Thursday Evening Round Up
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Etzebeth to lead Boks after Whiteley's return is delayed
Springbok coach Allister Coetzee has confirmed that Eben Etzebeth will retain the captaincy of the national side on the Outgoing Tour to the Northern Hemisphere in November and December.
Duane Vermeulen underwent a groin operation recently and the experienced No 8 is currently busy with the final phase of his rehabilitation and he is not available for selection.
Juan Pablo Socino given two-week suspension
Newcastle Falcons' Juan Pablo Socino has been given a two-week suspension for striking the head of Exeter Chiefs' Ian Whitton with his arm contrary to law 10.4(a).
The incident occurred in the first minute of the second half of the match Exeter Chiefs v Newcastle Falcons on Saturday 7 October 2017.
Henry Trinder's effort for Gloucester Rugby against Northampton Saints wins the Try of the Week competition for Round 6.
London Irish sign former England U20 hooker
London Irish have bolstered their front row options with the signing of former England Under-20 hooker Tom Woolstencroft.
A World Rugby U20 Championship winner with England in 2014, the 23-year-old launched his career at Bath Rugby where he came through the academy ranks under the watchful eye of former England lock Danny Grewcock.
Saracens' Jamie George signs long-term contract extension
England and British & Irish Lions hooker Jamie George has signed a long-term contract extension with Saracens.
George, who has won three Premiership titles and back-to-back Champions Cups with the club, put pen to paper to a new deal that will keep him in north London through to 2021.
Lawes Voted Premiership Player of the Month
England and Northampton Saints forward Courtney Lawes has been named as the Premiership Player of the Month for September.
The 58-times capped veteran has been in outstanding form for Jim Mallinder's side so far this season, after an opening day mauling to the hands of Saracens, the Saints have bounced back in fine style to record four wins on the bounce.
Jake Upfield & Scott McClurg boost injury-stricken Jersey Reds
Two new faces have joined the injury-hit Jersey Reds squad this month and will be part of the squad for the Friday Night Lights home game with Yorkshire Carnegie.
New signing Jake Upfield, a lock/ back row forward, has flown in from Australia, while Jersey boy Scott McClurg, a regular face in the Jersey Reds Athletic back line, has been training part-time with the 1st XV squad and gains an opportunity in this week's British & Irish Cup line-up.
HIGHLIGHTS: Wellington v Northland
A dominant display by Wellington as they ran in 4 second half tries to win the match 36-18, despite only leading by two points at half time. This result means that Northland could miss the semifinals completely despite heading into the match in 2nd place, while Wellington will host their semi-final having finished in top spot in the Championship.