RU Today: My rugby hero and news from Sale Sharks

David Skippers

Photo action of Schalk Brits(c) during Rugby World Cup 2019 Pool B Match between South Africa and Namibia at City Of Toyota Stadium on September 28, 2019 in Toyota , Aichi , Japan. (Photo by Muhammad Amir Abidin/NurPhoto)

Another busy day in the rugby union game as we bring you a My rugby hero piece on former Saracens and Springboks hooker Schalk Brits plus all the big news.

What’s on the site

Sarries legend Brits is our focus today as we pay tribute to his career, in particular his role in helping the club win the Premiership for the first time in 2011.

Elsewhere, Sale Sharks have revealed that their players have agreed to take permanent pay cuts due to the financial issues the game is facing with the coronavirus pandemic.

What’s in the news

In Australia, former Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika has hit back at criticism from selector Michael O’Connor, who criticised Cheika’s methods at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Meanwhile, Saracens second-row Callum Hunter-Hill has has pledged his long-term future to the club after signing a permanent contract.

What’s on social media

Lionel Messi’s brilliance as a footballer has led to a popular rugby tactic being tried on him.

What’s on tv

There are two Super Rugby Aotearoa games live on Sky Sports this weekend, kicking off with the Chiefs against Blues.