Rugby Union Today: New deal for Conor Murray

Adam Kyriacou

Another busy day in the rugby union game as the Irish Rugby Football Union announces Conor Murray’s new deal plus we have Loose Pass.

What’s on the site

Yes, it’s good news for Munster and Ireland as British & Irish Lions scrum-half Murray inks a contract until at least June 22. Meanwhile in England, Bath wing Semesa Rokoduguni has also agreed a new deal.

We bring you Loose Pass on coach rants, force dynamics and Nicolas Sanchez and we’ve also picked out our five challengers for the Champions Cup, which kicks off on Friday with Leinster against Wasps.

What’s in the news

Italy head coach Conor O’Shea has announced a 37-man squad, which includes Johan Meyer and Jimmy Tuivaiti, for November.

On the disciplinary front, Worcester’s Ryan Bower has been banned for two weeks after he admitted dangerous play in a ruck.

What’s on social media

On World Mental Health Day, Bristol Bears player Callum Sheedy posted this picture which we feel deserves to be shared.

What’s on TV

Following the end of the Rugby Championship, all attention turns to Europe and the start of the Champions Cup. It begins with title holders Leinster hosting Wasps and it will be shown on BT Sport, who have exclusive rights this season.

On Sky Sports, the Currie Cup and Mitre 10 Cup competition continues with Southland and Auckland kicking off proceedings on Wednesday.