Rugby Union Today: Looking ahead to the European action

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Saracens Owen Farrell kicks a penalty during the Gallagher Premiership match at Allianz Park, London.

Another busy day in the rugby union game as we look ahead to the action in the Champions Cup this weekend after the teams were named.

What’s on the site

Saracens have named a strong side to face Munster in their Champions Cup clash this weekend with Owen Farrell selected in the team alongside fellow internationals Jamie George, Elliot Daly and the Vunipola brothers, Billy and Mako.

On Sunday, Exeter Chiefs will look to move a significant step closer to the quarter-finals when they take on Sale Sharks at Sandy Park. They have chosen an unchanged line-up with star full-back Stuart Hogg being passed fit to play following a head injury.

Elsewhere, our ‘My rugby hero’ feature continues with ex-England flanker Steffon Armitage, who starred for Toulon during their remarkable run in Europe which saw them claim three titles in succession.

What’s in the news

Exeter Chiefs’ coaches, including director of rugby Rob Baxter, will be staying in Devon for at least four more years after signing new contracts with the West Countrymen.

Meanwhile, former All Blacks boss Graham Henry has criticised the selection process after New Zealand Rugby completed their search for a new head coach. The role was eventually given to Ian Foster but Henry, who was part of the panel that appointed Foster, felt that there weren’t enough applicants.

What’s on social media

Both brutality and dexterity from Kenya in the Sevens earlier on Friday.

What’s on TV

The Champions Cup continues this weekend and BT Sport will broadcast all the games from Round Four. It is the second part of the double-header as Leinster and Northampton, Munster and Saracens, and Harlequins and Ulster are among those to do battle once again.

Elsewhere, the World Rugby Sevens Series comes from Cape Town this week and that will continue to be shown on Sky Sports.

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