Rugby Union Today: Loose Pass and blow for spectators

Adam Kyriacou
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Another busy day in the rugby union game as we publish Loose Pass plus there’s bad news from the United Kingdom government regarding supporters at grounds, which is concerning for clubs that are already struggling financially.

What’s on the site

Following an absorbing European knockout weekend, Loose Pass is here to discuss finals rugby, missing emotion and a mildly pot/kettle moment.

An update from Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove on fans returning to grounds was unfortunately confirmed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Elsewhere, Leicester Tigers have signed Argentina international fly-half Joaquín Díaz Bonilla while Newcastle have named Mark Wilson as captain.

What’s in the news

Ahead of the Champions Cup semi-final on Saturday, Exeter centre Ollie Devoto believes his team must stop Toulouse’s momentum if they are to win.

Meanwhile, French Rugby Federation President Bernard Laporte is reportedly being questioned for ties with Montpellier owner Mohamed Altrad.

What’s on social media

There seems to be a day for everything nowadays but we guess with videos like this from World Rugby’s Twitter page, we should get behind #HobbitDay.

What’s on TV

It’s Champions Cup semi-final weekend and both matches will be shown on BT Sport. Racing 92 meet Saracens and Exeter face Toulouse on Saturday.

The Challenge Cup will also be broadcast on the channel as Bristol Bears take on Bordeaux-Begles on Friday before Leicester visit Toulon on Saturday.

Finally, there is plenty of Mitre 10 Cup action and all those matches will be televised by Sky Sports. It begins with Wellington against Bay of Plenty on Friday, while Counties Manukau and Northland complete proceedings in New Zealand on Sunday.

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