Rugby Union Today: Chris Ashton gets England recall

Adam Kyriacou

Another busy day in the rugby union game as wing Chris Ashton was named in England’s training squad after his move to Sale Sharks.

What’s on the site

We begin to look ahead to the Super Rugby final with a video of last year’s showpiece event, which saw the Crusaders triumph over the Lions.

John Nicholson returns to Planet Rugby with a column looking at doping and the case of Ashley Johnson, after the Wasps forward received a backdated six-month suspension.

What’s in the news

Chris Ashton edged closer to playing for England once again after being named in the 44-man training squad. The wing was ineligible when plying his trade over in Toulon but has returned to the Premiership, joining Sale Sharks.

In Super Rugby, the Crusaders and Lions have named their teams for the showpiece event, with both sides largely keeping faith with the squads that won their respective semi-finals.

What’s on social media

The inclusion of Chris Ashton in the England training squad has received plenty of support:

What’s on TV

It is the showpiece event in the Super Rugby calendar this weekend as the Crusaders take on the Lions in Christchurch. Sky Sports will once again broadcast the game as the New Zealanders attempt to defend their title.