Monday Afternoon Round Up

Jack Nowell's injury update

Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter had positive things to say regarding Nowell's road to recovery:

"Jack traditionally comes back very well from his injury breaks," said Baxter.

"He is very professional and he will use this time well. Within two or three weeks of being back, he'll be firing again."

23-year-old Nowell has been ruled out for around eight weeks after having surgery on an injured thumb.

Juan Pablo Estelles signs for Northampton Saints

The Saints have today confirmed the signing of Pumas centre, Juan Pablo Estelles.

The 28-year-old Argentina international centre will arrive at Franklin Gardens ahead of the Premiership campaign after taking part at the Pumas' impressive run at the Rio Olympics.

MacKenzie steps down as Sharks president

''I’ve served the KZNRU for nine years in various capacities. My business life requires that I will have to be abroad for prolonged periods. I believe that in fairness to all concerned, with both the club and amateur season now over, it is best that I create the opportunity for the KZNRU to appoint a successor,'' said Mackenzie.

In addition to Mackenzie's announcement and the earlier resignation of former CEO John Smit, the union’s general manager, Pete Smith, also stepped down. 

This means the Sharks now have a new chief executive (Gary Teichmann), a new president (Francois Louis) and a new general manager (to be confirmed).

Australia Men’s 7s team warned over drinking

Australia’s Mens 7s team were warned over their behaviour after members of the squad had a drunken night out after their elimination at the Olympics in Rio.

“I don’t want to send three people home because they’re drunk. If someone gets rolling drunk, and tip-toes down the corridor and goes to sleep, there’s a warning but they won’t be sent home,” said Australia’s Olympic chef de mission Kitty Chiller.

Chiller said she was concerned about the athletes' safety, especially with the crime issues in the city.

The Australian team finished their campaign in eighth place.