Rugby Union Today: Six Nations teams and Super charged

Colin Newboult

England's Ben Youngs (left) and Willi Heinz during the training session at Pennyhill Park, Bagshot.

Another busy day in the rugby union game as England, Wales and Scotland named their teams for the upcoming Six Nations encounters this weekend.

What’s on the site

Ben Youngs has been dropped by England for Saturday’s clash against Scotland, with Willi Heinz coming into the XV, but the Leicester scrum-half will take his place among the replacements. However, prop Joe Marler has been ousted from the squad completely following the return of Mako Vunipola.

Meanwhile, Scotland have made fewer changes to their side for the game at Murrayfield. There is just one alteration to the starting XV with Magnus Bradbury recovering from injury to take his place ahead of Nick Haining at number eight.

Wales also named their squad with Nick Tompkins getting an opportunity in the team at outside centre. That means George North shifts to wing, forcing Johnny McNicholl to drop down to the bench.

Finally, ‘Super charged’ returns, which delves into the big talking points heading into the southern hemisphere action. This week sees an all-South African derby between the Stormers and Bulls, while talented playmakers Elton Jantjies and James O’Connor face-off.

What’s in the news

Ireland and Ulster wing Jacob Stockdale has joined Leinster second-row James Ryan in signing an IRFU contract. It runs for three years which will take Stockdale to the end of the 2022/23 season.

Elsewhere, England’s Lewis Ludlam, who starts at blindside flanker for this weekend’s clash against Scotland, has laid down the gauntlet by stating that his side are ready to go ‘to war’ on Saturday.

What’s on social media

Move over Anthony Bouthier…

What’s on TV

It’s Round Two in the Six Nations this weekend as Ireland take on Wales and Scotland face England on Saturday before Sunday’s game sees France hosting Italy. Those games will be covered by ITV and BBC.

Super Rugby also continues with Sky Sports televising that competition, starting with the Highlanders facing the Sharks.

 

Features