Rugby Union Today: Predictions and Aaron Cruden situation
Aaron Cruden of the Chiefs during the Round 14 Super Rugby match between the Blues and the Chiefs at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, Friday, May 26, 2017. (AAP Image/SNPA, David Rowland)
Another busy day in the rugby union game as we put our heads on the block and predict this weekend’s winners in the Rugby Championship.
Whatās on the site
New Zealand host South Africa while Australia take on Argentina in the Rugby Championship on Saturday and we have predicted who we think will come out on top in those matches.
Elsewhere, former All Blacks representative Aaron Cruden may return to Super Rugby after only extending his stay at Montpellier until November. The 50-times capped international signed a three-year deal in 2017 but will only provide World Cup cover before deciding his next move.
Whatās in the news
South Africa number eight Duane Vermeulen says that it is an āunbelievable honourā to captain the Springboks in their game against New Zealand. With Siya Kolisi out injured, Vermeulen has been handed the responsibility of leading Rassie Erasmus’ men.
Meanwhile, in Super Rugby, the Crusaders have found their replacement for the departing Brad Mooar ā who has taken the head coach’s role at the Scarlets ā with Sunwolves assistant coach Scott Hansen set to join the franchise.
What’s on social media
It is has been quite a journey for Alex Dombrandt, who has been called up to the England squad, but you could certainly see the potential in these clips from his time in university.
š± Just over a year ago @Alex_dombrandt was doing this for @cardiffmetrfc.
š« Today he flew out to join @EnglandRugby's World Cup training camp.#COYQ pic.twitter.com/H1S1PPGBeh
— Harlequins š (@Harlequins) July 25, 2019
What’s on TV
The Rugby Championship continues this weekend with New Zealand taking on South Africa and Australia hosting Argentina. Both games will be on Sky Sports, while they will also show two Currie Cup encounters.