Rugby Union Today: Short side and Friday’s previews

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Baths' Taulupe Faletau scores their first try during the Aviva Premiership match at the Recreation Ground, Bath.

Another busy day in theĀ rugby unionĀ game as we look at the main talking points ahead of the action in the Premiership and PRO14 this weekend.

Whatā€™s on the site

There are some big encounters in the Premiership and PRO14 this weekend andĀ we have delved into the big issues going into the contests in ā€˜The short side.ā€™

Three of those matches take place on Friday and we have previewed Sale v Harlequins, as well as the two contests in the PRO14 where Ulster face Munster and Cardiff Blues host the Scarlets.

Finally, it was announced that Nigel Wray will step down from his role as Saracens chairman with immediate effect. Wray has invested heavily into the Londoners and has been the club’s main backer for 25 years.

Whatā€™s in the news

Glasgow Warriors have confirmed that second-row Leone Nakawara will join them on a deal until the end of the season, subject to visa and medical. The Fijian starred for the Scottish outfit between 2013 and ’16 and has now returned to the club after his contract at Racing 92 was cancelled.

Continuing with the Glasgow theme and their winger, Rory Hughes, has joined Premiership strugglers Leicester Tigers on loan for the rest of the campaign, although he can be recalled.

What’s on social media

It’s fair to say there was a mixed reaction over Nigel Wray’s legacy after he stepped down as Saracens chairman, but he did have a significant impact on English and European rugby.

What’s on TV

The Premiership and PRO14 continues this weekend as the competitions reach rounds eight and 10 respectively. In England it all kicks off on BT Sport on Friday with Sale v Harlequins, while Gloucester v Bath and Wasps v Northampton are also televised.

Premier Sport has the PRO14 action and that also begins this Friday with Ulster v Munster and Cardiff Blues v Scarlets.

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