O’Mahony fully fit but Argentina Test ‘might be too soon’ for Kearney
Murray Kinsella reports from Chicago JOE SCHMIDT SAYS Peter O’Mahony is fully fit ahead of Saturday’s November Test against Argentina in Dublin, but fullback Rob Kearney is a doubt with a shoulder issue. Leinster man Kearney suffered the injury while playing for his province two weekends ago and is now in a race against time…
Fiji-born wing Cokanasiga handed England debut as Jones rings changes
BATH WING JOE Cokanasiga has been handed his England debut on his 21st birthday as head coach Eddie Jones announced 11 changes to his starting side for Saturday’s Test against Japan at Twickenham [KO 3pm, Sky Sports]. Fiji-born flyer Cokanasiga takes over on the right wing from Chris Ashton, who shifts across to the left…
Bastareaud slams ‘pathetic’ and ‘shameful’ France
MATHIEU BASTAREAUD WAS overheard by television microphones describing France’s shock 21-14 defeat to Fiji as “pathetic” and “shameful”. Les Bleus had never lost to Fiji in nine previous attempts and had won their six home encounters against them without conceding a first-half try. But scores from Semi Radradra and Josua Tuisova, coupled with three crucial second-half…
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Ulster release South African prop from his contract after just three appearances
ULSTER HAVE CONFIRMED the news that Schalk van der Merwe has been granted an early release from his contract to return home to South Africa, having played just three games for the province. The loosehead prop — who has not featured for Ulster this season — was under contract at Kingspan Stadium until the end…
Dublin derby for champions Lansdowne and this weekend’s AIL previews
All-Ireland League, Division 1A [Saturday, 2.30pm unless stated] Dublin University (4th) v Lansdowne (2nd), College Park THE BIG TESTS continue to come thick and fast for Dublin University who, just a week on from claiming the scalp of Clontarf, host defending champions Lansdowne tomorrow. These are two of the division’s form teams with 10 wins…
Ireland captain Best backs Schmidt to lead the Lions in 2021
RORY BEST BELIEVES Joe Schmidt would be a great pick to lead the Lions in 2021, despite his impending Ireland exit. Schmidt will hand over the Ireland reins to his defence coach Andy Farrell after the 2019 Rugby World Cup to spend more time with his family. However, Ulster hooker Best considers the 53-year-old, who…
Open thread: What are you most looking forward to in the 2019 sporting year?
2019 COULD POTENTIALLY be a massive year for Irish sport. Naturally, our starting point is the Rugby World Cup in September where Ireland will go deservedly go into the tournament as favourites. Joe Schmidt’s side were always a strong prospect for the World Cup, but that historic victory over the All Blacks on home soil…
Van Graan impressed with ‘mostly everything’ about in-form Connacht
MUNSTER COACH Johann van Graan said they will need to produce a quality display in Galway if they are to end a six-match losing run away to Irish provinces. The South African has been impressed with Connacht’s form this season and knows that old acquaintance Andy Friend will have his men charged up for the…
Major Six Nations blow for Wales as Faletau fractures his arm
BATH HAVE CONFIRMED that Wales number eight Taulupe Faletau fractured his arm during last weekend’s Heineken Champions Cup clash with Wasps. Although Bath did not confirm how long Faletau will be sidelined for, the unfortunately-timed injury means Faletau is set to miss the majority of the upcoming Six Nations. Faletau is first-choice for Wales at number…