Rugby Union Today: Loose Pass and Gossip
PARIS, FRANCE - FEBRUARY 01: Louis Picamoles of France is tackled by Liam WIlliams of Wales as Romain Ntamack supports during the Gunness Six Nations match between France and Wales at Stade de France on February 01, 2019 in Paris, France. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Another busy day in the rugby union game as Loose Pass returned to Planet Rugby to take a look at France’s dreadful loss to Wales in the Six Nations opener.
What’s on the site
Loose Pass delved into the French rugby psyche after their defeat to Wales in the Six Nations. Jacques Brunel’s men were in command at half-time but somehow managed to succumb to the Welsh in Paris, losing 24-19.
Elsewhere, plenty of rumours are swirling with clubs in Europe looking to bolster their ranks for next season. All Blacks star Brodie Retallick is one of those to be linked with a move and we have details of his reported transfer in the gossip column.
What’s in the news
Drew Mitchell has criticised New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen over comments aimed at Australia boss Michael Cheika on Monday.
Meanwhile, there was plenty of activity in the market after Gloucester signed Joe Simpson from Wasps, with Ben Vellacott heading in the other direction, ahead of the 2019/20 season.
Finaly, there was good news for the All Blacks and Hurricanes as centre Ngani Laumape extended his contract with the NZRU until at least 2021.
What’s on social media
Manu Tuilagi certainly looks to be getting back to his best, having enjoyed a fine outing for England last Saturday, and this is probably what it feels like for the defender when he is coming at you.
Tuilagi out for a brisk morning jog https://t.co/TQZ8MiGSGs
— Paul Williams (@thepaulwilliams) February 6, 2019
What’s on TV
Six Nations hits Round Two and kicks off on Saturday with Scotland versus Ireland on the BBC. ITV then televises Italy versus Wales before Sunday’s clash between England and France will also be shown on ITV.