Rugby Union Today: Players to watch and short side

Colin Newboult
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GLOUCESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 16: Danny Cipriani of Gloucester applauds the fans after victory in the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Gloucester Rugby and Leicester Tigers at Kingsholm Stadium on November 16, 2018 in Gloucester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

Another busy day in the rugby union game as we look at seven players who we think are worth following heading into the World Cup.

What’s on the site

It is going to be a big year for players, both experienced and inexperienced, and we have picked the most interesting stories in World Cup year, including James O’Connor, Danny Cipriani and Johnny Sexton.

Elsewhere, the short side returns to Planet Rugby as we look ahead to the main stories in the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14. Our game of the week in England’s top-tier is Sale v Saracens and there is a preview on that contest, which takes place at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday.

Finally, the All Blacks have once again treated the supporters to some thrilling rugby and their 10 best tries are shown in this video.

What’s in the news

Danny Cipriani has not given up hope on an England recall, despite being omitted from the squad that took on South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia in November.

Meanwhile, Alun Wyn Jones is confident in Wales’ chances heading into the global tournament in Japan, stating his delight with the depth of the squad they have at their disposal.

In the club game, James Lowe has been suspended for two weeks for a dangerous tackle on Andrew Conway, while Mark Wilson has signed a new contract at Newcastle Falcons.

What’s on social media

Excellent to see the RFU hand out 28 full-time contracts to the women’s team after they announced their Elite Player Squad for the forthcoming season.

What’s on TV

The domestic leagues continue in Europe this weekend with BT Sport showing Sale v Saracens, Leicester Tigers v Gloucester and Wasps v Northampton in the Premiership.

On Sky Sports, Racing 92 host Toulon and La Rochelle visit Clermont Auvergne in the Top 14, while Premier Sports once again have extensive coverage of the PRO14.

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