Archive for November, 2009
Harrison signs for Brumbies
Former Wallaby Justin Harrison will return to Australia for the new Super 14 season after being handed a lifeline by the Brumbies.
The 35-year-old is currently serving an eight-month suspension after admitting to three drug-related charges while playing for Guinness Premiership club Bath.
Harrison was banned in July for “actions which are prejudicial to the interests of [...]
All Blacks file eye-gouge complaint
The All Blacks have filed an official complaint over what they believe was an eye-gouge on prop Tony Woodcock but are determined not to let it detract from their best performance of the year.
New Zealand swept France aside 39-12 with a thrilling display at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille on Saturday night but their victory [...]
Preview: France v New Zealand
Having each claimed one of their two Tests this year, France and New Zealand come face to face again in Marseilles on Saturday.
While South Africa’s visit to Dublin is being billed as the ‘battle of the hemispheres’ thanks to the trophies won this year by the protagonists, the clash at the Stade Vélodrome certainly merits [...]
Johnno goes on the defensive
England manager Martin Johnson insists he will not be pressured into sacking his under-fire coaches just to appease “hysterical” critics.
Johnson’s side have been the subject of widespread criticism in the wake of a disappointing autumn series that included defeats to Australia and New Zealand either side of a far from impressive victory over Argentina. But [...]
Wales target pivotal Aussie Test
Warren Gatland insists Wales’ autumn Test with Australia is ‘pivotal’ in their 2011 Rugby World Cup build-up.
Wales coach Gatland says they should copy England’s model for world domination before their 2003 triumph.
“It is a real pivotal game in terms of our progression as we must win the big games at home, and regularly,” he said.
Gatland’s [...]
Three changes for All Blacks
New Zealand have made three changes to the team which defeated England 19-6 as they turn their attention to Saturday’s meeting with France in Marseille.
Prop Neemia Tialata replaces Owen Franks, flanker Jerome Kaino steps in for Adam Thomson, and Cory Jane will get the nod ahead of Zac Guildford on the right wing.
Hooker Corey Flynn [...]
Deans happy with Wallabies’ response
Australian coach Robbie Deans was a happy man after his second string’s 31-3 victory over Cardiff Blues.
Australian coach Robbie Deans was a happy man after his second string’s 31-3 victory over Cardiff Blues went some way to wiping out the memory of last weekend’s disaster at Murrayfield.
The Wallabies were beaten 9-8 by Andy Robinson’s side [...]
Ronan O’Gara out as Jonathan Sexton faces South Africa
Jonathan Sexton has usurped Ronan O’Gara for the Ireland number 10 jersey ahead of Saturday’s eagerly-awaited clash with South Africa at Croke Park.
Coach Declan Kidney has gone for the young Leinster fly-half after his five-star showing last week against Fiji.
There are six changes from that game with Cian Healy, David Wallace, Donncha O’Callaghan, Tommy Bowe, [...]
Rugby bosses ponder law changes
Rugby’s governing body could consider law changes in response to the number of recent injuries and a perception the sport is becoming less entertaining.
Injuries have become a major issue this season, while the trend has grown for kicking rather than running the ball.
The International Rugby Board council meets next week, and Rugby Football Union chairman [...]
England can win Six Nations
Lawrence Dallaglio believes England can win the 2010 Six Nations despite two defeats in their three autumn Tests.
The former England captain told BBC Sport that Martin Johnson’s men can challenge France, who he believes will start favourites in a post-Lions year.
“This may surprise a few people, but in my view England will probably go on [...]