mercredi 30 août 2017
mardi 29 août 2017
Farrell signs new five-year Saracens deal
-
ESPN staff
England fly-half Owen Farrell has signed a new five-year contract at Saracens.
The 25-year-old will look to expand on a collection of three Premiership titles and two Champions Cups earned since making his debut in 2008.
The Premiership club will be relieved to tie down the British and Irish Lions star after rugby director Mark McCall confessed that salary-cap concerns might prevent them from holding onto their leading lights.
"It's an opportunity to hopefully grow with this group again for the next few years; to get better and improve on what we've already done," said Farrell.
"We've known each other for such a long time now. We're all best mates. To come through with them and be able to spend day in and day out with them, to share what we are doing, is the most important thing.
"This team's got a long way to go still. To see how far we can take it is exciting."
More to follow...
Farrell signs new five-year Saracens dealHalfpenny admits shock at Toulon exit
-
ESPN staff
Leigh Halfpenny has admitted he was shocked to learn he would be released by Toulon while preparing for this summer's British & Irish Lions tour.
Halfpenny, who appeared as a replacement in the first Test against the All Blacks, had agreed a deal to stay on in France only for owner Mourad Boudjellal to back out after the fullback missed the Top 14 final in order to travel with the Lions to New Zealand.
Subsequently Halfpenny agreed a return to Wales with the Scarlets, and ahead of his debut he said: "I had agreed a long time ago to stay at Toulon for one more season, but for whatever reason there were delays.
"Before the [Top 14] semifinal everything had got agreed and it was just a case of signing the contract, but it never came through.
"Then, I found out in New Zealand that there wasn't an option for me."
Wales fullback Halfpenny agreed to join the Scarlets on a national dual contract which will be partly funded by the Welsh Rugby Union.
"I knew I wanted to come back to Wales and that felt like the right option," Halfpenny added.
"Then it was a case of assessing my options from there and after that I made a decision to come to the Scarlets. With the likes of Liam [Williams] and DTH van der Merwe leaving there was a vacancy in the back three and that felt like the right fit.
"Watching the Scarlets play and speaking to the guys, they like to play an attacking brand of rugby. For me that is something I want to bring back into my game.
"Watching how the Scarlets played and knowing a lot of the guys and how they play, it felt like the right choice."
Halfpenny is set to make his debut for Scarlets when they face South African side Southern Kings in the PRO14 on Sept. 2.
Halfpenny admits shock at Toulon exitEngland boss Southgate consults All Blacks - sources
-
ESPN staff
England manager Gareth Southgate has been working with a senior coach from the New Zealand rugby union team and consulting with the German FA in a bid to instil a winning team mentality among his own players, sources have told ESPN FC.
Southgate has been working with a senior All Blacks coach for most of this year to improve the culture and mental strength of the England men's senior team, while the Germany connection is a result of the memorandum of understanding the Football Association (FA) signed with their German counterparts (the DFB) in March.
That two-year agreement will see the footballing rivals share ideas on coaching, governance and youth development, but Southgate has also been speaking to the world champions about how they deal with the media, particularly during tournaments.
Press Association Sport first reported details of the arrangement, which were confirmed to ESPN FC on Tuesday.
Southgate, who was capped 57 times during his playing career, is keen to lift some of the tension that descends on England teams at European Championships and World Cups and believes better relations with the media -- and a more relaxed approach in general -- could be key.
The All Blacks influence is behind the team-bonding trip England took to the Royal Marines training centre in June and the cap ceremonies each new player gets when they join the squad now.
Already influenced by former England rugby union coach Sir Clive Woodward, Southgate has also introduced "teamship" rules for correct dress, positive behaviour and good time-keeping, with the players themselves taking the lead in policing these rules.
England travel to face Malta on Friday in their next World Cup qualifier in Group F, before playing Slovakia, who trail them by two points after six games, at Wembley on Monday.
Since replacing Sam Allardyce last September, at first on a caretaker basis, Southgate has presided over three wins, three draws and two defeats.
Information from the Press Association was used in this report.
England boss Southgate consults All Blacks - sourcesIreland legend Duggan dies aged 67
Former Ireland international Willie Duggan has died at the age of 67.
Duggan was widely regarded as one of Ireland's best players, making 41 appearances between 1975 and 1984.
He toured New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions in 1977, playing in all four Tests as the All Blacks won the series 3-1.
He died following a suspected heart attack on Monday morning.
Sad news today that Ireland legend Willie Duggan has passed away. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family & friends. May he rest in peace http://pic.twitter.com/HVFUfOaUXH
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) August 28, 2017
Irish Rugby wrote on Twitter: "Sad news today that Ireland legend Willie Duggan has passed away. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family & friends. May he rest in peace."
Leinster Rugby, his former province, wrote on Twitter: "Very sad news from Kilkenny this morning of the passing of Leinster & Ireland Rugby legend Willie Duggan. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam. #RIP."
Duggan latterly ran Willie Duggan Lighting Ltd, based in Kilkenny.
He was, along with Wales' Geoff Wheel, the first player to be sent off in a Five Nations match in 1977.
Both men were sent off by referee Norman Sanson for fighting following a lineout during the game at Cardiff Arms Park.
Ireland legend Duggan dies aged 67lundi 28 août 2017
dimanche 27 août 2017
samedi 26 août 2017
Cheika: The gallant loser thing's not on
A bitterly disappointed Michael Cheika admits the Wallabies wasted a golden chance to end their long drought across the Tasman in Saturday's heart-stopping Bledisloe Cup defeat.
New Zealand retained the coveted trophy by overcoming a vastly improved Australia, winning 35-29 courtesy of a last-gasp Beauden Barrett try.
Kurtley Beale looked to have pinched it for the Wallabies with four minutes to go, leaping over for the team's fifth try to put them ahead 29-28 in Dunedin and on course for a first win in New Zealand since 2001.
But Barrett drove a dagger through the visitors' hearts with a near-instant response to seal a dramatic series win -- the 15th in a row for the All Blacks -- with his second try of the night.
Cheika was somewhat sour post-match and rued a number of on-field calls.
He reckoned Brodie Retallick should have been yellow-carded for up-ending Ned Hanigan in a lifting tackle he said could have broken his neck.
But while he felt Australia deserved to win, he said they spurned their opportunities.
"Any of that stuff does not in any way excuse not finishing the game off," Cheika said.
"We should have won that game. We know it. We should have sealed that game off.
"The gallant loser thing's not on."
Australia twice came from behind but will live to regret not making the most of a dream start.
At one stage they were 17-0 ahead, with Israel Folau scoring a 70m intercept try after just 26 seconds.
But Bernard Foley's wayward goalkicking at the indoor Forsyth Barr Stadium cost the visitors nine crucial points -- and probably the match.
Australia would have been 24-7 up after half an hour had Foley not missed two conversion attempts and a penalty.
Instead, they clung for dear life to a three-point lead at the interval and lost their lead when Barrett barrelled over in the 63rd minute.
Foley missed another conversion minutes later after Will Genia crossed, hitting the upright for the third time to leave the door open for the world champions.
He finished with two goals from six attempts.
While the Wallabies kept on coming -- helped by three New Zealand tries that were disallowed by television match official Rowan Kitt -- they ultimately could not deny the hosts.
"They played some good rugby tonight and they'll be disappointed. They could have easily won the match," All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said.
"They've got to be pleased with themselves."
Cheika: The gallant loser thing's not onvendredi 25 août 2017
England make one change for WRWC final
-
ESPN staff
England boss Simon Middleton has made one change to the starting 15 ahead of Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand.
Megan Jones, 20, who scored the winning try in the semifinal against France, starts at outside centre with Danielle Waterman ruled out with concussion. Emily Scarratt moves to fullback in Waterman's absence.
Jones' inclusion is the only change from the side that beat France, meaning backs Kay Wilson and Natasha Hunt will play in their second World Cup final while fly-half Katy McLean will compete in her third.
Speaking about his selection, Middleton said: "Our goal was to get to this point in the tournament, using the full breadth of the squad and rotating players to ensure we were in the best possible position to peak on Saturday.
"We have full confidence in this squad. As a group, they have consistently delivered quality performances throughout the tournament. It's now about finishing the job and leaving nothing out on the field come Saturday."
England:
Scarratt, Thompson, Jones, Burford, Wilson, McLean, Hunt; Cornborough, Cokayne, Bern, Scott, Taylor, Matthews, Packer, Hunter (captain).
Replacements: Fleetwood, Clark, Lucas, Millar-Mills, Noel-Smith, Mason, Reed, Wilson Hardy.
England make one change for WRWC finaljeudi 24 août 2017
mercredi 23 août 2017
mardi 22 août 2017
Flood considering playing for Germany
Former England fly-half Toby Flood is considering switching allegiance to play for Germany.
The 32-year-old won the last of his 60 caps in 2013 and effectively made himself unavailable for international selection when he joined French outfit Toulouse in 2014.
A return to Newcastle for the upcoming Aviva Premiership season could see Flood return to the England fray, but with George Ford and Owen Farrell key components of Eddie Jones' side, he is prepared to switch to minnows Germany should a recall not be forthcoming.
"If there was any way of trying to help a fledgling rugby country, it would interest me," Flood told the Times.
Flood's grandfather Albert Lieven left Berlin under duress in 1936, and the Falcons fly-half applied for a German passport in the wake of the Brexit vote.
"I have always been proud of being German," he added. "It would be nice to go back and connect it all together.
"My mum is the last remaining true Lieven and she went back to Germany about 10 years ago to put together the family tree, so if there was a chance to connect into that it would be great."
Flood considering playing for Germanylundi 21 août 2017
Billy Vunipola to miss first month of season
Saracens back-rower Billy Vunipola could miss the first month of the Aviva Premiership season as he continues to recover from shoulder surgery.
England international Vunipola pulled out of this summer's British and Irish Lions tour to undergo a shoulder operation, and has since been working back to full fitness. Saracens rugby director Mark McCall expects the talismanic forward to be back in action ahead of schedule, but conceded that may not be before October.
"Billy's due back some time in October, but in true Billy style he'll make it back considerably before that," said McCall of England number eight Vunipola. "He's in great condition at the moment and chomping at the bit. I'll be told by the medics when we can pick him but it won't be long."
Saracens will open their Premiership campaign against Northampton at Twickenham on Sep. 2, with boss McCall reserving the final decision on whether to rush any of his six Lions tourists back into action.
Lock George Kruis could be in line to feature, with new recruit Will Skelton continuing to recover from a broken arm. While the season opener may come too soon for Mako Vunipola, Jamie George, Owen Farrell, Maro Itoje and Liam Williams, McCall insisted he will consider each player's individual situation before reaching a decision.
"We've got a game coming up in 10 days and we need to take a long view with most of them," said McCall. "To rush them back too early if we didn't have to would be a mistake in a couple of cases.
"But where the team needs that to happen then it may be that we need to bring one or two back for the first game. You need to look back over the past couple of seasons and who played how many minutes.
"A couple of players didn't play that much last year. Someone like George Kruis didn't play in the last two Lions Test matches, others missed a bit of rugby. With Mako [Vunipola] and Owen [Farrell] we have some tough choices to make.
"As a club we're not looking to get our pound of flesh. We're looking at the welfare of the player. I'm trying to make good choices based on good reasons as to when they come back."
Billy Vunipola to miss first month of seasondimanche 20 août 2017
The rugby world remembers 'absolute legend' Meads
-
ESPN staff
The rugby world is in mourning after the passing of All Blacks great Sir Colin Meads at the age of 81.
Tributes have been pouring in on Twitter for the 55-Test All Black nicknamed 'Pinetree'.
All Blacks captain Kieran Read and coach Steve Hansen paid their respect as they left Sydney following their Bledisloe Cup win on Saturday.
All Blacks Captain Kieran Read gives his thoughts on Sir Colin Meads. #RIPSirColinhttp://pic.twitter.com/fiQWRcupGC
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) August 20, 2017
Hansen on Sir Colin Meads: "His achievements in the black jersey are part of the All Blacks legacy and his loss will be felt over the world" http://pic.twitter.com/H8NZIqo75i
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) August 20, 2017
Fellow New Zealand great Dan Carter woke to the news in France.
Such sad news to wake up to today. An Honor to have met him on many occasions. RIP Sir Colin Meads! http://pic.twitter.com/5TqQTkRR2H
— Dan Carter (@DanCarter) August 20, 2017
The tributes from prominent figures stretched further than rugby. Former Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum said that Meads was a "great New Zealander".
Sad to say goodbye to a Great NZer, Sir Colin Meads. A man who was everything our country stands for. RIP Sir Pinetree.
— Brendon McCullum (@Bazmccullum) August 20, 2017
New Zealand's Prime Minister Bill English took the opportunity to salute Meads. In a series of tweets, English said that Meads "represented what it means to be a New Zealander" while passing on his condolences to Meads' wife Lady Verna and the rest of Meads' friends and family.
:
A sad day for NZ rugby and for NZ. Sir Colin was not only a great All Black but also a genuinely good Kiwi bloke. He will be missed.
— Bill English (@pmbillenglish) August 20, 2017
Tributes have also come in for Meads internationally. Former England captain Will Carling, former Springboks captain John Smit and current South African international Ruan Combrinck paid their tributes.
Very sad to hear that the great Sir Colin Meads has died. There is a man who lived up to his legend. RIP
— Will Carling (@willcarling) August 20, 2017
RIP Sir Colin Meads. An absolute legend of the game and an incredible man which I was fortunate enough to meet.
— John Smit (@JohnSmit123) August 20, 2017
One of the Grestest. Had the privilege of meeting sir Colin Meads a few years ago..now he's gone up to Heaven. Another legend gone. RIP sir http://pic.twitter.com/mYII4RpGId
— Ruan Combrinck (@R_Combrinck15) August 20, 2017
Finally, the New Zealand Herald released this touching video.
The rugby world remembers 'absolute legend' MeadsWe remember a Kiwi legend, Sir Colin Meads. http://pic.twitter.com/057Ar2Wzlk
— nzherald (@nzherald) August 20, 2017
samedi 19 août 2017
All Blacks legend Colin Meads dies
New Zealand and world rugby colossus Colin Meads has died, aged 81.
The former All Blacks lock hailed as New Zealand's greatest player of the 20th century, succumbed to a year-long fight with pancreatic cancer and died at Te Kuiti Hospital on Sunday morning.
The All Blacks were rocked by the news the day after their hefty Test win over Australia in Sydney.
Captain Kieran Read said he would treasure the occasions he spent with Meads.
"He was always keen to share a beer and have a yarn. On behalf of all players, our thoughts go out to his family at this time," he said.
Coach Steve Hansen said Meads' loss was "incredibly sad" and would be felt by rugby people around the world.
A giant of the game throughout the 1960s, the King Country farmer Meads was remembered for both his on-field deeds and his honest, humble nature when his career finished.
New Zealand Prime Minister Bill English said Meads' death represented a sad day for the country and for its national sport of rugby.
NZ Rugby chairman Brent Impey says the exploits of Meads in a career spanning 361 games have become folklore in New Zealand and he was always revered following his retirement.
Meads played a 133 games for the All Blacks, including 55 Tests, from 1957 to 1971.
He was regarded as one of the sport's greatest players and was named New Zealand Player of the Century in 1999.
A statement from the Meads family asked for privacy but was thankful for the messages and thoughts of people around the country as his health worsened in recent times.
They thanked Te Kuiti medical staff for their care since his diagnosis in August last year.
He survived by his wife, Lady Verna Meads, five children - Karen, Kelvin, Rhonda, Glynn and Shelley - 14 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Youngest daughter Shelley Mitchell said her father was a treasured member of the family.
"Dad led a full life. He loved being an All Black and he loved his family dearly. We will miss him terribly," she said.
Meads continued to contribute to organisations such as IHC New Zealand, the Crippled Children's Society and the New Zealand Rugby Foundation, at a time when the game suffered a series of serious spinal injuries.
He made infrequent public appearances after his diagnosis but was well enough in June to attend the unveiling of a 2.7m statue crafted in his honour in home town Te Kuiti.
"I won't be able to have too many beers afterwards but I'll try and have a few," he said.
All Blacks legend Colin Meads diesvendredi 18 août 2017
World Rugby reveals HIA amendment
-
ESPN staff
Players who leave the field for a head injury assessment (HIA) will be required to remain off the pitch for at least 10 minutes under a new amendment announced by World Rugby on Thursday.
The HIA protocol was introduced in 2012 and according to the game's governing body has led to a significant increase in accurate concussion diagnosis during games.
However, under the existing rule there was no minimum time a player was required to sit out a match, with the average HIA being completed in around seven minutes.
According to a statement released by World Rugby the "introduction of a fixed time will further promote a calm, clinical environment for assessment without rush or risk of screening time falling well under the average completion time."
The amendment will come into effect globally from Aug. 26 although it will be applied in the Rugby Championship, which kicks off this weekend.
World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said: "Player welfare continues to be our priority at all levels of decision-making and there is no doubt that the HIA process, which operates in elite rugby only has had an overwhelmingly positive impact on the level of care for elite rugby players.
"This evidence-based enhancement to the management of players who are required to undertake an off-field screen as part of the HIA 1 process, is a positive move for players, medics and the game as a whole and comes with the full support of our unions.
"We also continue to focus on education at community level where 'recognise and remove' is the simple but crucial message when it comes to head impacts."
World Rugby reveals HIA amendmentAll Blacks security guard found not guilty
Anyone could have planted a bug in the All Blacks' Sydney hotel, even months before the world champions stayed at the venue which has hosted many famous guests, a magistrate says.
Security guard Adrian Gard was on Friday found not guilty of making up claims he found the device secreted in the meeting room chair at the InterContinental in Double Bay on August 15, 2016, days before New Zealand played Australia at the Olympic Stadium.
Magistrate Jennifer Atkinson said the device could have been planted weeks or months before the All Blacks stayed there.
Ms Atkinson told the Downing Centre Local Court many important, high-profile people had stayed at the hotel in the past and the bug could have been targeting one of them rather than the New Zealand rugby team.
She said the bug, which was not transmitting, might have simply come to light because the All Blacks decided to carry out a security sweep at the hotel.
There was not enough evidence in the circumstantial case to convict Mr Gard of making a false representation resulting in a police investigation, Ms Atkinson said.
Mr Gard was, however, found guilty of a second charge of acting as a security consultant without the proper licence.
Ms Atkinson said the main police case against Mr Gard could not be proved beyond a reasonable doubt given the evidence was so ''thoroughly contaminated'' after the All Blacks decided not to call in police for five days because they were worried about the media getting involved.
It was ''most unfortunate'' that All Blacks team manager Darren Shand wanted the investigation into the listening device kept in-house before finally contacting police on August 20.
"What is clear is those involved prior to police involvement did not appreciate how important it is to be careful with evidence,'' Ms Atkinson said.
In finding Mr Gard not guilty, the magistrate took into account the fact he had no previous criminal record, there did not appear to be any motive for him to stage the finding of the bug, and there was character evidence from All Blacks captain Kieran Read.
Read earlier on Friday told the court he believed Mr Gard was "honest and loyal".
The All Blacks captain said he and the New Zealand team respected "Gardy" for his professionalism and the great way he did his job without hurting the team's "brand".
Gard is due to be sentenced on the second charge on September 1.
All Blacks security guard found not guiltyMarler signs new Quins deal until 2021
-
ESPN staff
Joe Marler has committed his long-term future to Harlequins, the Aviva Premiership club has announced.
Prop Marler extended his current deal at Twickenham Stoop by a further three years, meaning he will remain a Quins player until 2021.
Marler, 27, told the club's official website: "Re-signing for my childhood club has made me very happy. John Kingston has recruited strongly over the summer and he is starting to really mark his identity with this exciting group of players.
"I strongly believe we have a squad capable of going places and I'm really excited for the new season."
Marler is a product of the Quins academy and made his senior debut for in the club in 2009. He currently has 152 appearances in total and has scored seven tries.
The England international was integral as Eddie Jones' side clinched back-to-back Six Nations titles in 2016 and 2017, and was called upon for the British & Irish Lions' tour of New Zealand earlier this year.
Quins director of rugby John Kingston said: "Joe is now established as one of the best loosehead props in world rugby.
"At 27, excitingly, he is probably only now coming into the peak of his potential. He has displayed a real commitment to the Harlequins cause over many years and as an academy protégé, he is another member of the squad who has only ever known one club.
"This news offers a further massive boost to the squad as we prepare for the start of our 2017-18 campaign."
Marler signs new Quins deal until 2021jeudi 17 août 2017
WRWC: England, NZ cruise into semis
-
ESPN staff
New Zealand secured a convincing 48-5 win over Canada to secure their place in the semifinals and send the 2014 finalists crashing out.
First-half tries from Selica Winiata, Aldora Itunu (2), Stacey Waaka and Kelly Brazier gave the Black Ferns a commanding 29-0 lead at the break.
Fiao'o Faamausili and Renee Wickliffe both crossed the whitewash in the second half before Itunu completed her hat trick. Kendra Cockseage kicked six points, while Brazier converted her side's final try.
Canada's sole reply came through Jacey Grusnick's unconverted score. Defeat for the Canucks leaves them on nine points, one point adrift of the United States, England and France -- who all play later on Thursday -- in the race for the best runner-up spot.
WRWC: England, NZ cruise into semisWRWC: New Zealand cruise into semis
-
ESPN staff
New Zealand secured a convincing 48-5 win over Canada to secure their place in the semifinals and send the 2014 finalists crashing out.
First-half tries from Selica Winiata, Aldora Itunu (2), Stacey Waaka and Kelly Brazier gave the Black Ferns a commanding 29-0 lead at the break.
Fiao'o Faamausili and Renee Wickliffe both crossed the whitewash in the second half before Itunu completed her hat trick. Kendra Cockseage kicked six points, while Brazier converted her side's final try.
Canada's sole reply came through Jacey Grusnick's unconverted score. Defeat for the Canucks leaves them on nine points, one point adrift of the United States, England and France -- who all play later on Thursday -- in the race for the best runner-up spot.
WRWC: New Zealand cruise into semisEngland make six changes for U.S. decider
-
ESPN staff
England have made six changes for their decisive clash against the United States in their final pool match of the Women's Rugby World Cup.
Sarah Hunter will return to captain the side having been left on the bench for last Sunday's game against Italy, while Katy Mclean will return at flyhalf and hooker Vicky Fleetwood drops to the bench after picking up a minor injury.
Danielle Waterman remains at fullback, meaning she is the only England player to start all three of England's pool matches.
Speaking ahead of the game, England coach Simon Middleton stressed the importance of making it through to the semifinals.
"This is a winner takes all game in terms of topping the pool and will require a full 23-squad effort to get the job done," said Middleton.
"Regardless of whether players have been selected to start, or will come on as finishers, everyone has equal weight in the team, fully understands what their role is and what they need to deliver come match day. "They play a very physical game and have some dangerous players.
"We know playing against USA will be tough, they play a very physical game and have some dangerous players on the ball but we have prepared well and the squad are in a good place, not only physically but mentally.
"We have confidence in the entire squad and it's now about going out and making sure we put in a full 80-minute performance."
Both teams are unbeaten heading into the game on Thursday, meaning whoever wins between England and the U.S. will be guaranteed a spot in the semifinals, while the losers will be left waiting to see whether they have done enough to earn the best runners-up spot to advance.
Meanwhile, hosts Ireland have also made six changes ahead of their encounter against France.
England make six changes for U.S. decidermercredi 16 août 2017
mardi 15 août 2017
lundi 14 août 2017
All Blacks determined to improve
The All Blacks won't let the loss of hooker Dane Coles stymie their desire to be an improved team in the first Bledisloe Cup Test in Sydney.
The world champions landed in Sydney on Sunday knowing they'd lost the services of Coles, who was ruled out of the Rugby Championship opener against the Wallabies with a head knock.
The 30-year-old must wait event longer to play his 50th Test after suffering the blow in Saturday's "game of three halves" in Pukekohe.
Concussion symptoms ruled Coles out of the series against the British & Irish Lions, where Crusaders rake Codie Taylor was a stand-out performer.
Taylor will almost certainly start this week, with Nathan Harris again his deputy, while uncapped Hurricanes hooker Ricky Riccitelli has been introduced to the squad as cover.
Hansen says there is minimal disruption to his team, who he says are fully motivated more than a month after drawing the third Test against the Lions in Auckland, which left the series all-square.
"Does coming off a draw put people's bums to the front of the seat rather than the back of it? Yeah, it does," Hansen told reporters.
"We're disappointed with how things went - we wanted more. It will make the Rugby Championship into one with a stronger feeling for us and one that we want to show how good we can play and we probably didn't do that during the Lions series."
The Wallabies haven't held the Bledisloe Cup since 2003 and, given the respective results of trans-Tasman Super Rugby teams this year, are rated firm outsiders this weekend.
Hansen described the Australians as a "talented bunch," who have the ability to pose problems.
"They'll be well prepared. They've had two or three extra weeks to prepare than what we've had. I know they've been working hard and that will make them a tough side on Saturday," he said.
Two squad members, outside backs Nehe Milner-Skudder and David Havili, didn't cross the Tasman and will re-join the All Blacks in Dunedin next week ahead of the second Test.
All Blacks determined to improvedimanche 13 août 2017
England ease past Italy in Women's RWC
-
ESPN staff
England ran in 10 tries as they eased to a 56-13 victory over Italy as the Red Roses made it two wins from two games at the Women's Rugby World Cup in Ireland.
Danielle Waterman and Emily Scaratt scored two tries each as England ran riot against the Italians.
It took England just nine minutes to open up the Italians -- Emily Scarratt went over for her second try of the tournament as she raced clear of the Italian defence.
A few minutes later, Alex Matthews touched down under the posts to leave Scaratt with an easy conversion to make it 12-0.
Italy started to narrow the gap, with a penalty and a try from Maria Magatti bringing the score back to 12-8 with 22 minutes on the clock.
But a great team try eased the pressure on England with winger Lydia Thompson touching down after receiving the ball from Danielle Waterman.
A try just before the break from Amy Cokayne made it 22-8, and England took full control after the break.
Tries from Tamara Taylor, Scarratt and a pair of tries from Waterman after half time took the game away from the reach of the Italians and quick fire tries late on from Lydia Thompson and Amy Wilson-Hardy sealed the win for the defending champions.
England will face the United States in their final pool game on Saturday.
Meanwhile, New Zealand thrashed Hong Kong 121-0 in the early kick-off.
Portia Woodman ran in eight of New Zealand's 19 tries as the Black Ferns ran away with the game.
There were also tries for Les Ketu, Stacey Waaka, Kelly Brazier and Theresa Fitzpatrick.
England ease past Italy in Women's RWCvendredi 11 août 2017
Bristol refute £1m Piutau salary - report
Bristol say they faced "massive competition" before securing the services of New Zealand star Charles Piutau.
Piutau will move to the west country next year after his existing contract expires with Guinness PRO14 side Ulster.
The former Wasps back is among the most sought-after players in world rugby, and his signing represents a major coup for Bristol.
Press Association Sport reports, though, that Bristol refute a reported £1 million per season salary for Piutau.
New Zealand World Cup winner Dan Carter is currently thought to be rugby union's highest-paid player on a reported €1.2m (£1.1m) yearly deal at French Top 14 club Racing 92.
Bristol were relegated from the Aviva Premiership in May, but they are hot favourites to win the Championship this season and reclaim top-flight status.
"Charles is one of the best rugby players in the world -- he has proved that over the years," Bristol's chief operations officer Mark Tainton told Bristol Rugby TV.
"When he played for the [Auckland] Blues he was averaging 1.5 tries a game, which shows what kind of quality he has got.
"There were many clubs around the world trying to get his signature and we are pleased he has come to us.
"He has looked at what we are trying to do and he believes in what we are trying to do, and he wants to add to that.
"There was massive competition. It didn't happen overnight. It was a long process -- many phone calls, many conversations -- but we are delighted he has come in."
Ulster, meanwhile, have adopted a philosophical stance to Piutau's move.
"It is disappointing that Charles is moving on," Ulster operation director Bryn Cunningham told the province's official website.
"But salaries for the world's best players are rising year-on-year and are ultimately determined by what one club is prepared to pay for an individual.
"We have a strong commercial programme in place and that has allowed us to attract top overseas players and to retain our best home-grown talent in what is a hugely-competitive market.
"Our strategy is to continue to recruit world-class players in the seasons ahead.
"Charles is a fantastic player who delivered many match-winning contributions in his first season with us, and I'm sure he will produce plenty more over the next 10 months.
"I know that he remains committed to helping us reach our potential in both the Guinness PRO14 and (European) Champions Cup."
Bristol refute £1m Piutau salary - reportBristol capture Piutau on two-year deal
Bristol have pulled off a huge coup with the capture of star back Charles Piutau ahead of the 2018-19 season on a two-year deal.
Piutau will play one final campaign at Ulster before switching to the English side, who are bidding to secure promotion to the Aviva Premiership after being relegated last term.
The capture is one of the biggest in Bristol's history given Piutau is regarded as one of the finest players in Europe, and his pedigree as a destructive back who has played so impressively on the world stage.
If Bristol gain promotion, then Piutau -- who won 17 caps for New Zealand -- will line up against his former side Wasps who he joined on a short-term deal in the 2015-16 season.
Piutau said ex-Connacht coach Pat Lam now being in charge at the Championship side was a big draw, as was his older brother Siale who is also on Bristol's books.
The move also sees him link up with fellow All Black and ex-Blues teammate Steven Luatua. It will serve as a huge boost for Bristol as they start their Championship campaign and Lam is understandably delighted with the capture.
"One of our key focuses is about the journey that Bristol Rugby are on -- Charles' signing for the 2018/19 season demonstrates that we have a long-term plan and structure in place," Lam said.
"We're thrilled to have an individual of his immense quality and experience to add to our ranks. As somebody who has worked with Charles previously, I know what an influential player he is on and off the field.
"It's not just his ability to play fullback, wing and centre, all at international standard, but it's also his willingness to help and mentor others which will be a big boost for our young English players coming through.
"Charles is excited by our vision of 'inspiring our community through rugby success.' His determination and attitude to improve as a player and person are exactly the sort of world class characteristics we want in every player who pulls on the Bristol jersey."
Piutau, 25, added: "To join Bristol Rugby and be part of the vision that Pat Lam and his coaching team has is very appealing to me. I understand the challenges that lie ahead for the club but firmly believe Bristol can once again become a major force in English and European rugby.
"By sorting my playing future early, I can focus entirely on Ulster this season and what the team can achieve in the Pro14 and Europe."
Bristol capture Piutau on two-year dealjeudi 10 août 2017
Robshaw pens new Harlequins deal
-
ESPN staff
Former England captain Chris Robshaw has signed a new contract with Harlequins that will keep him at the club until 2020.
The three-year extension will take the 31-year-old into his 15th season as a first-team member at Twickenham Stoop, where he made his debut in 2005.
Robshaw said: "I am extremely proud to have re-signed with the club who gave me my first chance as a player and I've cheered for since I was a child.
"I thank Harlequins and the supporters for the incredible continued support that's been shown to me. John Kingston and the coaching team have recruited well and we have our sights firmly set on getting silverware this year.
"I look forward to seeing all the supporters at The Stoop in September for what's sure to be an exciting season."
Since making his debut against Doncaster in October, 2005, academy graduate Robshaw has gone on to make 239 appearances for Harlequins.
Robshaw captained his boyhood club to Challenge Cup success in 2011 and the Aviva Premiership title 12 months later, while being handed the armband for England under Stuart Lancaster.
He led his country during their disappointing 2015 Rugby World Cup campaign but has recovered admirably from that setback to become a key member of Eddie Jones' squad.
"His influence within the group is immense and I know, in talking at length with him, he has an incredible appetite to win further major domestic and European honours," Quins director of rugby John Kingston said.
"This is brilliant news for Harlequins at a time when we are preparing for what will be an incredibly exciting season, back in the Champions Cup."
Robshaw pens new Harlequins dealmercredi 9 août 2017
Saracens make a splash with passing drill
-
ESPN staff
Saracens are taking a novel approach to regaining the Aviva Premiership title.
The European champions, who lost out to eventual winners Exeter in the semifinals of last year's Premiership, caused a splash with their poolside passing drill in Bermuda.
Mark McCall's side are on a six-day preseason trip to the Caribbean island but will hope for better handling when they open their campaign against Northampton on Sept. 2.
When you bomb a 2-on-1 🙈 http://pic.twitter.com/YKzGYNU4GL
— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) August 8, 2017
And here it is from another angle:
and here's the action replay 🎥🎥 http://pic.twitter.com/zUn8ccceqM
— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) August 8, 2017
Not the best way for Sarries to start the post-Chris Ashton era...
Saracens make a splash with passing drillmardi 8 août 2017
lundi 7 août 2017
Tuilagi, Solomona sent home from England camp
-
ESPN Staff
Manu Tuilagi and Denny Solomona have been sent home from England's preseason training camp following "team culture issues".
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) released a two-line statement on Monday morning announcing the news but have declined to comment further.
Tuilagi had been a surprise inclusion for the three-day camp, with coach Eddie Jones urging the Leicester centre to rediscover the form that saw him "demolish" the All Blacks in 2012.
SQUAD UPDATE | Denny Solomona and Manu Tuilagi have been sent home today from England's training camp following team culture issues.
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) August 7, 2017
It is not the first time that Tuilagi has found himself in trouble with the RFU. In 2011, he was detained by police in New Zealand after diving into the harbour following England's exit from the Rugby World Cup, while he was not considered for selection four years later after he was convicted of assaulting two female police officers and a taxi driver.
His indiscretion comes less than two days after Jones warned Kyle Sinckler over his future conduct after he was arrested while on British & Irish Lions duty, and urged his players to learn from the prop's mistake.
Solomona, meanwhile, made his England debut during the 2-0 series win in Argentina in June.
Tuilagi, Solomona sent home from England campTigers snap up back row Mapapalangi
-
ESPN Staff
Leicester's Tongan contingent has been bolstered by the signing of Test back row Valentino Mapapalangi.
Mapapalangi, who has won six caps for his country, will join countrymen Telusa Veainu and Sione Kalamafoni at Welford Road, subject to obtaining a visa.
Tigers head coach Matt O'Connor has previously worked with the 24-year-old back row, and believes the Tongan will improve his squad.
"Valentino is a very talented young player with a lot of potential to grow and develop with us," O'Connor said.
"He is a physical player on both sides of the ball, a strong ball-carrier and can provide us with a useful option in the forward pack.
"We're looking forward to bringing him in during preseason and working with him ahead of the 2017-18 programme."
Tigers snap up back row Mapapalangisamedi 5 août 2017
SRU reveals Super Six, new league structure
A new six-team top tier of Scottish domestic rugby has been confirmed.
The Scottish Rugby Union announced a £3.6 million investment over five years to introduce a semi-professional Super Six league with a 20-match season.
The new structure -- to be introduced for the 2019-20 season -- will have a 12-team Scottish Championship below it with three National League divisions underneath that.
The Super Six will contain at least one team each from the north, east, west and Borders of Scotland with franchises running for five years.
Central funding will be available for head coaches, strength and conditioning and analysis support with costs for 35-man squads split between the SRU and clubs.
The SRU revealed at its annual general meeting that the National Leagues would be "feeder clubs" for Super Six teams.
The current structure has a 10-team Premiership with three divisions of 12 below.
SRU chief executive Mark Dodson said: "For the first time since the game went professional this strategy involves all the clubs in the success of our national team. We want to create strong sustainable clubs that can play at the level which best suits them and that they can choose.
"We wanted to create clear pathways for players, coaches and officials, alongside closing the gap between our domestic game and the professional teams so we can maximise the resources we have and allow talented players to develop in good environments and fulfil their potential.
"We want to see clubs invest in their infrastructures and future growth so the National Leagues will have amateur status and the Super Six will be where player payments make better sense.
"This is not a radical plan, it is simply overdue and we look forward to working with all the clubs in Scotland to deliver this new structure for the wider benefit of the game at large."
SRU reveals Super Six, new league structureEngland suffer WRWC injury blow
-
ESPN Staff
England will depart for the Women's Rugby World Cup in Ireland on Saturday without Emily Scott and Vicky Fleetwood.
Saracens Women fly-half Scott, who has won 23 caps for her country, has been ruled out of the tournament through injury and has been replaced in the squad by forward Poppy Cleall.
Fleetwood has picked up what England have described as a "minor injury" and her departure for Dublin has been delayed as she undergoes an intensive rehabilitation programme.
Coach Simon Middleton said: "While it's disappointing for Emily, we know she will rehab diligently working closely with our medical team over the coming weeks and we hope to have her fit and ready on standby if required later in the tournament.
"With Vicky remaining in England for the time being, we have opted to call up Poppy, who offers us a bit more balance in the forwards.
"We have full confidence in Poppy, who has been training in the wider squad on a full-time basis as part of our Rugby World Cup preparations."
England arrive in Dublin on Saturday ahead of their opening Pool B match against Spain on Wednesday.
England suffer WRWC injury blowvendredi 4 août 2017
jeudi 3 août 2017
Halfpenny signs dual contract with Scarlets and WRU
Leigh Halfpenny has handed Wales a significant boost by signing a three-year deal to join the Scarlets.
The British and Irish Lions full-back will return to Wales after three years in France with Toulon, having signed a national dual contract with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) and the Scarlets.
Bath and Wasps had closely tracked Halfpenny, who had not had his contract renewed by Toulon, but the 28-year-old's return to Wales has been hailed by head coach Warren Gatland.
More to follow.
Halfpenny signs dual contract with Scarlets and WRUTuilagi returns to England training squad
-
ESPN Staff
Manu Tuilagi has returned to the England squad for their three-day preseason training session this weekend.
Leicester centre Tuilagi has not played for England since the 2016 Six Nations but takes his place alongside uncapped duo Marcus Smith and Tom Dunn.
Nine players who made their debuts during the summer tour of Argentina have been retained, and they are joined by seven players who toured New Zealand with the British & Irish Lions.
Dan Cole, Owen Farrell, Jamie George, Maro Itoje, Jack Nowell, Kyle Sinckler and Anthony Watson will all spend one day at the camp but will not take part in physical training.
According to a statement released by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) on Thursday the remaining English Lions players have "opted to remain on their summer break".
"We are at an incredibly important stage with two years to go to the Rugby World Cup in Japan and there is still a big step to make if we want to be the number one team in the world," England coach Eddie Jones said.
"We are going to have to be meticulous in a preparation in everything we do as we build towards Tokyo and that is why this camp is vital ahead of this season."
England training squad:
Forwards: Cole, Cowan-Dickie, Curry, Dunn, Ewels, Genge, George, Hartley, Hughes, Isiekwe, Itoje, Launchbury, Robshaw, Sinckler, Underhill, Williams, Wilson, Vunipola.
Backs: Brown, Care, Earle, Farrell, Ford, Francis, Lozowski, Mallinder, Marchant, Maunder, May, Nowell, Wigglesworth, Slade, Smith, Solomona, Tuilagi, Watson, Youngs.
Tuilagi returns to England training squadPichot appears to question SBW ruling
-
ESPN Staff
World Rugby vice-chairman Agustin Pichot has questioned an independent appeal panel's decision to reduce Sonny Bill Williams' suspension.
Williams has been cleared to play in New Zealand's Rugby Championship opener against Australia on Aug. 19 after it was ruled a warm-up game initially deemed not meaningful was now judged to "comply within the regulations' definition of a match".
Thursday's ruling prompted plenty of debate on social media, with Pichot admitting he did not agree with the outcome.
The former Argentina scrum-half tweeted:
I dont agree on the decision of the independent pannel towards sbw's case . But we have to respect the independent process.
— agustin pichot (@AP9_) August 3, 2017
Games counted should be meanigful games
— agustin pichot (@AP9_) August 3, 2017
Williams was initially banned for four weeks following his red card in the All Blacks' second Test defeat to the British & Irish Lions last month.
Last week, World Rugby ruled that the Blues centre would miss the first Bledisloe Cup Test as it constituted the fourth "meaningful" match of that suspension.
However, the appeal panel has since decided that an Aug. 11 game involving the All Blacks, Counties Manukau and Taranaki does qualify as the final game of Williams' ban.
Pichot appears to question SBW rulingLions, Crusaders back under-fire Peyper
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson and his Lions counterpart Johan Ackermann have backed under-fire referee Jaco Peyper to call a good game in Saturday's Super Rugby final between the two teams at Ellis Park.
Sanzaar rewarded Peyer with the final for his performance across the season in accordance with its "merit-based policy", despite the South African's nationality and the fact that he came in for heavy criticism -- especially in the New Zealand media -- for his handling of the semifinal between the Lions and the Hurricanes.
Robertson revealed yesterday that the teams were asked to rate the referees ahead of the playoffs, and is adamant that Peyer is a quality individual who will call the match straight down the middle.
"Jaco is a quality ref. We got asked to rank our refs before this finals series -- who would be our number one -- and we said Jaco. He deserves to ref this final on that alone," Robertson told reporters at his team's Johannesburg base on Thursday.
"Sanzaar appoints the best refs -- doesn't matter who contest the final -- and we have to trust their selection and their selection policy.
"Jaco is experienced and he is resilient, and that is the foremost thing. He refs what's in front of him and he takes the emotion out of it. We can't ask for more than someone like Jaco, who has those capabilities."
Ackermann was quizzed on the same issue by New Zealand sports show host Glen Larmer on Trackside Radio on Wednesday. He admitted that a neutral referee may have been better, but said the players prefer the best referee to be in charge of such an important match.
"To me there is a flip side to that. As players you want to get selected because you know you are the best. In the same competition, and the referees are saying if they are going to be the men in the middle for 18 weeks, surely they must get rewarded to get the playoff games," Ackermann said.
"Last year we had Glen Jackson, in a Super Rugby final, in New Zealand. Yes there were one or two things that we questioned, but the ultimate score was a fair reflection."
Lions, Crusaders back under-fire PeyperSBW back for Bledisloe opener
Sonny Bill Williams is free to play in the Bledisloe Cup opener after successfully arguing that a warm-up clash on August 11 should count towards his ban.
Williams was sent off in the first half of the second British and Irish Lions Test last month and hit with a four-match suspension.
World Rugby initially ruled that the All Blacks' match against Counties Manukau and Taranaki on August 11 was not "meaningful" but has now 'been deemed to comply within the regulations' definition of a match'.
Williams is now suspended from all forms of rugby up to and including August 11.
SBW back for Bledisloe openerPichot appears to question SBW ruling
-
ESPN Staff
World Rugby vice-chairman Agustin Pichot has questioned the governing body's decision to reduce Sonny Bill Williams' suspension on appeal.
Williams has been cleared to play in New Zealand's Rugby Championship opener against Australia on Aug. 19 after World Rugby ruled a warm-up game it initially decided was not meaningful was now deemed to "comply within the regulations' definition of a match".
Thursday's ruling prompted plenty of debate on social media, with Pichot admitting he did not agree with the outcome.
The former Argentina scrum-half tweeted:
I dont agree on the decision of the independent pannel towards sbw's case . But we have to respect the independent process.
— agustin pichot (@AP9_) August 3, 2017
Games counted should be meanigful games
— agustin pichot (@AP9_) August 3, 2017
Williams was initially banned for four weeks following his red card in the All Blacks' second Test defeat to the British & Irish Lions last month.
Last week, World Rugby ruled that the Blues centre would miss the first Bledisloe Cup Test as it constituted the fourth "meaningful" match of that suspension.
However, it has since decided that an Aug. 11 game involving the All Blacks, Counties Manukau and Taranaki does qualify as the final game of Williams' ban.
Pichot appears to question SBW rulingLeicester set to tie up May deal
-
ESPN Staff
Jonny May is on the verge of joining Leicester Tigers, and forming a mouthwatering back line alongside England colleagues George Ford and Ben Youngs.
BBC Radio Leicester reported on Wednesday that May was leaving Gloucester for Welford Road, and ESPN understands a deal is close with Ed Slater set to move in the opposite direction.
The transfer, which is also understood to include a cash payment to Gloucester, should be finalised by next week once medicals have been completed.
Leicester are keen to add a winger to their squad having lost Peter Betham and JP Pietersen, while the chance to link up with England teammates Ford and Youngs is appealing for May.
Former Tigers captain Slater is an England Saxons international, who toured New Zealand with England in 2014 and captained his country in a tour match against the Crusaders.
Leicester set to tie up May deal