Wednesday Round-Up

Kepu signs on: French Top 14 outfit Bordeaux-Begles have confirmed the acquisition of Wallaby front row forward Sekope Kepu today on a three year contract. Kepu, who has already notched up a half century of international appearances in the famous green and gold jersey for Australia, will link up with his new teammates following the climax of the World Cup later this year in England.Currently plying his trade with the reigning Super Rugby champions the Waratahs, Kepu has had an impressive last 18 months and at just 28 years old, still has a long way to develop in tighthead prop terms. The deal comes a couple of months after Bordeaux announced they had completed the signing of Wallaby utility back Adam Ashley-Cooper, who will also join after rugby’s showpiece event later this year. Both Kepu and Ashley-Cooper are just two confirmed in what is expected to be a mass exodus out of Australia, with the likes of Nic White also being linked with a move to France and Montpellier in particular, where the scrumhalf would link up with former Brumbies head coach Jake White.

No go for Cuthbert: In a surprising turn of events, Wales winger Alex Cuthbert has become the first player to reject the offer of a dual contract with the Welsh Rugby Union and regional outfit the Cardiff Blues. Cuthbert, who at 24 has already amassed 30 international appearances for his country, scoring on 14 occasions since his 2011 debut, has a year left to run on his current contract with the side from the Welsh capital. However, despite being offered the opportunity of a dual contract, Cuthbert has rejected the approach, sparking speculation that he is set to leave Welsh shores upon the end of his current domestic deal. According to Warren Gatland, who broke the news at his squad announcement press conference, Cuthbert’s rejection wil not impact upon selection decisions and confirmed that the deal offered to Cuthbert, will now be put in front of another deserving player.

Ryan Sheady