Rugby Union Today: Short side and Premiership preview
Sale Sharks Daniel du Preez evades a challenge during during the Gallagher Premiership match at Sandy Park, Exeter.
Another busy day in the rugby union game as we look at the main talking points ahead of the action in the Premiership and PRO14 this weekend.
What’s on the site
There are some big encounters in the Premiership and PRO14 this weekend and we have delved into the main issues going into the contests in ‘The short side.’
Four of those games take place on Friday and we have previewed all the Premiership clashes, which includes Sale Sharks’ match with Exeter Chiefs, and Benetton’s Italian derby against Zebre in the PRO14.
Elsewhere, James While takes a look at England’s back-row following the resumption of their domestic league. There were a number of impressive displays by prospective internationals and While delves into who should feature when the Six Nations concludes.
What’s in the news
All the teams were named for the upcoming Super Rugby AU games, with Nic White returning for the Brumbies and Ned Hanigan reaching 50 caps at the Waratahs.
Meanwhile, Worcester Warriors back Melani Nanai has received a three-week suspension after being sent-off against Gloucester. Nanai was dismissed for leading with his shoulder into the head of Jonny May and has duly been punished further for the indiscretion.
What’s on social media
Good to see that Jamie Roberts is doing well after testing positive for coronavirus but the Dragons centre wasn’t happy that confidential medical records were made public.
– Appreciate messages re. Covid. I’m feeling fine. Lot of DIY at home 🙌🏼
– Delighted no other positive tests and Welsh derby matches get 👍🏼
– How was my confidential medical information published? How’s that Editors code of conduct treating you @_AlexBywater @MailOnline ?
— Jamie Roberts (@Jamiehuwroberts) August 20, 2020
What’s on TV
Super Rugby AU flies the southern hemisphere flag this week and Sky Sports will be showing the Force v Reds and Brumbies v Waratahs. In the Premiership there’s a full fixture list on BT Sport while Channel 5 will also televise London Irish v Northampton. If that’s not enough, the PRO14 restarts on Friday on Premier Sports, with the big game coming on Saturday when Leinster take on Munster.