Henry Slade shines as Chiefs power on, Nathan Hughes's act of kindness, Finn Russell's perfect 16, Matt Banahan chasing a record and Barrett-esque magic from Henry Trinder
Flying Saint: Ahsee Tuala collides with the corner flag during Northampton's 40-25 win at London IrishHenry Slade back to his best, respect for Nathan Hughes and Henry Trinder's moment of magic – all feature in the weekend's talking points
Eddie Jones will announce a 32 or 33-man strong squad for the autumn Tests in London on Wednesday, and has already given us a few clues, but who should be in and out?Leader: Dylan Hartley is back to lead England into battleEngland coach Eddie Jones named a 45-man Elite Player Squad on 30 September and selected 37 of them to go …Continue reading »
The Champions Cup is closest the club game gets to Test level intensity and there will be a clutch of players looking to impress over the next two weekendsOn trial: Garry Ringrose's partnership with Robbie Henshaw is showing promiseBy Alex Shaw The European Rugby Champions Cup makes its 2016-17 bow this weekend and as early as round one, …Continue reading »
Project players are flooding the European game and it is time for World Rugby to kick them into touch, or at the very least tighten up qualification rulesMan with a plan: Kiwi Rhys Marshall has joined Munster and could play for Ireland in three years Another day, another project player and another kick in the teeth for anyone who thinks you should play for the …Continue reading »
The Lions are well-known for surprise packages so don't be surprised if eyebrows are raised at Warren Gatland's squad announcement. Here are a few players to watch...Fast-track: At 25, Nathan Hughes has the maturity and talent to make the Lions squadFrom Will Greenwood in 1997, to Keith Earls in 2009, the selection announcement for the Lions tour always springs its …Continue reading »
