Rugby Union Today: Year in Numbers and Rainbow Cup

Adam Kyriacou

Another busy day in rugby union as we publish our The Year in Numbers plus there’s news of a new competition in 2021.

What’s on the site

The Year in Numbers looks back over what’s been a disjointed 12 months for obvious reasons. There’s been some key digits though included in this list.

We’re all looking forward to 2021 and there’ll be a tournament to enjoy as the Rainbow Cup sees four South African teams face the PRO14’s 12 outfits.

Elsewhere, there’s been another cancellation in the Premiership on Boxing Day as the Bath versus London Irish fixture is called off due to Covid-19.

What’s in the news

The match officials for the 2021 Six Nations have been announced, with Mike Adamson the first Scot in 19 years to referee a fixture in the Championship.

Rugby Australia have announced the appointment of Andy Marinos as its new chief executive officer after a unanimous endorsement from the RA Board.

What’s on social media

With news that some areas are being reclassified in terms of tiers, Bristol posted this about having to halt ticket sales for their game against Newcastle.

What’s on TV

After two weeks of Champions Cup and Challenge Cup, it’s back to the Premiership and PRO14 this weekend as teams battle it out on Boxing Day and December 27. BT Sport will televise Harlequins v Bristol Bears and Northampton v Worcester Warriors on Saturday before showing Sale Sharks v Wasps on Sunday.

There’s festive derbies to enjoy in the PRO14 and those kick off on Saturday in Italy with Zebre taking on Benetton in one of four games over the course of the day, with one taking place on Sunday. All the weekend matches will be televised on Premier Sports.