Veteran former Cheetahs and Bayonne hooker Torsten van Jaarsveld is set for his third World Cup in Namibian colours, after coach Phil Davies called up the veteran hooker for another…
James Harrington
Who is Michael Leitch? Ten facts about the former Japan captain
There is a statue of Michael Leitch in a public park in Tokyo, such is his popularity and importance to Japanese rugby. But how did a young man from northeast…
Rhys Webb ‘demands B sample test’ as drug investigation continues
Former Wales and British & Irish Lions scrum-half Rhys Webb has been questioned by French anti-doping officers in connection with a positive drugs test. Webb formally requested his ‘B’ sample…
GPS – ‘why are rugby players wearing a sports bra?’
The rugby GPS conversation generally runs something like this. “What’s that rectangular lump on the back of professional rugby players’ shirts?” a relative newcomer to the game may ask. “That’s…
Who is Martin Sigren: Ten facts about Chile’s captain
Chile will make their World Cup debut in France this autumn – and no one is more proud than captain Martin Sigren. He has put in the hours on and…
ITV pundits for Rugby World Cup
ITV has confirmed its roster of pundits for the Rugby World Cup in France. The British broadcaster is gearing up to show all 48 games, as it hosts UK coverage…
Who is Duncan Paia’aua? Ten things you should know about Samoa’s ‘Swiss Army back’
There’s no doubting the ability of Samoa’s Duncan Paia’aua. The player himself modestly insists that his job on the rugby pitch is to make his team-mate’s lives as easy as…
Who is Canan Moodie? Ten facts about the Springbok flier
For anyone late to the young career of Canan Moodie, early impressions of the lightning back may come as a bit of a surprise. But the ‘average’ player has blossomed…
Who is Ben Tameifuna? Ten things you need to know about the Tongan tighthead
Tongan prop Ben Tameifuna was famously stood down by his then-French club Racing 92, after returning from the 2019 World Cup in Japan weighing an unhealthy 160kg. Related: Tonga Rugby…
History made as Wales name World Cup squad without a single Jones
The Wales squad has featured a player with the surname Jones at every men’s Rugby World Cup since 1987 – until this one. Warren Gatland is famed for his ability…