Tuilagi recalled by England, Goode and Clifford omitted

2:05 PM GMT

Manu Tuilagi has been recalled by Eddie Jones for England's pre-Six Nations training camp but there is no place in the 33-man party for Jack Clifford or Alex Goode.

Tuilagi, the Leicester centre, is recalled after recovering from his groin problem and is joined by the returning Jack Nowell, Anthony Watson, Maro Itoje and James Haskell who were all sidelined for the end-of-year Tests.

They are joined in the 33-man group that travels to Brighton for a training camp over January 2 and 3 by uncapped quartet Nathan Catt, Alex Lozowski, Josh Beaumont and Mike Williams. Wasps loose-head Matt Mullan is also included.

But there is no place for Saracens' Goode -- who started at fullback for England against Fiji in November -- or Clifford, who missed the end-of-year Tests through injury but featured in last year's championship and Australia tour.

Bath's Semesa Rokoduguni is also omitted as are Gloucester's Ben Morgan and Exeter's Ollie Devoto.

Jones has also named the revised and required 45-man Elite Player Squad which sees Will Evans, Ellis Genge and Goode all drop out with Catt, Tom Wood and Marland Yarde taking their places.

Jones will confirm England's final Six Nations squad on January 20 as they look to continue their 14-match unbeaten run with France up first on February 4.

"This short two-day camp in Brighton allows us to do some of the organisational work we need to do for the Six Nations," Jones said. "We have France first-up who are one of the most improved sides in Europe."

33-man squad:

Forwards:

Josh Beaumont (Sale Sharks), Nathan Catt (Bath Rugby), Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers), Charlie Ewels (Bath Rugby), Jamie George (Saracens), Teimana Harrison (Northampton Saints - injury replacement for Sam Jones (Wasps)), Dylan Hartley (Northampton Saints), James Haskell (Wasps), Nathan Hughes (Wasps), Maro Itoje (Saracens), George Kruis (Saracens), Courtney Lawes (Northampton Saints), Joe Marler (Harlequins), Matt Mullan (Wasps), Chris Robshaw (Harlequins), Kyle Sinckler (Harlequins), Tommy Taylor (Wasps), Mike Williams (Leicester Tigers), Tom Wood (Northampton Saints)

Backs:

Mike Brown (Harlequins), Danny Care (Harlequins), Elliot Daly (Wasps), Owen Farrell (Saracens), George Ford (Bath Rugby), Jonathan Joseph (Bath Rugby), Alex Lozowski (Saracens), Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby), Jack Nowell (Exeter Chiefs), Ben Te'o (Worcester Warriors), Manu Tuilagi (Leicester Tigers), Anthony Watson (Bath Rugby), Marland Yarde (Harlequins), Ben Youngs (Leicester Tigers).

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Tuilagi recalled by England, Goode and Clifford omitted

George North starts for Northampton

12:13 PM GMT

Wales and British & Irish Lions star George North returns from his spell on the sidelines to start for Northampton's trip to Gloucester on Sunday.

North last ran out for Northampton in their East Midlands derby against Leicester on Dec. 3 when he picked up a bang to the head in the early stages of the match but played on.

An investigation by the Concussion Management Review Group since determined North should not have continued to play and he has missed their last three games after seeking a specialist's opinion on head injuries.

But he is now fit to return and is named on the wing for Sunday's match at Kingsholm.

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George North starts for Northampton

Bristol not getting carried away after win - Tainton

British & Irish Lions -- Team of the Week

Shingler stars in Cardiff victory

4:16 PM GMT

Seventeen points from Steven Shingler ensured Cardiff Blues won a keenly contested Guinness PRO12 derby meeting with Newport Gwent Dragons 27-16 at a sold-out Arms Park.

The outside half scored his side's first try and made another for Josh Navidi, with three conversions and two penalties completing his match tally.

Kristian Dacey scored the other try for Blues with Ashton Hewitt scoring one for Dragons. Angus O'Brien completed their scoring by converting that try and kicking three penalties.

Dragons made a dreadful start, falling behind after only a minute. A poor kick from O'Brien gave Blues a platform in the home 22, from which Shingler brushed aside some weak tackling to score the opening try.

The visitors responded with their first points with a penalty from O'Brien after an under-pressure Cardiff scrum infringed, but Shingler soon nullified this score with a penalty of his own.

After 18 minutes, Blues suffered a blow when centre Rey Lee-Lo was sin-binned for a high tackle on O'Brien before the outside half recovered to kick the resulting penalty.

Within minutes, Dragons also went down to 14 men with lock Rynard Landman yellow-carded for clearing out Alex Cuthbert without the ball.

Shingler kicked the penalty before their opponents scored their first try. A clever kick through from O'Brien was easily collected by Hewitt for the wing to score with O'Brien's conversion bringing the scores level after 25 minutes.

Both players returned from the sin-bin just in time to see Dacey crash over from close range. Shingler converted before O'Brien added a penalty from the halfway line.

With the last movement of the half, Blues struck a crucial blow when Shingler sailed through a gap in the Dragons defence to send Navidi over. The conversion was successful and Blues led 27-16 at the interval.

Dragons sent on six replacements in an attempt to reverse their fortunes but the third quarter was error-ridden and uneventful with no additions to the scoreboard.

The Dragons' substitutions made no impact as the hosts continued to dominate the second half and they should have extended their lead but Matthew Morgan missed a straightforward penalty attempt.

Morgan was entrusted with the kick as Shingler had taken a heavy blow, which forced him to leave the field after 67 minutes.

Nicky Robinson replaced him but he could not provide the spark needed to reward Blues' second-half superiority by picking up a bonus point.

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Shingler stars in Cardiff victory

Playing through dislocated shoulders and beating the All Blacks

Clermont cement top spot with victory over Stade

10:01 PM GMT

Clermont Auvergne cemented their spot at the top of the Top 14 with a six-try 46-10 victory over Stade Francais at Stade Marcel Michelin.

Stade Francais took an early lead through Sekou Macalou but Clermont then took control of the match with a try double from Adrien Plante giving them a 18-5 half-time advantage.

Patricio Fernandez then stretched their advantage with a try early on in the second half and though Will Genia grabbed one back for the visitors, Clermont then pulled away with scores from Noa Nakaitaci, Damien Chouly and Sitaleki Timani.

Montpellier edged out Toulon 33-29 in a thriller at Stade Altrad. Montpellier had built a commanding lead heading into the final throes of the match thanks to a try from Joffrey Michel and a double from Shalva Mamukashvili but Toulon struck late through Liam Gill and Marcel van der Merwe to get a losing bonus point.

Elsewhere Pau stunned hosts Bordeaux-Begles with a 18-16 triumph while Gabriel Lacroix scored an incredible quartet of tries to help La Rochelle to a comfortable 42-17 win at Bayonne.

Racing 92 also recorded a key win as tries from Xavier Chauveau, Wenceslas Lauret and Yannick Nyanga gave them a 23-10 triumph over Castres while Brive beat Lyon 22-6 with Gaetan Germain guiding them home from the tee.

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Clermont cement top spot with victory over Stade

The 2016 ESPN Rugby Christmas Quiz

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The 2016 ESPN Rugby Christmas Quiz

North decision 'cop-out' - Alistair Hargreaves

George North vows to keep playing

Hargreaves labels North report a 'disgrace'

9:50 AM GMT

Former Saracens captain Alistair Hargreaves says the failure to sanction Northampton for their handling of George North's latest head injury a "disgrace".

It is the strongest condemnation yet of the decision by a joint Rugby Football Union and Premiership Rugby investigation not to charge Saints with misconduct for allowing North to resume playing after he appeared to have been knocked unconscious in a league match on December 3.

Two months ago Hargreaves, Saracens' 2015 Aviva Premiership-winning captain, announced his retirement from the game at the age of 30 after suffering five concussions in two years.

Reacting to the findings of the review, which acknowledged that North should not have been allowed to play on but declined to open disciplinary proceedings as Northampton were not wilfully negligent, Hargreaves voiced his anger.

"Decision made by CMRG is a disgrace. Is this what we call player welfare @EnglandRugby @premrugby? What a depressing day for rugby," the South Africa-born lock said on Twitter.

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Hargreaves labels North report a 'disgrace'

Outcry over George North concussion decision

Northampton avoid sanction over North concussion

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Northampton avoid sanction over North concussion

Watson eager for Bath return after 'frustrating' injury

Jones: 4 years in 'draining' England job will be enough

8:43 AM GMT

Eddie Jones has hinted that he plans to leave his job as England head coach when his contract expires in 2019, regardless of the team's success.

The Australian's deal with the RFU runs until the end of the World Cup in Japan, and he has suggested before that he would quit if his side lifted the trophy.

Jones has guided England to 13 consecutive Test wins since taking over from Stuart Lancaster, who left in Nov. 2015, and has gained widespread public support, raising hopes of global glory.

However, the prospect of extending his tenure dimmed on Wednesday after he gave interviews to British newspapers. "Four years is enough," he told The Times. "It is quite emotionally draining."

Jones cited the ambition of having his team produce the perfect performance as a driving force in his coaching, and insisted that modern methods would bring the best out of England.

"That old style -- 'I'm gonna beat you with fear' -- it just doesn't work today," he said. "People are educated differently and you've got to treat them differently. You've got to be smart about how to get what you want out of people.

"The balance of how you do things changes. Maybe in the old days it was 60 percent fear and hairdryer-type coaching, 40 percent arm around the shoulder. Today, I think it's probably 70 percent arm around the shoulder, and 30 percent fear.

"Every now and then, when I think I am being too hard on a player, I have to pull myself back and think, 'No, I shouldn't behave like that.' I am still too hard on the staff. That is an area I am not good at -- because I expect the staff to be as driven as me and when they are not, I get disappointed."

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Jones: 4 years in 'draining' England job will be enough

Prince Harry to replace Queen as RFU Patron

4:54 PM GMT

Prince Harry is to take over from The Queen as patron of the Rugby Football Union next year.

The Queen has held the role since 1952 after taking it on from her father, King George VI, following his death, while Prince Harry has been the vice patron since 2010.

"It has been a privilege and an honour to have The Queen as Patron of the RFU for over 60 years," RFU president Peter Baines said.

"She has been a fantastic supporter of the union and we thank her for that and her contribution to the game of rugby in England.

"We welcome Prince Harry as our new Patron. He has been Vice Patron for a number of years already and a regular at England Tests at Twickenham."

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Prince Harry to replace Queen as RFU Patron

Blackadder clears way for Ford to leave Bath

8:58 AM GMT

England fly-half George Ford could leave Bath at the end of the season after director of rugby Todd Blackadder gave his blessing to a move.

Speculation has surrounded Ford's future since the end of last season, when his father Mike was sacked as Bath's head coach.

Leicester, where Ford started his career, and Sale are among the clubs linked with the 23-year-old, whose contract runs until 2018 but reportedly contains a break clause - albeit one with a compensation payment attached.

Blackadder told the Daily Telegraph: "If George makes a decision to leave at the end of the year, that will be his decision and it will be one that we will respect.

"It is something for him and people who look after George and those decisions. I have not tried to get too deep with him, I just want him to really enjoy his rugby in the time we have left for him.

"He is really enjoying rugby. When he gets back here, he leads the team really well.

"There will be a lot of speculation around his future but we will be guided by what he wants to do and we'll just take it as it comes.

"It is one of those things with a player of his calibre and quality that there is always going to be a lot of speculation. It is just par for the course.

"For us at Bath it is really simple: we just want to enjoy what we are doing and focus on the rugby. Even for George it is probably a distraction. We don't want it to be."

Ford, who has won 30 international caps, played for Leicester from 2009 to 2013 and won an Aviva Premiership title in 2013 and the 2012 LV= Cup.

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Blackadder clears way for Ford to leave Bath

Wasps 'hugely' disappointed by refereeing error

1:57 PM GMT

Wasps have branded the refereeing error that led to Connacht's 20-18 Champions Cup victory "hugely disappointing".

Stand-in referee Mathieu Raynal incorrectly allowed Connacht to take a lineout having kicked to touch from a penalty that was awarded on full-time, from which the Galway men claimed victory through a converted try.

Test referee Raynal started Saturday's clash at Galway's Sportsground as an assistant but had taken over the main officiating when Jerome Garces suffered a hamstring problem in the 74th minute.

Tournament organisers European Professional Club Rugby quickly admitted Raynal's error after the clash, but insisted the result stands, leaving Wasps lamenting a tougher route to quarterfinal qualification.

"We all understand referees are only human and mistakes do occasionally happen," a Wasps statement read.

"However, for a referee and fourth official to get the laws of the game wrong at a crucial stage of a big match is hugely disappointing.

"The error made could have serious repercussions in terms of Wasps' qualification hopes or the prospect of securing a home quarterfinal."

Naulia Dawai's try and Jack Carty's conversion stole Connacht a victory that leaves the Galway side tied with Wasps and Toulouse on 13 points after four of the six matches in Pool Two.

Raynal's error appears to have stemmed from confusion over a change to the law that will be trialled in the southern hemisphere from January 1 and in the north from Aug. 1.

Once the trials are enforced, teams will be allowed to take a lineout from a penalty kicked to touch in overtime.

Connacht captain John Muldoon asked if his side could take the lineout, and Raynal eventually agreed.

Wasps said their protests at the time fell on deaf ears.

"Wasps' pitchside officials immediately stressed to the fourth official that Connacht could not take the lineout, as the referee had indicated time had gone beyond 80 minutes," their statement continued.

"Wasps' players on the pitch also emphasised to the referee that time was up. Despite several protests, the lineout was still allowed to be taken.

"EPCR have stated that the result stands. We congratulate Connacht after a hard-fought contest and we will now move on to the final rounds, after tough Premiership games against Bath, Newcastle and Leicester Tigers."

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Wasps 'hugely' disappointed by refereeing error

Gatland rules out return home after Lions tour

12:56 PM GMT

Warren Gatland has moved to scotch reports he could leave Wales to seek a return to New Zealand after next summer's British and Irish Lions tour.

Former Ireland and Wasps boss Gatland has been Wales coach since 2007 and has insisted he intends to see out his current contract, which runs until 2019.

In moving to deny reports he could leave Wales after spearheading the Lions' tour of his homeland next summer, Gatland revealed he rejected an approach from a Super Rugby franchise.

"The Chiefs spoke to me about three months ago but I told them it was a non-starter until my contract runs out with Wales," Gatland told Wales Online.

"I told the Chiefs I would be interested after 2019 but there's no way I would leave Wales or the Lions now."

Gatland has led Wales to three RBS 6 Nations titles and the semifinals and quarterfinals at Rugby World Cups.

The 53-year-old has taken a season-long sabbatical from his job as Wales head coach to prepare for the Lions' three-Test series in New Zealand in June.

Gatland guided the Lions to a Test series triumph in Australia in 2013, and will bid to land the famous invitational side's second winning tour in New Zealand in the summer.

Gatland must return to a position within New Zealand's domestic structure should he harbour any ambitions to coach the All Blacks.

But despite strong interest in his services from Super Rugby outfits, Gatland has issued a steadfast message that he remains committed to seeing out his current contract with Wales.

He said: "All my focus is on is the Lions and Wales: I repeat, I'm not going anywhere until after the 2019 World Cup."

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Gatland rules out return home after Lions tour

VOTE: Champions Cup Player of Round 4

8:56 PM GMT

Glasgow sacked Racing 92, Scarlets upstaged Toulon, Leinster embarrassed the Saints while Owen Williams and Jack Carty won games with last minute kicks. It's your Champions Cup player of the week.

Exeter Cheif's Henry Slade vs Bordeaux

Exeter needed a big performance from their side to keep their slim hopes alive and Slade delivered with 10 points from the kicking tee to see them to victory in France.

Scarlets' Scott Williams vs. Toulon

Scored the all-important try as Scarlets defeated Toulon. He was always a threat in attack and put in five tackles in defence as Toulon with the likes of Nonu and Basteraud battering at the Scarlets throughout.

Glasgow's Finn Russell vs. Racing 92

He put in an incredible performance as Glasgow defeated last year's finalists Racing 92 on Friday. While Dan Carter struggled, Russell was immense, making 81 metres through 14 runs and beat 10 defenders. He also came up with a try assist.

Leicester's Owen Williams vs. Munster

Williams kept Leicester ticking over with his kicks and his sensational kick from halfway gave them a valuable victory over Munster. Who needs tries with Williams in the team?

Connacht's Jack Carty vs. Wasps

Carty's kicking was questioned after last week's defeat to Wasps and with him as their only fit kicker, it was fitting he should kick the winning points against Wasps in Galway.

Clermont's Nick Abendanon vs. Ulster

Scored two tries in the opening 23 minutes for Clermont as they put Ulster to the sword. The running rugby of Clermont has shown his true ability after leaving Bath in 2014.

Saracens Schalk Burger vs. Sale

In a poor encounter with Sale, Burger was phenomenal as he linked up well in attack and was a thorn in the side of the Sharks' attack throughout.

Leinster's Sean Cronin vs. Northampton

Put in a man of the match performance, scoring one try, making over 60 metres and a real threat in providing an attacking platform for the Leinster backs.

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VOTE: Champions Cup Player of Round 4

British & Irish Lions team of the week

England's Itoje has sights Lions' New Zealand tour

12:23 PM GMT

Saracens' director of rugby Mark McCall believes Maro Itoje has his sights set on a place in Warren Gatland's British & Irish Lions touring squad to New Zealand next summer.

Itoje was absent from England's recent Tests against Australia, South Africa, Fiji and Argentina with a broken hand, but is likely to be involved in England's defence of their 6 Nations Grand Slam crown in early next year.

That, and should Saracens as expected reach the quarter-finals of the European Champions Cup, will provide Itoje the perfect chance to impress Gatland ahead of his squad selection.

If he is picked for the tour of New Zealand, he will emulate Saracens teammate Owen Farrell who went on the 2013 tour of Australia at the age of 22.

"Owen Farrell at the same age had the same drive and the same single-mindedness and the same focus," McCall told the Telegraph.

"[Farrell and Itoje play in] different positions but are similar kinds of characters in that respect - different in other respects so there are people who have been like him but it has happened really fast for him and everyone thinks the improvement will stop but he doesn't look like he is going to stop.

"I don't see him stopping. He also has goals of his own - the Lions tour at the end of the summer, I am sure he won't talk about that, he will want to get back in the England squad because he missed the autumn internationals.

"That is going to be his drive but all of those goals, Maro is a very ambitious young man and his drive will be to get on that Lions tour."

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England's Itoje has sights Lions' New Zealand tour

Exeter defeat 14-man Bordeaux in France

3:20 PM GMT

Exeter secured their first Champions Cup win of the season as they made the most of Nans Ducuing's red card to seal a 20-12 victory over Bordeaux-Begles.

Ducuing was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Olly Woodburn in the 49th minute, his dismissal allowing the Chiefs to edge a tight encounter.

Thomas Waldrom had crossed for the English side in the first period, but even when Ducuing saw red there was little between the teams.

In the end, Luke Cowan-Dickie's second-half try was the crucial moment, and Henry Slade added 10 points with his left boot.

Last Sunday's encounter between the two sides at Sandy Park had seen a tight first half and the rematch in France followed suit.

With both sets of forwards dominating a physical battle, chances were at a minimum.

Lionel Beauxis should have done better with a drop-goal attempt and Slade came close to collecting a chip through to score, but the first quarter ended scoreless.

Both defences were on top, but Beauxis broke the deadlock in the 24th minute with a penalty.

Then, just five minutes later, a flowing Bordeaux move ended with Exeter lock Mitch Lees seeing yellow for infringing at the ruck.

Beauxis made it 6-0 from the resulting penalty but down to 14, Exeter suddenly found a second gear.

Rob Baxter's men promptly went up the other end, a half-break from Slade putting Exeter on the front foot.

When the ball was recycled, the powerful Waldrom smashed his way over for the first try of the day. Slade converted to put the visitors ahead, an advantage they held on to when half-time arrived.

Back to a full complement for the start of the second period, Exeter nonetheless slipped behind again as Beauxis nailed his third penalty soon after the interval.

Then, the game changed.

Ducuing went up for a high ball with Woodburn, the Exeter wing landing in worrying fashion as his neck took the brunt of the fall.

Both players only had eyes for the ball but after sending the incident to the TMO, referee John Lacey deemed Ducuing's tackle dangerous and showed him a red card.

Faced with playing the last half-hour with 14, Bordeaux were up against it and Slade's penalty quickly put Exeter back into a one-point lead.

But that failed to stop the home side's aspirations, a tense match entering the final 20 minutes with little between the sides.

In the 62nd minute the game became 14 against 14 as Exeter's Greg Holmes was yellow-carded for a dangerous tackle in a maul.

It was plain stupidity from Holmes, allowing Bordeaux to hit back. Replacement Baptiste Serin quickly kicked a penalty, but the see-saw action continued.

Cowan-Dickie then responded as he crashed over from close range for what proved to be the decisive score.

Slade converted and sealed the win with a late penalty, but Exeter still face a tough ask to qualify from Pool Five.

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Exeter defeat 14-man Bordeaux in France

Scottish Rugby should be inspired by Glasgow

12:40 PM GMT

Glasgow head coach Gregor Townsend claims the whole of Scottish rugby should take inspiration from their back-to-back victories over French champions Racing 92.

Warriors followed up last weekend's Paris triumph with a 23-7 European Champions Cup victory over last year's runners-up at Scotstoun.

Glasgow were 60 seconds away from getting a clean sheet before Xavier Chauveau crossed but Warriors moved top of Pool A in some style, although Munster have two games in hand, starting with Saturday's fixture against Leicester.

Townsend said: "It's a huge achievement, says a lot about our players and their ability, and not just in attack and defence, the set-piece and the intelligence of their decisions.

"It's a great statement to say to our players, to say to people in Scottish rugby, that we can take on the best and beat them.

"We just have to take that on in the next two games. We looked at four or five wins as a necessity to get out the group. We have got three now, we have two games to go, which will be very tough."

Glasgow were utterly dominant in the first half, crossing through Josh Strauss and Fraser Brown inside 13 minutes and went 23-0 up inside 47 minutes when scrum-half Ali Price grabbed his third try in three matches.

But they were pushed back for the last half hour and never really threatened to claim a bonus point.

"We set ourselves really high standards and in the first 50 minutes we achieved them," said Townsend, who revealed man-of-the-match Finn Russell was a late injury doubt after suffering a calf strain in the warm-up.

"The last half hour we didn't play as well. We know we will have to play 80-minutes rugby when Munster come calling. They are playing outstanding rugby.

"Before the game, I said it was going to go right down to the wire and didn't think it would be a bonus-point game given how good their defence has been in the last few seasons. So to even be talking about it seems bizarre but we will look at how we can improve that last 30 minutes."

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Scottish Rugby should be inspired by Glasgow

Racing 92 announce Goosen's shock retirement

3:07 PM GMT

Racing 92 have announced the shock retirement of Springbok playmaker Johan Goosen at the age of 24.

According to a statement from the Racing 92 owner Jacky Lorenzetti, 13-cap Goosen has called time on his playing career to take up a commercial director role in South Africa.

The news comes as a surprise given Goosen was crowned Top 14 player of the year and played an instrumental role in Racing's charge to the 2016 French title.

In a lengthy statement from Lorenzetti -- titled 'Johan Goosen announces retirement - are we to believe it? ' -- the Racing owner addresses the Goosen issue, labelling it an "incredible decision".

"Goosen, whose contract was overwhelmingly re-structured a year ago, now claims to be free in an incredible way," Lorenzetti said. "He has announced today that he has taken the incredible decision to end his playing career, to return to South Africa for a strong role as a commercial director.

"We regret that such a talented player has gone astray and decided to abandon professional rugby as it seems obvious that the role of commercial director is incompatible with high level sport.

"We wish to add that Racing 92 has always strongly supported Johan Goosen both morally and financially.

"And while it has unfortunately proved in recent times that there is a certain lack of vis-à-vis between the player and his coaches and more generally of all members of the club and its fans, we hope it quickly becomes aware that compliance with a contract like that of a given word is the basis of all human and professional relationships.

"Naturally, Racing 92 reserve the right to give such conduct all appropriate legal actions both towards Johan Goosen as those who advise him."

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Racing 92 announce Goosen's shock retirement

Player handed three-year ban for tackling referee

Dec 15, 2016

Bruno Andres Doglioli has been banned from rugby for three years after a reckless tackle on referee Maria Beatrice Benvenuti in a Serie A match in Italy.

During Vicenza's match against Valsugana, Doglioli charged at the referee and knocked her to the ground. Reports claim Benvenuti, 23, suffered whiplash from the incident.

The FIR says in a statement it was a "deliberate act of violence" and has handed Doglioli the longest ban in the last two decades. It says Doglioli has failed to uphold the "founding values of our sport".

The FIR statement continued: "The gesture of the Rugby Vicenza player is unacceptable against the referee and the sanctions reiterates the FIR's firm position against the abuser, verbally or physically of match officials."

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Player handed three-year ban for tackling referee

O'Driscoll excited by Henshaw-Ringrose axis

Cardiff Blues and Toulon target Halfpenny

9:43 AM GMT

The Cardiff Blues and Toulon have both made offers to Wales star Leigh Halfpenny as he ponders where to play his rugby next season.

Halfpenny, currently at Toulon, has reportedly been offered a bumper deal to extend his stay at the Top 14 club with reports in the Daily Mail suggesting they have tabled a deal worth in the region of £750,000 to the fullback.

He joined Toulon from the Cardiff Blues in 2014 but his former region are keen to bring him back to the PRO12 on a dual contract joint funded by the Welsh Rugby Union.

"We've been in conversation with Leigh's representatives for some time now," Blues CEO Richard Holland told BBC Radio Wales.

"In conjunction with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), we're very hopeful that we can put a package on the table by way of a national dual contract to bring him back to Cardiff Blues.

"We're working very closely with [WRU chief executive] Martyn Phillips and his team and let's hope we can do that for the good of Welsh rugby and Cardiff Blues."

The Blues will hope 'Gatland's Law' plays a key role in tempting Halfpenny back with Wales only allowed to pick three overseas-based players in any squad.

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Cardiff Blues and Toulon target Halfpenny

Premiership heavyweights face crunch European showdowns

Barrett named New Zealand's Player of the Year

10:38 AM GMT

All Blacks star Beauden Barrett has been crowned Player of the Year at the end-of-year New Zealand Rugby awards.

Barrett, who was named World Rugby Player of the Year in November, had a remarkable 2016 where he was leading points scorer in both Super Rugby and the Rugby Championship.

Steve Hansen was named Coach of the Year but it was an evening dominated by the Barretts.

Beauden Barrett also picked up the Super Rugby Player of the Year gong while his younger brother, Jordie, was named Age Grade Player of the Year and Mitre 10 Cup Player of the Year.

"There is something very special in recognising our best people on the field alongside the people who give their very best off it," NZRU chairman Brent Impey said. "That support at the community level is a key reason rugby is thriving. Registered player numbers now tip 155,000, with solid increases in the number of young players, women and girls picking up the ball.

"Rugby has an incredible power to bring people together. New Zealanders, international fans, commercial partners, administrators and everyone else: we want them all to connect with us and our game, and be inspired.

"Making everyone feel included in our game is a real and important priority for us because we know that if we get this right then our game really will be the best it can be."

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Barrett named New Zealand's Player of the Year

Hartley is letting the Saints down - Mallinder

9:32 AM GMT

Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder insists Dylan Hartley has let the club down after receiving a six-week ban after being sent off against Leinster.

Hartley will be available to lead England when they open the defence of their RBS 6 Nations crown against France on February 4, but he will not be back in Saints colours until late March.

The 30-year-old has made only five appearances for Northampton this season - three starts and two as a replacement - due to a back problem and this autumn's international commitments.

Former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio accused him of "checking out" on his club, and Mallinder is dismayed by the swinging arm on Sean O'Brien that resulted in the third red card of his career.

"Dylan's letting the team down. He let the team down at the weekend. Any time you have a sending off and it's a disciplinary matter, you're letting the team down," Mallinder told BBC Radio Northampton, shortly before the six-week ban was announced. "Dylan has had a lot of criticism. I can't say I'm not frustrated about it because clearly I am. The team lost a player at 50-odd minutes when we thought we were in the game.

"We've also lost him for the next few weeks when Mike Heywood really needs a rest. The team is struggling a bit and we need some leadership from our senior players and we've lost that over the next few weeks.

"We're frustrated about that, but Dylan Hartley is part of Northampton Saints. We've supported each over the last 10 years and will continue to do so."

Hartley had only been on the pitch for six minutes as a replacement when he struck O'Brien with a swinging right arm from behind, resulting in the Ireland flanker failing a head injury assessment.

The thee-man hearing that met in London upheld the decision of referee Jerome Garces to issue a red card, found that the offence was at the mid-range of World Rugby sanctions for the offence and chose a five-week suspension.

Two weeks were added due to Hartley's poor disciplinary record before it was reduced by one week because of his guilty plea. Before this latest red card, Hartley had amassed 54 weeks work of suspensions for offences including biting, gouging and butting and the total for his chequered career now stands at 60 weeks.

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Hartley is letting the Saints down - Mallinder

Wales prop Gethin Jenkins out for three months

Dec 13, 2016

Wales prop Gethin Jenkins will miss the start of the Six Nations after undergoing surgery on a ruptured bicep.

The Cardiff Blues front-row faces three months on the sidelines after suffering the injury in their match against Glasgow.

Despite the injury setback, Blues head coach Danny Wilson is confident Jenkins can return ahead of schedule.

"Gethin is having surgery today on a ruptured bicep which means he will be out for around three months but knowing him he'll be back before that," Wilson said.

"He is one of the most professional men in terms of prehab, rehab and looking after his body. Whatever he is asked to do to get that right I know he will do it and I imagine he'll be back before three months.

"It's a big blow for us and it's a big blow for Wales. He keeps proving to people that age is just a number.

"His performances for Cardiff Blues and Wales have been of a real high standard. That's how he got the shirt back with Wales and that's how he's kept hold of it."

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Wales prop Gethin Jenkins out for three months

Dylan Hartley's disciplinary record in detail

7:23 PM GMT

England captain Dylan Hartley's ban for striking Sean O'Brien is the latest misdemeanour to have tarnished his disciplinary record which have now seen him suspended for a total of 60 weeks.

April 2007 - banned for 26 weeks after being cited for eye-gouging Wasps forwards James Haskell and Johnny O'Connor.

March 2012 - received an eight-week suspension after being cited for biting the finger of Ireland back row Stephen Ferris while playing for England in a Six Nations game.

December 2012 - banned for two weeks after being cited for punching Ulster hooker Rory Best during a Heineken Cup match.

May 2013 - sent off for verbally abusing referee Wayne Barnes during the Premiership final against Leicester at Twickenham. Received an 11-week suspension that prevented him from taking his place on the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia.

December 2014 - sent off for elbowing Leicester centre Matt Smith in the face. Banned for three weeks.

May 2015 - banned for four weeks after head-butting Saracens' Jamie George in Northampton's 29-24 Aviva Premiership semi-final defeat to Saracens. As a direct consequence, England ruled Hartley out of their World Cup plans.

December 2016 - sent off for striking Leinster flanker Sean O'Brien with a swinging arm. Suspended for six weeks.

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Dylan Hartley's disciplinary record in detail

England's Hartley banned but won't miss Six Nations

5:26 PM GMT

England captain Dylan Hartley will be available for the entire RBS 6 Nations campaign after being given a six-week ban for striking Leinster's Sean O'Brien.

Hartley appeared before an independent disciplinary hearing in London to be sanctioned for the third red card of his career, received in Northampton's Champions Cup defeat by Leinster on Friday.

The length of the suspension means he is free to play from January 23, enabling him to lead England when they open their Six Nations defence against France at Twickenham on February 4.

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England's Hartley banned but won't miss Six Nations

Sale have done 'nothing wrong' over Solomona signing

Hartley still in mix for Lions captaincy - Gatland

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Haskell reassures fans: 'I am not dead'

Dec 12, 2016

England flanker James Haskell has reassured fans he is alive after rumours surfaced on the internet that he had died of a steroid overdose.

Other claims to have emerged stated that Haskell had been selling drugs and had quit the sport, but the Wasps back row posted a video on YouTube in which he described the fake stories as "click-bait".

"You may have seen there are quite a lot of fake news stories operating on Facebook, that I have died of a steroid overdose, which is not true, that I have died of a drug overdose, which is not true, and that my career is over because I have been trying to sell drugs," he said. "Another rumour is circulating that I had to quit rugby and left everyone in my family and moved away.

"Just to make it clear, this is absolute rubbish. It is all click-bait. Rest assured, I'm not dead and not disgraced and for those of you who are sceptical, we get drugs-tested all the time.

"I'm not dead and for those of you who wish I was dead, better luck next time."

Haskell is currently recovering from a foot injury that required surgery after England's triumphant tour of Australia in June, but is expected to return for Wasps this month.

The 31-year-old has seen his international career rejuvenated by the arrival of Eddie Jones, producing the best rugby of his 70 caps to establish himself as first-choice openside flanker.

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Haskell reassures fans: 'I am not dead'

RFU stands by Hartley as England captain waits on hearing

4:23 PM GMT

Dylan Hartley will be allowed to continue as England captain by the Rugby Football Union regardless of the outcome of the hearing that threatens to curtail his RBS 6 Nations participation.

Hartley will discover on Wednesday afternoon the length of the suspension he must serve after being sent off for landing a swinging arm on the head of Sean O'Brien in Northampton's defeat by Leinster.

Champions Cup organisers have confirmed that the 30-year-old has been charged with striking, entailing a five-week suspension for a mid-range offence and eight weeks if the infringement is considered high-end.

An appalling disciplinary record comprising of 54 weeks of bans for misdemeanours including biting, gouging and butting are likely to result in an increase to the sanction imposed and he could be unavailable when France visit Twickenham on February 4.

RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie, however, points to Hartley's superb leadership during an unblemished run of 13 successive Test victories to explain why he should remain at the helm.

"I think Dylan's got credit in the bank," Ritchie told BBC Sport. "I think most people would say it's been a fantastic year. We've had 13 wins out of 13 and Dylan has made a huge contribution and he should be allowed to continue that.

"Dylan has clearly played a fantastic part in captaining the team, on and off the pitch just to be clear. His leadership credentials are very strong. He's made a huge contribution.

"So you view all these things in perspective and in perspective one looks at the totality of what he's done and what's happened over the years. I think we should be supportive of that."

The biggest call of Eddie Jones' one-year reign has been to appoint Hartley as captain despite the disciplinary baggage that accompanies him and his judgement has been justified by the hooker's influence in helping England win a Grand Slam and complete an historic series whitewash of Australia.

Jones was present at Franklin's Gardens on Friday night to see the dismissal and registered his disappointment by running his left hand down his face, but Hartley looks set to retain the confidence of his head coach.

"If he's eligible for selection it's ultimately a matter for Eddie, but we should recognise and support all that Dylan has done in the last 12 months," Ritchie said. "It is primarily a matter for Eddie and if you look back over it, Eddie's judgement has been really good. We should recognise that and I'm sure we will."

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RFU stands by Hartley as England captain waits on hearing

Hartley's conduct with England must count - Ritchie

12:47 PM GMT

Dylan Hartley's conduct as England captain must count in his favour when considering his future in the post, according to the Rugby Football Union.

Hartley faces an independent disciplinary hearing on Wednesday to answer for the third red card of his career after being sent off for tackling Sean O'Brien from behind with a swinging arm in Northampton's defeat by Leinster.

Champions Cup organisers confirmed on Tuesday that the 30-year-old hooker has been charged with striking, entailing a five-week suspension for a mid-range offence and eight weeks if the infringement is considered high-end.

Hartley has an appalling disciplinary record comprising of 54 weeks of bans for offences including biting, gouging and butting, a track record that is sure to result in an increase to the sanction imposed.

RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie, however, has been impressed by way he has led England during the 13 successive Test victories completed this year and insists the decision of who leads the team ultimately rests with head coach Eddie Jones.

"Dylan has clearly played a fantastic part in captaining the team, on and off the pitch just to be clear," Ritchie said.

"His leadership credentials are very strong. He's made a huge contribution, as Eddie would say.

"So you view all these things in perspective and in perspective one looks at the totality of what he's done and what's happened over the years and I think we should be supportive of that.

"Ultimately we'll see what happens -- I'm not going to talk about the disciplinary process as you know. That will take it's course and we'll see what happens out of that.

"If he's eligible for selection it's ultimately a matter for Eddie, but we should recognise and support all that Dylan has done in the last 12 months.

"It is primarily a matter for Eddie and if you look back over it, Eddie's judgement has been really good. We should recognise that and I'm sure we will."

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Hartley's conduct with England must count - Ritchie

Hartley to learn Six Nations fate on Wednesday

7:03 PM GMT

Dylan Hartley will learn on Wednesday if he will be available to lead England into the Six Nations after being sent off for the third time in his career.

Hartley will appear before an independent hearing to discover the length of the ban imposed for his stiff-arm tackle on Sean O'Brien in Northampton's Champions Cup defeat by Leinster on Friday night.

O'Brien failed a head injury assessment after being struck from behind by the blow from England's captain, who had only been on the pitch for six minutes as a second-half replacement.

Details of the charge Hartley faces have yet to be issued -- the offence could fall under striking or dangerous tackle -- but given his lengthy disciplinary record, a substantial ban is likely.

A suspension of eight weeks and above would rule him out of the Six Nations opener against France at Twickenham on February 4, resulting in the likely promotion of Owen Farrell to the captaincy.

The tackle has been widely condemned and has left England head coach Eddie Jones facing awkward questions having appointed Hartley as skipper despite a rap sheet that includes biting, gouging, butting and swearing at a referee.

In his defence, Hartley has led the national team with distinction throughout Jones' reign and has been at the helm for a flawless first year comprising of 13 successive victories.

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Hartley to learn Six Nations fate on Wednesday

Fijian Rugby Union hits out at Ben Ryan

8:51 AM GMT

• 

  Tom HamiltonRugby Editor

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  • Joined ESPN in 2011
  • Grew up in Bath but has New Zealand roots
  • Covered England's tour of New Zealand in 2014 and Australia in 2016
  • Was ESPN's man on the ground for the 2013 British & Irish Lions series and Rugby World Cup 2015

The Fijian Rugby Union has hit out at Ben Ryan -- the man who led them to Olympic gold -- saying it is disappointed by his "constant remarks" about the sevens team.

The statement comes in response to a tweet from Ryan, who left his post as Fiji sevens coach after the Rio Olympics, where he criticises the FRU for having not contracted any of the players who have played in the opening two rounds of the World Rugby Sevens Series.

A fantastic effort by Fiji at @CapeTown7s @WorldRugby7s series. FRU - please start paying these amazing men. No one contracted again.

— Ben Ryan (@benjaminryan) December 11, 2016

The FRU has responded with a lengthy statement where it says Ryan "has chosen to move on to other challenges which we respect and all have accepted but it seems it is difficult for him to move on" and expresses its disappointment at Ryan's "constant remarks... and his ongoing tweets about the performance of the team".

"The FRU has also appointed a new coach and he will lead the Fiji men's sevens team moving forward and we all need to give Baber a chance including Ben Ryan," the FRU statement continued. "It is no longer Ben Ryan's team and Ben must understand this and he must allow our new coach Baber to deal with the issues in relation to his Team.

"All the players that were selected for the first leg of the IRB [World Rugby] Series revolved around Ben Ryan's extended Squad. Their employment contracts with FRU expired after the Olympics. They, however, have all been paid their relevant allowances while in camp and while on tour for the two tournaments.

"The FRU CEO highlighted that coach Baber will commence duty on the January 2 2016 and the FRU believes it is only fair that he watches our local competition and selects his own team and the FRU intends to work with coach Baber in contracting the selected extended squad for 2017 and beyond. This was the same opportunity given to Ben when he started.

"Furthermore there is no truth in Ben's comments that FRU has lost its sponsorship and funding. FRU has been having ongoing discussions with the Fiji National Sports Commission and our sponsors in relation to the contracting of our 7s players both men and women."

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Fijian Rugby Union hits out at Ben Ryan

Who is your player of the weekend?

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Lions team of the week: PRO12 dominates

O'Driscoll questions whether Hartley is the man to lead the Lions

12:24 PM GMT

Dylan Hartley's suitability to lead the British and Irish Lions has been questioned by Brian O'Driscoll as the England captain waits to discover the damage caused to his career by yet another major disciplinary lapse.

Hartley will learn in midweek the repercussions of the red card issued by referee Jerome Garces for a swinging arm on Sean O'Brien in Northampton's Champions Cup defeat by Leinster at Franklin's Gardens on Friday night.

The hooker, a second-half replacement, had only been on the pitch for six minutes when he struck O'Brien's head from behind with his right arm, ending the concussed Ireland flanker's evening.

It is the third red card of his career and Garces' decision was endorsed by Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder and captain Tom Wood.

An appalling disciplinary record comprising of 54 weeks worth of suspensions for offences including biting, gouging and butting guarantees a bleak outcome when a independent hearing is convened next week - most likely on Wednesday - to impose a sanction.

His participation in the early stages of the RBS 6 Nations is now in grave doubt and O'Driscoll suggests his credentials to lead the Lions in New Zealand next summer - Hartley was a leading contender for the post - are in ruins.

"Mindless from Hartley. Lions Captain???!" tweeted O'Driscoll, who skippered the tourists against the All Blacks 11 years ago.

"Anyone actually questioning the Hartley red card look at his reaction to it. Not a murmur of complaint from him. He knew what was coming."

Hartley has led England with distinction this year, presiding over an unblemished run of 13 victories, but a season marred by a lengthy lay-off to heal a back injury now faces another interruption.

It is unclear at this stage whether he will be punished for striking or for a dangerous tackle, with the former deemed a less serious offence but still carrying a top end sanction of eight plus weeks.

The suspension will surely be extended when his extensive previous misdemeanours are considered and will be delivered against the backdrop of World Rugby's crackdown on dangerous play involving the head and neck.

England head coach Eddie Jones, watching from the stands at Franklin's Gardens, reacted to the replays by running his left hand down his face and the red card has left him with a headache ahead of the visit of France to Twickenham on February 4.

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O'Driscoll questions whether Hartley is the man to lead the Lions

Erasmus not getting carried away as Tigers lick their wounds ahead of reverse fixture

Cardiff thrash Bath in European Challenge Cup

12:14 PM GMT

Cardiff Blues stamped their authority on Challenge Cup Pool Four after a 28-3 win over closest rivals Bath.

Full-back Matthew Morgan, wing Alex Cuthbert and replacement Scott Andrews scored tries for the Guinness PRO12 side, with Steven Shingler adding two conversions and three penalties.

Tom Homer's 12th-minute penalty provided the only points of the day for Bath, as pool leaders Cardiff extended their advantage to five points in the standings.

In Pool Three, Worcester defeated Newport Gwent Dragons 33-20 to leapfrog them into third place, despite being temporarily being reduced to 13 men in the first half.

Sam Betty and Christian Scotland-Williamson were both shown yellow cards within the first 20 minutes after Angus O'Brien gave the Dragons a 6-0 lead thanks to a drop goal and penalty.

However, a try from Val Rapava Ruskin, converted by Connor Braid, on the stroke of half-time gave Worcester a 7-6 lead at the break.

Dean Hammond and two penalty tries, both converted by Braid, saw Worcester pull clear and claim a bonus point while Newport had Leon Brown in the sin-bin.

Max Stelling added Worcester's fifth try in the 72nd minute before a late rally from the visitors saw Ashton Hewitt score two converted tries in two minutes, but it was too little too late for the Welsh province.

French Top 14 side Brive defeated Russian club Enisei-STM 43-8 after tries from Nicolas Bezy, Guillaume Namy, Guillaume Ribes and Benito Masilevu to go top of the pool on points difference.

Full-back Gaetan Germain added 21 points with his boot and Bezy also chipped in with a conversion, while Anton Rudoi's try and a Igor Kuashov penalty were the only scores for the hosts.

Earlier, Harlequins thrashed Romanian outfit Timisoara Saracens 42-3 after running in six unanswered tries.

Dave Ward, George Merrick, Aaron Morris, Charlie Walker (two) and Joe Marchant all crossed the whitewash, with Ruaridh Jackson slotting all six conversions.

Timisoara's points came thanks to a penalty by scrum-half Valentin Calafeteanu.

In the late kick-off, Edinburgh beat Stade Francais 28-23 in Pool Five, despite the 55th-minute dismissal of centre Phil Burleigh for an unprovoked slap in the face of prop Pascal Pape.

Damien Hoyland, Ben Toolis and Sam Hidalgo-Clyne all scored tries for the Guinness PRO12 side, with fly-half Duncan Weir adding 13 points in the form of three penalties and two conversions.

Stade's tries were scored by centre Waisea Nayacalevu and flanker Sekou Macalou, with Morne Steyn kicking two penalties and conversions and a drop goal.

The result saw Edinburgh move two points clear of Harlequins at the top of the pool, while Stade remained in third, six points clear of winless Timisoara.

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Cardiff thrash Bath in European Challenge Cup

Mallinder disappointed with Hartley after red card

12:02 PM GMT

Jim Mallinder offered no consolation to Dylan Hartley after the England captain lasted just six minutes off the bench as Northampton were dominated 37-10 by Leinster at Franklin's Gardens.

Leinster had started in efficient fashion, Rob Kearney's fine line-break setting up young Ireland centre Garry Ringrose to go over after just two minutes. When Isa Nacewa converted to put them 10-0 ahead after 11 minutes, it looked to be a very long evening for Northampton.

But Saints, to their credit, dug in - with Tom Wood in particular grafting magnificently in defence -- and when Ahsee Tuala touched down in the 45th minute for a converted try, Northampton had every chance at 10-10. Hartley's introduction brought warm cheers, but Sean O'Brien's try on 56 minutes and then the England hooker's departure two minutes later ended the contest and left Mallinder with no choice but to condemn Eddie Jones' Test skipper.

"You can't strike to the head," Mallinder said. "We've seen enough of them over the last few weeks and I think it was a red card

"Dylan has been playing really well and leading England by example, so it was disappointing on returning from England and doing such a good job that that happens.

"I wouldn't say it cost us the game. I think we started badly, came back into the game pretty well and we had just conceded a try, actually, so we were already a few points down.

"But I think when you go down to 14 men against such a quality side as Leinster then you're always going to be up against it."

After Hartley's dismissal, Leinster ruthlessly exploited the extra man. First, Ross Byrne's pinpoint cross-field kick picked out Rory O'Loughlin on the left wing for a comfortable finish. Though Nacewa couldn't convert, the visitors claimed the bonus point with five minutes left as Jamison Gibson-Park scored a brilliant individual try down the left wing.

Northampton finished the match with 13 men after George Pisi was sin-binned for a dangerous tackle on Nacewa, who scored the hosts' final try to leave Leo Cullen satisfied.

"Obviously once the red card happens I thought we were pretty clinical in the way that we played in terms of managing the game in the right areas and just taking the opportunities when they came," the former Leinster captain said. "It was pleasing how we closed the game out, but there were probably areas where we can be better at, so I'll have a look over the weekend and try to make a few changes when we come in on Monday.

"The score was 20-10 at the time and I thought the guys showed good composure again - Rory (O'Loughlin) did unbelievably well from Ross (Byrne's) cross-field kick.

"That was really pleasing to see those new European caps come in, but the red card definitely knocked the stuffing out of them."

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Mallinder disappointed with Hartley after red card

Blitzboks in hot form after day one of World Sevens event in Cape Town

Wener Kok makes a break for South Africa against the USA during day one of the World Sevens Series event in Cape Town. 

6:19 PM GMT

South Africa have brought their rich vain of form that saw them win last week's World Series event in Dubai to Cape Town as they went through day one of their home event unbeaten.

The Blitzboks started Saturday with a comfortable 41-0 win over Russia, before brushing aside a spirited USA side 28-10.

The crowd favourites then made little work of Australia 29-7 to top Pool A and set up a date with Wales in the quarter finals on Sunday.

The surprise package of the tournament has been Scotland who made the most of a favourable draw to qualify top of Pool D after close fought wins over Wales and Samoa as well as a 38-5 thrashing of minnows Uganda.

Olympic champions Fiji looked in ominous form and finished Saturday with three wins from as many games, seeing off Japan, Kenya and France.

New Zealand had a rollercoaster day to claim top spot in Pool C. After a 26-12 win over Argentina, they gave up a 14-0 lead to draw with Canada 19-19. But a big 33-7 win over England was enough to see them through to the quarters at the expense of the Pumas.

Quarter Finals: South Africa vs. Wales, Fiji vs. England, Scotland vs. USA, New Zealand vs. Kenya.

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Blitzboks in hot form after day one of World Sevens event in Cape Town

Worcester seek compensation for Hougaard injury

Dec 9, 2016

Worcester Warriors are seeking compensation for the injury Springboks star Francois Hougaard suffered while on international duty.

Hougaard returned to Worcester with a shoulder injury after playing in the Rugby Championship with South Africa. The club said at the time they were "extremely disappointed that Francois returned to the club with an undiagnosed injury".

The scrum-half was expected to be out for three months with the injury and is ahead of schedule but Worcester are looking into getting compensation for Hougaard's setback.

"Francois Hougaard came back from South Africa carrying an injury which he suffered during his campaign with them and we've had to pick up the pieces from that," Worcester CEO Jim O'Toole told BBC Sport.

"It has been disappointing to lose one of your top players, and one of your highest paid players too, for such a long period.

"He's a freak of nature, in terms of his rehabilitation, and we're hoping he's back a little bit earlier than originally anticipated.

"But we're working with our friends at the South African Rugby Union and World Rugby under 'regulation nine' to make sure that we get compensation."

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Worcester seek compensation for Hougaard injury

Dallaglio: Hartley was 'reckless' and deserved red card

12:47 PM GMT

Lawrence Dallagio said Dylan Hartley deserved his red card in Friday's Champions Cup clash and says he needs to "have a look at himself".

England captain Hartley was red carded for a swinging arm on Sean O'Brien just six minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute for Mikey Haywood in Northampton's match against Leinster, a game the Saints went on to lose 37-10.

Hartley now faces a hearing next week and inevitably a suspension and Dallaglio says he needs to spend some time re-assessing where his priorities lie.

"Without doubt it's a red card, no question," Dallaglio said on BT Sport. "Sean O'Brien's gone back into the changing room and hasn't been able to come back out for the rest of the game.

"It's an unnecessary challenge. It's a swinging arm and it's reckless. It got what it deserved.

Very solid performance from @leinsterrugby tonight with room for improvement. Mindless from Hartley. Lions Captain???!

— Brian O'Driscoll (@BrianODriscoll) December 9, 2016

"When you're on the bench, you want to come on, you're frustrated and you want to make an impression but that's not the way to do it. He's landed his side in a lot of trouble.

"Jim [Mallinder] has stuck by Dylan Hartley time and time again and it's time for Dylan to go away and have a think about what's important to him. He's kind of checked out of playing for Northampton this season. He's been brilliant for England and according to Eddie Jones he's been a great leader for that group but he's sort of checked out of playing for his club.

"I've been captain of England and I know what the pressures are like, it's tough. But when you come back you need to give your guys a lift. You need to get the banter back, the spirits back and translate that confidence back to your club side. Every time that's been asked of him, he's not that done that.

"He's just looked after number one. He needs to go away, have a look at his game and have a look at himself and come back as a Northampton Saints player."

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Dallaglio: Hartley was 'reckless' and deserved red card

Challenge Cup: Gloucester, Ospreys win

9:34 PM GMT

Gloucester claimed top spot in Pool 1 of the European Challenge Cup with a 35-14 bonus-point victory over La Rochelle at Kingsholm.

The French side took an early lead when Kevin Gourdon seized on a loose pass to touch down but Gloucester responded through Mark Atkinson, Josh Hohneck and Ollie Thorley to lead 22-7 at the break.

La Rochelle pulled one back early in the second half as David Raikuna broke out of a tackle to go over in the corner but two penalties from Greig Laidlaw put the game beyond the visitors' reach.

Matt Scott put the seal on victory -- and secured the bonus point -- by crossing from a fine angled run in the last minute. The sides are due to meet again in their reverse fixture on Saturday.

Keelan Giles added another pair of tries to his collection as Ospreys coasted to a 59-7 European Challenge Cup win over Grenoble to maintain a perfect record in Pool 2.

Giles, shortlisted for the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year award, took his tally to 11 tries in just seven appearances for Ospreys.

Dafydd Howells also crossed twice, while there were further tries for Kieron Fonotia, Sam Parry, Alun Wyn Jones, Josh Matavesi and Dan Biggar, who added seven conversions.

Ospreys are five points clear of Lyon after three games following the French side's 42-12 win over Newcastle.

Centre Paul Bonnefond went in for a hat trick for the hosts, who also breached the Falcons' defence through Sami Mavinga, Felix Lambey and Agustin Figuerola.

Flanker Daniel Temm and replacement hooker Rob Vickers went over for Newcastle's tries, with fly-half Brett Connon adding a conversion.

In the evening's other match, Benetton Treviso recorded a 28-15 win over Bayonne in Pool 1.

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Challenge Cup: Gloucester, Ospreys win

Beale to make Wasps debut against Connacht

12:07 PM GMT

Kurtley Beale will make his Wasps debut in their Champions Cup pool match against Connacht on Sunday.

Beale was recruited by Wasps in May but suffered a knee injury just a day later which has kept him sidelined ever since. But he is now back fit and starts at inside centre against Connacht's Bundee Aki at the Ricoh Arena.

"We're all very excited to have Kurtley Beale back fit and raring to go, although I suspect no one is more excited than Kurtley himself!" Wasps boss Dai Young said.

"I've been really impressed with his work ethic since he arrived. He's worked his socks off to get back and he's fitted in brilliantly with the squad.

"We all know how talented a player he is, but he's also very humble and keen to develop further, which makes him a pleasure to work with.

"It was important to wait until he was feeling confident in his knee and his fitness, and it's great he's in that place now after being back in training with the squad for three weeks.

"It will naturally take him a bit of time to get up to speed with our patterns and to return to match-sharpness after a while out, so we'll be patient on that front, but he's looked hugely skillful in training and we're all excited to have him back and ready to play for Wasps."

England winger Jack Nowell also makes his return from his quad injury and is named on the wing for Exeter's game against Bordeaux-Begles.

Saracens throw their England contingent straight back into club duties for their game against Sale with new signing Will Skelton on the bench.

Elsewhere Manu Tuilagi starts at outside centre for Leicester while Nick Abendanon is shifted to the wing for Clermont's trip to Ulster.

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Beale to make Wasps debut against Connacht

Gloucester move top with victory over La Rochelle

10:25 PM GMT

Gloucester claimed top spot in Pool 1 of the European Challenge Cup with a 35-14 bonus-point victory over La Rochelle at Kingsholm.

The French side took an early lead when Kevin Gourdon seized on a loose pass to touch down but Gloucester responded through Mark Atkinson, Josh Hohneck and Ollie Thorley to lead 22-7 at the break.

La Rochelle pulled one back early in the second half as David Raikuna broke out of a tackle to go over in the corner but two penalties from Greig Laidlaw put the game beyond the visitors' reach.

Matt Scott put the seal on victory -- and secured the bonus point -- by crossing from a fine angled run in the last minute. The sides are due to meet again in their reverse fixture on Saturday.

Thursday's other match between Grenoble and Ospreys was postponed because of a frozen pitch at the Stade des Alpes. The fixture has been rearranged for Friday.

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Gloucester move top with victory over La Rochelle

Lancaster out to end Anglo-French Champions Cup monopoly

Cambridge win first Varsity Match since 2009

6:18 PM GMT

Cambridge claimed their first Varsity Match victory since 2009 as they ended Oxford's record-breaking run of success in the fixture at Twickenham.

The Light Blues had suffered six defeats on the bounce, but tries in each half by centres Mike Phillips and Rory Triniman underpinned a 23-18 victory.

Cambridge fly-half Fraser Gillies kicked three penalties and two conversions for a 13-point haul as the fierce rivals' 135th meeting produced a thrilling second half after Oxford had trailed 7-3 at the break.

Centre Henry Hughes and wing Ed David claimed Oxford's touchdowns, with fly-half Basil Strang adding two penalties and a conversion, but Cambridge were not to be denied.

Earlier Oxford won the women's Varsity Match 3-0 - 12 months after losing the fixture 52-0.

Captain Catherine Wilcock kicked an early penalty, which proved the game's only score, as Oxford's defensive excellence was rewarded in a match when they made 236 tackles, including three try-saving efforts from Dark Blues fullback Sophie Trott.

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Cambridge win first Varsity Match since 2009

Lions bolters who should give Cipriani hope

Cipriani in Lions mix as potential bolter

10:39 AM GMT

Danny Cipriani is in the mix for a spot on the British & Irish Lions tour despite having not played for England this year.

Eddie Jones has preferred George Ford, Owen Farrell and Henry Slade as his playmaking options with England but Lions coach Warren Gatland has kept the door open for Wasps' Cipriani, saying that there are "two or three players" in consideration who are outside the international picture at present.

"I've spoken to Cipriani," Gatland said. "I coached him as a kid. He's not everyone's flavour of the month but he has some talent and ability. I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't discuss him.

"We went through the squad and there are two or three not involved in their international squads that we discussed.

"We haven't ruled anyone out. Some guys may not fit certain plans or frameworks because their personality's not right, but that doesn't mean we won't consider them."

Gatland was impressed by Robbie Henshaw and Conor Murray's performances in Ireland's win over New Zealand in Chicago.

"There is a hell of a long way to go," Gatland said. "I could mention 10 or 12 names, but by the time the squad's selected in April, someone could have overtaken them.

"Conor Murray is an integral part of Ireland. He's probably been one of the most improved players over the last two or three years.

"Back in 2013, he would probably have been the starting nine if there was another [Lions] Test. He went out there as a number three, and ended up being number one."

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Cipriani in Lions mix as potential bolter

Craig Joubert retires from refereeing 15s

1:41 PM GMT

Craig Joubert has retired from refereeing 15s to take up a role at World Rugby.

Joubert, who refereed the 2011 Rugby World Cup final, will continue on the sevens circuit but steps away from the 15s game.

He joins World Rugby -- reporting into sevens and 15s high performance referees managers, Paddy O'Brien and Alain Rolland, respectively - in a role focused on referee talent identification and coaching.

"This was not a decision I took lightly given the obvious lure of possibly refereeing the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand next year as well as the Rugby World Cup in Japan in 2019," Joubert said.

"However, the opportunity to make a difference in other peoples' careers and lives is something which I'm excited about. It really is a dream job.

"Over the past few years I have taken Rasta Rasivhenge under my wing and have mentored and coached him and it has been enormously rewarding to see him grow as a person and as a referee.

"This position gives me the opportunity to play a more formal role in sharing my experiences and developing referees and to have a positive influence on the lives and careers of other young referees.

"I am also thrilled that I will continue to referee on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series as we build our team of referees towards the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. I love the sevens environment and being a part of this very special team."

Joubert has vast experience in refereeing 15 and has presided over 69 Tests since his took charge of his first international back in 2003 when he refereed Nambia's game against Uganda.

The pinnacle of his refereeing career saw him take charge of the 2011 World Cup final but four years later he was in the spotlight at the 2015 World Cup for his controversial late call to award Australia a penalty in their quarter-final which saw Scotland knocked out of the tournament. It was a call World Rugby later clarified as incorrect.

But he now joins the game's governing body to help bring through the next generation of referees.

World Rugby match officials selection committee chairman Anthony Buchanan said: "I would like to thank Craig for his dedication and service throughout a wonderful refereeing career.

"He has been a world-class referee for many years now and has officiated at the very highest levels of the game in both 15s and sevens.

"It has been a pleasure to work with him during his active refereeing career and I have no doubt he will continue to contribute to the game in his new position.

"I expect his vast experience and his extensive knowledge of the game will be a huge asset to us as we continue to develop the world's top match officials."

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Craig Joubert retires from refereeing 15s

Gatland: North must put health first over rugby

'World class' Beale's Wasps debut worth the wait - Young

North stood down by Saints to undergo concussion assessment

4:37 PM GMT

George North will not play for Northampton again until he has been assessed by an independent expert in head injuries.

The Welsh wing, who has suffered a series of concussions, was cleared by Saints medics to continue playing during Saturday's Aviva Premiership clash with Leicester despite replays suggesting he had been knocked out following a tackle from Adam Thompstone.

Questions have been raised about whether the player's welfare was best served by his return to action but Northampton released a statement defending their actions, which they insist were fully in compliance with World Rugby's head injury assessment protocols.

The club do, though, admit that the footage available to them at the time was limited and have taken the precautionary steps of withdrawing North from action pending the specialist's verdict.

A statement from Northampton said: "As at every Aviva Premiership match, the Saints' medical team has access to video footage to be used to assist the pitchside assessment of injuries. It is important to note this video footage is not always the full range of replay angles available to the TV viewing audience at home.

"The medical team can only base their decisions on the evidence available to them at the time of assessment. World Rugby protocol dictated, given the evidence available to the medical team, the use of a Head Injury Assessment.

"George was fully assessed by the doctor away from the pitch using the established protocols and processes, and passed fit to return to play. As with all such injuries, if evidence suggesting a loss of consciousness had been available to the medical team at the time of assessment, George would not have been allowed to return to the field of play.

"All rugby supporters will no doubt be delighted to learn that George remains well. Nevertheless, Northampton Saints continues to place player welfare as its number one priority, and is referring George to an independent expert as part of the club's ongoing assessment process and George will be stood down from play until this process is complete.

"There is a concussion management and monitoring protocol in place for all Aviva Premiership matches which provides for independent review and the opportunity for more detailed investigation. This is an ongoing process with several stages, and the club looks forward to contributing to this.

"Additionally Northampton Saints is seeking to work with all parties to improve the availability of all footage that may assist team medics with injury management."

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North stood down by Saints to undergo concussion assessment

Glasgow rocked by double injury blow

2:54 PM GMT

Glasgow have been rocked by the news backs Peter Horne and Rory Hughes face lengthy spells out injured - but coach Gregor Townsend admits he is relieved the news is not worse.

Utility man Horne and wing Hughes have both been informed they require surgery after being stretchered off during Warriors' narrow Guinness PRO12 defeat by Munster last Friday night.

Horne could be out for as long as four months with an ankle injury, while Hughes faces an eight-week lay-off with a knee problem. But Townsend confessed he was worried the pair would be ruled out for longer.

He said: "It's a blow. We knew it was going to be disappointing news given the way the injuries were at the weekend.

"But they are actually not as bad as some of our worst fears. "Peter has had a really serious ACL knee injury in the past but that is fine and Rory's is not as bad as we feared either.

"These are two of our hardest working players and we know they will work hard on their rehab to make sure they can come back as quickly as possible."

Horne -- who featured as a replacement during all three of Scotland's three autumn Tests -- is now likely to miss all of the Dark Blues' RBS 6 Nations campaign, although Townsend has refused to count him out of the later stages of the Championship.

He said: "Peter was involved in all three games for Scotland during November, covering at stand-off and at centre, and he's been excellent for us.

"It doesn't rule him out of the entire Six Nations and he will have a target to come back at some point during that period."

The injury set-back is the last thing Warriors need as they prepare to face Racing 92 in Saturday's Champions Cup clash in Paris, but Townsend is trying to remain upbeat.

He said: "It's a fact of life. We've got a big squad and have had to deal with injuries in the same positions this year. We've had four second rows out at one point.

"We've got two wingers currently out in Leonardo Sarto and Rory now. "It's a blow as you want your best players playing in these big games. But we have a strong squad and it's an opportunity for someone else."

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Glasgow rocked by double injury blow

Pollard should be fit for Super Rugby start

10:34 AM GMT

Springboks fly-half Handre Pollard should be fit for the start of the 2017 Super Rugby season.

Pollard, 22, missed the entire 2016 campaign due to knee and shoulder injuries but has been taking part in the Bulls' pre-season training.

The Boks fly-half has endured a turbulent time on the sidelines. With the knee injury signalling a lengthy time out, Pollard opted to have a shoulder problem rectified through surgery but was forced to spend five weeks in hospital as his shoulder became infected to the extent doctors told him that if it became more severe, then he would potentially need to have it amputated.

Pollard returns to training. In his final phase of rehab and should be fully fit and ready by January 2017 http://pic.twitter.com/MrajrSDypk

— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) December 7, 2016

But the sight of Pollard back in training will bring a welcome boost to South African rugby after a poor 2016 campaign.

The Bulls begin their build up to the 2017 Super Rugby season with a match on January 28 against one of their South African rivals.

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Pollard should be fit for Super Rugby start

Saracens sign Skelton on short-term deal

Dec 6, 2016

Saracens have bolstered their second-row options with the signing of Wallabies lock Will Skelton on a short-term deal.

Skelton will join the Aviva Premiership club with immediate effect, after an agreement was reached with the New South Wales Waratahs and Australian Rugby Union.

The club has not specified the length of the 24-year-old's contract but his acquisition plugs the hole created by Allistair Hargreaves' retirement in October.

"We're delighted to be able to bring a player of Will's calibre into the group," Saracens director of rugby, Mark McCall, said.

Breaking News 📣 | @qantaswallabies lock @SkeltonWilliam joins @Saracens on short-term deal https://t.co/qSqVw6ZKmZ... http://pic.twitter.com/a0uqDEckxO

— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) December 6, 2016

"He is an immensely talented rugby player with vast experience for a 24-year-old tight-five forward.

"It's no secret that we have been running low on a few bodies in the second-row department but we made it very clear that we wouldn't compromise on quality when looking to add to our squad.

"In Will, we have a player who will certainly have an important role to play in our group over the next few months."

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Saracens sign Skelton on short-term deal

Beale set to make Wasps debut in Champions Cup

Dec 6, 2016

Kurtley Beale could make his Wasps debut against Connacht this Sunday.

Beale has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury in May but is back in training ahead of Wasps' European Champions Cup double-header against the PRO12 champions.

Wasps boss Dai Young will be without the suspended Elliot Daly on Sunday, and he has injury concerns over Jimmy Gopperth, Danny Cipriani, Kyle Eastmond, Nick De Luca and Christian Wade.

"Kurtley is back in training and if things go to plan he'll be available for selection either next week or the week after," Young was quoted as saying by the Coventry Telegraph.

"He'll certainly appear or play some part in one or both of the European Cup games with Connacht."

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Beale set to make Wasps debut in Champions Cup