“Pocket Rocket” Faf de Klerk key to Sale bid for European title

Rohan Janse van Rensburg is predicting “pocket rocket” Faf de Klerk will deliver another remarkable one man show to take Sale Sharks into their first Heineken Cup semi-final with a unique tactic that offers the Springboks a way to unsettle the British and Irish Lions this summer. World Cup winner de Klerk was a constant Read More …

Andre the Giant has Semi Radradra in his sights

Harlequins Andre Esterhuizen faces the toughest midfield test in world rugby as he attempts to nullify Bristol’s Semi Radradra tomorrow and catch the eye of the Springbok selectors preparing for the summer series with the British and Irish Lions in South Africa. Radradra is returning from injury and rejoins a potent Bristol match squad that Read More …

Lions upbeat over fans being allowed to watch South Africa series

Organisers of next year’s British and Irish Lions three test tour of South Africa believe the improving Covid-19 situation in the country will allow supporters to watch the series. Ben Calveley, the Lions managing director, painted a upbeat picture for the tour which is crucial to the financial future of both the most famous touring Read More …

Take a knee row not worrying Diamond

Steve Diamond insists controversy generated by his South African players not taking a knee before the match with Harlequins is a “storm in a teacup” and will not distract the team as they prepare to face Gallagher Premiership leaders Exeter Chiefs at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday. South African Minister of Sports, Arts, and Read More …

Dr James Robson – one of the greatest Lions of them all

Dr James Robson is a veteran of more than 200 international matches and his skill and experience underpinned every British and Irish Lions tour from 1993 to 2013, putting him at the heart of some of the greatest highs and debilitating lows in the history of the most famous touring team in the world. Robson Read More …

Burger backs Brits to be No8 success for Boks

Jacques Burger believes it would be a tactical masterstroke for South Africa to deploy veteran hooker Schalk Brits at No8 during the Rugby World Cup in Japan. Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has hinted that the 38-year-old former Saracens hooker could play in the back row during the Cup to give the first choice players in Read More …

Lions are not a target for Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has ruled himself out of taking charge of the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa in 2021. Schmidt and Warren Gatland, the Wales coach, have made it clear they will both be taking a break from rugby after the World Cup in Japan and have not lined up Read More …