Thursday Round-Up

Faletau ankle worry: Newport Gwent Dragons and Wales fans alike will awake to some slightly disheartening news this morning, as reports filter through of an ankle injury to star no.8 Taulupe Faletau. Having suffered the injury against Zebre in the Guiness Pro12 a few weeks back, Faletau’s condition has not improved and so he will be sent to see a specialist in the coming days. With the Dragons currently immersed in one of the league’s busiest periods in terms of the fixtures schedule, Faletau’s injury comes at an awful time, with his participation in any of the festive period clashes now in serious doubt. Initially diagnosed as a sprained ankle, Faletau’s case may well be slightly more severe, although head coach Lyn Jones refused to engage in any speculation as to the timeframe for Faletau’s absence, simply stating that the club wanted to do what was right for the player first and foremost, with an eye firmly fixed on his involvement in Wales’ Six Nations.

Edwards staying: Top 14 outfit Grenoble have today confirmed that prop forward Dayna Edwards has agreed terms on a contract extension at the club. With Edwards’ deal originally set to run out at the end of this season, Grenoble have moved quickly to retain the New Zealander’s services, thin him to the club until 2017. The former Reds prop, born in Whanganui in New Zealand, said he was delighted to be continuing his time at the club and in a city where both he and his family are happy.

Ryan Sheady