Rugby Union Today: Semi-final build-up and stats debut

Another busy day in the rugby union game as the build-up continues ahead of the Super Rugby semi-finals plus our stats series kicks off.

What’s on the site

Crusaders centre Ryan Crotty has said that they will head into their Super Rugby semi-final against the Hurricanes in Christchurch on Saturday with confidence if they get their preparation right.

Meanwhile, in-form Lions hooker Malcolm Marx is expecting a tough physical battle when the Johannesburg-based side host the Waratahs in their own Super Rugby semi-final clash this weekend.

Our journey into stats series starts with a look at core skills in rugby while there is also news on a tackle law trial in England.

What’s in the news

Former Ulster, Bath and Exeter Chiefs second-row Ryan Caldwell has been convicted for having a blade in public. He entered a guilty plea and will appear in court again in two weeks to be sentenced.

Elsewhere, the Springboks have added eight Sharks to their training squad as they continue to prepare for the Rugby Championship.

What’s on social media

Former Scotland international lock Jim Hamilton is clearly not happy about the tackle trial…

I disagree with lowering the tackle line in Rugby. How many players have we seen injured in a “seat belt tackle”??
Lowering the point of contact is going to force both the tackler and adjusting tackler to go alot lower. IMO. This is going to cause more head injuries as a result

— Jim Hamilton ?? (@jimhamilton4) July 25, 2018

What’s on TV

Super Rugby has reached the semi-final stage and Sky Sports will show both of the matches. Coverage begins with the Crusaders hosting the Hurricanes in an all-New Zealand affair before the Lions take on the Waratahs in Johannesburg.