OSPREYS HAVE SAID their recruitment of Wales out-half Gareth Anscombe from regional rivals Cardiff Blues is a ‘statement signing’ as the club looks to build under Allen Clarke. Anscombe’s future had become the subject of much speculation in recent times Read More …
THE GUINNESS PRO14 remains open to further expansion in South Africa but that will not involve the Pumas and Griquas. Fresh reports linking the Nelspruit-based Pumas and Kimberley-based Griquas, who play in the Currie Cup, emerged in South Africa over the weekend. However, The42 understands that Read More …
FLEXIBILITY IS FINE and a utility player is nothing but an asset for coaches, but Jordi Murphy is thoroughly enjoying the chance to rest his focus with one position this season. The Ulster back row was a key component of Read More …
BT SPORT SAY they “regret” that their commentary in relation to Billy Vunipola was misinterpreted “by some viewers” during their live coverage of the Heineken Champions Cup semi-final between Munster and Saracens. In a statement released to The42, a spokesperson for the Read More …
THE RETURN TO fitness of both Keith Earls and Conor Murray provides Munster with a welcome fillip heading into their Pro14 quarter-final against Benetton at Thomond Park on Saturday afternoon [KO 3pm, eir Sport/Premier Sports]. Earls, who hasn’t played since Read More …
CONNACHT HEAD COACH Andy Friend has made eight changes to his team for tomorrow’s Pro14 quarter-final tie away to Ulster. Saturday evening sees Kingspan Stadium host the provinces (5.35pm) with a place in the last four up for grabs. After Read More …
ENGLAND’S TOP TIER of rugby, the Premiership, could be expanded from 12 to 13 teams after next season. Premiership Rugby, the Telegraph report, have lodged a proposal to the RFU’s management board to play the 2019/20 season without relegation and Read More …
THIS IS ALL unchartered territory for Leinster. Never before have they experienced the heartache of finishing second best in a European final, nor has this squad — now disconsolate and downbeat — endured too many collective lows like this. The Read More …
AS IF JOSH van der Flier’s comeback performance against Munster wasn’t impressive enough, the Leinster flanker’s tackle stats for a remarkable 77-minute shift were updated to 25 post-match. Leo Cullen described van der Flier’s first game back from injury in Read More …
ANDY DUNNE SAYS the appointment of Graham Rowntree to Munster’s backroom team would be a ‘pragmatic’ one, rather than a signing the province’s supporters will get excited about. The former England forwards coach has emerged as a possible candidate to Read More …