Rugby Union Today: PRO14 postponements and Marler defence
Another busy day in the rugby union game as coronavirus claims four matches in the PRO14 while there’s news from the Six Nations, including Danny Care’s take on that groin grab from Joe Marler.
What’s on the site
Round 14 and 15 games involving Italian sides Benetton and Zebre have been postponed, PRO14 Rugby announced on Tuesday. That means Cardiff Blues, Munster (twice) and Connacht will have spare weeks in March.
Meanwhile, Harlequins team-mate Care has defended England loosehead Marler after that incident at Twickenham on Saturday.
More news from the Six Nations sees Scotland flanker Hamish Watson say he is relieved their game with Wales is going ahead while Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has given his views after yesterday’s postponement.
What’s in the news
Harlequins wing Chris Ashton has spoken about his departure from Sale Sharks, saying he was shocked how quickly it happened.
What’s on social media
With no fixture this weekend, some of the England squad enjoyed a day out at Cheltenham races. Here they are in their suits.
🏇 Some of the England boys enjoying the #CheltenhamFestival. pic.twitter.com/ot4yHF3Q7B
— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) March 10, 2020
What’s on TV
With two postponements there’s just one Six Nations Round Five game this weekend as Wales face Scotland, live on BBC One.
Super Rugby continues with Round Seven starting on Friday with what should be a thriller between the Chiefs and Hurricanes. All of the seven matches, which run until Sunday, will be televised on Sky Sports.
Elsewhere, the Premiership Rugby Cup Final is live on BT Sport and takes place on Sunday when Sale Sharks host Harlequins.