Rugby Union Today: Final two State of the Nations

Colin Newboult

France's Antoine Dupont during the Six Nations rugby union tournament match between France and England at the stade de France, in Saint Denis, on the outskirts of Paris, on February 2, 2020. Photo by Christian Liewig /ABACAPRESS.COM

Another busy day in the rugby union game as focus shifted to the teams sitting in the top two positions in the Six Nations table, France and England.

What’s on the site

After a difficult start in the recent Six Nations, England began to find their form, defeating Ireland and Wales with much-improved performances, and they get a positive review in our ‘State of the Nation’ series.

Elsewhere, we also take a look at France, who have similarly enjoyed the past few weeks on the field, overcoming the Red Rose, Italy and Wales. With Fabien Galthie naming such a young and inexperienced squad for the tournament, the future looks bright for Les Bleus.

What’s in the news

England legend Neil Back has criticised rugby’s disciplinary system following the fallout from the Red Rose’s game against Wales in the Six Nations. Joe Marler was banned for 10 weeks for grabbing Alun Wyn Jones’ genitals but Eddie Jones, who described referee Ben O’Keeffe as being the opposition’s 16th man, did not receive any punishment.

Meanwhile, the Welsh Rugby Union has warned that they expect to make a significant financial loss this year due to all action being suspended because of the coronavirus outbreak.

What’s on social media

If you’re self-isolating what better way to spend it than to play an absolute classic?

What’s on TV

All potential rugby union action has been postponed due to the coronavirus.

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