Top Stories of the Week

Top Stories of the Week

Six Nations respond to Fiji claims that they are joining the tournament

Following the Fijian Rugby Union's claim that the Flying Fijians are on the verge of joining the Six Nations in a competition set to kick off in November, a Six Nations spokesperson has told BBC Sport that the Pacific islanders may play in a new series of matches involving Six Nations teams but would not join the main competition.

Full story

Shannon Frizell - Player to watch:


Shannon Frizell was born in Tonga in 1994. A talented footballer, he represented the Tonga U17 national team. However, fate intervened in his sporting career and, that same year, at the age of 17, Frizell swapped the round ball for the oval one. He signed a development contract, into the Tasman Rugby Union and worked his way into the Highlanders set-up before becoming an All Black. Full story


Referees boss admits error on disallowed Damian McKenzie try:

New Zealand Rugby Referee boss Bryce Lawrence has admitted that Damian McKenzie's disallowed try on Sunday should have stood. Full story

Kini Murimurivalu signs for Tigers:

Murimurivalu joins the club following the departure of Telusa Veainu to Stade Francais.  The outside-back, capable of playing at full-back or on the wing, joins the club from La Rochelle, where he made more than 130 appearances in eight seasons at the French club.

Four Things You Didn't Know About: Leicester's New South African Kobus van Wyk:

The 28-year-old is currently playing for the Hurricanes in New Zealand’s Super Rugby Aotearoa after starting his career in at the Stormers and enjoying a stint at the Sharks. Full article

PRO14’s Ultimate XV:

Over the past few weeks, the Pro14 has been compiling a list of their Ultimate XV from the last 13 seasons as voted for by the fans, with two players going head-to-head and a winner being announced each day from June 30th. Read more

Johan Goosen facing R9m claim for shooting friend:

 

The 27-year-old's friend and employee, Armand Stoman, was rushed to hospital after being accidentally shot in the ankle with a hunting rifle while at the fullback's farm three years ago. Full story

How Leicester could line up when the Premiership returns:

While the club has managed to keep a number of key players in the likes of Jordan Taufua, George Ford and Ellis Genge, the mass departures have meant that Steve Borthwick has had to do some good business in the player market. Full story

All Black Great Sean Fitzpatrick Joins Scarlets' Board:

Scarlets have announced that former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick has been added to the club's Board, he played 92 Tests at hooker for New Zealand between 1986 and 1997, leading the side on 51 occasions. A member of the All Blacks team that lifted the inaugural 1987 Rugby World Cup, he is recognised as one of the greats of the world game.Full story

Nick Easter joins Newcastle Falcons as defence coach:

Nick Easter will be Newcastle Falcons’ defence coach following the club’s promotion back into the Premiership - the former England No 8 returning to his homeland after a successful spell coaching the Sharks in South Africa.

Eben Etzebeth signs fresh terms at Toulon:

World Cup Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth has signed a new deal with Top 14 club Toulon. The 28-year-old has extended his stay at the French club by signing a new three-year deal with the club that will see him remain at the club until June 2023.

Line Ups | Crusaders v Hurricanes:

Crusaders

Hurricanes

Hurricanes winger Ben Lam will play his 50th and final game for the Wellington-based side when they take on the Crusaders in Christchurch this Saturday.

Line Ups | Blues v Chiefs:

Blues

Chiefs

Blake Gibson and Beauden Barrett will make key appearances in the match, with two-time world player of the year Barrett making the first of his six starts for the Blues at first-five while Gibson returns after a hamstring twinge to play at openside in his 50th game.

Latest News