Rugby Union Today: Trio name Six Nations squads

Colin Newboult

Gloucester's Louis Rees-Zammit scores his sides third try during the Gallagher Premiership match between Gloucester and Worcester Warriors at Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester.

Another busy day in the rugby union game as Ireland, Wales and Scotland all announced their squads for the upcoming Six Nations Championship.

What’s on the site

Johnny Sexton has taken over the Ireland captaincy from Rory Best after new head coach Andy Farrell confirmed his 35-man squad for the Six Nations. There are five uncapped players, including young Leinster trio Ronan Kelleher, Caelan Doris and Max Deegan, but Stuart McCloskey has once again been overlooked.

Wales have also opted for youth after selecting 18-year-old teen sensation Louis Rees-Zammit in their 38-man group. Rees-Zammit has been in stunning form since breaking into the Gloucester first team and joins former England U20 player Nick Tompkins in the squad.

Elsewhere, full-back Stuart Hogg will skipper Scotland for the upcoming tournament. Boss Gregor Townsend has also decided to recall Rory Hutchinson and Huw Jones after both missed the World Cup in Japan.

Finally, Loose Pass returned to discuss a couple of aspects from the rugby world in its own inimitable way, including the recent law trials announced by World Rugby.

What’s in the news

Some rare positive news has emanated from the Ospreys after the Welsh side announced that talented centre Owen Watkin has agreed a new contract with the region.

Meanwhile, the Hurricanes will have co-captains for the 2020 Super Rugby season with All Blacks duo Dane Coles and TJ Perenara sharing the responsibility when their campaign starts in February.

What’s on social media

That aforementioned Watkin deal was well received by Ospreys supporters, but the way it was announced has been mocked by rugby fans.

What’s on TV

It is the final round of the Champions Cup pool stages and BT Sport will again show all 10 games. There are several interesting contests, including Lyon v Northampton, Saracens v Racing 92 and Toulouse v Gloucester.