Rugby Union Today: State of the Nations
Another busy day in the rugby union game as we take a look at Scotland, Wales and Ireland following their Six Nations campaigns.
What’s on the site
After Italy, England and France’s Six Nations campaigns were dissected, we took at look at Scotland, Wales and Ireland in State of the Nation.
Meanwhile, we have team announcements for the Bulls, Crusaders, Rebels and Sharks ahead of Friday’s Super Rugby games.
What’s in the news
England head coach Eddie Jones has been backed by the Rugby Football Union despite finishing in fifth position in the Six Nations.
Gloucester have confirmed their latest signing, with South African hooker Franco Marais arriving this summer from Super Rugby side the Sharks.
Worcester Warriors have announced that Francois Hougaard has committed his long-term future to the club by signing a new contract to keep him at Sixways until 2021.
What’s on social media
Stars of the international game including Ireland fly-half Johnny Sexton, former Ireland loose forward Jamie Heaslip and former All Black Conrad Smith gathered in Dublin as International Rugby Players announced its move to the Irish capital.
Stars of the international game including @IrishRugby’s Johnny Sexton, @jamieheaslip, former All Black Conrad Smith and @EnglandRugby’s @RachaelBurf12 gathered in Dublin as International Rugby Players announced its move to the Irish capital: https://t.co/pFMledOteh pic.twitter.com/2goDZGURGQ
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) March 21, 2018
What’s on TV
The Six Nations may be over but there is still plenty of rugby to enjoy, with Super Rugby, PRO14 and Top 14 all taking place on Sky Sports this weekend.
In the Premiership, there are four matches on BT Sport with Bath v Exeter kicking off proceedings on Friday night. Saracens and Harlequins then go head-to-head at the London Stadium before Newcastle Falcons face Northampton Saints at St James’ Park, the home of the football team. A Midlands’ derby completes the action when Leicester and Wasps face-off.