian Welch has recovered from a knee injury to take place as a replacement; Ollie Atkins misses out altogether.

Saracens: Goode, Ashton, Taylor, Barritt, Wyles, Farrell, Wigglesworth; M. Vunipola, Brits, Du Plessis, Itoje, Kruis, Rhodes, Fraser, B. Vunipola.

Replacements: George, Barrington, Figallo, Hamilton, Wray, De Kock, Hodgson, Bosch.

Exeter: Dollman, Nowell, Slade, Whitten, Woodburn, Steenson, Chudley; Moon, Cowan-Dickie, Williams, Lees, Parling, Ewers, Salvi, Armand.

Replacements: Yeandle, Hepburn, Francis, Welch, Horstmann, Lewis, Campagnaro, Short.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Farrell passed fit to start Premiership final

Preview: England vs. Wales

11:00 AM GMT

England vs. Wales
Sunday, 15:00 BST

If this all feels a bit familiar, that's because it is. England and Wales have enacted northern hemisphere rugby union's biggest rivalry three times this season, with each game being staged at Twickenham. The two sides have a win apiece so far, with Warren Gatland's men leaving south west London victorious during the Rugby World Cup, and Eddie Jones' charges righting that result en route to their Six Nations Grand Slam.

England's 25-21 victory in March is fresh in Welsh minds and they will arrive at Twickenham looking to regain bragging rights as they prepare for their June tour of New Zealand. Their hosts are heading Down Under next month too, but with the Aviva Premiership final dictating selection somewhat, Jones will send out a more experimental lineup on Sunday. With starting places in Australia on the line, though, it promises to be anything but a friendly.

Team news

England have handed Teimana Harrison his debut and with Chris Robshaw rested, he starts at blindside with James Haskell at openside and Jack Clifford at No.8. Jones has named three uncapped players on the bench with hooker Tommy Taylor, loose-head Ellis Genge and centre Ollie Devoto among the replacements. Elsewhere Matt Mullan gets the nod at loose-head with Luther Burrell starting at inside centre and Dylan Hartley captaining the side from hooker.

With Sam Warburton sidelined for Sunday, Dan Lydiate skippers the Welsh side from openside. Ross Moriarty packs down at blindside and Taulupe Faletau anchors the pack at No.8. Alun Wyn Jones is fit to start and joins Jake Ball in the locks while Rhys Webb partners his Ospreys teammate Dan Biggar at half-back. Hallam Amos, George North and Liam Willams form the back three with Scott Williams partnering Jamie Roberts in the centres.

England: Mike Brown, Anthony Watson, Jonathan Joseph, Luther Burrell, Marland Yarde, George Ford, Ben Youngs; Matt Mullan, Dylan Hartley (captain), Dan Cole, Joe Launchbury, Courtney Lawes, Teimana Harrison, James Haskell, Jack Clifford

Replacements: Tommy Taylor, Ellis Genge, Paul Hill, Dave Attwood, Matt Kvesic, Danny Care, Ollie Devoto, Elliot Daly

Wales: Liam Williams, George North, Scott Williams, Jamie Roberts, Hallam Amos, Dan Biggar, Rhys Webb; Rob Evans, Scott Baldwin, Samson Lee, Jake Ball, Alun Wyn Jones, Ross Moriarty, Dan Lydiate (c), Taulupe Faletau.

Replacements: Kristian Dacey, Gethin Jenkins, Rhodri Jones, Josh Turnbull, James King, Lloyd Williams, Rhys Priestland, Gareth Anscombe.

Key head-to-head

The shape of England's back row has been the focus of much debate since Eddie Jones took over as coach, and on Sunday a near-sellout crowd will see its latest iteration. Teimana Harrison's fine form with Northampton has been rewarded with a starting spot and he will be determined to put in an impressive debut showing. Up against him will be the wily experience of Dan Lydiate, who is sure to give his Test credentials a severe examination.

Key stats

*Five of the last 12 games between the two sides have been won by the away team.

*England will be without Owen Farrell at Twickenham, scorer of 40 points in the last two matches against Wales.

*The last three clashes between England and Wales have been decided by five points or less.

Form guide

England: WWWWW
Wales: WLWWD

Odds

England's resurgence under Eddie Jones will be tested on Sunday, but they are favourites to travel to Australia with a seventh successive victory under their belt. Unibet have priced the home side at 13/25 to win, while Wales are 6/4 with the same firm. The draw is 20/1.

Prediction

With plenty to play for at Twickenham, Sunday's clash is difficult to call. Neither side will want to embark on a gruelling tour on the back of a defeat but the Premiership final has put England at a slight disadvantage. Wales will arrive with a squad full of experience and their desire to avenge their Six Nations defeat should see them home.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Preview: England vs. Wales

Lydiate captains Wales against England

10:07 AM GMT

Wales will be captained by Dan Lydiate against England in Sunday's one-off Test at Twickenham.

The match tees up Wales' three-Test tour of New Zealand and with Sam Warburton sidelined for Sunday, Lydiate skippers the side from openside with Ross Moriarty packing down at blindside and Taulupe Faletau anchoring the pack at No.8.

Alun Wyn Jones is fit to start and joins Jake Ball in the locks while Rhys Webb partners his Ospreys teammate Dan Biggar at half-back. Hallam Amos, George North and Liam Willams form the back three with Scott Williams partnering Jamie Roberts in the centres.

"When you look at the summer series ahead, this is a really important match for the squad," said Wales boss Warren Gatland. "When looking at previous summer tours and planning for New Zealand, we felt we needed greater preparation to prepare us for the step up in intensity and the match against England will provide that for us.

"It will be an important hit-out for both teams and as ever it will be an important Test match as it's England vs. Wales at Twickenham.

"There is a lot of continuity in our squad and a great amount of experience and that is going to be vital over the next five weeks.

"Dan led us exceptionally well in our last match so deserves to continue with those duties this weekend."

Wales: Liam Williams (Scarlets), George North (Northampton Saints), Scott Williams (Scarlets), Jamie Roberts (Harlequins), Hallam Amos (Dragons), Dan Biggar (Ospreys), Rhys Webb (Ospreys); Rob Evans (Scarlets), Scott Baldwin (Ospreys), Samson Lee (Scarlets), Jake Ball (Scarlets), Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys), Ross Moriarty (Gloucester), Dan Lydiate (Capt - Ospreys), Taulupe Faletau (Newport Gwent Dragons).

Replacements: Kristian Dacey (Cardiff Blues), Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets), Josh Turnbull (Cardiff Blues), James King (Ospreys), Lloyd Williams (Cardiff Blues), Rhys Priestland (Bath Rugby), Gareth Anscombe (Cardiff Blues).

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Lydiate captains Wales against England

Schalk Burger ruled out of Ireland series

2:43 PM GMT

South Africa will be without back-row Schalk Burger for the three-Test series against Ireland.

Stormers flanker Burger injured his ankle against the Bulls and is likely to be out for between four and five weeks.

The news will come as a bitter blow for the Boks with Burger, who has 86 caps, one of their most experienced forwards.

"Schalk Burger is out and will miss the Bok Tests, and we hope that we will back for the Rebels game [Jul. 2]," Stormers coach Robbie Fleck said. "It is a big blow for him as he still has strong Springbok ambitions.

"I'm sure that he would've had a few discussions with Allister [Coetzee, Springboks coach] this week, but for us, we want him back for the Rebels game."

Burger, 33, will leave the Stormers at the end of the season to take up a contract at Saracens.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Schalk Burger ruled out of Ireland series

John Smit resigns as Sharks CEO

2:04 PM GMT

World Cup-winning captain John Smit has resigned from his role as the Sharks' CEO.

Smit will leave the franchise at the end of the current season citing the desire to spend more time with his family as the reason behind his decision.

"It was an honour for me to represent The Sharks on the field, and it has been an honour for me to work for the Sharks off the field," Smit said. "I have enjoyed the last three years and greatly appreciate the continuing support of our chairman Stephen Saad, KZNRU President Graham Mackenzie, Supersport and the rest of the Board.

"This decision to resign was not an easy one and it is based primarily on me wanting to focus more of my time on my young family.

"I look forward both to the next challenge in my career and to remaining a frequent visitor to Growthpoint KINGS PARK, my home from home since I was 18 years old."

Smit, who won 111 caps for South Africa, captained the Springboks to 2007 World Cup glory and was one of the Sharks' finest players have played for them from 1998 to 2007 and then 2008 to 2011 .

"John is recognised as one of the most successful and respected leaders in our country, and we are grateful for his contribution in guiding the Sharks through a period of transition over the past three years," Sharks chairman Stephen Saad said. "I am pleased to say he will remain closely associated with the organisation, maintaining a series of key relationships."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

John Smit resigns as Sharks CEO

England up for 'huge' Wales clash - Borthwick

1:12 PM GMT

Steve Borthwick insists the general sense of apathy over Sunday's Test against Wales at Twickenham is not shared by the England camp.

The fixture replaces the traditional end-of-season non-cap international against the Barbarians and is being staged to assist the Rugby Football Union in compensating Aviva Premiership clubs for the disruption caused by last autumn's World Cup.

England will select their strongest available team for the last of three Twickenham matches in eight months against Warren Gatland's men, but are missing players from league finalists Saracens and Exeter, who meet at the same venue 24 hours earlier.

The following day the Grand Slam winners head to Australia for a three-Test series against the Wallabies and Wales depart for New Zealand, before a 'season' that effectively started in September 2014 because of the World Cup finally comes to a close.

Borthwick insists England should expect to win on Sunday despite the unavailability of stars such as Billy Vunipola, Maro Itoje and Jack Nowell in front of what is expected to be a full house.

"From our perspective this is a Test match. It feels like a huge and exciting Test match," the forwards coach said.

"At this point we've sold 78,000 tickets so it's going to be a sell out or very close to a sell out.

"The supporters are excited about it and it's a brilliant opportunity to be playing this game in May in what should be a good game.

"We've prepared the best we can and we want to win as many matches as we can."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

England up for 'huge' Wales clash - Borthwick

Leicester complete Ellis Genge signing

8:27 AM GMT

Leicester Tigers have completed the signing of Bristol prop Ellis Genge.

Genge was called up by England last week for their three-Test tour of Australia and is in line to make his Test debut against Wales on Sunday.

The 21-year-old prop was loaned to Leicester from Bristol earlier in the season and has now made the move permanent.

"Ellis has made a big impression in his time on loan with us," Leicester boss Richard Cockerill said. "He is very keen to learn and has an excellent work ethic.

"He earned his opportunities in the Tigers team towards the end of the season and is in a good place to continue to learn and improve with senior props including Marcos Ayerza, Dan Cole and Logovi'i Mulipola around him.

"He is a great young prospect and he seems to have found his home at Leicester in his time on loan with us.

"We hope he continues to build on that first impression and we look forward to seeing his development here."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Leicester complete Ellis Genge signing

Houston swaps Bath for the Reds

8:15 AM GMT

Bath No.8 Leroy Houston has re-signed for the Reds on a two-year deal and has marked the news with a place in the Wallabies squad for the England Test series.

Houston, who joined Bath in 2013, has been one of their standout performers at the back of the scrum and caught the eye of Australia coach Michael Cheika.

He has journeyed back to Australia to pursue his dream of playing for the Wallabies and has joined the Reds, the side he played for from 2008 to 2011.

"Queensland and the Reds are my home, so there was no other choice when I decided to come back to Australia," Houston said. "I have awesome memories of my time at Ballymore.

"There's a good bunch of young lads at the club and some really experienced players there too. I'm looking forward to getting back there and contributing to what they're trying to build.

"I was there in 2008 when it was tough going, so I know what it's like to experience that, but we won the title in my last year and hopefully I can share some of my experiences with the current group.

"There's a lot of potential there and I can't wait to be a part of it."

He had one more year on his contract at Bath but they agreed to release him.

"Leroy has been fantastic in his time at Bath, and we're really sad to see him go," Bath coach Toby Booth said. "His performances speak for themselves -- he's always given 100% every time he's pulled on the Bath shirt.

"He's been a hugely popular member of the squad, always smiling and willing to go the extra mile, and we'll miss that. We'd all love to see him achieve his aim of playing for Australia."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Houston swaps Bath for the Reds

No Gits, but contract law still in play for England

Bristol secure return to Premiership

9:34 PM GMT

Bristol survived a thrilling comeback from Doncaster to return to the Aviva Premiership for the first time since 2009, despite a 32-34 defeat on the night.

Before a sell-out crowd of 16,084 at Ashton Gate they held off a determined Doncaster and had on rely on the crucial advantage that they had secured in the first leg at Castle Park to see them to glory in the Championship play-off final.

Doncaster had the better of the first half but careless errors saw then go unrewarded as they went into half-time six points down when they could easily have been six points up.

The Knights had missed their chance to build up huge pressure on the hosts and Bristol just had enough in hand to hold off a magnificent late rally from the visitors to record a 60-47 aggregate win.

Bristol's tries came from Will Cliff and James Phillips with Callum Sheehy converting both and kicking six penalties.

Will Hurrell, Tyson Lewis, Ollie Stedman, Latu Makaafi and Paul Jarvis scored Doncaster's tries with Dec Cusack kicking a conversion and a penalty. Michael Heaney and Dougie Flockhart added a conversion each.

Within eight minutes of the start, Bristol had extended their 15-point aggregate lead when Sheedy kicked a penalty but two minutes later this was nullified when Cusack replied with one for the Knights.

After 12 minutes, the hosts came very close to scoring the opening try. Sheedy and Cliff made dents in the home defence before a flying David Lemi was forced into touch, five metres from the try-line by some desperate defence.

Despite this near miss for Bristol, some penetrative runs from Hurrell and excellent kicking from Cusack enabled the visitors to have marginally the better of the opening quarter but at the end of it the sides were level at 3-3.

When the home side were penalised at a scrum, Cusack had a chance to put his side ahead for the first time but he blazed wide with a straightforward kick. It was a bad miss as Doncaster sorely needed a score to reward their efforts and put pressure on the hot favourites.

After 29 minutes, Bristol suffered a setback when Jack Tovey left the field with a shoulder injury. He was replaced by Matthew Morgan, who made his final appearance for the club before joining Cardiff Blues for next season.

A poor kick from Doncaster full-back Jarvis forced his team into conceding a penalty, which Sheedy kicked before the outside half added another to give Bristol an unmerited 9-3 advantage.

The visitors then deservedly took the lead for the first time when the powerful Hurrell brushed aside Sheedy's weak tackle to score under the posts but they were only ahead for a minute as Cliff charged down a Heaney clearance to score.

Sheehy converted to put Bristol 16-10 ahead at the interval.

A spirited Doncaster were not going down without a fight and within four minutes of the restart, they looked to have scored a second try when Mat Clark went over but after consulting the TMO, the referee ruled out the try for a crossing offence.

Bristol received another injury blow when influential flanker, Jack Lam, was helped off with a leg injury but they overcame this to extend their lead with three further penalties from Sheedy, the second after Doncaster prop, Richard List, was yellow carded.

However Doncaster continued to battle and scored their second try through Jarvis before Ben Mosses was sin-binned for a high tackle and then Olly Robinson stretchered off.

Lewis ran straight past Morgan to score a third try before a fourth from Stedman 12 minutes from time had Bristol nerves jangling but the return of Mosses calmed them and Phillips' late effort proved to be the decisive score.

Doncaster had the final say when replacement, Makaafi scored their fifth try, which Flockhart converted to give his side a thoroughly deserved victory on the night.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Bristol secure return to Premiership

Waldrom ruled out of Premiership final

1:46 PM GMT

Thomas Waldrom will miss Exeter's Aviva Premiership final clash with Saracens after being ruled out for 12 weeks with a knee ligament injury.

The 33-year-old England back-rower suffered damage to his medial ligament in the closing stages of Saturday's 34-23 league semifinal victory over Wasps.

Exeter will face Premiership title holders and Champions Cup winners Saracens in their maiden league final at Twickenham on Saturday, with 28 coachloads of fans making the journey to London.

Flanker Don Armand admitted four-cap England back-rower Waldrom has been "really upset" by the injury blow, but vowed Exeter will now bid to lift the title in his honour.

"It's really horrible for someone like 'Tank' especially, who puts so much time and emotion into the team and you can see that by the way he plays," said Exeter flanker Armand.

"We're definitely going to miss him. He's been really upset this week and that just shows what the team means to him.

"There are definitely boys playing for him, as extra emotion and motivation.

"There are plenty of motivations already of course, but that certainly adds to it, and it's quite high up on the priorities.

"No one wants to miss the big occasion, that's what everyone works towards.

"But that's just rugby unfortunately, that's just how the game works."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Waldrom ruled out of Premiership final

Te'o 'one of the best in England' - Ryan

1:18 PM GMT

Worcester Warriors director of rugby Dean Ryan has hailed new singing Ben Te'o as "one of the best players in England" ahead of his summer switch from Leinster.

Te'o's decision to swap the RDS Arena for Sixways has seen him earn a place in Eddie Jones' squad for the tour of Australia, and Ryan believes the hype is justified.

"Ben's arrival will be huge for us," Ryan told the club's website. "The lad is a superstar and we're going to see one of the best players in England at Sixways.

"For him to go straight into the England squad gives you an indication of what he's got and he's going to be playing here in a Warriors shirt, which is just fantastic."

The capture of Te'o is a considerable coup for Worcester, but Ryan has revealed the former rugby league star's appearance in a B&I Cup tie in March 2015 gave the Warriors a head start on their competition.

"We saw Ben when he played for Leinster A at Sixways and we saw he could do things that other people can't.

"All of a sudden others are wondering how they missed him and that's the challenge of this club.

"We're a club that has to see players before anyone else does. The reality of the recruitment table means that the top six or seven teams will have their pick first and we don't want to be dealing with seventh or eighth choice players."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Te'o 'one of the best in England' - Ryan

Madigan, McCloskey omitted from Ireland squad

11:57 AM GMT

Ian Madigan and Stuart McCloskey have both been omitted from the 32-man Ireland squad for next month's tour of South Africa.

Madigan, 27, made four appearances during the Six Nations but has agreed a summer move to Top 14 club Bordeaux-Begles, and has been usurped in the Ireland pecking order by Ulster's Paddy Jackson.

Jackson will not link up with his club mate McCloskey in the three-Test South Africa series though. The 23-year-old, who made his international debut against England in March, has missed out on selection with another Ulsterman, Luke Marshall, preferred.

Other notable absentees include Cian Healy, Josh van der Flier, Peter O'Mahony, Sean O'Brien, Tommy Bowe and Simon Zebo, all of whom are unavailable for the tour.

Rory Best will again captain a squad that contains two uncapped players, forwards Sean Reidy and Quinn Roux.

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt said: "Touring South Africa will be arduous to say the least so we've attempted to prioritise players who are currently as close to full fitness as possible.

"In what is always a difficult balancing act, we've taken a long term view with a number of players who need a rest or will benefit from a full pre-season."

Ireland squad:

Forwards: Finlay Bealham, Rory Best, (captain) Sean Cronin, Ultan Dillane, Tadhg Furlong, Jamie Heaslip, Iain Henderson, David Kilcoyne, Jack McGrath, Jordi Murphy, Sean Reidy, Mike Ross, Quinn Roux, Rhys Ruddock, Donnacha Ryan, CJ Stander, Richardt Strauss, Devin Toner

Backs: Keith Earls, Luke Fitzgerald, Robbie Henshaw, Paddy Jackson, David Kearney, Rob Kearney, Kieran Marmion, Luke Marshall, Conor Murray, Stuart Olding, Jared Payne, Eoin Reddan, Jonathan Sexton, Andrew Trimble

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Madigan, McCloskey omitted from Ireland squad

Chudley free to play in Premiership final

9:04 AM GMT

Exeter scrum-half Will Chudley is free to play in Saturday's Aviva Premiership final after a citing charge against him was dismissed.

Chudley faced a Rugby Football Union disciplinary hearing in Bristol, having been reported for allegedly kicking Wasps lock Joe Launchbury during last Saturday's Premiership playoff clash at Sandy Park.

In a statement, the RFU said: "The panel concluded that the contact to Launchbury was caused as a result of Chudley's knee being deflected off the thigh of (Wasps prop) Matt Mullan.

"It was therefore deemed not reckless, and the charge was dismissed.

"The panel comprised John Doubleday, Nick Dark and Daniel White (chairman)."

Chudley, 28, is now set to line up against Premiership final opponents Saracens at Twickenham.

The former Newcastle No. 9 has been an integral part of Exeter's title push this season, with the Chiefs chasing Premiership silverware just six years after being promoted to English rugby's top flight.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Chudley free to play in Premiership final

Wales captain Warburton to miss England Test

8:57 PM GMT

Wales will be without captain Sam Warburton when they face England at Twickenham on Sunday, but Alun Wyn Jones is in line for a return.

Warburton has not played since injuring his shoulder against the Ospreys on April 30.

He is expected to regain his fitness for Wales' first Test against New Zealand on June 11 but this Sunday's match appears to have come too soon.

"This weekend will be too early for Sam," Wales forwards coach Robin McBryde said.

"But he is taking part in parts in the rugby, he's done everything bar contact work really so he is getting much stronger, feeling much better about himself and that's evident in the way that he has carried himself and contributed in the meetings."

Warburton is one of five players unavailable to Wales head coach Warren Gatland, with Jonathan Davies and Luke Charteris still with their French clubs, Tomas Francis involved in Saturday's Premiership final with Exeter and Matthew Morgan playing for Bristol in the second leg of the Championship playoff final on Wednesday.

However, there is better news on Wyn Jones, whose last appearance on a rugby pitch came at Twickenham during Wales' Six Nations defeat to England.

"Alun Wyn took a full part in training this morning," McBryde added.

"He hasn't had rugby for a long while and the game has been put in the diary to get us up to speed and that intensity before we face the All Blacks.

"So anybody who hasn't had that much rugby stands a good chance of being involved against England. He's made great strides."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Wales captain Warburton to miss England Test

Ashton right to turn down Saxons - McCall

5:06 PM GMT

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall has revealed that Chris Ashton turned down a place on the England Saxons tour to South Africa because his "head wouldn't have been in the right place".

Ashton was a shock omission from the senior squad destined for Australia with head coach Eddie Jones stating it was an easy decision to make due to his shortcomings in defence.

Ten tries in eight matches since completing the 10-week ban that forced him to miss England's Grand Slam triumph failed to convince Jones that the 29-year-old was ready to add to his 39 caps.

Instead, Ashton was offered a route back into international rugby -- his last appearance was in New Zealand two years ago -- on the second-string Saxons tour, but this was rejected on the grounds that his partner is due to give birth to their first child this summer.

Former England captain Will Carling believes that decision could have repercussions for his Test career, but McCall insists it was made in consultation with Jones.

"Obviously it was disappointing that Chris didn't get selected for Australia because he's done well for us since he's come back from his suspension," McCall said.

"Eddie showed him a little bit of understanding as well, same as he did in the Joe Marler case. As far as I know the decision was made in conjunction with Eddie.

"Chris went through a lot in that 10-week period and has played really well since he's come back.

"His wife is expecting and is due to give birth towards the end of June, so for all sorts of reasons Chris' head wouldn't have been in the right place, so it was probably best that he didn't go."

Fears over Owen Farrell's fitness for the Wallabies series have receded with Saracens confident he will be able to play in Saturday's Aviva Premiership final against Exeter at Twickenham.

Farrell suffered a rib injury in the play-off victory over Leicester last weekend, but is expected to be given the all clear alongside centre Duncan Taylor, who has concussion.

"Owen's fine. He's got bit of an issue with his side and didn't train on Tuesday, but he'll be fine. He'll be training on Thursday," McCall said.

"Duncan Taylor took a bang to the head against Leicester and is doing his return to play protocols, but everything has gone according to plan so far and we expect him to train on Thursday as well."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Ashton right to turn down Saxons - McCall

Russell ruled out of Scotland's Japan

1:46 PM GMT

Finn Russell has been ruled out of Scotland's summer tour of Japan as he continues his stay in hospital in Ireland.

The 23-year-old remains under observation after suffering a head injury in the Guinness Pro12 playoffs -- but he has been told he does not need surgery.

The Glasgow back went off in the first minute of his side's semi-final defeat by Connacht in Galway on Saturday after a clash of heads with team-mate Zander Fagerson.

Head coach Gregor Townsend described it as a "very serious injury" and the Scottish Rugby Union has confirmed he will miss the two-match tour of Japan.

A Warriors statement added: "However, his condition has improved significantly over the last couple of days and it's been confirmed that he does not require surgery.

"Russell, who was transferred from University Hospital in Galway to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin, is expected to be discharged later this week. His return to training date will be determined when he is back in Glasgow.

"Glasgow Warriors would like to thank the Connacht medical team, players and staff for their support. The club would also like to thank the University Hospital in Galway and Beaumont Hospital in Dublin for all their help.

"Finn and his family really appreciate all the messages of support, with which they have been inundated."

Vern Cotter's squad meet up next Monday and play Japan on June 18 and seven days later.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Russell ruled out of Scotland's Japan

Jones: Losing to Australia would be a 'failure'

11:37 AM GMT

Eddie Jones believes it would be a "failure" if England don't win their three-Test series against Australia next month.

Jones, who named four uncapped players in his 32-man England squad for the trip down south, wants to build on their Six Nations triumph and has high hopes for the future.

"We want to be the top team in the world," Jones said. "Therefore, if we go to Australia, we should expect to win the series.

"It would be a failure if we don't win the series."

England may have cruised to a Six Nations grand slam earlier this year, but last year's 33-13 defeat to Australia in last year's World Cup is still something they are yet to make amends for.

And while Jones has had success so far in his England tenure, he's under no illusions about the different threats posed by southern hemisphere teams.

"[Australia] are just much better with the ball," he added. "It's got to be an enormous scrap. We're going to be in their face, physical, unrelenting, don't give them a moment.

"They're going to put more questions to our defence than teams did in the Six Nations and try and play with an intensity and pace that isn't common in the northern hemisphere."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Jones: Losing to Australia would be a 'failure'

Pumas keen to host 2027 Cup

4:38 AM GMT

Argentina will bid to stage the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with President Mauricio Macri meeting with new World Rugby vice-chairman and former Pumas captain Agustin Pichot.

Argentina, who have reached the World Cup semi-finals at two of the last three tournaments, will make an official bid in October when organisers visit the South American country.

"The decision is in line with our objective of promoting big sports events that will enable the country to attract tourism and investment and stimulate the development of infrastructures for the benefit the community," Macri said in a statement.

Pichot, who since leading the Pumas to third place at the 2007 World Cup in France has been instrumental in gaining Argentina greater international competition, was elected 12 days ago as number two to new World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont.

Macri, who has been in office for six months, is a former president of top Argentine soccer club Boca Juniors.

Japan is hosting the 2019 World Cup while four countries have submitted bids to stage the tournament in 2023 - France, Ireland, South Africa and Italy.

The hosts for 2023 will be decided in May 2017.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Pumas keen to host 2027 Cup

Hayne's Olympic runway 'very short' - Ryan

Jarryd Hayne and his Fiji teammates lift the World Sevens Series trophy at Twickenham. 

6:00 AM GMT

Fiji Sevens coach Ben Ryan has warned that Jarryd Hayne faces a battle to realise his Olympic dream as the island nation's rugby reaches a 'golden era' ahead of Rio.

NFL-convert Hayne was in the squad as Fiji claimed their second successive World Sevens Series crown on Saturday after booking their place in the London Sevens quarterfinals.

They might have gone off the boil ever so slightly by finishing fourth overall on Sunday -- losing to reigning London champions USA in the third place playoff -- but Ryan is convinced he has a squad capable of adding Olympic gold to their world title.

Whether or not Hayne is part of the squad in Rio will depend on his performances during a seven-week training camp and Ryan suggested the 28-year-old would have to work on his fitness before rugby returns to the Olympics in August.

"It's so hard [to switch to sevens]," Ryan said. "There's the amount of fitness you need, as well as coming into a new team and a new game. Unless you're coming from another planet, no one's going to suddenly come into this and be a world beater.

"Look at a world class player like [New Zealand's] Sonny Bill [Williams]. It's taken him nine months, he's had to strip down and learn the game. The runway is incredibly short for Jarryd in his aspirations for Rio."

Hayne's hop from American football to rugby sevens marked his second switch of sport in little over a year. The former San Francisco 49ers running back previously quit a lucrative career as a rugby league star in his native Australia for a shot at America's Game.

His decision to join up with Fiji Sevens, representing the country of his father's birth, rather than opt for a return to Australia caused a stir Down Under, but Ryan revealed he had been a welcome presence in the squad.

"Jarryd's been very humble when he's come in," Ryan said. "Obviously there's a media circus that surrounds him but he's gelled in well. You've got to give him a lot of credit. He didn't know any of the team beforehand, he doesn't speak Fijian, but he is obviously professional in his attitude and is very willing to learn."

Fiji were in London without six of their first-choice players, including Vatemo Ravouvou -- fourth on the list of top points-scorers this sevens season. Ravouvou's injury paved the way for Hayne to make his debut and Ryan admitted he had an embarrassment of riches at his disposal.

"It's the first time in Fiji's history that we've won back-to-back titles, only New Zealand have done it before," Ryan said. "It's a remarkable achievement in an Olympic year. For a small island nation to be dominating the abbreviated game, we're in a golden era of Fijian rugby.

"We've got a group now that are resilient, so under pressure they perform. In 10 tournaments this year we've been in nine semifinals or better. It's remarkable consistency. That's down to world class players and a group that are now looking forward to a few games in South America in a couple of months."

"I hope the celebrations will be a bit more muted on the Island, but I'm probably banging my head against a wall in that respect. We'll give the boys two weeks off, then we're into camp, where we're going to have a shoot-out between 24 players. Seven weeks and by the end of it we'll have 12 players. Our cupboard is not just deep, it's absolutely littered with fantastic talent."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Hayne's Olympic runway 'very short' - Ryan

Cipriani named in England Saxons squad

10:03 PM GMT

Danny Cipriani is one of seven full internationals named in the England Saxons squad to tour South Africa next month.

Cipriani has missed out on selection for England's match against Wales on Sunday and the three-Test series against Australia, but will get a chance to impress in the two matches against South Africa A.

He is joined in the 27-man squad by Kieran Brookes, Dave Attwood, Matt Kvesic, Christian Wade, Semesa Rokoduguni and Luther Burrell.

Tommy Taylor and Oliver Devoto, who alongside Attwood, Kvesic and Burrell are in the squad to face Wales at Twickenham this weekend, will also make the trip.

The Saxons will be coached in South Africa by Exeter Chiefs assistant Ali Hepher, who will be supported by Alan Dickens (Northampton Saints) and Andy Titterrell (Wasps).

England's second string will face their South African counterparts in Bloemfontein on June 10 and George seven days later.

"Eddie Jones has given us a strong development squad to take on a South Africa A side. The squad has a good mixture of experienced players and emerging talent," Hepher said.

"Playing South Africa twice in South Africa is going to be a great challenge and a significant test for us but it is also an incredibly exciting opportunity for the players and management to prove themselves."

England Saxons squad:

Forwards: Ross Harrison (Sale Sharks), Alec Hepburn (Exeter Chiefs), Tommy Taylor (Wasps), George McGuigan (Newcastle Falcons), Jake Cooper-Woolley (Wasps), Kieran Brookes (Northampton Saints), James Craig (Northampton Saints), Mitch Lees (Exeter Chiefs), Charlie Ewels (Bath Rugby), Dave Attwood (Bath Rugby), Dave Ewers (Exeter Chiefs), Donovan Armand (Exeter Chiefs), Matthew Kvesic (Gloucester), James Chisholm (Harlequins), Sam Jones (Wasps)

Backs: Dan Robson (Wasps), Michael Young (Newcastle Falcons), Oliver Devoto (Bath Rugby), Danny Cipriani (Wasps), Christian Wade (Wasps), Semesa Rokoduguni (Bath Rugby), Sam Hill (Exeter Chiefs), Nick Tompkins (Saracens), Luther Burrell (Northampton Saints), Alex Lewington (London Irish), Sam James (Sale Sharks), Mike Haley (Sale Sharks)

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Cipriani named in England Saxons squad

Exeter's Chudley cited for kicking Launchbury

5:19 PM GMT

Exeter Chiefs scrum-half Will Chudley has been cited for kicking out at Joe Launchbury during his side's 34-23 Premiership semi-final win over Wasps on Saturday.

Chudley will appear before an RFU disciplinary panel on Tuesday evening and faces being banned from next weekend's final against Saracens if he is found guilty.

Chudley's boot appeared to catch the head of Launchbury as he tried to dislodge the ball from a ruck during the second half of Saturday's historic win for his club.

The Chiefs star was later named man of the match but video evidence of the incident prompted RFU officials to act, with Chudley's hearing set for Bristol at 19.30 on Tuesday.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Exeter's Chudley cited for kicking Launchbury

Ashton, Cipriani left out of England squad

Baker: USA Sevens targeting podium in Rio

6:59 PM GMT

USA Sevens star Perry Baker insists his teammates have an Olympic medal firmly in their sights after defeating World Sevens Series champions Fiji in a third place play-off at Twickenham.

Baker was at his try-scoring best in London as the USA mounted a highly respectable defence of the sevens title they won in such stunning fashion 12 months ago. Sunday's 26-19 victory over Fiji was their first success against the Pacific Islanders this season, and gives the Eagles real hope they can challenge for gold when rugby returns to the Olympics in Rio this summer.

"It's all eyes on Rio now," Baker told ESPN. "We've got to prep and get it going because we believe we can be on that podium. That's what we want to do, but it's all about the hard work and time we're going to put into it."

The USA were in fine form during the two-day tournament at Twickenham, recording a shock 42-14 thrashing of the mighty New Zealand at the quarterfinal stage before narrowly losing in the semis to eventual winners Scotland.

Baker touched down for four tries in the outing against New Zealand, plus another in the win over Fiji, but the 29-year-old revealed a hint of disappointment that his side had not been able to claim back-to-back titles in London.

"We wanted to try and defend our title but we fell short of that," Baker said. "We wanted to show character, but it's all about preparing for Rio. This was our last big tournament before then, so we approached this as a chance to win bronze. Let's go out there and try and get this third.

"We just had to believe in ourselves and stick to what we were trying to do. Coach [Mike Friday] challenged us and told us that we haven't beaten them on the series at all this year. That was the challenge, to go out there and put them to the sword. It definitely gives us momentum going into our next training session, so we're looking forward to that."

With just under three months until the Olympics get underway in Rio, there is still time for some fine tuning ahead of the sevens shoot-out. And while the USA once again punched well above their weight in London, Baker admitted there was still work to be done before the Games begin.

"We need to communicate more and learn what each other is trying to do," he said. "We go off the page, so we've got to learn to stick together and communicate more. It's all terminology and at the moment we're not understanding each other here and there.

"We've been looking over each tour we've been doing and each time we've been so close, it's just the little things we need to get right. The couple of months we have to prep will get us there. It's going to be hard work."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

Baker: USA Sevens targeting podium in Rio

England to learn Tuilagi fate in 48 hours

5:12 PM GMT

Manu Tuilagi's fate will be decided in the next 48 hours when the severity of the hamstring injury that threatens to rule him out of England's tour to Australia is confirmed.

Tuilagi has been included among the 32 players picked for the three-Test series against the Wallabies despite suffering what was initially thought to be a grade-two tear requiring six weeks of rehabilitation.

The 25-year-old, who returned from a long-term groin problem in January and has been troubled by knee and hamstring complaints since, lasted only 20 minutes of Leicester's Aviva Premiership semifinal rout by Saracens and a definitive decision on his fitness is expected by Tuesday.

"It's very much in the balance whether he goes on tour or not. At the moment we don't know if he'll be on the tour," England head coach Eddie Jones said.

"He'll be examined by the Leicester staff more intensely on Monday. We're sure that's the best way to go at the moment.

"Hopefully by Monday afternoon or Tuesday morning we'll have a pretty firm decision on whether he goes on tour or not."

Either Luther Burrell or Ollie Devoto will be promoted into the squad if Tuilagi fails to recover, but it is Ben Te'o who could really profit should the wrecking ball centre be withdrawn.

Te'o will play his final match for Leinster in Saturday's Guinness PRO12 final before joining Worcester immediately, thereby honouring Twickenham's edict on not picking overseas-based players and becoming eligible for the summer tour.

The Auckland-born 29-year-old, one of four uncapped players in the squad alongside props Ellis Genge and Kyle Sinckler and back row Teimana Harrison, converted from rugby league to union in 2014 and is seen as a bruising alternative to Tuilagi at inside centre.

"Teo's in the squad so he has a great chance to play if he puts his best foot forward. We'll see how he goes," Jones said.

Owen Farrell incurred rib damage during Saracens' semifinal romp against Leicester when tackled by Genge, but is also present in the touring party with Jones dismissing any concern over his fitness.

"Knowing Owen it won't be a problem -- he's probably training now," Jones said.

Sinckler caught Jones' eye during last week's three-day training camp in Brighton held in preparation for the pre-tour Test against Wales on Sunday, while Bristol's Genge has won admirers during his loan spell at Leicester.

Both are fiery and combative front rows whose temperaments fit Jones' plan to play "bodyline" rugby in Australia, although, as third choice at tighthead and loosehead, they are unlikely to play unless injury strikes.

"It's exciting because we've got two young uncapped props in the squad who are in their early 20s," Jones said.

"They're not ready to play Test rugby scrummaging-wise, but both have potentially Test-rugby competitive edges.

"Both are athletic, can carry the ball, are aggressive and a bit rough. Those are good things for props to have."

Let's block ads! (Why?)

England to learn Tuilagi fate in 48 hours

London Sevens: England, All Blacks dumped out

11:33 AM GMT

Perry Baker ran in four tries as defending champions the USA dumped New Zealand out of the London Sevens quarterfinals.

Baker was cutting past New Zealand tacklers almost at will as he fired his side to a 42-14 victory and a semifinal berth at Twickenham on Sunday, with the All Blacks reduced to a place in the Plate last-four.

Hosts England were dumped out in similarly unceremonious fashion with a 17-0 defeat by old foes Scotland in the last Cup quarterfinal.

Cup quarterfinals

The USA produced Sunday's first upset as they ran out easy winners over a strangely off-colour New Zealand side in the Cup/Plate quarterfinals.

The All Blacks were dealt a blow early on when star man Sonny Bill Williams -- a World Cup-winner in the XV-a-side game -- was forced from the field with what appeared to be a knock to his ankle.

There was little sign of the thrashing to come when the sides reached the half-time break tied at 14-14, but four tries from the USA's Perry Baker capped a fine 14 minutes from the reigning London champions, who go on to face Scotland in the Cup semifinals.

The Scots booked their place in the last-four with a convincing 17-0 victory over tournament hosts England, who looked as though they were still half asleep under the sunny Twickenham skies.

England recorded three wins from three in Saturday's pool stage but had no answer to Scotland's three tries, which came via James Fleming, Mark Robertson, and Damien Hoyland. The hosts go on to face New Zealand in the junior Plate semifinals.

Sunday's other Cup semi will be contested by Fiji and South Africa, who saw off Argentina and France respectively. The losers make up the second Plate semi.

Bowl quarterfinals

After three straight pool-stage defeats, Samoa notched their first win of the weekend against Russia in Sunday's Bowl/Shield quarterfinals.

The Pacific Islanders were champions in Paris a week ago but looked a shadow of their former selves as they slumped to defeats by South Africa, the USA, and Canada in Saturday's Pool A. But they found their feet on Sunday, conquering a tough Russian side 22-17 and running in four tries in the process.

That result puts them through to the Bowl semifinals, where they will meet Southern Hemisphere rivals Australia. The men in green and gold endured a difficult Saturday, scoring just one win over Wales in the treacherous Pool B, and they were made to work hard for their 17-12 last-eight victory over Portugal.

The other Bowl semifinal will see Canada and Wales go head-to-head after victories over Brazil and Kenya respectively, with those two nations going on to face each other in the junior Shield last-four. Portugal and Russia will contest the second Shield semi.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

London Sevens: England, All Blacks dumped out