Rugby Union Today: Greatest games and Vunipola comments
Saracens' Billy Vunipola on the charge during the European Rugby Champions Cup pool four match at Allianz Park, Barnet.
Another busy day in the rugby union game as we look back at one of the best Super 12 matches ever as the Blues beat the Crusaders in Christchurch.
What’s on the site
It was 16 years ago when the Blues’ Carlos Spencer produced one of the most memorable moments in the history of Super Rugby and that encounter with the Crusaders is the next in our ‘Greatest games’ series.
Elsewhere, there was plenty of fallout from the weekend when a number of Premiership players decided not to take the knee. Saracens’ Billy Vunipola was one of those and the back-rower explained why.
Finally, check out the officials who will be taking charge of the matches this weekend. Matt Carley is the referee for the big clash in England’s top-flight as Sale Sharks and Exeter Chiefs go head-to-head.
What’s in the news
Dragons centre Jamie Roberts has reportedly tested positive for coronavirus. Roberts, who has volunteered at the National Health Service during the pandemic, is now isolating, according to stories in the media.
Meanwhile, next year’s British and Irish Lions tour could well be postponed if travelling supporters are prevented from attending. It is still expected to go ahead but, if Lions supporters are unable to fly to South Africa due to Covid-19, it may be abandoned altogether.
Finally, Harlequins and England back-rower Jack Clifford has unfortunately been forced to call time on his playing career. Clifford has struggled with injury over the past few years and has now announced his retirement after suffering a dislocated shoulder on his 100th appearance for Quins.
What’s on social media
Not one who is afraid to voice his opinion, Joe Marler appears to be criticising the gruelling schedule many of the players may face after the announcement from the Professional Game Board yesterday.
https://twitter.com/JoeMarler/status/1296097852461064193
What’s on TV
Super Rugby AU flies the southern hemisphere flag this week and Sky Sports will be showing the Force v Reds and Brumbies v Waratahs. In the Premiership there’s a full fixture list on BT Sport while Channel 5 will also televise London Irish v Northampton. If that’s not enough, the PRO14 restarts on Friday on Premier Sports, with the big game coming on Saturday when Leinster take on Munster.