Rugby Union Today: John Mitchell signs new England deal

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Another busy day in the rugby union game as it was announced that coach John Mitchell would remain part of England’s backroom staff until at least 2021.

What’s on the site

England have managed to keep hold of coach John Mitchell, with the defence guru signing a new contract that will keep him in the position until the end of 2021.

Elsewhere, Super charged is back as we look ahead to the last round of the regular Super Rugby season, which sees the Stormers and Sharks go head-to-head in a South African derby, while Brodie Retallick returns to action following his injury.

Finally, the teams were announced for Saturday’s Super Rugby encounters, with influential prop Tendai Mtawarira being named in the Sharks XV and Sonny Bill Williams recovering from his shoulder issue to start for the Blues. Check out all the squads in our Team Tracker.

What’s in the news

Tonga are interested in offering sacked Wallabies full-back Israel Folau a way back into international rugby in time for the 2023 World Cup. Despite obviously being an Australian representative, Folau, who has Tongan heritage, could still play for the Pacific Islanders should he sit out international rugby for three years and then play for the country at sevens in an Olympic qualifying event.

Meanwhile, in the northern hemisphere, director of rugby Alan Solomons has extended his contract with Premiership club Worcester Warriors until the end of the 2021/22 campaign.

What’s on social media

A special day for Wales lock Alun Wyn Jones, who was given the freedom of Swansea after his outstanding achievements in the sport.

What’s on TV

The Top 14 concludes this weekend when Toulouse and Clermont Auvergne, who finished in the top-two during the regular season, go head-to-head on Sky Sports in what should be a thrilling final in Paris.

That channel also broadcasts all the Super Rugby action as the competition reaches the final round. The Conference winners have been decided but it is very tight in the race for the other play-off positions.

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