Rugby News

Former New Zealand forward Sione Lauaki has passed away at the age of 35.

Jake Connor enjoyed a dream debut as Hull opened their Super League season with a gritty 12-8 win over Wakefield in testing conditions at the Beaumont Legal Stadium.

Scotland coach Vern Cotter refused to use injuries as an excuse for his team's 22-16 defeat to France in the Six Nations.

Exeter fought out a 35-35 draw in a 10-try thriller against Aviva Premiership leaders Wasps despite playing the final 35 minutes with 14 men.

Leinster cut the gap to Guinness Pro12 leaders Munster and second-placed Ospreys with a 40-14 win at Treviso.

Connacht recovered from a 13-point deficit to snatch a 19-13 triumph at Cardiff Blues in the Guinness PRO12 and keep alive their faint hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions Cup.

Eddie Jones suggested he could make a number of changes to his England side for the Six Nations clash with Italy in a fortnight.

Hat-trick hero CJ Stander says Ireland have to ensure a repeat of their display against Italy when they return to Six Nations action against France in a fortnight.

Ospreys have signed prop Brian Mujati on a short-term contract until the end of the season.