Rugby Union Today: Loose Pass and team news

Another busy day in the rugby union game as Loose Pass returned to Planet Rugby to provide its unique take on several topics in the sport.

What’s on the site

Scott Barrett’s red card was the main topic of conversation for Loose Pass, while the column also discussed the new law trials which are taking place in Australia.

Elsewhere, Scotland and South Africa named their teams for this weekend’s World Cup warm-ups, with Duncan Taylor returning for Gregor Townsend’s men and Schalk Brits captaining the Springboks for the first time.

Finally, our ‘My Rugby World Cup hero’ feature continues, where we look at Ireland great Keith Wood, who remarkably scored four tries against the USA in 1999.

What’s in the news

South Africa will be without coach Swys de Bruin at the World Cup after they announced the Lions boss had stepped down from his role as attack consultant.

Meanwhile, Ireland fly-half Joey Carbery is in a race to be fit for the global tournament following an injury he sustained in the team’s victory over Italy. The pivot remains in the squad, though, despite Joe Schmidt reducing the group down to 40 after cutting three more players.

What’s on social media

This is a nice touch from England newbie Lewis Ludlam, who made his debut against Wales on Sunday.

13 years ago I promised my primary school teacher if I ever played for England id get her tickets to my first game to thank her for her support. Can’t believe we actually managed to track her down! pic.twitter.com/Wi7060esr1

— Lewis Wesley Ludlam (@LewisLudlam) August 13, 2019

What’s on TV

The World Cup warm-ups continue this weekend as Wales face England on Sky Sports and Channel 4. There are also the reverse fixtures from the final round of the Rugby Championship as New Zealand host Australia and South Africa take on Argentina.

Finally, that channel has matches from the Currie Cup and Mitre 10 Cup, which starts on Thursday with Northland’s game against Auckland.