Paul Grant: Bath sign Kiwi number eight from Otago http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Nottingham number eight Paul Grant signs for Premiership club Bath from New Zealand-based side Otago.

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

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

Team news as Wasps host Harlequins in Sunday's Premiership fixture at the Ricoh Arena (14:30 BST).

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

Cipriani must show he is the best to make squad - Jones http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Eddie Jones says Danny Cipriani must prove he is England's best fly-half to win a recall as he does not see him as a squad player.

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

GJ Van Velze: Worcester skipper given extra recovery time after concussion injuries http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Worcester Warriors captain GJ van Velze is given extra time to recover following a series of concussion injuries.

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

Fraser McKenzie: Edinburgh lock banned for two weeks for dangerous play http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh look Fraser McKenzie is suspended for two weeks after being cited for dangerous play against Munster.

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

Pro12: Munster v Zebre (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Peter O'Mahony is set to return to action for Munster in the Pro12 match with Zebre after almost 12 months on the sidelines.

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

Pro12: Ulster v Ospreys http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview as Pro12 leaders Ulster defend their unbeaten record at home to third-placed Ospreys.

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

Pro12: Cardiff Blues v Leinster (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview followed by live coverage of Cardiff Blues v Leinster in the Pro12.

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

Pro12: Treviso v Scarlets (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview followed by coverage of Benetton Treviso v Scarlets in the Pro12.

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

England: Eddie Jones will not wait for Manu Tuilagi fitness http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England boss Eddie Jones says he is not holding a place open for injured centre Manu Tuilagi and adds that he is only concerned with players that are "fit and available".

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

Worcester Warriors v Newcastle Falcons (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Worcester host Newcastle in Sunday's Premiership fixture at Sixways (15:00 BST).

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

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

Team news as Gloucester host Bath in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Kingsholm Stadium (15:00 BST).

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

Premiership: Sale Sharks v Leicester Tigers http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Sale host Leicester in Saturday's Premiership fixture at AJ Bell Stadium (14:30 BST).

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

Pro12: Connacht v Edinburgh (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and match preview ahead of Friday's Pro12 meeting of Connacht and Edinburgh at The Sportsground in Galway.

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

Newport Gwent Dragons v Glasgow Warriors (Friday) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Preview followed by live coverage of Newport Gwent Dragons v Glasgow

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

England Rugby: Eddie Jones calls up seven uncapped players http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wasps flanker Sam Jones is one of seven uncapped players in Eddie Jones' 37-man England training squad ahead of the autumn Tests.

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

Gethin Jenkins: New deal keeps captain at Cardiff Blues until 2018 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gethin Jenkins signs a new contract with Cardiff Blues until 2018 and refuses to rule out British and Irish Lions hopes.

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

Dai Young: Wasps boss backs his players to feature heavily in latest England squad http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England coach Eddie Jones will name his 45-man Elite Player Squad squad ahead of the autumn Tests at 10:00 BST on Friday.

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

Townsend 'positive' on vote over ownership http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gregor Townsend applauds Scottish Rugby's decision to ask members to allow it to put Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors up for sale.

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

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

Team news as Bristol host reigning champions Saracens in Friday's Premiership fixture at Ashton Gate (19:45 BST).

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

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

Team news as Northampton host Exeter in Friday's Premiership fixture at Franklin's Gardens (19:45 BST).

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

Rugby World Cup: Italy withdraw bid for 2023 tournament http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ireland's hopes of hosting the 2023 Rugby World Cup are boosted after Italy withdraw their bid.

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

Martin Roberts: Bristol scrum-half out for 12 weeks with dislocated elbow http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bristol's Welsh scrum-half Martin Roberts is to be sidelined for 12 weeks after dislocating his elbow.

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

Glasgow Warriors to sign USA back-row Langilangi Haupeakui http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

United States back-row Langilangi Haupeakui is to join Glasgow Warriors, subject to a visa and medical.

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

Kieran Longbottom: Sale Sharks prop says every step of recovery was painful http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

How Sale prop Keiran Longbottom battled back from two surgeries and learned to run again while getting used to Manchester life.

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

Cotter to coach Montpellier after Scotland exit http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scotland head coach Vern Cotter will return to France with Top 14 outfit Montpellier next summer.

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

Alan Solomons: Edinburgh head coach steps down, Hodge acting boss http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Alan Solomons steps down as head coach of Edinburgh, with Duncan Hodge appointed acting head coach.

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

SRU considers selling Glasgow & Edinburgh http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The Scottish Rugby Union is to ask members to allow it to put Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby up for sale.

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

Richard Hill appointed England rugby team manager http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England head coach Eddie Jones appoints 2003 World Cup winner Richard Hill as England team manager.

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

England fly-half Farrell's return from injury still uncertain http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall admits Owen Farrell's back injury is "open-ended" and "a bit indeterminate".

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

Ireland prop White retires on medical advice http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ireland and Connacht prop Nathan White retires from rugby based on medical advice following a concussion injury.

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

Edinburgh: Damien Hoyland backs Blair Kinghorn to fill Duncan Weir void http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh and Scotland fly-half Duncan Weir faces a spell out of action after suffering a fractured jaw against Munster.

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

Scarlets' Shingler feared career was over http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales and Scarlets back-rower Aaron Shingler says he feared being forced to retire following concussion suffered in 2015-16.

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

Ian Ritchie: RFU boss says English coaches need 'international experience' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

English coaches must gain international experience if they are to replace Eddie Jones as England coach in 2019, says RFU boss Ian Ritchie.

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

Peter Stringer: Sale Sharks scrum-half suffers arm injury http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Sale Sharks scrum-half Peter Stringer could be out for up to three months with a torn biceps injury.

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

Chris Ashton: Saracens winger targets England return after ban for biting http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens wing Chris Ashton aims to regain his place in the England side when he returns from his 13-week biting ban.

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

Bath: Centre Robbie Fruean to join Premiership club from Hawke's Bay http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath confirm versatile centre Robbie Fruean will join the club following the Mitre 10 Cup in his native New Zealand.

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

Fautua Otto: Jersey's Samoa centre jailed for five months for driving while banned http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Samoa centre Fautua Otto is jailed and sacked by club side Jersey after being found guilty of driving while disqualified.

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

Olly Woodburn: Winger 'thriving' at Exeter says head coach Rob Baxter http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter winger Olly Woodburn is described as "fantastic" after his two-try haul against Bristol.

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

Mike Ford: Former Bath head coach appointed Toulon's backs coach http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Bath boss Mike Ford takes up role as backs coach at French side Toulon, after departing Recreation Ground in May.

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

Robert Howley: Interim Wales coach faces tough selections, says Jonathan Davies http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ex-Wales fly half Jonathan Davies says Robert Howley faces tough selection issues after being handed a "grenade" as interim Wales coach.

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

George North: Northampton Saints & Wales winger impresses Jim Mallinder http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

George North had one of his best Northampton Saints games on Saturday, says director of rugby Jim Mallinder.

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

Haskell column: 'An aggressive game - but with clear limits' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

There's nothing wrong with honest confrontation in rugby - it is the sly, cowardly and dangerous stuff that angers players, says James Haskell.

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

Pro12 highlights: Zebre 21-23 Cardiff Blues http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Watch Scrum V's highlights as Cardiff Blues narrowly beat Zebre in the Pro12 in Parma.

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

Manu Tuilagi: Leicester centre set to miss England's autumn series http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester Tigers centre Manu Tuilagi is set to miss out on England's autumn internationals with his groin injury.

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

What's cracking up Garin Jenkins and Phil Steele? http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Wales hooker Garin Jenkins and Scrum V reporter Phil Steele compare line-out calls from their playing days.

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

Scott Williams grilled by school pupils http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scott Williams is used to dealing with the toughest of opponents, but how did he fare when faced with school pupils?

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

Rugby player dies after collapsing during game http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby union player Savanaca Kokoibulileka dies after collapsing while playing for Midlands 2 East (South) club Oakham RFC.

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

Williams stars as Scarlets end losing streak http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scarlets rise from 11th to eighth in the Pro12 with their first triumph of the season against winless title-holders Connacht

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

Pro12 highlights: Treviso 27-11 Dragons http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Watch Scrum V's highlights of Treviso's Pro12 win over Newport Gwent Dragons.

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

Pro12 highlights: Leinster 31-19 Ospreys http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Watch Scrum V's Pro12 highlights of Ospreys' defeat by Leinster in Dublin.

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

Premiership: Leicester Tigers v Bath (Sunday) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Leicester Tigers host Bath Rugby in Sunday's Premiership fixture at Welford Road (19:45 BST).

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

Munster's power too much for Edinburgh http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster's total scrum superiority ensures a bonus-point victory over Edinburgh in the Pro12 game at Thomond Park.

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

Unbeaten Cardiff Blues scrape win in Italy http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cardiff Blues hold out for a scrappy win against Zebre to remain unbeaten after four Pro12 games.

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

Pro12 highlights: Glasgow 17-22 Ulster http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster defeat Glasgow in a hard-fought fixture at Scotstoun as the Irish team move to the summit of the Pro12 table.

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

Ulster director of rugby Kiss proud of team after Glasgow win http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster director of rugby Kiss praises his players as a 22-17 victory over Glasgow sends the Irish province top of the Pro12 standings.

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

Premiership & Pro 12 previews and reports http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

All of the weekend's Premiership and Pro 12 previews and team news followed by reports.

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

Glasgow Warriors slip to defeat by new leaders Ulster http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ulster move top of the Pro12 with a superb victory over a brave Glasgow in a brutal contest at Scotstoun.

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

Exiles can be picked despite selfish decision - Howley http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales interim boss Robert Howley describes some of the nation's exiles as "selfish", but says they can still win caps.

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

Premiership: Harlequins v Saracens http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Harlequins host Saracens in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Twickenham Stoop (15:00 BST).

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

Premiership: Northampton Saints v Wasps http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Northampton host Wasps in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Franklin's Gardens (15:00 BST).

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

Pro12: Leinster v Ospreys (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and match preview ahead of Friday's Pro12 encounter between Leinster and leaders the Ospreys at the RDS.

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

Pro12: Treviso v NG Dragons (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview of Newport Gwent Dragons' trip to face Benetton Treviso in the Pro12.

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

Stuart McInally: Edinburgh hooker determined to oust 'buddy' Ross Ford http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh hooker Stuart McInally is determined to dislodge his friend and mentor Ross Ford for club and country.

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

Jack Clifford: Harlequins back row forward to miss England's autumn internationals http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Harlequins back row Jack Clifford will miss England's autumn internationals as he requires surgery on an ankle injury.

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

Premiership: Gloucester Rugby v Newcastle Falcons http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Gloucester Rugby host Newcastle Falcons in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Kingsholm (15:00 BST).

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

Premiership: Worcester Warriors v Sale Sharks http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Worcester Warriors host Sale Sharks in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Sixways (15:00 BST).

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

Cornish Pirates 'almost went out of business' before new funding - Dicky Evans http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cornish Pirates were in danger of going out of business before new funding was agreed for the Championship club.

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

David Wilson: Newcastle Falcons re-sign England prop from Bath http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newcastle Falcons re-sign England prop David Wilson from Bath, six years after he left the club.

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

Chris Ashton: Saracens will not appeal winger's 13-week ban http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens will not appeal the 13-week ban handed to winger Chris Ashton for biting the hand of Northampton's Alex Waller.

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

Savenaca Rawaca: Fiji sevens player pulls out of Saracens deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Fiji sevens player Savenaca Rawaca will not join Premiership champions Saracens because of personal reasons.

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

Mike Ford: Toulon set to name former Bath boss as first-team coach http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Mike Ford is set to be named first-team coach of Toulon, four months after he was sacked by Bath.

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

Cornish Pirates agree new investment deal ahead of £1.5m share issue http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cornish Pirates shareholders agree a "recapitalisation" of the club which will lead to a £1.5m share issue.

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

Chris Ashton: RFU was 'unconvinced' by Saracens wing's defence for biting http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rugby union bosses say they banned Saracens winger Chris Ashton after finding his description of events "less plausible".

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

Runner admits stabbing rugby player turned athletics staff http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

A fell-running champion admits stabbing three top athletics staff at a major UK stadium.

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

Premiership: Bristol v Exeter Chiefs http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Bristol host Exeter Chiefs in Friday's Premiership fixture at Ashton Gate (19:45 BST).

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

Tomas Francis ban: Exeter head coach Rob Baxter wants law clarity http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter's Rob Baxter wants rule interpretations clarified as Tomas Francis is banned for two weeks for kicking an opponent.

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

Agents turning Pacific Islands into rugby's Wild West - Ryan http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ben Ryan, Olympic-winning sevens coach with Fiji, urges action to protect players and the sport of rugby itself in the Pacific Islands.

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

Fred Burdon: Newcastle Falcons re-sign former academy centre http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newcastle Falcons sign centre Fred Burdon on a permanent basis following a trial.

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

Premiership: Exeter and Bristol set to renew West Country rivalry after six-year gap http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bristol and Exeter meet for the first time since the Chiefs won the first Championship play-off final in 2010.

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

Nafi Tuitavake: Northampton Saints sign Tonga centre http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton Saints sign Tonga international centre Nafi Tuitavake from French second-tier side Narbonne.

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

Chris Ashton: Saracens and England winger given 13-week ban for biting http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens and England winger Chris Ashton is banned for 13 weeks for biting Northampton prop Alex Waller.

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

Simon Cohen: Leicester Tigers CEO warns Premiership salaries will create 'unbalance' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

An increased salary cap risks creating an "unbalanced" Premiership competition, says Leicester CEO Simon Cohen.

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

Pro12: Glasgow Warriors v Ulster (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Injured Ulster duo Craig Gilroy and centre Luke Marshall are ruled out of Friday's Pro12 game against Glasgow.

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

Liam Williams: Scarlets and WRU to work on new deal - Pivac http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scarlets boss Wayne Pivac says Scarlets and the Welsh Rugby Union are to work together to keep full-back Liam Williams in Wales.

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

Luke Cowan-Dickie: Exeter hooker worth England place on current form - Baxter http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie's current form is worthy of a place in the England side, says Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter.

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

Chris Ashton: Saracens and England winter to face two biting charges http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens winger Chris Ashton is charged with two acts of biting against Northampton and will face a RFU disciplinary panel.

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

Pro12 highlights: Ospreys 64-10 Treviso http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys move to the top of the Pro12 table with a nine try hammering of Treviso in Swansea.

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

Pro12 highlights: NG Dragons 16-20 Munster http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster hang on under late pressure to beat Newport Gwent Dragons at Rodney Parade.

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

Anglo-Welsh Cup: Ospreys in one-off St Helen's return http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys are to return to St Helen's for the first time since 2005 to face Harlequins in the Anglo-Welsh Cup in November.

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

Tomas Francis: Exeter boss Rob Baxter backs Wales prop after red card http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter head coach Rob Baxter backs Wales prop Tomas Francis after his second red card in six months.

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

Tandy happy with Ospreys selection headaches http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

After three bonus points wins, Ospreys coach Steve Tandy is looking forward to selection headaches ahead of two trips to Ireland.

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

Leroy Houston: Bath number eight feels the love on his Premiership return http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leroy Houston says he felt like he "had never left" Bath after making a try-scoring return for the club.

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

Premiership: Newcastle v Leicester (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Newcastle host Leicester in Sunday's Premiership fixture at Kingston Park (15:00 BST).

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

Ospreys: Sam Davies eyes Dan Biggar partnership http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys fly-half Sam Davies hopes their coaches can find space for him and Wales 10 Dan Biggar in their line-up.

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

RFU should pay for English coaches to work in southern hemisphere - Jones http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England boss Eddie Jones says the RFU should aid the development of English coaches by paying for them to work in Super Rugby.

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

Chris Ashton: Saracens winger accused of biting Alex Waller's hand http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens winger Chris Ashton could be cited after being accused of biting the hand of Northampton prop Alex Waller.

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

Alex Cuthbert: Cardiff Blues boss Danny Wilson 'gutted' for injured Wales wing http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cardiff Blues boss Danny Wilson says Alex Cuthbert deserves better luck after the Wales wing was injured in Friday's win over Glasgow.

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

Highlights: Cardiff Blues 23-19 Glasgow Warriors http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Cardiff Blues maintain their winning start to the season while ending Glasgow's in a tense Pro12 match at the Arms Park.

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

All Blacks close to winning Rugby Championship http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand are close to the Rugby Championship title after beating South Africa 41-13 in Christchurch.

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

Edinburgh out-gunned at home by Leinster http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leinster earn a Pro12 bonus point victory at Murrayfield, running in five tries to Edinburgh's three.

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

Pro12: Zebre v Connacht (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview as Pro12 title-holders Connacht aim for a first win of the season against Zebre in Italy.

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

Pro12 highlights: Ulster 19-8 Scarlets http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Tries from Louis Ludik and Iain Henderson help Ulster earn a 19-8 win over Scarlets at the Kingspan Stadium.

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

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

Team news as Wasps host Bristol in Sunday's Premiership fixture at Ricoh Arena (14:30 BST).

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

Pro12: NG Dragons v Munster (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview as unbeaten teams Newport Gwent Dragons meet Munster in the Pro12 at Rodney Parade.

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

Pro12: Ospreys v Benetton Treviso (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview as Ospreys host Benetton Treviso in the Pro12 at Liberty Stadium.

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

Saracens Rugby Club to open one of 77 new free schools http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The latest wave of free schools approved to open in England include one run by Saracens Rugby Club.

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

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

Team news as Saracens host Northampton in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Allianz Park (15:00 BST).

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

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

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

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

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

Team news as Bath host Worcester Warriors in Saturday's Premiership fixture at The Rec (15:00 BST).

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

Scotland fly-half Russell back after head injury http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gregor Townsend confirms Glasgow Warriors' Finn Russell will return to competitive action for Ayr at Hawick on Saturday.

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

Mike Brown: Harlequins and England full-back ready to return after virus http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England's Mike Brown could make his first appearance of the season after suffering a virus which left him hospitalised.

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

Pro12: Ulster v Scarlets (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview ahead of the Pro12 game between the teams at Kingspan Stadium in Belfast.

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

Pro12: Cardiff Blues v Glasgow Warriors (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and preview as unbeaten teams Cardiff Blues and Glasgow Warriors meet in the Pro12 in the Welsh capital.

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

Northampton Saints: Tom Wood pushed in gym by Frozen's 'Let It Go' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Northampton Saints captain Tom Wood looks to less than typical musical scores for motivation in the gym.

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

Premiership: Sale Sharks v Gloucester (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Sale host Gloucester in Friday's Premiership fixture at AJ Bell Stadium (19:45 BST).

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

Ian Whitten: Exeter Chiefs back happy with move from centre to wing http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter's Ian Whitten says he is not fazed by moving across from centre to wing for the Premiership club.

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

Rob McCusker: Ex-Scarlets captain to stay at Ospreys for 2016-17 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Scarlets and Wales back-rower Rob McCusker's Ospreys stay is extended until the end of the 2016-17 season.

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

Alafoti Faosiliva: Worcester Warriors back row handed one-week ban http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Worcester back row Alafoti Faosiliva is banned for a week after pleading guilty to striking Gloucester's Mariano Galarza.

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

Phil Dollman: Exeter Chiefs full-back ruled out with broken hand http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter full-back Phil Dollman could be out for around two months after breaking a bone in his hand.

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

University study will examine long-term health of rugby players http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

A new university study will examine the long-term health effects of playing rugby, including the implications of concussion.

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

Eddie Jones: British Lions have great chance against All Blacks http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The British and Irish Lions can beat a New Zealand side with "definite weaknesses", says England coach Eddie Jones.

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

Eddie Jones hopes England assistants Borthwick and Gustard go on Lions tour http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England coach Eddie Jones hopes assistants Steve Borthwick and Paul Gustard are picked to work on the Lions tour to New Zealand.

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

Six Nations unchanged in international rugby calendar shake-up http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The Six Nations will not move from its traditional February to March slot as a new international rugby calendar is formulated.

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

Leroy Houston: Bath re-sign back-rower on short-term deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Premiership side Bath re-sign back-rower Leroy Houston on a short-term deal until the end of October.

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

Eddie Jones says England coaches can learn from Team GB counterparts http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

England coach Eddie Jones says his staff will learn from their Team GB counterparts as they try to become the game's dominant force.

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

Luamanu banned for three weeks for Beaumont tackle http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Harlequins back row Mat Luamanu is banned for three weeks after "dangerously charging" Sale Sharks forward Josh Beaumont.

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

'Embracing adventure saved my life' - Richard Parks' Extreme Wales http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Wales rugby union star Richard Parks on his latest extreme adventures - at home in Wales.

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

Rob Baxter: Exeter Chiefs boss admits side face 'biggest ever Premiership test' http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter Chiefs coach Rob Baxter says being bottom of the Premiership could be his side's biggest challenge yet.

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

Faletau doubtful for Wales' autumn Tests http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath number eight Taulupe Faletau is a doubt for Wales' autumn Tests with a knee injury which could rule him out for up to eight weeks.

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

Jason Woodward: Bristol sign Hurricanes back on two-year deal http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Premiership club Bristol sign versatile back Jason Woodward from Super Rugby champions Hurricanes on a two-year deal.

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

Dominic Waldouck: Newcastle Falcons sign ex-Wasps and Northampton centre http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Centre Dominic Waldouck signs a permanent deal with Newcastle Falcons after impressing during a trial spell.

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

Mark McCall: Saracens director of rugby delighted by the depth of his squad http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall hails his side's lower-profile players after their win at Exeter.

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

Gareth Thomas: Lions need mental strength in New Zealand http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Wales and British and Irish Lions captain Gareth Thomas underlines the qualities the 2017 side will need when they tour New Zealand.

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

Ex-Wales & Lions captain Thomas backs Hartley for 2017 tour http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former British and Irish Lions and Wales captain Gareth Thomas says England's Dylan Hartley should lead the 2017 Lions to New Zealand.

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

David Denton out of Scotland's autumn Tests with hamstring injury http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scotland back-row David Denton will be unavailable for the autumn Tests after suffering a hamstring tear.

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

Rhys Webb: Ospreys hard work paying off - Wales scrum-half http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ospreys are reaping the benefits of their pre-season work after maintaining their unbeaten start to the season, says scrum-half Rhys Webb.

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

Pro12 highlights: Dragons 11-6 Zebre http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newport Gwent Dragons hold on for a scrappy 11-6 victory over Zebre in a low-quality game at Rodney Parade.

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

Pro12 highlights: Connacht 11-32 Ospreys http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Watch Scrum V's highlights of Ospreys' bonus-point win over Connacht in the Pro12.

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

Pro12 highlights: Edinburgh 20-9 Scarlets http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Highlights from Murrayfield as Scarlets suffer a second successive Pro12 loss as they are beaten by Edinburgh

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

Wallabies end six-game losing streak with win over SA http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Australia end a six-match losing run with a 23-17 victory over South Africa in the Rugby Championship in Brisbane.

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

Rugby Championship: New Zealand run up eight tries to beat Argentina http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Zealand put on a second-half masterclass to beat Argentina 57-22 in the Rugby Championship in Hamilton.

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

'Ridiculous' rule will punish Priestland - Hadley http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath fly-half Rhys Priestland will be the highest profile Wales player to miss out under the so-called Gatland's Law, says Adrian Hadley.

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

Pro12 highlights: Cardiff Blues record impressive win at Munster http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Watch all the highlights as Cardiff Blues narrowly defeat Munster in Cork to make it two wins from two in the Pro12.

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

Pro12: Benetton Treviso v Ulster (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Rob Lyttle will make his first start for Ulster against Treviso on Saturday after notching two tries as a replacement last week.

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

Pro12: Glasgow v Leinster (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow make two changes to their front row while fit-again Ireland wing Dave Kearney is back for Leinster.

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

Pro12: Connacht v Ospreys (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview as Pro12 title-holders Connacht host Ospreys on Saturday.

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

Welsh Rugby Union reveals players affected by Senior Player Selection Policy http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Wales players Taulupe Faletau, George North, Jamie Roberts and Rhys Priestland will have to rely on being picked as wildcards for future Wales selection.

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

Andy Cosslett set to replace Bill Beaumont as new RFU chairman http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Andy Cosslett - chairman of the organising committee for the 2015 World Cup - is set to replace Bill Beaumont as RFU chairman.

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

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

Team news as Bath host Newcastle in Saturday's Premiership fixture at The Recreation Ground (15:00 BST).

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

Aviva Premiership: Leicester v Wasps (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Leicester host neighbours Wasps in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Welford Road (15:00 BST).

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

Premiership: Exeter Chiefs v Saracens (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Exeter host Saracens in a repeat of last season's Premiership final on Sunday at Sandy Park (15:00 BST).

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

Premiership: Bristol v Northampton Saints (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Bristol host Northampton Saints in Sunday's Premiership fixture at Ashton Gate (15:00 BST).

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

British and Irish Lions tour fixtures a necessity - chief executive John Feehan http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The head of the British and Irish Lions has ruled out shortening future tours, and says the Lions will remain an integral part of the rugby calendar.

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

Premiership salary cap to remain at £7m in 2018-19 and 2019-20 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Premiership Rugby announce the base level of the salary cap for the 2018-19 and 2019-20 campaigns will remain at £7m.

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

Pro12: Newport Gwent Dragons v Zebre (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview as Dragons host Zebre in the Pro12 on Friday with live commentary on BBC Radio Wales and online.

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

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

John Hardie is back for Edinburgh, while Jonathan Davies returns to the Scarlets starting line up for Friday's Pro12 meeting at Murrayfield.

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

Pro12: Munster v Cardiff Blues (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview as Munster host Cardiff in the Pro12 on Friday.

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

Aviva Premiership: Worcester v Gloucester (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Worcester host Gloucester in Friday's Premiership fixture at Sixways (19:45 BST).

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

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

Team news as Sale host Harlequins in Friday's Premiership fixture at AJ Bell Stadium (20:15 BST).

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

Warren Gatland: England's Dylan Hartley could be British and Irish Lions captain http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Warren Gatland believes England captain Dylan Hartley could be the Lions' captain with his improved discipline record.

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

Scott Hastings says a series win for the British and Irish Lions would be 'very special'. http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former player Scott Hastings says a series win for the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand would be "very special".

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

Robert Howley to cover for Gatland in Wales role http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Robert Howley will again deputise as Wales coach with Warren Gatland named for the 2017 British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand.

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

Big names will miss out for Wales - Gatland http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Warren Gatland warns some players will not be selected for Wales in the autumn under the so-called Gatland's Law.

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

Dan Mugford: Sale Sharks fly-half 'felt like prize winner' at training http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Fly-half Dan Mugford discusses the bizarre emotions about training with some of his idols after his move to Sale Sharks.

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

Aled Brew: Bath sign Wales international winger until end of year http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Bath sign Welsh wing Aled Brew on a short-term deal until the end of the year.

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

Warren Gatland: Coach convinced Lions can beat New Zealand http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New British and Irish Lions coach, Warren Gatland says that he is honoured to have been offered "the biggest job in world rugby", and is looking forward to the challenge of playing back-to-back world champions, New Zealand.

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

Warren Gatland: Wales coach takes on British and Irish Lions role http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Warren Gatland will step down as Wales coach to lead the British and Irish Lions for a second time on their 2017 New Zealand tour.

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

Richard Cockerill: Leicester Tigers continue number eight search http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leicester are still seeking a first-choice number eight, but director of rugby Richard Cockerill says there is no rush.

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

Rob Hawkins: Bristol sign retired hooker as injury cover for Marc Jones http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Newcastle hooker Rob Hawkins comes out of retirement to join Bristol on a short-term deal.

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

James Haskell column: The toe pinged back like broken elastic http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

James Haskell was immense for England in Australia this summer before suffering a toe injury - which is the subject of his first column for BBC Sport.

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

Greg Holmes: Australia prop to see out career at Exeter Chiefs http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Australia prop Greg Holmes wants to see out his playing career with Premiership side Exeter Chiefs.

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

Lee Byrne: Ex-Wales back joins rebranded rugby league side South Wales Ironmen http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back Lee Byrne is named director of rugby at rugby league side South Wales Ironmen.

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

Aled Brew: Bath give trial to Dragons & Wales international wing http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Newport Gwent Dragons and Wales wing Aled Brew joins Premiership side Bath on trial in a bid to resurrect his career.

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

Viliame Mata: Edinburgh Rugby sign Fiji Olympic gold medallist http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Edinburgh confirm the signing of Fijian lock Viliame Mata, who won Olympic sevens gold in Rio.

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

Northampton Saints: Nic Groom says mood 'bleak' in changing room after Bath defeat http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Scrum-half Nic Groom says the mood in the Northampton Saints' changing room as bleak following defeat by Bath.

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

Rob Baxter: Gareth Steenson still has important Exeter Chiefs role to play http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Exeter boss Rob Baxter says Gareth Steenson still has an important role to play, despite being dropped for the loss at Wasps.

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

Stuart Lancaster: Leinster appoint former England boss as senior coach http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Leinster appoint former England head coach Stuart Lancaster to their senior coaching team.

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

Warren Gatland is right choice as Lions coach - Martyn Williams http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Martyn Williams says Wales coach Warren Gatland is "the outstanding candidate" for the British and Irish Lions job.

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

Pro12: Connacht 5-41 Glasgow http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow start the Pro12 with a thumping 41-5 win away to champions Connacht, who beat them in last season's semi-finals.

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

Taulupe Faletau: Bath back row injured on Premiership debut http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Debutant Taulupe Faletau suffers a possible medial ligament injury in Bath's winning start under new boss Todd Blackadder.

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

Pro12 highlights: Ospreys get season off to winning start http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Pro12 highlights: Ospreys get season off to winning start and run in eight tries against Zebre

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

Pro12 highlights: Ulster 29-8 Dragons http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Highlights from Ulster's convincing bonus-point win over the Dragons in the Pro12 opener at the Kingspan Stadium.

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

Carbery double as Leinster see off Treviso http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Joey Carbery produces a sensational full debut for Leinster as his two tries help overcome Treviso in the Pro12 opener.

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

2023 World Cup: Ireland, France, Italy & South Africa bid to host tournament http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Ireland bid to host the 2023 World Cup, along with France, Italy and South Africa.

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

David Humphreys: Gloucester aim to win Premiership title this season http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gloucester director of rugby David Humphreys tells BBC Radio Gloucestershire his side aim to win the Premiership title.

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

The Premiership youngsters you need to know http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

World U20 Championship winners, a Lithuanian powerhouse and a newly qualified Englishman - who are the new faces to look out for this season?

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

London Welsh: Former Premiership club faces winding-up order http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

London Welsh are face a winding-up order at the High Court on Monday as the club tries to avoid going out of business.

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

Premiership: Harlequins v Bristol http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Harlequins host Bristol in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Twickenham (16:30 BST).

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

Premiership: Wasps v Exeter Chiefs (Sun) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Wasps host Exeter in Sunday's Premiership fixture at the Ricoh Arena (15:00 BST).

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

Premiership: Northampton v Bath http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Northampton host Bath in Saturday's Premiership fixture at Franklin's Gardens (15:30 BST).

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

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

Team news as Saracens host Worcester in Saturday's Premiership opener at Twickenham (14:00 BST).

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

Glasgow Warriors missing Leone Nakarawa but still the Pro12 side to fear http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Glasgow may have lost Leone Nakarawa but are still the side to fear, writes Tom English as he previews the Pro12 season.

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

Connacht loss will motivate Warriors - Townsend http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Gregor Townsend says Glasgow Warriors are motivated to beat Connacht on Saturday after last season's semi-final loss to the Irish side.

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

Edinburgh Rugby: Evolution or excuses? http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Lofty targets and empty talk of evolution at Edinburgh Rugby must be matched by tangible results, writes Jamie Lyall.

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

Who are the big-money foreign stars set to light up the Premiership? http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

With the Premiership flush with cash foreign stars have flocked to England - BBC Sport picks out the biggest overseas arrivals on show this season.

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

Aviva Premiership: Saracens eye hat-trick of titles http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

The Premiership rugby union season begins on Friday, with Saracens looking to win the title for a third consecutive year.

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

Northampton Saints: Ice cream making with the team http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

BBC Look East goes ice cream sundae making with three Northampton Saints players ahead of the new Premiership season.

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

George Ford: Todd Blackadder hails Bath star's attitude after Mike Ford's departure http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

New Bath director of rugby Todd Blackadder praises fly-half George Ford's attitude since his father Mike Ford's departure.

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

Aviva Premiership: Six international stars to watch in 2016-17 http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

BBC Sport picks out six of the biggest international signings made by English Premiership clubs ahead of the 2016-17 season.

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

Premiership: Newcastle Falcons v Sale Sharks http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Newcastle host Sale in Friday's Premiership fixture at Kingston Park (20:00 BST).

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

Premiership: Gloucester target title ahead of curtain-raiser v Leicester http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news as Gloucester host Leicester Tigers in Friday's opening Premiership fixture at Kingsholm (19:45 BST).

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

Pro12: Scarlets v Munster (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview as Scarlets host Munster on the opening weekend of the Pro12 season.

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

Pro12: Cardiff Blues v Edinburgh (Sat) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview as Cardiff Blues face Edinburgh at Cardiff Arms Park on the opening weekend of the Pro12 season.

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

Pro12: Ulster v Dragons (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team news and match preview for Friday's Pro12 opener between Ulster and Newport Gwent Dragons at Kingspan Stadium.

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

Pro12: Ospreys v Zebre (Fri) http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Team details and match preview as Ospreys host Zebre in the opening Scrum V live game of the 2016-17 Pro12 season.

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

Munster fly-half Johnny Holland forced to retire because of a hamstring injury http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Munster fly-half Johnny Holland retires at the age of 25 after losing his battle against a serious hamstring injury.

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

Dan Murphy: Harlequins sign ex-Gloucester prop http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Premiership side Harlequins sign former Gloucester prop Dan Murphy, who left Kingsholm earlier this summer.

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

Brad Barritt: Saracens captain looks ahead to new chapter http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Saracens captain Brad Barritt tells BBC London that the 2016-17 season presents a new chapter for the north London club.

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

British and Irish Lions: Leigh Halfpenny available for 2017 New Zealand tour http://ift.tt/1MoLcWr

Toulon's Wales full-back Leigh Halfpenny confirms he will be available for the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand next summer.

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