Tuesday Morning Round Up

Semesa Rokoduguni called up to England squad

Semesa Rokoduguni has been called up into the England squad and replaces Elliot Daly, who was withdrawn from the squad after picking up a knee injury on the weekend.

Matt Mullan and Elliot Daly injury update

Wasps have confirmed that Matt Mullan has torn a tricep tendon which will require surgery. He is expected to be sidelined for approximately three months.

Elliot Daly suffered a grade two Medial Collateral Ligament. The club will continue to treat him this week and assess how the injury settles. He is then expected to undergo a two to three-week period of rehab.

Blaine Scully signs new Cardiff Blues contract

Blaine Scully has handed Cardiff Blues a boost by signing a new long-term contract to remain in the Welsh capital.
 
The USA captain’s existing deal was due to expire in the summer but he is the latest in a long line of players to commit his future to the Blues.

Matty Johnson joins Blues for 2018 Super Rugby

Southland's rookie of the year Matty Johnson has landed himself a Super Rugby contract with the Blues for the 2018 Super Rugby campaign.

The 23-year-old had been selected in an All Blacks sevens development team before word filtered through that the Blues were keen on him and he was pulled out of the sevens team.

13 New Zealanders named in 26-man Barbarians squad to play All Black

The squad includes former All Blacks Ben Franks and Steven Luatua, who are both now based in England.

Other All Blacks in Deans' squad are 2015 World Cup-winning wing Julian Savea and scrum-half Andy Ellis, who was a member of the 2011 World Cup-winning side.

Barbarians squad

Forwards: Ruan Ackermann (Gloucester), Dominic Bird (Chiefs), Willie Britz (Sunwolves), Sam Carter (Brumbies), Simone Favaro (Fiamme Oro), Ben Franks (London Irish), Dillon Hunt (Highlanders), Steven Luatua (Bristol), Atu Moli (Chiefs), Kwagga Smith (Lions), Ruan Smith (Toyota Verblitz), Adriaan Strauss (Bulls), Akker van der Merwe (Sharks), Jacques van Rooyen (Lions), Luke Whitelock (Highlanders & New Zealand)

Backs: Vince Aso (Hurricanes), George Bridge (Crusaders), Richard Buckman (Highlanders), Mitchell Drummond (Crusaders), Robert du Preez (Stormers), Andy Ellis (Kobelco Steelers), Richie Mo’unga (Crusaders), Taqele Naiyaravoro (Waratahs), Julian Savea (Hurricanes), Nic Stirzaker (Rebels), Harold Vorster (Lions)

Queensland Country ready for Drua