Rugby Union Today: Short side and McConnochie debut

Colin Newboult

The Bledisloe Cup is seen as the Wallabies stand for the National Anthem prior to the Bledisloe Cup match between the Australian Wallabies and the New Zealand All Blacks at Optus Stadium in Perth, Saturday, August 10, 2019. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

Another busy day in the rugby union game as we look at the main talking points in the Bledisloe Cup and World Cup warm-ups this weekend.

What’s on the site

It is a huge weekend of international rugby and all the big issues are discussed in ‘the short side,‘ including the Bledisloe Cup and a potential new number one in the world rankings.

Elsewhere, check out the teams ahead of the action on Saturday, with Ruaridh McConnochie being named in the England side to face Wales, while Warren Gatland has made three changes for the game in Cardiff.

What’s in the news

Rory Arnold has been ruled out of this weekend’s Bledisloe Cup clash, meaning Adam Coleman has come into the XV ahead of Australia’s game with New Zealand.

Meanwhile, the All Blacks have axed experienced trio Ben Smith, Rieko Ioane and Owen Franks, with George Bridge, Sevu Reece and Nepo Laulala starting instead.

In France, Fijian-born wing Alivereti Raka will make his debut for Les Bleus when they take on Scotland in Nice. Raka qualifies on residency and has been a standout for Clermont Auvergne over the past three years.

What’s on social media

It will be a wonderful occasion for the Davies family this weekend.

What’s on TV

The World Cup warm-ups continue this weekend as Wales face England on Sky Sports and Channel 4. There are also the reverse fixtures from the final round of the Rugby Championship as New Zealand host Australia and South Africa take on Argentina.

Finally, that channel has matches from the Currie Cup and Mitre 10 Cup, which continues on Friday with North Harbour’s game against Counties Manukau.