Saracens’ relegation from the Premiership is a sad moment for English rugby and salary cap rules must change as a result January 23, 2020 Saracens are being relegated and, putting the specifics aside for a moment, I think that is a sad state of affairs for English rugby. Former chairman Nigel Wray has apologised for his actions in failing to comply with the Premiership salary cap, but I have sympathy for him. In many ways what he did – [...]
Six Nations 2020 squads: Rees-Zammit a hugely exciting prospect for Wales, Sexton uncertainty a problem for Ireland January 16, 2020 Squads for the Six Nations started to be announced this week and the call-up of Louis Rees-Zammit for Wales has been the standout selection so far. The Gloucester winger is riding a wave at the moment. He is in outstanding form for his club, having scored nine tries in 12 appearances this season, and looks [...]
The options facing Eddie Jones ahead of England’s Six Nations squad announcement January 15, 2020 England’s opening Six Nations match next month is a difficult trip to Paris against a French side that has undergone a complete overhaul. Their new head coach, Fabien Galthie, who was promoted from assistant following the World Cup, has left out a handful of experienced stars, including Yoann Huget, Maxime Medard and Camille Lopez, in [...]
Eddie Jones must look to Ben Spencer and Dan Robson to answer England scrum-half dilemma January 9, 2020 Eddie Jones has hinted he could make a number of changes when he names his England squad for the Six Nations in 11 days’ time and I’m intrigued to see where he goes. It is the start of a new Rugby World Cup cycle and, while I don’t think he will make immediate wholesale alterations, [...]
Live sport: How, when and where to watch all the best action on TV this Christmas December 20, 2019 It’s the most wonderful time of the year if you are a sports fan with endless live action to get stuck into. Here City A.M. details the biggest and best events over the festive period and how to watch them. Scroll down for a full list. Football It all gets underway this Saturday as Arsenal [...]
Japan pulled off an incredible Rugby World Cup this year capped off by Siya Kolisi lifting the trophy December 19, 2019 Without doubt, the highlight of the year was the Rugby World Cup. It was held in Asia for the first time and Japan did a magnificent job as hosts. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly; it is truly an amazing place. Despite the tragedy of Typhoon Hagibis, which ripped through the country and caused devastation, [...]
Bryan Habana: South Africa’s World Cup win has already had a huge impact on the country and will give the 2021 Lions’ Tour extra spice December 11, 2019 Five weeks have passed since South Africa won the Rugby World Cup but the impact that the achievement will have on the nation is only just beginning. The Springboks beat England 32-12 in Yokohama last month to claim their third World Cup, with each triumph having come 12 years apart. But this latest trophy, which [...]
Northampton Saints’ clash with Leinster will be a real test of their credentials this campaign December 5, 2019 Northampton’s double-header against Leinster in the Champions Cup, starting on Saturday, will provide a great test of where they really stand this season. The Saints have had a flying start to the campaign and smashed Leicester 36-13 last weekend in the East Midlands derby to go top of the Premiership. It has always been a [...]
Bristol Bears have the potential to become Premiership big-hitters under Pat Lam and Steve Lansdown November 28, 2019 Bristol Bears turned heads on Wednesday when they announced the signing of Fijian international Semi Radradra on a three-year contract from next season. It is a huge statement from Bristol – one which shows their growing reputation and position within the Premiership’s hierarchy. They may have to pay over the odds for him, but Radradra [...]
New Zealand coaches still the most sought-after as Wales and Australia turn to Kiwis to lead November 26, 2019 Less than a month after standing down as Wales head coach, Warren Gatland is set to return to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff this weekend. This time, however, he will be leading out the Barbarians as life after 12 years with Wales officially begins. The exhibition match will also be the first of Wayne Pivac’s [...]