“A Season in Hell” was Midi Olympique’s headline at the start of this month, and few at Racing 92 would contradict that curt assessment. And that was written before the…
Blogs
Saints and Sinners: The weekend’s talking points
The Saints CJ Stander Munster put Racing 92 to the sword in their rearranged European Champions Cup clash, trouncing their hosts 32-7. The whole Munster team did their late…
When Rugby World went on tour with the Barbarians…
STANDING AT the mouth of a tunnel that slopes down towards Marketa Stadium’s pitch – a postage stamp of grass in the middle of a speedway track, teased towards looking…
New Year, New You: a recipe from extreme chef Kiran Jethwa
I was asked to offer advice for the keen player who has let themselves go and wants to get a bit of their spark back. So my first advice to…
Whatever happened to Mourad Bodjellal’s first Toulon side?
Mourad Boudjellal is not leaving Toulon. After months of speculation that he was going to sell the club, the president announced a week before Christmas that he will remain at…
Waking the giant: Rugby World assesses Toulouse
ON THIS late afternoon the wind is only moving the hot air around the back pitches of the Stade Ernest-Wallon. After a tough run in the Top 14 schedule it’s…
Warren Gatland names his Lions assistant coaches
THERE WERE few surprises on Wednesday afternoon as Warren Gatland revealed his core coaching trio for next year’s tour to New Zealand, with Andy Farrell and Rob Howley – defence…
Analysis: Mapping the 46 tries of England’s perfect 2016
Self-awareness spurs ambition like nothing else. Despite a perfect year in terms of results, Eddie Jones’ England need no reminding of their standing in the global order. With New Zealand occupying the…
Analysis: Mapping June’s scrum battle between England and Australia
If Eddie Jones’ year in charge of England has taught us anything, it is that the 56 year-old has become an expert at using press duties to set an agenda.…
England 27-14 Argentina: Five talking points
If you were still awaiting that elusive, complete performance from England under Eddie Jones, that idealised 80 minutes of rugby where every facet of their game comes together and they…