Wales' Roberts to play Varsity match http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales centre Jamie Roberts will play for Cambridge University in the Varsity match against Oxford.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Tuilagi pushing for Christmas return http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Injured England centre Manu Tuilagi could return in time for Leicester Tigers' Boxing Day clash with Newcastle.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Irish must hold course - Coventry http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish head coach Tom Coventry says his side must "hold its course" as they hunt their first Premiership win.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Coach Baxter hails Exeter spirit http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter boss Rob Baxter praises his players for 'refusing to buckle' after conceding a freak try against Harlequins.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

NZ remembers Jonah Lomu at memorial http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

A public memorial for New Zealand rugby great Jonah Lomu, who died earlier this month at 40, has been held at Auckland's Eden Park stadium.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Halfpenny interests Scarlets - Pivac http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Head coach Wayne Pivac says Scarlets would want to talk to Leigh Halfpenny if "he is serious" about coming back to Wales.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester 21-11 Bath http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester Tigers secure a battling victory over rivals Bath in tough conditions at Welford Road.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Don't write off Robshaw - Quins boss http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England coach Eddie Jones must think carefully before "writing off" Chris Robshaw, says Harlequins boss Conor O'Shea.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scarlets v Zebre (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview ahead of Scarlets' Pro12 game against Zebre on Sunday.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys v Blues (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview ahead of Saturday's Ospreys v Cardiff Blues Welsh Pro12 derby in Swansea.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster v Connacht http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster and Connacht make a number of changes for Saturday's Thomond Park clash between the top two teams in the Pro12.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Pacific Islanders remember Jonah Lomu http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand's Pacific Islander community remembers rugby great Jonah Lomu, who died earlier this month at the age of 40.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow Warriors 13-6 Benetton Treviso http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Adam Ashe's late try spares Glasgow Warriors' blushes against bottom-placed Benetton Treviso at a sodden Scotstoun.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Edinburgh 32-13 Dragons http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh secure a bonus-point win with a dominant performance over an ill-disciplined Newport Gwent Dragons in the Pro12.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster fall to Leinster derby defeat http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster fail to break Leinster's firm defence and slip to a disappointing 8-3 Pro12 defeat to their Irish rivals at the RDS.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

North decision a blow, says Davies http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales and British and Irish Lions wing George North's decision to remain with Northampton disappoints Pro Rugby Wales chief Mark Davies.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish v Wasps http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as London Irish host Wasps in Saturday's Premiership match at Twickenham (17:30 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens v Worcester http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Saracens host Worcester in Saturday's Aviva Premiership match at Twickenham (15:15 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter v Harlequins http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Exeter host Harlequins in Saturday's Aviva Premiership match at Sandy Park (15:00 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sale v Newcastle http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Sale Sharks host Newcastle in Saturday's Aviva Premiership match at the AJ Bell Stadium (14:30 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Toulon-Bath match set for January http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

European Champions Cup games, postponed after the Paris terror attacks, will be played between 8-10 January.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton v Gloucester (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Northampton host Gloucester in Friday's Aviva Premiership match at Franklin's Gardens (19:45 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scarlets prop Jones back from injury http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scarlets' Wales prop Rhodri Jones boosts his 2016 Six Nations chances by returning after injuries for Llanelli in the Welsh Premiership.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Doping claims 'frustrate' top players http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Top players are "frustrated" over recent doping revelations because they feel "at the top level it's a clean sport," says the RPA.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

North signs new Northampton deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales wing George North signs a new contract with Premiership club Northampton Saints.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster's Best signs two-year deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ireland hooker Rory Best signs an IRFU contract extension which will keep him at Ulster until June 2018.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens fly-half Hodgson to retire http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens and ex-England fly-half Charlie Hodgson will retire at the end of the season to become head of recruitment.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Prop Low aims to impress Scotland http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Moray Low says he wants to put himself in the "shop window" for Scotland by performing well for Exeter.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Braid yet to focus on coaching role http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sale captain Dan Braid says he is fully focused on playing despite his upcoming coaching role next season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Franks set for Twickenham reunion http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

World Cup-winning prop Ben Franks gets set to return to the scene of New Zealand's Twickenham triumph with London Irish.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Seven-week ban for Blues hooker Rees http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cardiff Blues hooker Matthew Rees is banned for seven weeks for stamping on Harlequins number eight Nick Easter.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Young backs Launchbury for captaincy http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps director of rugby Dai Young says the club's lock Joe Launchbury would make an ideal England captain.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Pienaar would consider new contract http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scrum-half Ruan Pienaar says he would consider staying on at Ulster after his current contract expires in 2017.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Money thrown at Tuilagi - Cockerill http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester director of rugby Richard Cockerill says clubs are trying to lure Manu Tuilagi with "huge amounts of money".

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jackson hoping for Scotland return http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Fly-half Ruaridh Jackson has put his World Cup omission behind him and is making a big impact at Wasps.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Charteris is icing on cake - Thomas http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath prop Henry Thomas believes signing Luke Charteris acts as the icing on the cake of an already strong squad.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jones urged to look at Exeter squad http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter head coach Rob Baxter hopes new England head coach Eddie Jones will take a close look at his Chiefs squad.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps must keep standards up - Young http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps director of rugby Dai Young says the task facing his side is to keep the high standards of recent weeks.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

No grudge against Burgess - Burrell http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton's Luther Burrell says he has no issue with Sam Burgess over the rugby league convert's World Cup selection.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow's MacArthur out until 2016 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow Warriors hooker Pat MacArthur faces up to six weeks out after undergoing surgery on a jaw fracture.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Attwood renews contract with Bath http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath have rewarded second row Dave Attwood with a three-year contract extension at the club.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jones issues Ospreys Euro warning http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Captain Alun Wyn Jones says Ospreys cannot get carried away after making a good start to their European campaign.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Grassroots rugby drugs 'off-the-scale' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Welsh grassroots and semi-professional rugby players make up third of all banned British athletes, a BBC probe finds.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Auckland to host Lomu public memorial http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

A public memorial service for New Zealand great Jonah Lomu is to be held next Monday in Auckland.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby fans flock to Buddha statue http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Fans think the statue resembles Japan rugby star Ayumu Goromaru.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Falcons wingers impress Richards http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Zach Kibirige and Marcus Watson gave Newcastle a pace threat in Sunday's win against Enisei, says boss Dean Richards.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Castres' Gray close to Toulouse deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Castres' Scotland lock, Richie Gray is close to finalising a four-year contract with Toulouse for next season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bristol deny Borthwick England link http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

There has been no approach from the Rugby Football Union for Bristol coach Steve Borthwick, says director of rugby Andy Robinson.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath sign Wales lock Charteris http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath announce the signing of Wales lock Luke Charteris from Racing 92 on a three-year contract.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter's Cowan-Dickie breaks thumb http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter and England hooker Luke Cowan Dickie is ruled out for two months after breaking his thumb.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ford excited about England's new era http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England fly-half George Ford says he is looking forward to an "exciting era" under new head coach Eddie Jones.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

North unlikely to return to Welsh side http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

British and Irish Lions wing George North has received no formal offers to play domestic rugby in Wales next season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

'Foden can return to England fold' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton back Ben Foden can end his two-year England exile, according to Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Marinos appointed head of Sanzar http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-Wales and Newport Gwent Dragons centre Andy Marinos becomes chief executive of southern hemisphere rugby's governing body Sanzar.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newcastle 55-7 Enisei-STM http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newcastle Falcons win their first game of the season by scoring nine tries against Russian side Enisei-STM.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Clermont Auvergne v Ospreys (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview as Clermont Auvergne host Ospreys in the European Rugby Champions Cup on Sunday (13:00 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps v Toulon (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Wasps host Toulon in Sunday's European Rugby Champions Cup fixture at the Ricoh Arena (17:15 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jones supports overseas player rule http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England coach Eddie Jones backs the RFU's policy of not picking overseas-based players barring "exceptional circumstances".

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

FC Grenoble 27-20 London Irish http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Johnny Williams' try proves in vain as London Irish suffer a last-gasp European Challenge Cup defeat in Grenoble.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter 34-19 Bordeaux-Begles http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Olly Woodburn scores a brace of tries on his European debut as Exeter secure a bonus point 34-19 win over Bordeaux.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scarlets 12-29 Racing 92 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Racing 92's 14 men inflict a first home defeat of the season on Scarlets and claim a bonus point in an impressive display.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Castres 32-29 Dragons http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newport Gwent Dragons fall short against Castres in a pulsating encounter in the European Challenge Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Connacht 21-17 Brive http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Connacht are top of Pool 1 after making it two wins out of two in the European Challenge Cup by beating French side Brive.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow Warriors 15-26 Northampton http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton Saints top Pool Three in the European Champions Cup with a 26-15 away victory over Glasgow Warriors.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath can win Champions Cup - Watson http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath back Anthony Watson believes his side can win the European Champions Cup this season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Weekend's European match previews http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Check out the team news for the weekend's European Champions and Challenge Cup matches.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Hook vows to battle for Wales spot http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gloucester fly-half James Hook, 30, "is under no illusions" but will "keep on battling" for a Wales place.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jones will meet captain Robshaw http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New England head coach Eddie Jones intends to meet Chris Robshaw after criticising the captain during the World Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Benetton Treviso v Leicester (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Benetton Treviso host Leicester in Saturday's European Rugby Champions Cup fixture at the Stadio di Monigo (13:00 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath v Leinster (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Bath host Leinster in Saturday's European Rugby Champions Cup fixture at the Recreation Ground (15:15 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

I can be an angel or devil - Jones http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New England head coach Eddie Jones says his players will see different sides to him as he seeks a "bulldog spirit".

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The right man - or just someone different? http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England should be wary of pinning all their hopes on new head coach Eddie Jones, warns BBC Sport's Tom Fordyce.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Zebre v Worcester (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sam Betty makes his 100th appearance for Worcester in Saturday's Challenge Cup tie in Italy against Zebre (14:00 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sale v Pau (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Sale host Pau in Saturday's Challenge Cup fixture at the AJ Bell Stadium (14:30 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster v Saracens (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Iain Henderson will make his first Ulster appearance of the season in the European Champions Cup game against Saracens.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

'Big money offers might be unfair' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Offering big sums to tempt George North and Leigh Halfpenny back to Wales might be unfair to other players, says WRU chief Gareth Davies.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Everyone's still in shock - Phillips http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Paris-based Racing 92 and Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips says the terrorist attacks on the city "traumatised" everyone.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Queen sends message to Lomu family http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The Queen sends her condolences following the death of New Zealand great Jonah Lomu, his family spokesman says.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jones appointed England head coach http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Eddie Jones is named as England's first foreign coach, signing a four-year deal with the Rugby Football Union.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lomu family ‘touched’ by tributes http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jonah Lomu's family say they have been "truly touched" by tributes to the New Zealand great after his death aged 40.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

'No malice' in apparent Rees stamp http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cardiff Blues coach Danny Wilson says there was "no malice" in the alleged stamp that saw Matthew Rees sent off against Harlequins.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jones: Saviour or school teacher? http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Eddie Jones looks set to be the next England head coach - but what will he bring to the job and is he the right man?

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

'No security fears' for Edinburgh http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh forward Cornell du Preez has no concerns about playing in France so soon after last week's attacks.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys wing Walker turns to yoga http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys wing Eli Walker has taken up yoga as he tries to beat the series of hamstring problems that have plagued his career.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Blues v Harlequins (Thurs) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview ahead of Cardiff Blues hosting Harlequins in the European Challenge Cup on Thursday.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Facing 'ultimate game-changer' Lomu http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Playing against Jonah Lomu was a shock even for internationals, says Jeremy Guscott. 'How could such a big man move so quickly?'

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jones moves closer to England job http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Eddie Jones moves closer to becoming England's first foreign head coach after talks with RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Stade Rochelais v Gloucester (Thurs) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Stade Rochelais host Gloucester in Thursday's Challenge Cup fixture pool four fixture (19:45 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

All Blacks captain McCaw retires http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw retires aged 34 after a glittering career that saw him win a record 148 caps and two World Cups.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

VIDEO: Lomu put me on the map - Catt http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former England international Mike Catt says New Zealand great Jonah Lomu, who has died at the age of 40, "put him on the map".

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Parling thought England 'were tight' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England forward Geoff Parling says the squad seemed united during the World Cup, despite reports to the contrary.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Clark sidelined by shoulder injury http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton Saints flanker Calum Clark will be out for at least two months after having shoulder surgery.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lomu: A wrecking ball of a superhero http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

From trampled opponents to super-sized car stereos, Jonah Lomu redefined what was possible on a rugby pitch but never forgot his roots.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Call off 'won't trip up Warriors' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Coach Matt Taylor says Glasgow Warriors remain focused on the Champions Cup despite their Paris postponement.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Booth desperate to play Toulon match http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath first-team coach Toby Booth insists his side are desperate to play Toulon despite growing fixture congestion.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lomu 'took rugby to a new level' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand great Jonah Lomu will be remembered for "changing rugby union", says former England coach Sir Clive Woodward.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lomu: a giant who swept aside Scots http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-Scotland prop Peter Wright and Bill Johnstone pay tribute to Jonah Lomu, the former All Black who has died, aged 40.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Stade Francais-Munster game off http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster's European Champions Cup game against Stade Francais is postponed following last Friday's Paris attacks.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lomu one of the greatest - Davies http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand rugby union great Jonah Lomu's death aged 40 is a "devastating loss", says former Wales captain Jonathan Davies.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

All Black Lomu dies aged 40 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand rugby union legend Jonah Lomu dies aged 40.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Williams discounts revenge incentive http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster's Nick Williams says revenge for two European quarter-final defeats by Saracens will not be a motivation for Friday's game.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ioane adapting to new Sale role http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Forward TJ Ioane says he is adapting to the position of openside flanker for Sale Sharks this season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Launchbury 'sad' to see Lancaster go http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps lock Joe Launchbury says he was "sad" to see Stuart Lancaster lose his job as England head coach.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scarlets 'not chasing' George North http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Coach Wayne Pivac dismisses speculation linking George North with Scarlets, but confirms interest in Blues' Rhys Patchell.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Robshaw signs new Harlequins deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England captain Chris Robshaw signs a new contract with Premiership side Harlequins.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Howard wants Warriors starting spot http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Worcester full-back Ben Howard wants to prove to director of rugby Dean Ryan he is worth a regular starting place.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Shanklin wants Charteris in Wales http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-Wales centre Tom Shanklin would rather Luke Charteris moved back to a Welsh region rather than to Bath.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales' Charteris in talks with Bath http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Racing Metro's Wales lock Luke Charteris is in talks with Bath over a possible move there ahead of 2016-17, BBC Wales Sport has learned.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cheika rules out being England coach http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Australia head coach Michael Cheika rules himself out of the vacant England coaching position.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps will maintain focus - Young http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps director of rugby Dai Young says they will not let their focus slip following their 33-6 Champions Cup win over Leinster.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saints 'have not become a bad team' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton flanker Tom Wood says Saints have not "become a bad team" following a slow start to the season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter get 'kick in the pants' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter boss Rob Baxter says his side "royally received a kick in the pants" from Ospreys in the Champions Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby chiefs face Toulon-Bath dilemma http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby chiefs admit they have a 'unique problem' in rearranging the postponed Toulon-Bath European Champions Cup fixture.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Dragons 30-12 Sale http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newport Gwent Dragons repel a Sale Sharks comeback to secure a bonus-point win in their Challenge Cup opener.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys v Exeter (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview as Ospreys host Exeter in the European Rugby Champions Cup on Sunday (17:30 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Toomua to join Tigers next season http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester Tigers sign versatile Australia international Matt Toomua from Super 15 side Brumbies for next season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leinster 6-33 Wasps http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Premiership Wasps hand Leinster their heaviest European home defeat, winning their Champions Cup opener 33-6 in Dublin.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton 15-11 Scarlets http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton Saints secure a narrow win as Scarlets take the losing bonus point in their Champions Cup opener.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens 32-7 Toulouse http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England's Owen Farrell stars as Saracens produce a stunning first half to beat Toulouse 32-7 in the European Champions Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster 32-7 Benetton Treviso http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster pick up a bonus point as they beat Treviso 32-7 in their opening European Champions Cup game at Thomond Park.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gloucester 23-10 Zebre http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

European Challenge Cup holders Gloucester get their defence off to a winning start with a three-try victory over Zebre.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England women edge to Ireland win http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

World champions England women score a late try to beat Six Nations holders Ireland 8-3 at Twickenham Stoop.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish 48-10 Agen http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish run in eight tries in their European Challenge Cup Group Pool 5 victory over French side Agen.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Worcester 19-3 Stade Rochelais http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Fourteen points from Ryan Lamb help Worcester to victory over Stade Rochelais in the European Challenge Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Calvisano 9-50 Cardiff Blues http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cardiff Blues kick off their European Challenge Cup campaign with a seven-try win at Calvisano.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Fixtures off after Paris attacks http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

This weekend's European Champions Cup and Challenge Cup matches to be played in France are postponed.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Enisei-STM 14-31 Connacht http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Connacht start their Challenge Cup campaign with a 31-14 bonus-point win against Russian debutants Enisei-STM in Siberia.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow advise against Paris travel http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scottish rugby union team Glasgow Warriors advise fans not to travel to Paris for a European Champions Cup tie on Saturday.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saturday & Sunday European previews http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Previews and team news of the weekend's matches in the European Champions Cup and European Challenge Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Brive v Newcastle (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Newcastle visit Brive in Friday's European Challenge Cup fixture at Stade Amedee-Domenech (18:30 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh v Grenoble (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

John Hardie will make his Edinburgh debut in Friday's European Challenge Cup opener against Grenoble.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby star charged with drink-driving http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England rugby star Danny Cipriani is charged with drink-driving following a collision in London, police have said.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

VIDEO: Owens: 'I went to a very dark place' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby Union referee Nigel Owens on the challenges he faced accepting he was gay

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Blues want 'quality not quantity' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cardiff Blues head coach Danny Wilson says they plan to reduce the squad but players will still play for Premiership sides.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Thomas doubts Gatland for England http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Wales captain Gareth Thomas doubts head coach Warren Gatland would want to take over the vacant England role.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sarries 'desperate' for Euro title http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Premiership champions Saracens are "desperate" to win the European Champions Cup, says England hooker Jamie George.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Nowell saddened by Lancaster exit http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter winger Jack Nowell says he is sad to see Stuart Lancaster leave his role as England coach.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Tigers' Williams eyes first Wales cap http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Fly-half Owen Williams hopes his form for Leicester Tigers can help him win a first senior Wales cap.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Hodgson 'luckier than Lancaster' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England boss Roy Hodgson says he is more fortunate than Stuart Lancaster, having kept his job after an early World Cup exit.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England a sleeping giant - White http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

World Cup winner Jake White says the role of England head coach is among the "best sporting jobs in the world".

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath 'confident' for Toulon test http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath Rugby fly-half George Ford says they are confident ahead of Sunday's Champions Cup clash with French giants Toulon.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester v Stade Francais (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Leicester host Stade Francais in Friday's European Champions Cup fixture at Welford Road (19:45 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Davies return 'could sway others' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-Wales captain Gareth Thomas says Jonathan Davies' imminent return to Scarlets could prompt other Welsh exiles to come home.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Pick an English coach, says Baxter http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter head coach Rob Baxter says an English coach should be picked to take over from Stuart Lancaster as England boss.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Dragons deserve dual deals - Jones http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newport Gwent Dragons head coach Kingsley Jones believes more players at the region deserve national dual contracts.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens forward Joubert to retire http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens announce that South African forward Ernst Joubert is to retire at the end of the month.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester sign Italy prop Aguero http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester Tigers sign Italy prop Matias Aguero as cover for Michele Rizzo and Logovi'i Mulipola, reports BBC Radio Leicester.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England & RFU have been 'shambolic' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England's World Cup failure and the aftermath has been "shambolic", says ex-RFU chairman Martyn Thomas.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Europe opportunity for Falcons youth http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Director of rugby Dean Richards says Newcastle Falcons' youngsters will have a chance to impress in Europe this season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Harlequins v Montpellier (Thurs) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Harlequins host Montpellier in Thursday's European Challenge Cup fixture at The Stoop (19:45 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

White wants England head coach job http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

World Cup winner Jake White is interested in succeeding Stuart Lancaster as England head coach.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Who could replace Stuart Lancaster? http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

BBC Sport looks at the candidates to replace Stuart Lancaster as England coach - and the challenges faced by his successor.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Joubert to referee England v Wales http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Craig Joubert will return to Twickenham to referee England v Wales in the 2016 Six Nations after World Cup criticism.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England in 'global search' for coach http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England will not be "inhibited" in its search for the best head coach, says the Rugby Football Union.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Warriors coach targets long Euro run http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gregor Townsend is confident Glasgow Warriors "can get to the latter stages" of this season's European Champions Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lewsey to leave Welsh Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England World Cup winner Josh Lewsey is to step down from his role as Welsh Rugby Union's head of rugby in January.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Why Lancaster and England went wrong http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Tom Fordyce examines why Stuart Lancaster's time as England head coach, which began with such optimism, has come to an end.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

McKibbin, Burger & Cittadini banned http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish's Brendan McKibbin, Saracens' Jacques Burger, and Wasps' Lorenzo Cittadini are all handed suspensions.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lancaster leaves England post http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Stuart Lancaster's three-and-a-half-year reign as England coach ends following the team's early exit from the World Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Georgia hooker signs for Warriors http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Georgia international Shalva Mamukashvili signs for Glasgow Warriors, who currently have three hookers injured.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Brown signs new Harlequins deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England full-back Mike Brown commits his future to Harlequins after signing a new contract with the Premiership club.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Nicol: More Scots will follow Denton http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Scotland captain Andy Nicol expects more of the country's World Cup stars to leave Edinburgh and Glasgow.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Centre Davies set to rejoin Scarlets http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales centre Jonathan Davies is expected to rejoin Scarlets from French side Clermont Auvergne, BBC Wales Sport understands.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Six Nations hope for Ospreys' Webb http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales and Ospreys scrum-half Rhys Webb could make an early return from his foot injury in time to play in the Six Nations.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gloucester sign second row Latta http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Premiership side Gloucester sign second row Joe Latta from New Zealand's Super Rugby champions, the Highlanders.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Burgess 'lacked stomach' for fight http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath head coach Mike Ford says Sam Burgess "didn't have the stomach" to fight for his future in rugby union.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Six new caps in Ireland women's side http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ireland coach Tom Tierney names six new caps in his starting side for the Saturday's game against England.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

No trust in England team - Brown http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Mike Brown says he no longer trusts his England team-mates after leaks in the wake of their dismal World Cup campaign.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cockerill still sure of Tuilagi deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England centre Manu Tuilagi is in contract talks with Leicester which will make him one of the world's highest earners.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath sign Scotland forward Denton http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath sign Scotland back-rower David Denton from Edinburgh, helping to fill the gap left by Sam Burgess.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cockerill happy with Leicester start http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill insists he is happy with his side's start to the Premiership season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Allinson eager for European chance http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish scrum-half Darren Allinson is hoping to take his opportunity to impress in the European Challenge Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

My heart wasn't in union - Burgess http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-England centre Sam Burgess says he quit rugby union because of a lack of enjoyment and criticism from ex-players.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

North America gets first pro league http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The first ever professional rugby union league will be launched in North America in April next year, it is announced.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Warriors can 'turn heads' - Heem http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Worcester Warriors can "turn some heads" in the Premiership this season, says New Zealand Sevens winger Bryce Heem.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

James hopes to grab Sale chance http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sale Sharks centre Sam James wants to continue to take his opportunities after a run in the first-team.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

RFU investigate claims over kit man http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England kit man Dave Tennison is under investigation over claims he urged players to buy shares which fell in value.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Falcons yet to hit form - Richards http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Winless Newcastle Falcons are yet to show their true form in the Premiership, says director of rugby Dean Richards.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saints will not panic - Mallinder http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton Saints will not panic despite a poor start to the Premiership season, according to boss Jim Mallinder.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter defence impresses Baxter http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter head coach Rob Baxter says his side's improved defence is behind the club's recent good form.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newport Gwent Dragons v Ulster (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster and the Newport Gwent Dragons both ring the changes for Sunday's Pro12 encounter at Rodney Parade.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps v Gloucester (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

All Black Charles Piutau makes his Wasps debut in Sunday's home game with Gloucester at the Ricoh Arena (15:00 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Burgess has left too early - Ford http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sam Burgess's early exit from Bath leaves England short of a potentially world-class back-rower, says coach Mike Ford.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys 36-3 Zebre http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wing Eli Walker crosses twice as Ospreys get back to winning ways with a six-try victory over Zebre in the Pro12.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Worcester v Newcastle (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Worcester give wing Bryce Heem his debut in Saturday's home Premiership game with Newcastle at Sixways (15:00 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Blues v Glasgow Warriors (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Three Wales internationals return for Cardiff while Glasgow add six Scotland caps for their Pro12 meeting.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh v Munster (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Match preview ahead of Edinburgh's Pro 12 match against Munster at Murrayfield on Saturday.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Connacht go top after Treviso win http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

High-flying Connacht record a 33-19 victory over Treviso at the Sportsground on Friday night to go top of the Pro12.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leinster 19-15 Scarlets http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ian Madigan kicks 14 points as Leinster come from behind to win 19-15 and hand Scarlets their first Pro12 loss of the season.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton v Saracens (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Northampton host Saracens in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Franklin's Gardens (15:15 GMT)

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish v Bath (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales fly-half Rhys Priestland makes his first Bath start against London Irish at the Madejski Stadium (15:00 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter v Leicester (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England winger Jack Nowell returns for Exeter as they host Leicester in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Sandy Park (17:30 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
via http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Springboks-Ireland venues confirmed http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ireland's three Tests against South Africa next June will be played in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Williams signs new Blues contract http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scrum-half Lloyd Williams, a member of Wales' World Cup squad, agrees a new long-term contract with Cardiff Blues.

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Harlequins v Sale (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Harlequins host Sale in Friday's Premiership fixture at Twickenham Stoop (19:45 GMT).

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Rugby ref 'sportsperson of decade' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Welsh referee Nigel Owens is named sportsperson of the decade by sexual equality charity Stonewall.

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'English rugby a laughing stock' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sir Clive Woodward says English rugby union is a "laughing stock" following Sam Burgess' return to rugby league.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Gatland has NZ calibre - Brooke http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has the credentials to be New Zealand coach, says former All Blacks forward Zinzan Brooke.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Returning Burgess 'missed family' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sam Burgess says he missed his family "more than he could have imagined" after quitting rugby union to return to league.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Reaction to Burgess' union departure http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sam Burgess's exit from Bath and rugby union - a "sorry tale of confusion" for a player who had "all the tools" to be a union great.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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All Blacks visit Collins' grave http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Five of New Zealand's World Cup winners visit the grave of former team-mate Jerry Collins with the Webb Ellis trophy.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Is Burgess a scapegoat or a quitter? http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Is Sam Burgess merely the latest in a series of failed cross-code converts or was he just badly handled in rugby union?

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Gatland to quit Wales in 2019 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales coach Warren Gatland says he will leave the role after the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Burgess exits Bath for league return http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath and England's cross-code convert Sam Burgess leaves rugby union to rejoin Australian league side South Sydney Rabbitohs.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Roberts hopes Wales coaches stay http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales centre Jamie Roberts is hoping coach Warren Gatland succeeds in his efforts to retain his backroom coaching staff.

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Hunter to lead England in France http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens wing Charlotte Clapp will win her first England cap, while Sarah Hunter skippers the side against France on Saturday.

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Cowan reflects on 'rollercoaster' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Irish back row Blair Cowan says his World Cup experience with Scotland was a "rollercoaster ride".

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Baldwin and King sign dual deals http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys hooker Scott Baldwin and back-five forward James King become the latest Wales internationals to sign national dual contracts.

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No pressure on Falcons - Richards http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Director of rugby Dean Richards does not feel pressure, despite Newcastle Falcons failing to win so far this campaign.

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Borthwick excited by Bristol role http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former England captain Steve Borthwick is excited by the ambition at Bristol ahead of his first game as forwards coach.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Bath still keen to sign Faletau http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath coach Mike Ford says they would still be interested in signing Wales star Taulupe Faletau next summer if he becomes available.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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No Burgess exit demand - Bath owner http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sam Burgess has not asked to leave Bath as he considers a return to rugby league, says the Premiership club's owner.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Roberts defeated in Cambridge debut http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales and Lions centre Jamie Roberts suffers defeat in his debut for Cambridge University against Worcester Cavaliers.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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'Take England out of RFU control' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-England centre and former RFU board member Simon Halliday is calling for a "serious structural change" to English rugby.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Gray takes over Glasgow captaincy http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Jonny Gray is named as the new captain at Pro12 champions Glasgow Warriors, taking over from the retired Al Kellock.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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'Too soon' for Sinfield union debut http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-England rugby league captain Kevin Sinfield says it is too soon for his union debut at Yorkshire Carnegie.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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'We had to buy them rugby boots' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

'Not only had they never played, some kids couldn't even afford boots.' How the RFU is looking to capitalise on the World Cup's legacy.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Exeter's Campagnaro must be patient http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Italy centre Michele Campagnaro will have to wait to make his Exeter debut, according to head coach Rob Baxter.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Wasps' Gopperth given three-week ban http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps stand-off Jimmy Gopperth is given a three-week ban for his late hit on Leicester captain Mathew Tait.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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VIDEO: Tarmac haka welcomes champion All Blacks http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby World Cup champions, the All Blacks, arrive home in New Zealand to a heroes' welcome at Auckland International Airport.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Tigers' Fonua faces eight weeks out http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester's Tongan number eight Opeti Fonua is expected to be sidelined for up to eight weeks with a broken arm.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Players' stance 'insults' Armitage http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Steffon Armitage says it was "insulting" to hear England players say he would have been a distraction if called into the squad.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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I am in charge at Ulster - Kiss http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Les Kiss makes clear he is now in charge at Ulster after assuming the director of rugby role at Kingspan Stadium.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Leeds interested in signing Burgess http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leeds Rhinos would bid for Sam Burgess if he is made available by Bath, says chief executive Gary Hetherington.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Wales to play Chiefs in New Zealand http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales will face Super Rugby side the Chiefs between the first and second Tests during next summer's tour to New Zealand.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Referee Owens targets 2019 World Cup http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Welsh referee Nigel Owens says he wants to continue officiating at least up to the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Gray extends Glasgow stay until 2018 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scotland lock forward Jonny Gray signs a new contract with Pro12 champions Glasgow Warriors until 2018.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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NFL to play matches at Twickenham http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The NFL agrees a three-year deal with the Rugby Football Union to stage regular season matches at Twickenham.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Sinoti extends Newcastle deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Samoan winger Sinoti Sinoti signs a "long-term deal" at Premiership side Newcastle Falcons, with terms are undisclosed.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Burgess attitude 'will be right' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath coach Mike Ford believes Sam Burgess will be in the right frame of mind as he returns from England duty.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Northampton sign France's Picamoles http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

France and Toulouse number eight Louis Picamoles has agreed a deal to move to Northampton from the summer of 2016.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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O'Connell could miss entire season http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Paul O'Connell could be ruled out for up to eight months by the hamstring injury that ended his Ireland career at the World Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Leicester's Ayerza out for two weeks http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester Tigers prop Marcos Ayerza will only be out for two weeks with the hamstring injury sustained at the World Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Salvi contribution hailed by Baxter http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter boss Rob Baxter praises the contribution of Julian Salvi after the flanker's first try for the club.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Guscott's World Cup best and worst http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former England centre Jeremy Guscott picks out the highs and the lows, and the winners and losers from the World Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Benetton Treviso 3-27 Leinster http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leinster clinch their first away win of the Pro12 campaign and pick up a bonus point as they comfortably see off Treviso.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Carter is World Rugby player of year http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand's Dan Carter is named World Rugby player of the year and the World Cup-winning All Blacks are team of the year.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Burgess at crossroads, says brother http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sam Burgess's brother Tom says the "mentally fatigued" code convert is at a "crossroads" over his rugby union career.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Glasgow Warriors 31-19 Ospreys http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

A late try by Taqele Naiyaravoro secures a Pro12 bonus-point win for Glasgow Warriors over Ospreys.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Newcastle 3-41 Exeter http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter Chiefs seal a comprehensive bonus-point victory over Newcastle Falcons in the Premiership.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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RFU in £15m World Cup benefit http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

English rugby union's governing body will benefit by £15m as a result of the money made by the 2015 World Cup.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Nigel Owens's next job village game http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Welsh referee Nigel Owens is to go from the Rugby World Cup final to officiating a match between two village teams.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Leicester v Wasps (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Leicester host Wasps in Sunday's Premiership fixture at Welford Road (15:15 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Robshaw stick unwarranted - O'Shea http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The criticism England captain Chris Robshaw has received is "completely unwarranted", says Harlequins boss Conor O'Shea.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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'Diabolical' Blues embarrass Wilson http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Danny Wilson says aspects of Cardiff Blues' display in their 26-15 Pro12 defeat by Zebre were "diabolical" and "embarrassing".

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Williams gifts winner's medal to fan http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand centre Sonny Bill Williams gifts his Rugby World Cup winner's medal to a young fan after the final.

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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Sale Sharks v Northampton (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Sale Sharks host Northampton in Sunday's Premiership fixture at AJ Bell Stadium (14:30 GMT).

from BBC Sport - Rugby Union http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr
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