Rugby Union Today: Saints star staying at the Gardens
Another busy day in the rugby union game as exciting centre Rory Hutchinson signs a new contract at Northampton Saints.
What’s on the site
The Scotland international centre has put pen to paper on a fresh deal in a major boost for the Franklin’s Gardens outfit.
However, there’s rough news for recent Wales call-up Willis Halaholo as the centre is ruled out with a knee injury. Cardiff Blues later announced the short-term signing of Filo Paulo as they look to bolster their pack.
Elsewhere, Toulouse and South Africa star Cheslin Kolbe has been crowned the Top 14’s best player of last season while Alan Dickens is taking over as England’s U20 head coach, joining from Northampton Saints.
What’s in the news
BBC Sport are reporting that Ospreys have parted company with head coach Allen Clarke after a dismal stretch of results.
One side in contrasting form is Bristol Bears and they’re reportedly chasing Fiji star Semi Radradra in a big money arrival.
What’s on social media
After being ruled out for a significant spell, Halaholo has responded to the “haters” on social media with a post on Twitter.
Last message from me. All the doubters haters and people that don’t think I belong here u got your wish👍🏾 u got 9months to get better especially the ones that think it’s ok for the other two Kiwi born to represent Wales but not me 🤔
— Willis Halaholo (@whalaholo) November 26, 2019
What’s on TV
Domestic action in Europe returns for one week with BT Sport showing three Premiership games as Bath take on Saracens, Northampton host Leicester in the East Midlands derby and Harlequins face Gloucester.
In the PRO14 action this coming weekend, all the matches will be broadcast on Premier Sports with Ulster versus Scarlets, Munster versus Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors versus Leinster the standout fixtures.