Rugby Union Today: Short side and European previews

Colin Newboult

Ulster's John Cooney during the Pool Three match of the Heineken Champions Cup at the Recreation Ground, Bath

Another busy day in the rugby union game as we look at the main talking points ahead of the big matches in the Champions Cup this weekend.

What’s on the site

There are some big encounters in the European Champions Cup this weekend and we have delved into the big issues going into the contests in ‘The short side.’

One of those huge matches takes place on Friday and we have previewed Ulster’s game against French giants Clermont Auvergne, with the winner putting themselves in a strong position in the group.

Finally, the salary cap fallout continues in the Premiership with Sale Sharks owner Simon Orange stating that it is ‘easy’ to breach the rules. Orange also insists that the regulations are crucial to prevent overspending in the competition.

What’s in the news

Saracens boss Mark McCall insists that his players will be available to feature for England during the Six Nations. Red Rose boss Eddie Jones had suggested that they may forgo the competition to focus on keeping the Londoners in the Premiership.

Meanwhile, centre Manu Tuilagi says that he has no intention of leaving Leicester Tigers and crossing codes to join Super League side Toronto Wolfpack. The Canadian outfit are financially well-backed and are reportedly interested in Tuilagi having already brought in Sonny Bill Williams, but the English back has refuted the rumour.

Elsewhere, there was unfortunately some sad news in the rugby world as Scotland and Lions legend Tom Smith revealed that he has been diagnosed with stage four cancer.

What’s on social media

Some effort in his final game from Rory Best, who nailed this conversion against Brazil.

What’s on TV

The Champions Cup continues this weekend on BT Sport where Ulster and Clermont Auvergne kick off proceedings on Friday. There are several other interesting clashes as Exeter Chiefs host Glasgow Warriors, Lyon face Leinster and Racing 92 visit Munster.