The giants of southern hemisphere rugby – South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina – will be back touring Europe during the autumn of 2021, with capacity crowds expected at many of the matches.
— Read more on www.autumn-internationals.co.uk/2021/
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Wales v New Zealand Live: Kick-off time, team news and score updates – Wales Online
—
Read more on www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/wales-new-zealand-live-score-21984512.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Lions team to face Springboks for first Test – British & Irish Lions
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
July 1 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
FreeJoin us for an Introbiz Online Networking Webinar Event, on Wednesday, 1st of July, from 4:00-6:00PM
Jonathan Davies is a former Welsh rugby player who played in the 1980s and 1990s and represented Wales in both rugby union and rugby league. He was named player of the 1993–94 season, winning the RFL’s Man of Steel Award.
Since retiring from rugby, Davies has worked in the media as a commentator and pundit in both codes, mainly for the BBC in both the English and Welsh languages. Since 2004 Davies has hosted his own rugby themed chatshow, Jonathan, on S4C. Davies was also the President of Super League side Crusaders until 2009. In 2015 Davies was awarded the OBE for his charitable services to people with cancer through his role as president of Cardiff’s Velindre Cancer Centre, where he has raised over £10 million!
Schedule for the event:
Welcome by Introbiz
Introbiz Masterclass Q&A with keynote speaker Jonathan Davies
Questions from the audience
Networking starts, referring to our highly successful power group format:
Who are you?
What are your products and services?
Who are your clients?
What’s your target audience for your business?
What new introductions can we make for you?
How can you follow up effectively?
Event closes
Introduction to upcoming events
Tickets for this exclusive webinar are completely free – you can book your place below!+ Google Calendar+ iCal Export
DetailsDate:
July 1
Time:
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Cost:
Free
Event Category:
Online
Tickets
Online Event with Jonathan Davies
£ 0.00 +VAT
96 available
Decrease ticket quantity for Online Event with Jonathan Davies –Increase ticket quantity for Online Event with Jonathan Davies +
Get Tickets— Read more & book online on introbiz.co.uk/networking-event/introbiz-online-networking-event-with-welsh-rugby-legend-jonathan-jiffy-davies/
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
World Rugby’s attempts to bring about a globally-aligned season goes to a crucial vote on June 30.
One proposal would see the northern hemisphere move on to a calendar-year campaign, beginning in January and continuing through to November, with the July international window moving to October.
What everybody needs to do now over the next few days is take a step back, put their vested and personal interests aside to make sure we move forward with the right decision for the global game.
Everybody involved in the game must make the decision not just for their country, their union, competition or club. They must do it for the benefit of the whole game, as it will have a knock-on effect from the very top all the way down to the grassroots community game.
— Read more on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/nigel-owens-column-time-summer-18498413.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
If Cory Hill joining the Cardiff Blues was the worst-kept secret in Welsh rugby, then Nick Tompkins heading on loan to the Dragons was probably the second.
It was widely known that the breakthrough star of the Six Nations would be swapping life in London for a year at Rodney Parade while Saracens spend their weekends facing the likes of Jersey in the Championship.
Now, how much time Tompkins spends in a Dragons jersey during his time in Gwent remains to be seen. When rugby returns, there’s likely to be a fair bit of Test rugby to be played.
While that might not favour the Dragons in their use of Tompkins, for the man himself, it’ll be another chance to set out his stall on the international stage.
— Read on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/wales-new-first-choice-centre-18493871.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Owen Williams has signed for Japanese club NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes, making him ineligible to play for Wales.
The three-times capped utility back is heading for the Osaka-based outfit after a three-year stay with Gloucester.
He will be linking up once more with South African coach Johan Ackermann, who left the Cherry & Whites to take charge of the Red Hurricanes last month.
Both the Ospreys and the Dragons had been keen on bringing the 28-year-old former Scarlets playmaker back to Wales.
— Read on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/welsh-rugby-star-owen-williams-18491850.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Cardiff Blues legend Xavier Rush has revealed the current Welsh player he’d have loved to play alongside most, as well as the best player he played with during his time in Wales.
The former All Black No. 8 was speaking on WalesOnline’s Welsh Rugby Podcast when he was asked about the current Wales stars that have caught his eye.
“There’s a few,” explained Rush.
“If I look at some of the players there currently, Gareth Davies has had a wonderful 24 months.
“If any team had Alun Wyn Jones in their tight five, it’s a big plus for them.
“It will be nice to see Taulupe Faletau back to his best. He’s a real inspirational player and has talent only a few are blessed with.
“Justin Tipuric has had a great 12 months since Sam (Warburton) retired. He’s played fabulous rugby.
— Read on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/ex-black-names-best-wales-18481818.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
The morning headlines as powerbrokers deliver verdict on World Cup-style tournament and Welsh rugby favourite makes kind gesture – Wales Online
— Read on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/morning-headlines-powerbrokers-deliver-verdict-18321330.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
The PRO14 recently secured a £125 million investment from CVC
— Read on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/guinness-pro14-boss-lifts-lid-18313859
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Some quality signings and the return to fitness of big names could produce scintillating rugby for Cardiff Blues, Ospreys, Scarlets and Dragons supporters next season in Europe and the Guinness PRO14
Welsh rugby fans don’t know when their favourite sport will return but there’s plenty to excite them about next season.
Some super signings have been made by the regions and other captures, like new Wales star Nick Tompkins, are being heavily touted.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Pictures show dramatic transformation of Welsh rugby team’s base into field hospital
Work on the WRU’s National Centre of Excellence started just a few days ago
BY BEN JAMES
(Image: Princess of Wales Hospital)
These are the pictures that show how the Welsh rugby team’s base is rapidly being transformed into a field hospital to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.
Work started on turning the Welsh rugby team’s inside training pitches a few days ago.
The makeshift hospital at the Vale Resort will provide 290 additional beds as the numbers of people with COVID19 increases.
Speaking about the makeshift field hospital, Dr Sharon Hopkins, CEO for Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB, said: “We are very grateful to everyone who has supported the response to the challenge of COVID19. The response continues to be amazing.
“The WRU and Leekes have kindly let us use their facilities, which is greatly welcomed as rapid work takes place to increase available staff, beds and equipment. The support of the military and local authorities is just so vital in transforming the spaces and making the changes happen.
“The field hospitals will be vitally important in providing care to patients and communities in the coming weeks and months. It is an inspiring example of organisations working collaboratively to provide urgent new environments to respond to COVID19.
“As this work progresses, some patients will receive their care in a different location to their usual hospital to reduce the level of risk of exposure to COVID19. We remain very grateful to our patients and wider community for their support and understanding at this time.”
Stephen Leeke, Managing Director of the Vale Resort, said: “As a proud Welsh family business, and key player in the local community, we are really keen to step up to the plate and do what we can to assist Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB in providing additional capacity during this time of national crisis.
“This has included working with the WRU to allow 290 additional beds to be set up our indoor training arena.
The huge Principality Stadium event still scheduled to go ahead next month despite the venue being turned into a hospital
“Everybody – from businesses to individuals – has a responsibility to play their part in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, and to support the NHS, who is doing an incredible job under enormous pressure and extremely difficult circumstances.”
Martyn Phillips, WRU Group CEO, said: “We’ve worked with Leekes in partnership for many years at the National Centre of Excellence. We’re more than happy for the facilities there to be used by the Health Board at this challenging time and to support the wider communities of Wales.”
Last week, the WRU have also made the Principality Stadium available to be turned into a 2,000-bed field hospital – with work currently ongoing to complete that transformation.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Pictures show dramatic transformation of Welsh rugby team’s base into field hospital
Work on the WRU’s National Centre of Excellence started just a few days ago
BY BEN JAMES
(Image: Princess of Wales Hospital)
These are the pictures that show how the Welsh rugby team’s base is rapidly being transformed into a field hospital to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.
Work started on turning the Welsh rugby team’s inside training pitches a few days ago.
The makeshift hospital at the Vale Resort will provide 290 additional beds as the numbers of people with COVID19 increases.
Speaking about the makeshift field hospital, Dr Sharon Hopkins, CEO for Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB, said: “We are very grateful to everyone who has supported the response to the challenge of COVID19. The response continues to be amazing.
“The WRU and Leekes have kindly let us use their facilities, which is greatly welcomed as rapid work takes place to increase available staff, beds and equipment. The support of the military and local authorities is just so vital in transforming the spaces and making the changes happen.
“The field hospitals will be vitally important in providing care to patients and communities in the coming weeks and months. It is an inspiring example of organisations working collaboratively to provide urgent new environments to respond to COVID19.
“As this work progresses, some patients will receive their care in a different location to their usual hospital to reduce the level of risk of exposure to COVID19. We remain very grateful to our patients and wider community for their support and understanding at this time.”
Stephen Leeke, Managing Director of the Vale Resort, said: “As a proud Welsh family business, and key player in the local community, we are really keen to step up to the plate and do what we can to assist Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB in providing additional capacity during this time of national crisis.
“This has included working with the WRU to allow 290 additional beds to be set up our indoor training arena.
The huge Principality Stadium event still scheduled to go ahead next month despite the venue being turned into a hospital
“Everybody – from businesses to individuals – has a responsibility to play their part in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, and to support the NHS, who is doing an incredible job under enormous pressure and extremely difficult circumstances.”
Martyn Phillips, WRU Group CEO, said: “We’ve worked with Leekes in partnership for many years at the National Centre of Excellence. We’re more than happy for the facilities there to be used by the Health Board at this challenging time and to support the wider communities of Wales.”
Last week, the WRU have also made the Principality Stadium available to be turned into a 2,000-bed field hospital – with work currently ongoing to complete that transformation.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
The very different and stronger-looking Wales XV that could face Scotland when Six Nations clash is rescheduled (According to Wales Online):
Certain Wales players may be fit again, while others could be unavailable if the clash takes place in October like its expected too.
Gareth Anscombe is amongst the players who could be back for Wales:
In these uncertain times, with rugby and sport generally pretty much in hibernation because of the Covid-19 emergency, it’s hard to look much beyond next week let alone seven months ahead.
But all will hope the nasty little bug will be seen off in the coming months.
If it is, and the Six Nations is able to resume, then the next challenge will be to find suitable dates for the four postponed matches.
October 31 has been mooted as a potential option for the three round-five matches, namely France v Ireland, Italy v England, and Wales v Scotland. A weekend also would have to be found for the Ireland v Italy match that was also called off.
The problem is that October isn’t an international-window month, meaning clubs would not have to release players.
Could special dispensation be arranged given that the matches are Six Nations fixtures?
We do not know, with all of us operating in uncharted waters.
But the way things stand, neither Wales nor Scotland would be able to choose their England-based players.
What team would Wayne Pivac be able to field, then?
Here’s our best guess…
15. Liam Williams
Liam Williams eased his way back into Test rugby against England.
It’s set to be a straight choice between Williams and Leigh Halfpenny for the No. 15 shirt. If the 2020-21 season starts on time, Williams will have had opportunities to move back up the gears and the assumption is he’ll be back to his exceptional best. It’s very much a flick-of-a-coin call, mind, with Halfpenny having beaten off threats to his position before.
14. George North
Let’s assume the big man makes his determined and gutsy performance against England at Twickenham his default setting. If that happens, the No. 14 jersey will surely stay with him.
13. Jonathan Davies
Back in November, there was a suggestion Wales’ number one centre would be sidelined for six months after knee surgery. Predicting how long it will take for any injury to clear up isn’t a precise science, but the hope will be that master midfield organiser is playing again by the autumn.
12. Nick Tompkins
Let’s take a punt and say Tompkins will have hooked up to a Welsh region by the time the new season starts, with Cardiff Blues said to be the favourites. If he has and he’s available for any Wales game in October, the likelihood is he will switch to inside centre, where he has played with impressive effect for Saracens. If such a move doesn’t happen, it will be Hadleigh Parkes wearing the shirt — or Owen Watkin, depending on whether Wayne Pivac is in live-for-today mode or looking to tomorrow.
11. Josh Adams
He makes try-scoring look easy and, within three months, he’ll be recovered from the ankle injury he picked up in this Six Nations. He starts.
10. Gareth Anscombe
Gareth Anscombe is helped off the field after sustaining a serious knee injury while playing for Wales against England at Twickenham
Dan Biggar has had a strong Six Nations, so if he’s available Wayne Pivac will have a difficult call. But, as things stand, the Northampton-based player would be beyond Pivac’s reach for October.
Jarrod Evans and Sam Davies are in the mix, but if Gareth Anscombe is fit and ready after his long-haul recovery from knee surgery, with his leadership and self-belief, he’d likely be first in line.
9. Rhys Webb
He’ll be frustrated after working his way back to the front of the queue with a strong performance off the bench against England. But the man has unshakeable confidence and that counts for a lot at any level of sport. It’s for others to catch up with him now.
1. Wyn Jones
Not too much to see here. Jones was picked to face Scotland for last Saturday and, assuming his form holds up, the squat, hard-working Scarlet would be fancied to get the nod again.
2. Ken Owens
He’ll blow out 34 candles on his birthday cake come January and there are some who’ve already questioned how much time he has left at Test level. But change for the sake of change is a course past Wales coaches have pursued with sometimes disastrous results. Before saying goodbye to Owens — and everybody has a sell-by date — Pivac will know another No. 2 needs to prove himself better. That hasn’t happened yet, not by a long chalk.
3. Dillon Lewis
Tomas Francis and WillGriff John are likely to be off limits to Wales in October as they play for English clubs. Samson Lee seems to have vanished from the international radar, with injuries not helping, so it could be another chance for Lewis to wear the jersey.
4. Cory Hill
Like Rhys Webb, the Dragon will be frustrated after working his way back to prominence only to see his scheduled return to the starting line-up take a direct hit. Like Webb, he’s a character who’ll want to keep his foot pressed to the metal, though.
Jake Ball should be available but Hill is tireless on the pitch and the previous Wales regime enjoyed his capacity for hard graft. Adam Beard doesn’t seem to be pressing the right buttons in the eyes of the current coaches. Hill appears out in front.
5. Alun Wyn Jones
It’s a Lions year and Wales’ captain will want a big campaign to stake a claim.
He will also want to put behind him the absurd criticism that’s come his way over the Joe Marler affair. Marler may be ‘a joker and people love him for it’, as England international Mike Brown claimed, but even that’s open to question and, for sure, grabbing a fellow player’s private parts isn’t the wittiest move ever.
In sum, the prop appeared to be trying to force a reaction out of Jones but it didn’t happen and he’ll have 10 weeks to reflect on his actions. Having a go at Jones for his press-conference response to a clearly offensive act isn’t Brown’s finest hour, either.
Anyway, time heals and come the autumn the Wales lock will be keen to kick on. He’ll be 35 in September, but no Welsh rival is yet near him.
6. Ross Moriarty
Will he still be playing in Wales next season? Uncertainty mounts the longer it takes to resolve his contract situation. There’s appears to be an issue over his valuation by the Welsh rugby panel that’s dealt with his case and it’s taking worryingly long to deal with to the satisfaction of all concerned. The Dragons want Moriarty to stay and, apparently, he’s not averse to sticking around and doing his bit under Dean Ryan. But there’s been no announcement and English and French clubs are watching closely.
Taulupe Faletau won’t be available for an October Test as he plays over the border. If Moriarty’s still in Wales, he’ll be favourite to feature. If not, Aaron Shingler or Aaron Wainwright would likely step up.
7. Justin Tipuric
Justin Tipuric runs in his team’s first try against England.
He’s had a outstanding Six Nations and will be there or thereabouts to be named Welsh rugby’s player of the year. Like a top batsman, he seems to take a fresh guard each season and not content himself with anything but excellence. Wales are lucky to have him.
8. Josh Navidi
His performance against England, after so little rugby over the previous four months, was something else.
Close on three years ago, after New Zealand had defeated Wales in Cardiff, Steve Hansen had enquired of Warren Gatland: “Where did you get the kid with the dreadlocks from?”
Navidi became a Gatland favourite, with the then Wales coach valuing his grit, his selflessness and appetite for unglamorous work.
He still has those qualities.
And he’ll still have them next season.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
The Welsh Rugby Union have revealed the special tribute they planned to pay to Matthew J Watkins ahead of Wales’ game against Scotland.
Today’s Six Nations match at the Principality Stadium has been postponed due to fears over the coronavirus.
Watkins, 41, passed away last week after a seven-year battle with a rare form of pelvic cancer.
During a successful career, he earned 18 caps for Wales and played 150 times for the Llanelli Scarlets.
The WRU were due to hold a minute’s applause and play some of Watkins’ highlights on the big screens at the Principality Stadium 15 minutes before kick off.
With the game now not taking place, the Union have released the video on social media and a short statement to go with it.
“Matthew continued to give back to rugby after his playing days and despite battling cancer, helped coach Oakdale minis and juniors and Brecon in their Plate-winning season,” the statement from the WRU read.
— Read on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/wales-release-special-tribute-matthew-17925299.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Former Ireland rugby star Alan Quinlan has slammed the England rugby team’s behaviour during the Six Nations.
Quinlan criticised coach Eddie Jones and the likes of captain Owen Farrell and prop Joe Marler in a stinging newspaper attack.
He was speaking after three England players, Marler, Manu Tuilagi and Courtney Lawes, all faced citing hearings on Thursday after the 33-30 victory over Wales.
Skipper Farrell’s conduct has also come under the microscope after he sparked the mass scuffle that resulted in Marler grabbing Alun Wyn Jones’ genitals by pushing George North in the chest.
— Read on www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/ireland-international-claims-england-the-17925943.amp
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Welsh Rugby Union chairman Gareth Davies has defended the decision to postpone Wales’ Six Nations match against Scotland in Cardiff just 24 hours before kick-off.
The WRU had said earlier on Friday that the game at the Principality Stadium would go ahead but then called it off because of the coronavirus outbreak.
“It has been a tough week,” said Davies.
“But we believe it was the proper and responsible thing to do.”
Davies added: “I don’t think we could’ve dealt with it any better. We made a decision last night that this match would go ahead. In a very quickly moving world things had changed by late morning today.”
Several sports have been severely disrupted, with all Premier League and EFL football matches suspended until 3 April.
The Cardiff game was the last major sporting event to be postponed this weekend despite government medical advice saying the match could still potentially be played.
“We initially followed the advice of government in terms of the scientific and medical evidence and that was the case up until last night,” said Davies.
“We had an emergency board meeting last night to consider everything and we still thought, bearing in mind the advice we had, that keeping the game on was the way to go.
“Last night the Premier League were carrying on but by this morning that had changed and the EFL went on a similar course as did the Celtic v Rangers game in all being called off and other major global events were also being pulled
“We spoke to the Government this morning, who understood our position.
“For us to be the only sporting event to be on, we were mindful of the seriousness of the situation. We took into account supporters, players and staff and asked whether it was essential to subject to that risk.”
“We’ve made a judgement as to whether there was a danger. By the time we arrived at lunchtime today we thought there could be exposure so we decided to pull the game.”
Davies denied they were forced into the decision by public opinion.
“I wouldn’t say it was public backlash; we took everything into account,” said Davies.
“We know despite the government and advice saying there’s no evidence there would be a spike at a major event.
“When you take everything into account with what’s happened in Italy, there will be spikes.
“The medical advice says 60% of the population are going to catch this disease and I don’t think we wanted to be the mid-point of that.
“We reassessed the position, other sporting bodies decided to change their stance, and we made the decision that was the most sensible decision to take.”
Davies admitted he sympathised with fans who had travelled to Cardiff already and had spent money on accommodation and tickets.
“I understand and sympathise with that scenario,” said Davies.
“There’s not a lot we can do in that respect because we took the responsible decision for 75,000 in this stadium possibly being subjected and open to this killer disease.
“When the match is finalised, we’d advise people to keep their tickets safe.
“Hopefully they’ll be able to come to the match if they’re unable for whatever reason we can look to refund them.”
There are four Six Nations matches to be rescheduled – the three final-round games, plus the Ireland v Italy game in Dublin, which was postponed from 7 March.
Saturday, 31 October is a possible date for the final weekend of matches.
“It’s an understatement to say it’s unsatisfactory the four matches won’t be completed,” said Davies.
“There will inevitably be an anti-climax when the games are played but we want to finish the tournament.
“We’re not sure when that’s going to be. The Six Nations will have to take soundings and make a decision in the next few weeks.
“It’s difficult to plan at the moment because who knows how long this episode will last? The likelihood from what I’ve picked up is that it’ll happen in the autumn sometime.”
An article from the BBC.
For more Welsh Sports News, Coronavirus News or General News, please follow the links.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
The current Guinness PRO14 season has been suspended in response to the evolving Coronavirus / COVID-19 outbreak.
The PRO14 is an international league. Cross border travel is inevitable and that brings with it unique challenges. With governments in Italy and Ireland already putting in place clear directives and restrictions around public activities and travel, the decision to suspend the competition is appropriate.
It is in the best interests of everyone that games are not played at this time. The suspension has been directed by the board of Celtic Rugby DAC and the decision will remain under constant review.
David Jordan, Tournament Director PRO14 Rugby, said: “We have made this decision with everyone’s welfare foremost in our minds. With an evolving situation in the five countries that take part in Guinness PRO14 it is important to make a clear decision that is in keeping with the advice of the various governments involved.”
Resumption of the 2019/20 season will now become a matter of constant review. To this point PRO14 Rugby has ensured that it has the latest information and guidance made available by the local and national authorities via our participating unions in the UK, Ireland, Italy and South Africa.
This will remain the case for the duration of the suspension. This is an unprecedented action for the tournament and as such no end date to the suspension can be provided at this time.
In keeping with our practice during the outbreak, PRO14 Rugby will provide updates on the suspension when more information is available.
ITALIANO
La stagione corrente di Guinness Pro14 è stata sospesa in risposta all’evoluzione del diffondersi di COVID-19.
PRO14 è una manifestazione internazionale, i viaggi oltre confine sono inevitabili e questo comporta delle situazioni uniche e sfidanti. I Governi di federazioni coinvolte nel torneo hanno già posto in essere chiare direttive e restrizioni circa attività pubbliche e, di conseguenza, la decisione di sospendere la competizione risulta appropriato. E’ nel migliore interesse di tutti che in questo momento le partite non vengano disputate.
La salute e la sicurezza di tutti i nostri giocatori, squadre, staff e tifosi è cruciale ed è nel miglior interesse di tutti che non si disputino partite in questo momento. La sospensione è stata determinata dal board di Celtic Rugby DAC e rimarrà oggetto di costante revisione.
Il Direttore del Torneo PRO14 David Jordan ha dichiarato: “Abbiamo preso questa decisione con il welfare dei giocatori e la sicurezza dei nostri tifosi quali imprescindibili priorità. Con una situazione in evoluzione in cinque nazioni che prendono parte al Guinness Pro14 è importante prendere una decisione chiara, coerente con le indicazioni dei vari Governi coinvolti”.
La ripresa della stagione 2019/20 sarà oggetto di costante revisione. Ad oggi PRO14 Rugby si è assicurato un flusso di informazioni e indicazioni costantemente aggiornato da parte delle autorità locali e nazionali attraverso le federazioni membre del Regno Unito, Irlanda, Italia e Sudafrica.
Questo costante monitoraggio si protrarrà per l’intera durata della sospensione. Questa è un’azione senza precedenti per il torneo e ad oggi non è possibile fornire una data certa per la conclusione della manifestazione.
In linea con le nostre disposizioni durante l’epidemia, PRO14 Rugby fornirà ulteriori aggiornamenti sulla sospensione quando nuove informazioni saranno disponibili.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me/news/
Wales’ Six Nations match at home to Scotland on Saturday has been postponed because of the coronavirus outbreak.
The two other scheduled games in round five had already been postponed and no dates have been confirmed for completing the 2020 Championship.
The Welsh Rugby Union, which had insisted earlier on Friday the game would go ahead, said it was “in the best interests of supporters, players and staff to fall in line with recent measures taken across the UK and global sports industries”.
Several sports have been severely disrupted, with all Premier League and EFL football matches suspended until 3 April.
A WRU statement read: “The Welsh Rugby Union has maintained an open dialogue with, and continued to seek advice and direction from, the Welsh government and other stakeholders, including the Six Nations, on this fast-moving issue.
“Every effort has been made to stage this game and we appreciate that individuals will have been inconvenienced. Given the fluid and unprecedented nature of this issue a postponement became the only viable option.”
It added that there would be an announcement on rescheduling the fixture “in the coming days”.
Friday’s Under-20 Six Nations match between Wales and Scotland in Colwyn Bay will go ahead but will be played behind closed doors.
Meanwhile, Scottish Rugby has suspended all rugby in Scotland for the remainder of March.
A Scottish Rugby spokesperson said: “We have taken on board all expert medical advice before now and we are taking a precautionary approach to give time to assess what the impact of coronavirus will be on Scottish society in the coming weeks before deciding on next steps.
“This decision has been taken with the best interest of everyone involved in the game and in support of the country’s work to address the impact of Coronavirus.”
News of the Wales-Scotland postponement comes on a day of widespread sporting postponements worldwide.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Wales U20 produced a stunning performance to make it two wins in a row in the U20 Six Nations as England U20 were overcome at Kingsholm on Friday night.
Head coach Gareth Williams had made just one change to the starting XV that had beaten reigning World Rugby U20 Championship champions France in Colwyn Bay last time out, with Will Griffiths and Dom Booth starting at hooker, and it showed in the early exchanges.
Wales started confidently in front of a big and typically vocal Gloucester crowd, playing on the front foot against a host nation who were smarting off the back of a defeat against Ireland U20 in round three.
The kicking game was playing a big part in proceedings early on as the men in red just edged it, and with that came plenty of territory but pressure could not be turned into points as England’s defence stood form throughout the opening 10 minutes.
It needed a moment of magic to get the scoreboard moving and it came from Sam Costelow as he took a pass at first receiver, saw nothing was on outside him so stepped back inside and broke a tackle to make a line break before breaking a second tackle and crossing for a stunning individual try.
The fly-half converted his own try but England hit back just over 10 minutes later as they flexed their power game, pushing a driving maul close before Emannuel Iyogun was in possession as a pick-and-go made it over the line.
” style=”max-width: 100%; display: block !important”>
It seemed like the hosts were starting to get the upper hand in proceedings but two huge high ball claims from Jacob Beetham prevented them pinning Wales back in our own half, and then just before the break that man Costelow was on hand to produce another moment of magic.
In a similar way to his earlier try he broke back on the inside to glide through a gap in the England defence around the breakdown, this time drawing a defender before finding Ben Carter in support and the big second row was equally skilful in getting his hands through a tackle and offloading for Bradley Roderick to score.
Costelow’s conversion made the score 5-14 at half-time, but it appeared that the English had been given a kick up the backside in the changing rooms, as they came out firing early in the second half.
A handling error from Wales gave them field position and on the second phase after the scrum George Barton was on hand to dive over from close range.
Costelow’s penalty extended the lead to seven-points but England continued to push, crossing the try line for a third time only for it to be ruled out for a forward pass in the build up.
Then came a moment of controversy as Beetham once again took to the sky to secure a high ball, only this time to be taken out by Freddie Stewart. The Wales full-back was forced from the field with what appeared to be a shoulder injury, but the referee decided it was only dangerous enough for a yellow card.
” style=”max-width: 100%; display: block !important”>
This was followed by a lapse in concentration from the men in red as an attempt to exit our own 22 saw Ellis Bevan drag the ball back over his own try line at the back of a breakdown, allowing Sam Crean to dive in and touch down for an opportunistic try.
Despite that being their third try of the evening, missing all three conversions meant England were still 15-17 down on the scoreboard, while Sam Costelow added another three points off the tee as he continued to be a point of difference between the sides.
It all changed with just under 10 minutes of the game to go though as the Welsh defence, solid throughout despite the three tries conceded, had a disappointing moment with Josh Gillepsie slicing through far too easily before finding Jack van Poortvliet on his inside shoulder who battled his way over.
A conversion at last from Will Haydon-Wood gave England a two-point lead and what seemed like would be a smash-and-grab victory at Kingsholm, but Costelow was not done yet.
Wales battled up to the opposition 22 and the fly-half dropped back into the pocket, slotting a nerveless drop goal to put the men in red ahead, a lead we held on to for a fourth win over England in six U20 Six Nations games.
Gareth Williams’ side rise to fourth in the table on the back of it, and could finish next weekend in second place if Ireland beat France, with England’s trip to Italy called off, a fantastic turnaround from losing the first two games of the tournament in disappointing fashion.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
At some stage in the next fortnight Eddie Jones will sit down for dinner with the Rugby Football Union’s chief executive, Bill Sweeney, to discuss the future. There will be no shortage of agenda items, not least the fall-out from a tempestuous Anglo-Welsh contest which at times was more like rollerball than rugby. England may have collected a triple crown but, not for the first time, the hosts won few awards for grace or diplomacy.
Does it matter how a national team behaves as long as it wins? Jones has never been over-burdened by such considerations but over the coming months the RFU has a fundamental decision to make. Does it stick with the devil it knows and renew its vows with a man increasingly threatening José Mourinho’s position as the country’s prickliest coach? Or does it take a more holistic view, decide a less Marmite personality will improve the squad’s 2023 World Cup prospects and tell Jones his contract will not be renewed when it expires next year?
This truncated Six Nations campaign – as yet it remains to be seen when England’s final game in Italy will take place – has yielded evidence to support both arguments. On the one hand Jones has unquestionably made England a tougher, fitter team; on the other his side underperformed horribly in Paris and owe Scotland a large beer for breathing fresh life into the Six Nations title race.
For more on this and other news please follow the link.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
There will be no Grand Slam. France’s best chance in a decade to pull that off was ruined at Murrayfield by a stellar Scottish performance, featuring a brace from Sean Maitland and a back-breaking red card for the France tighthead prop Mohamed Haouas for a punch at the end of the first half, from which the visitors never recovered.
The outcome also capped off a good weekend for England, who have now gone top of the Six Nationstable on points difference ahead of France with one round to go.
As Haouas departed here, rightly sent off for a punch to the head of Scotland’s Jamie Ritchie after the two came together in a ruck, you sensed that France were once again destroying another golden opportunity. Haouas’ mindless act brought back memories of Sebastian Vahaamahina’s own implosion in Oita at the Rugby World Cup, red carded for an elbow on Aaron Wainwright that killed off France’s hopes of progressing to the semi-finals.
Haouas’ exit, a third penalty by Scotland fly-half Adam Hastings and then a well-worked try to put Maitland over in the corner all came in the space of less than five minutes. Collectively it felt like a knockout punch, not only in the context of the match but for France’s Grand Slam hopes as well, even with the second half still to come. Maitland’s second try shortly after the interval – made by a fine break from Chris Harris, slipping past Paul Willemse then combining with Ali Price – hammered that point home.
For more on this and other news please follow the link.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
|
A battling Wales ensured they picked up a losing bonus-point at Twickenham as they closed to within three points at the end of another epic battle against the auld enemy. England led 20-9 at the break, but were hit by a try from the kick-off at the start of the second half as Wayne Pivac’s men got their fight-back off to an explosive start. Justin Tipuric scored twice after the break, the second try coming when England were down to 13 men. Having lost replacement prop Ellis Genge to a yellow card, they lost centre Manu Tuilagi to a straight red for a shoulder to the head in a last ditch tackle to try to stop the Wales wing. Even so, they hung on to clinch the Triple Crown for the 25th time. |
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
Battling Wales ensured they picked up a losing bonus-point at Twickenham as they closed to within three points at the end of another epic battle against the auld enemy.
England led 20-9 at the break, but were hit by a try from the kick-off at the start of the second half as Wayne Pivac’s men got their fight-back off to an explosive start. Justin Tipuric scored twice after the break, the second try coming when England were down to 13 men.
Having lost replacement prop Ellis Genge to a yellow card, they lost centre Manu Tuilagi to a straight red for a shoulder to the head in a last ditch tackle to try to stop the Wales wing. Even so, they hung on to clinch the Triple Crown for the 25th time.
In a rip-roaring start Dan Biggar was smashed early on by a combination of Tom Curry and Tuilagi as England set out their stall. They continued to be dominant in the tackle and took the lead from a neat line-out move through returning wing Anthony Watson.
Maro Itoje won set-piece possession, Jamie George found Ben Youngs, and the scrum-half passed inside to Watson. The Bath man danced past Tomos Williams and reached the line to score a try that Owen Farrell converted.
Liam Williams and Elliot Daly then competed for a Biggar cross-kick as Wales looked for a response and George North crossed the line only to see the ball spilled in contact. England’s Jonny May, meanwhile, left the field for a head injury assessment to be replaced by Henry Slade.
When North went over the line, Farrell was penalised for a shove and Halfpenny stepped up to kick the penalty. Farrell responded with an England penalty after Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones was penalised for not rolling away at a ruck.
Halfpenny – kicking ahead of Biggar initially – cancelled out the home captain’s effort soon after. The game was dominated by a kicking battle. It was fast, frenetic and brutal.
After his team won a scrum penalty Farrell kicked to the corner rather than at goal and England went on the attack. The move ended with Farrell and George Ford sending Daly over in the corner for England’s second try.
Farrell nailed the touchline conversion to give the hosts a 17-6 lead. His conversion was followed by a penalty after Wales flanker Ross Moriarty was penalised for collapsing England’s driving maul.
Biggar then stood up from the tee on the half-time whistle and his first kick of the afternoon meant Pivac’s side turned around for the second period 11 points down.
They needed a fast start to the second half and they got exactly that. England kicked off deep to the Wales 22, Wales broke clear up the right touchline through the sensational Josh Navidi.
The flanker passed inside to Tomos Williams and he then went inside once more to Tipuric. The Opsreys’ flanker had 30 metres to go, but nobody was going to stop him from scoring a try at the posts that Biggar improved.
England restored their poise and advantage with successive penalties from Farrell and Ford and then conjured up a walk-in try for Tuilagi that Farrell converted. That stretched their lead to 17 points and put them firmly back on course for the Triple Crown.
Wales were up against it in the final quarter, but knuckled down and emerged with great credit as they cut the gap to a mere three points with tries from Biggar and Tipuric. Biggar converted them both, but Wales ran out of time at the end and had to be content with taking home a single point.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
England consigned Wales to a third consecutive defeat in this year’s Six Nations in a dramatic match at Twickenham.
First-half tries from Anthony Watson and Elliot Daly gave Wales an uphill task at half-time – with the hosts leading 20-6 at the break.
A stunning try from Justin Tipuric 27 seconds into the second-half gave Wayne Pivac’s side hope, but Manu Tuilagi’s score put them in control again.
Tuilagi was sent off late on for a shoulder charge to George North’s head – but it wasn’t enough for Wales to manufacture a comeback despite late tries from Dan Biggar and Tipuric.
Eddie Jones and Pivac will be facing the media post-match and you can follow everything they say right here in the live blog.
Live updates below:
Plenty of differing views on the Manu Tuilagi red card.
Lots of England fans thinking it was harsh.
What will the two coaches have to say about it?
Find out this and more via the link.
Business and Sports News from Mike Armstrong – See http://mikearmstrong.me
