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Post by bluetornados on Aug 23, 2023 8:01:19 GMT
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 23, 2023 8:03:37 GMT
Owen Farrell red card: England captain to miss first two World Cup pool games as ban reinstated..
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Owen Farrell was initially shown a yellow card before the new 'bunker' review system upgraded the decision to redOwen Farrell will miss England's first two World Cup pool games after World Rugby successfully appealed against the decision to overturn his red card. The England captain's four-game ban means he will miss the group matches against Argentina and Japan, with two warm-up fixtures also included. Farrell's red card had been overturned by an independent judicial committee, which was then overruled on Tuesday. The appeal committee said the tackle was "always illegal". Farrell became the first England player to receive a red card from rugby's new 'bunker' review system when he made a high tackle on Taine Basham during England's 19-17 win over Wales on 12th August. The appeal committee found that, in their original hearing, the disciplinary committee should have considered Farrell's attempt to wrap his opponent in the tackle. Therefore the appeal committee determined that no mitigation could be made for the tackle, and the decision to overturn the red card was an error - which led them to ban Farrell. The ban will include last weekend's 29-10 defeat by Ireland in Dublin, which the appeal committee said Farrell "voluntarily stood down" from playing in after World Rugby announced its intention to appeal beforehand. The 31-year-old will also miss England's final warm-up game against Fiji this weekend at Twickenham as well as the first two pool matches. He will be available to play again on 23rd September against Chile. England's opening World Cup game against Argentina is on 9th September in Marseille. When launching its appeal against the overturning of the ban, World Rugby said "player welfare is the number one priority". In January, the RFU approved a reduction in tackle height for the community game in England in order to improve player safety, while tightening laws around high tackles in the professional game aimed to further help the issue. England number eight Billy Vunipola is also due to face the disciplinary panel for a red card in the defeat by Ireland following a high tackle which resulted in direct head contact on Ireland prop Andrew Porter. A ban of more than one game for Vunipola would result in England also being without their only specialist number eight for the start of the competition. ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/03C5/production/_130856900_bbc-sport-index-imagery-2-split-images-gradient-4de2b4d2-459b-4f07-8601-6f97fcbd907b.pngichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/1104B/production/_130870796_gettyimages-1610164351.jpg
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 23, 2023 8:06:01 GMT
Dan Sheehan: 'World-class' hooker missing World Cup would be a 'big loss' for Ireland..
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Sheehan is seeing a specialist in Dublin after being forced off during the win over EnglandIreland attack coach Mike Catt says the team still do not know the extent of Dan Sheehan's injury, but admits not having the hooker for the World Cup would be a "big loss". Sheehan did not travel to France to face Samoa after injuring his foot in Saturday's win over England. Catt said he was seeing a specialist in Dublin and that an update would be provided later this week. "He's one of the best hookers in the world currently," said Catt. "He's going to be missed in whatever team he plays in, but we have full faith in Rob Herring and Ronan Kelleher and Tom Stewart obviously, who's showing his face at the moment." Leinster's Sheehan, who was outstanding in Ireland's Grand Slam triumph earlier this year, was replaced by Rob Herring during Ireland's 29-10 win over England at Aviva Stadium. Sheehan's injury, which the Irish Independent reported could see the 24-year-old miss Ireland's entire pool stage campaign in France, is another concern given that Leinster team-mate Kelleher has not played at Test level since the Six Nations because of a hamstring issue. However, with uncapped Munster hooker Diarmuid Barron joining Ulster duo Herring and Stewart, and with head coach Andy Farrell saying Kelleher will "definitely" be fit for the World Cup, Catt says the Samoa game is an opportunity for the other players to impress. "It gives these guys an opportunity to have a pop his weekend. Depending on the diagnosis, we'll see how we get on in the back-end of it," he added. "He [Sheehan]'s a world-class rugby player, he's been fundamental in terms of how we play our game so he'd be a big loss to anybody." ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/419A/production/_130849761_gettyimages-1610659774.jpg
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 23, 2023 8:11:54 GMT
Rio Dyer thought he had 'butchered' Wales World Cup drea..By Carwyn Harris, BBC Sport Wales.
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Rio Dyer made his Wales debut against New Zealand during the 2022 autumn internationalsWing Rio Dyer could have been forgiven to think his World Cup dream was over after Wales' warm-up defeat against South Africa. After much deliberation, referee Andrew Brace sent him to the sin bin in the 34th minute for appearing to slap the ball into touch to prevent a try. To add insult to injury, the Springboks were also awarded a penalty try. Dyer then spent 10 minutes thinking he had "butchered" his chance to represent his nation at a maiden World Cup. Now sporting a black eye after a "head on head" collision with Damian Willemse, he is relieved to know that he will be flying out to France in the next couple of weeks having been named in Warren Gatland's 33-man squad. "The excitement probably hasn't fully hit yet, all the messages are coming congratulating me," said Dyer. "I was watching the Youtube video still nervous because we didn't get a briefing on whether we were in or not, so it hasn't sunk in. "The whole day is one I won't forget, I've watched the World Cup, so to be a part of it is an amazing occasion for me." ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/184BC/production/_130861599_gettyimages-1625338660.jpgDyer watched the squad announcement video by himself at home whilst members of his family watched it together and were clearly over the moon to see Dyer included for the first time. "I was up about 8:30am pacing around for a few hours, watching the time but it wasn't going quick enough," said Dyer. "My family live only about five minutes away as soon as my name got called out I knew what their reaction would be. "As I was travelling home, my mum was ringing me and ringing me but I wanted to see them in person, when I walked through the door they said they couldn't have been more proud. "The reason behind most players is to give back to what their family have been through during all the years they've played the game, so to see their reaction was a very nice moment." ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/912D/production/_127556173_wales_v_newzealand46.jpgRio Dyer is congratulated after scoring his first Wales tryDyer's yellow card came after a lengthy deliberation between Brace and the television match official. "Walking off in front of all the fans, with the pressure of selection coming up on the Monday I was sat on that chair thinking I've probably just butchered my chance and cost my team, it was embarrassing for me," Dyer said. "I could have easily just had a yellow card and thrown my toys out of the pram and put my head under the shed and thought it is what it is, it's done now, but I wanted to go out there and impress and put that effort in." With only nine caps to his name, it has been a rapid rise for Dyer who is still only 23. "Four years ago I was just starting to get into the mix with the Dragons, I was still an academy player," Dyer recalls. "I remember watching [Aaron] Wainwright, because he's two years above me and thinking how amazing it is that someone I know and was in school with is playing in a World Cup. "I thought if I keep pushing myself and focusing, I can get there myself. "I remember Cheslin Kolbe's try [against England in the 2019 final], thinking how special an occasion that was and seeing the passion behind it. "That's why everyone plays rugby for that emotion after all the tough times."
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 23, 2023 8:13:48 GMT
Rugby World Cup 2023: France include injured flanker Anthony Jelonch in 33-man squad..
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France flanker Anthony Jelonch won the last of his 25 caps against Scotland in FebruaryHosts France have named Anthony Jelonch in their World Cup squad despite the flanker still recovering from a serious knee injury. Jelonch, 27, ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in France's Six Nations win over Scotland in February. France head coach Fabien Galthie said Jelonch had "worked a lot to get back to where he is now". "He's not fit now but we think he will be back to his best by mid-September." Galthie told TF1. The decision comes after first-choice fly-half Romain Ntamack was ruled out of the tournament with a serious knee injury. Former France captain Galthie has chosen not to pick a third number 10 in Ntamack's absence, with full-back Thomas Ramos able to cover Matthieu Jalibert and Antoine Hastoy. France begin their World Cup campaign against three-time winners New Zealand at the Stade de France in Paris on 8 September. Prop Cyril Baille is included despite suffering from a calf issue, as one of 10 Toulouse players in the squad, with Galthie expecting him to return to fitness by the middle of next month. Exciting young winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Paul Boudehent are both included after only making their international debuts earlier this month. Experienced full-back Brice Dulin, who captained the side in this month's warm-up defeat in Scotland, is among 11 players who have not been selected but will provide back-up for the 33-man squad. ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/D223/production/_130859735_gettyimages-1368962407.jpgFrance World Cup squadForwards: Cyril Baille, Jean-Baptiste Gros, Reda Wardi, Uini Atonio, Dorian Aldegheri, Sipili Falatea, Julien Marchand, Peato Mauvaka, Pierre Bourgarit, Thibaud Flament, Paul Willemse, Romain Taofifenua, Cameron Woki, Gregory Alldritt, Paul Boudehent, Francois Cros, Sekou Macalou, Charles Ollivon, Anthony Jelonch Backs: Antoine Dupont, Maxime Lucu, Baptiste Couilloud, Matthieu Jalibert, Antoine Hastoy, Damian Penaud, Gabin Villiere, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Gael Fickou, Jonathan Danty, Arthur Vincent, Yoram Moefana, Thomas Ramos, Melvyn Jaminet
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 23, 2023 8:17:00 GMT
Rugby World Cup: 'Outsiders' Scotland will 'go after' South Africa & Ireland - Townsend..
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Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend with captain Jamie RitchieScotland take confidence and a "nothing to lose mentality" to the Rugby World Cup, said head coach Gregor Townsend. The Scots kick-off against defending champions South Africa and also face Grand-Slam winning Ireland in Pool B. "South Africa and Ireland will be favourites against us," said Townsend after naming his 33-man squad. "We'll be outsiders but that gives us a nothing to lose mentality. We just need to focus on delivering our game and go after the opposition." Scotland are on an eight-match losing streak against the Irish and have one win in 15 against South Africa. However, Townsend is heartened by finishing third in the Six Nations and two very close encounters with tournament hosts France this month. "Even though we are fifth in the world, we're playing teams ranked above us - and our half of the draw has two other teams from the top four in the world (New Zealand and France)," he added. "But we've shown we can score tries against very good teams - home and away, so we know we can deliver when it counts. "It's a young squad growing in belief. You get that from going to places like Twickenham and coming away with a win, you get that from being a match for the top teams in the world." Townsend, who suffered the disappointment of pool stage elimination in Japan four years ago, described his squad as "the best group of players I've ever worked with". "There are a lot of encouraging signs," he said. "What the players did in the Six Nations has got us down a path that we want to do more of, playing at speed, giving our best ball carriers more opportunities to have a go at the defence. "Probably the key thing for us as coaches is seeing how well the players have connected over these last two months. The quality they are bringing out in training, we're starting to see that more and more in our game." 'We have to bring our best game straight away'A second string side eked out a 25-13 win over Italy in Edinburgh at the end of July, while Scotland and France traded narrow home wins in the following preparation Tests. There will be one final farewell outing against Georgia at Murrayfield on 26th August. "It would be nice to have more warm-up games," said Townsend. "You go into a World Cup as a northern hemisphere team with just a couple of games, maybe three, for the players who will be starting against South Africa. "From Saturday night in Saint Etienne we've seen signs that we can get our game out this early in the season. "We know that challenge of playing the world champions is a big one, so we have to bring our best game straight away. We've seen progress week to week and that's what we'll be working on. "We believe that we can be a match for anyone. We still haven't knocked off Ireland over the past few years. We did well against them for 50 minutes this season but we didn't do it for 80 minutes. "It will have to be 80-minute performances against South Africa and Ireland in particular. "That means when you don't have the ball you're still as strong, making it very tough for them to score, that means delivering your best scrum and lineout and then in attack playing like we've been doing this year, building more accuracy into our game, and taking the opportunities when they come."
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 23, 2023 8:21:42 GMT
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 24, 2023 11:44:22 GMT
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 24, 2023 16:52:08 GMT
Rugby World Cup 2023: England wing Anthony Watson ruled out of the World Cup..
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Anthony Watson played in England's warm-up game against Ireland on 19th AugustEngland wing Anthony Watson has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup in France with a calf injury. England head coach Steve Borthwick says Watson picked up the injury during last weekend's warm-up defeat by Ireland and will be out for a number of weeks. No replacement has yet been named in Borthwick's 33-man squad but Jonny May is set to start on the wing against Fiji in Saturday's final warm-up match. England begin their World Cup campaign against Argentina on 9 September. "We are desperately disappointed for Anthony," Borthwick told BBC Sport. "He is an important member of this squad and one that has enormous respect from everybody. He has had setbacks before and always worked through them and I know he'll be back on the field as soon as possible." Watson, 29, has won 56 caps for England. ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/1B61/production/_130890070_gettyimages-1627181586.jpgHe played at the 2015 and 2019 World Cups and was a member of the British and Irish Lions tours to New Zealand and South Africa. Meanwhile, utility back Elliot Daly has a knee injury and is unavailable for this weekend but is expected to be fit for the World Cup and wing Henry Arundell is recovering from a back spasm. Flanker Tom Curry continues his recovery from an ankle injury and lock George Martin remains sidelined with a knee injury. England have already lost scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet to an ankle injury for the tournament and he has been replaced in the squad by Alex Mitchell. Borthwick has until 28th August to name his final squad. 'Most turbulent build-up ever' - Analysis - Chris Jones, BBC rugby union correspondentThis is surely the most turbulent build-up England have ever had before a Rugby World Cup, although events of 2011 - when the squad threatened to strike on the eve of the tournament over image rights payments - will run it close. The performances on the pitch are cause for plenty of concern, with the side currently devoid of any cohesion and momentum, but off the pitch Steve Borthwick is dealing with suspensions to two of his most important players, while the injuries are stacking up. Watson's torrid luck continues as he will is ruled out of the tournament, with other back three players Elliot Daly and Henry Arundell also sidelined, George Martin another casualty, Tom Curry yet to play this August, and the likes of Ollie Chessum and Jack Walker also very short of game time. Amid all this adversity, England desperately need a better performance against Fiji otherwise they risk limping - literally and metaphorically - into that crunch opener against Argentina.
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 24, 2023 16:55:14 GMT
England v Fiji: Courtney Lawes to captain England on 100th Test appearance..
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Courtney Lawes will lead out England against Fiji on Saturday to win his 100th Test capCourtney Lawes will captain England on his 100th cap in Saturday's match with Fiji at Twickenham, while hooker Theo Dan makes his first start. Lawes, 34, lines up in the back row alongside Jack Willis and Ben Earl, who starts at number eight in the absence of the banned Billy Vunipola. With Owen Farrell also suspended, George Ford is at fly-half. Jonny May starts on the wing despite not being in the World Cup squad and Alex Mitchell is named at scrum-half. Northampton's Mitchell will make his first appearance of the summer after being called up to the squad following the withdrawal of Jack van Poortvliet, who will miss the World Cup after injuring an ankle. England head coach Steve Borthwick said: "We couldn't be prouder of Courtney on achieving his incredible milestone after 14 years of excellent performances for his country. "It has been a privilege to watch his journey and witness him develop into a truly outstanding rugby player. "Not only is Courtney an exceptional talent and an excellent professional, he is also a brilliant role model for young players every time he steps onto the field." Borthwick's side will be without Vunipola for England's opening pool game with Argentina at the World Cup, while Farrell misses the games against the Pumas and Japan. Vunipola has been banned for three games for a high challenge on Ireland's Andrew Porter, starting with Saturday's game with Fiji, but it can be reduced to two if he completes the World Rugby coaching programme on tackling. Meanwhile, World Rugby successfully appealed against the decision to overturn Farrell's red card in the win over Wales on 12 August and have issued the fly-half with a four-game ban. He missed last week's defeat in Ireland and will not play against Fiji which means he can return for England's third pool game against Chile on 23 September. It took 10 days from the incident to the final decision, after two hearings, and Borthwick says England will discuss their thoughts on the length of that process after the World Cup. ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/8CA9/production/_130890063_gettyimages-1627158183.jpg"Owen is one of the most resilient people I've ever met," Borthwick told BBC Sport. "We respect the process. I think at some point in the future we'll be clear on our thoughts and the experience and the way it happened and lasted such a long period. "We will be very clear about that but now is not the right time." Borthwick's side have scored just two tries in their three warm-up matches so far but he says his players will convert their chances against Fiji. He added: "Fiji have proven themselves to be a strong opposition and we look forward to what we expect to be an exciting and challenging game. "Rest assured that we will be looking to convert the opportunities we have recently been creating into points on the scoreboard. "As this is our last Test before heading to France, I want to thank our fans for all the support you continue to give us, and it means a lot to us that you will be behind us all the way on our World Cup journey." England team to face Fiji: Steward; Malins, Lawrence, Tuilagi, May; Ford, Mitchell; Genge, Dan, Cole, Itoje, Chessum, Lawes (c), Willis, Earl. Replacements: Walker, Marler, Stuart, Ribbans, Ludlam, Care, Smith, Marchant.
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 26, 2023 21:40:43 GMT
Rugby World Cup 2023: Steve Borthwick has 'no doubt' England will progress after Fiji loss..
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England will head to the World Cup having lost three of their four warm-up games to Wales, Ireland and FijiEngland coach Steve Borthwick said there is "no doubt" his side will progress after their Rugby World Cup preparations ended with defeat by Fiji. Fiji's first ever win over England was a far-from-ideal final outing before their World Cup opener against Argentina in Marseille on 9 September. The 30-22 loss was England's fifth defeat in their past six matches. ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/10429/production/_130910666_borthwick_pa.jpgSteve Borthwick"I am very confident in the ability of everybody around the England team," Borthwick told Amazon Prime. "I see a group of people who are incredibly passionate and desperate for England to do well. I have no doubt this team will progress from this point." England have lost three out of their four warm-up games heading into the World Cup, with Borthwick having won only three games out of a possible nine since taking over from Eddie Jones in December. Borthwick, who, prior to taking over from Jones, won the Premiership title with Leicester Tigers, has had less than a year to prepare for the World Cup. "We knew and we know this is a challenge," Borthwick added. "I am surrounded by people, players, coaches and management who thrive under the challenge. In two weeks' time, we play Argentina and my job is to ensure the team is right to get the best result against them." The 43-year-old was capped 57 times by England as a player, captaining the side from 2008-2010, and was part of the squad that reached the 2007 World Cup final, losing to South Africa. "I have been in England squads where it wasn't stuck together, that is not this team," he added. "This is a team that sticks together and is desperate to do well. "It is clear what we have to get it right in two weeks' time against Argentina as we know that is going to be a huge game." England also face Japan, Chile and Samoa in their pool, with a potential quarter-final against Wales, Australia or Fiji to follow. ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/0EE3/production/_130911830_gettyimages-1640489655.jpgGeorge Ford's chip kick helped set up Marcus Smith's second-half try against Fiji
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 27, 2023 18:03:53 GMT
Rugby World Cup 2023: Jonny May replaces injured Anthony Watson in England squad..
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Jonny May scored after just nine minutes in his first game for England since November 2022England wing Jonny May has replaced the injured Anthony Watson in England's final 33-man squad for the World Cup. Watson was ruled out of the tournament, starting on 8 September, after injuring his calf in the defeat by Ireland. Gloucester's May scored England's opening try in their first defeat by Fiji on Saturday, despite not being named in the initial World Cup squad. The 33-year-old is the only new addition to head coach Steve Borthwick's final squad. England's opening game of the World Cup is against Argentina on 9 September in Marseille. This is Borthwick's second change to his initial squad which was named on 7 August, after scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet was replaced by Northampton Saints' Alex Mitchell following an ankle injury. Utility back Elliot Daly has a knee injury and was unavailable for the game against Fiji, but is expected to be fit for the World Cup and wing Henry Arundell is recovering from a back spasm. Flanker Tom Curry continues his recovery from an ankle injury and lock George Martin remains sidelined with a knee injury, but they all make Borthwick's final squad submitted to World Rugby. England also face Japan, Chile and Samoa in their World Cup pool, having lost three of their four World Cup warm-up matches. England World Cup squadForwards: Ollie Chessum (Leicester), Dan Cole (Leicester), Tom Curry (Sale), Theo Dan (Saracens), Ben Earl (Saracens), Ellis Genge (Bristol), Jamie George (Saracens), Maro Itoje (Saracens), Courtney Lawes (Northampton), Lewis Ludlam (Northampton), Joe Marler (Harlequins), George Martin (Leicester), David Ribbans (Toulon), Bevan Rodd (Sale), Kyle Sinckler (Bristol), Will Stuart (Bath), Billy Vunipola (Saracens), Jack Walker (Harlequins), Jack Willis (Toulouse). Backs: Henry Arundell (Racing 92), Danny Care (Harlequins), Elliot Daly (Saracens), Owen Farrell (Saracens), George Ford (Sale), Ollie Lawrence (Bath), Max Malins (Bristol), Joe Marchant (Stade Francais), Jonny May (Gloucester), Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints), Marcus Smith (Harlequins), Freddie Steward (Leicester), Manu Tuilagi (Sale), Ben Youngs (Leicester). ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/15861/production/_130916188_-d8ee1242-5818-4e4c-a60d-3baa604ecda0.png
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Post by bluetornados on Aug 28, 2023 18:34:31 GMT
Johnny Sexton: Ireland captain 'frustrated' by disciplinary process delay..
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Ireland head coach Andy Farrell will have skipper Johnny Sexton available for the start of the Rugby World CupIreland captain Johnny Sexton says the protracted disciplinary process which threatened to affect his World Cup was frustrating and took a toll on his family. Sexton is unsure why he endured such a lengthy wait to discover his fate for "confrontational and aggressive" behaviour towards referee Jaco Peyper. Almost two months passed before he was hit with a three-match ban. "I'm not sure why it took so long," said the 38-year-old Sexton. "But that's the way it was handled. It was incredibly frustrating not knowing what was going to happen." Sexton's heated exchange with the South African match official followed Leinster's 27-26 Heineken Champions Cup final loss to La Rochelle on 20 May. The fly-half consequently sat out World Cup warm-up matches against Italy, England and Samoa but is available to start Ireland's tournament opener against Romania in Bordeaux on 9 September. In the prolonged period when his punishment remained unclear, the 38-year-old, who is set to retire following the competition in France, faced intense speculation and public scrutiny amid calls for a substantial suspension. "I've never seen another process last eight weeks or seven weeks, whatever it was," said Sexton, who confronted Peyper on the Aviva Stadium pitch, having watched his province's agonising defeat from the stands because of injury. "I think when it affects your family you obviously go, 'well, why are you upset?' and [they reply] 'this happened, this happened, this happened, this happened. Five weeks later, this is still happening'. "Of course [you are aware of public commentary], but I'm not trying to play the victim. "I made a mistake and I had to put up with what I had to put up with for seven weeks. You have to face up to your actions and that's what I did." Road to recoveryichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/E6D3/production/_130919095_sextoninjuryengland.jpgJohnny Sexton retired hurt with a knee injury during Ireland's Six Nations-clinching win over England on 18th MarchSexton goes into his World Cup swansong having not played competitively since sustaining a groin issue in helping Ireland clinch a Six Nations Grand Slam against England on 18 March. His spell on the sidelines through injury and suspension means the 29-16 success over Steve Borthwick's side was his final professional appearance in his homeland. The 2018 world player of the year believes the "best guy in the world" meticulously plotted his road to recovery. "For a kicker, to injure your adductors like I did is not ideal," said Sexton, who was treated by a Doctor Griffin based in the UK. "But thankfully the IRFU (Irish Rugby Football Union) sent me to the best guy in the world. "He did a great job, he mapped it out for me and he was literally to the day accurate in what he told me in terms of when I could return to training, when I could kick a ball again. "Thankfully it's been good over the last number of weeks. Hopefully I will be in good shape come Romania." 'Achievements back up confidence'Ireland head to France top of the world rankings on the back of Six Nations glory and last summer's historic tour triumph in New Zealand. Andy Farrell's men also face reigning world champions South Africa, Scotland and Tonga in their group before a potential last-eight clash with either the host nation or the All Blacks. Asked what gives him confidence of going all the way, Sexton replied: "What we've done over the last couple of years. "I've been in groups before where you go to a World Cup and you say we're here to win it but you don't often have the achievements to back that up. "We've got things like the Grand Slam, going to New Zealand and winning a series - stuff that other teams that have won it, like England in 2003, [have achieved]. "We've some evidence to give us a little bit of confidence but we also know that it's the toughest group that we've ever had, the toughest quarter-final draw if we can manage to get through our group, so it's all to do." ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/1581B/production/_130919088_sextonindex.jpg
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Post by bluetornados on Sept 2, 2023 7:55:30 GMT
Eddie Jones: RFU to blame for England's poor form, says Australia head coach..
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England have lost five of their past six matchesEngland's poor form is down to the RFU not producing enough quality players, says Australia head coach Eddie Jones. England lost to Fiji for the first time last week - their third defeat in four before next week's World Cup in France. Head coach Steve Borthwick has faced criticism, but former boss Jones says the blame lies elsewhere. "The results of England over the last five years... they're not producing quality players," Jones told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. "And so everyone looks at the head coach, and [says] 'let's blame the head coach'. But the onus on producing quality players is the RFU. And that hasn't happened. "You've got to look at why you're not bringing talent through, then you've got to look at why your talent development systems are not doing that. "The system's not right. What needs to change? Where's the gap? That's the responsibility of the RFU." ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/D723/production/_130957055_jones.pngBorthwick has only won three games out of a possible nine since taking charge when Jones was sacked in December. Jones left after a dismal year of results, with only five wins from 12 Tests in 2022. Following defeat by Fiji, Borthwick said he had "no doubt" his side would make progress, while World Cup winner Jason Robinson said England could emulate the 2007 side and reach the final, despite poor form. But BBC Sport pundit Matt Dawson - another World Cup winner - said England "do not have a prayer" of winning the tournament.
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Post by bluetornados on Sept 3, 2023 21:21:11 GMT
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Post by bluetornados on Sept 7, 2023 8:18:36 GMT
Rugby World Cup 2023: Oil companies should not sponsor World Cups, says David Pocock..By Sara Orchard, BBC Sport rugby reporter in France.ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/4083/production/_130951561_gettyimages-1243962666.jpgFuel companies are using sport to "greenwash their image" and should not be allowed to sponsor World Cups, says former Australia captain David Pocock. French oil company TotalEnergies is one of the main sponsors of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, which begins on Friday in Paris. Pocock told the BBC he believed the message should be "you can't sponsor us unless you have a legitimate decarbonisation plan, and you are transitioning your business". In response, a statement from TotalEnergies said it was "wrong" to claim its sponsorship was "greenwashing". It added that by the end of 2023 the company "will invest nearly five billion euros in renewable and low carbon energies by 2023 and will therefore, for the first time, devote more investments to low-carbon energies than to new hydrocarbon projects". Pocock, who captained Australia at the 2019 World Cup, is now an independent senator in the Australian Central Territory and a passionate campaigner on climate change issues. He was speaking exclusively to BBC Sport for a Radio 5 Live special 'Rugby Tackles the Climate Challenge' on Thursday. Former flanker Pocock describes the climate crisis as "probably the biggest problem we face as a species" and after the European summer we have just experienced as a "critical moment in history". ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/16684/production/_131008719_gettyimages-1182162519.jpgDavid Pocock played his 78th and final match for Australia in the quarter-final defeat by England at the 2019 World Cup in Japan
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Tournament hosts France take on New Zealand in the opening match of the Rugby World Cup which starts on Friday
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Post by bluetornados on Sept 7, 2023 8:24:00 GMT
Opening Weekend Fixtures for the 2023 Rugby World Cup......(ALL GAMES ARE LIVE ON ITV)
Friday 8th September
Pool A: France v New Zealand - Stade de France - 8.15pm
Saturday 9th September
Pool A: Italy v Namibia - Stade Geoffroy-Guichard - 12pm
Pool B: IRELAND v Romania - Stade de Bordeaux - 2.30pm
Pool C: Australia v Georgia - Stade de France - 5pm
Pool D: ENGLAND v Argentina - Stade de Marseille - 8pm
Sunday 10th September
Pool D: Japan v Chile - Stade de Toulouse - 12pm
Pool B: South Africa v SCOTLAND - Stade de Marseille - 4.45pm
Pool C: WALES v Fiji - Stade de Bordeaux - 8pm
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Post by bluetornados on Sept 7, 2023 14:09:10 GMT
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Post by bluetornados on Sept 7, 2023 14:21:34 GMT
England v Argentina: Alex Mitchell and Jonny May to start Rugby World Cup opener..
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Alex Mitchell started in England's final warm-up game against FijiAlex Mitchell and Jonny May will start for England in their World Cup opener against Argentina despite initially missing out on the 33-man squad. Scrum-half Mitchell and wing May were late additions to Steve Borthwick's squad after Jack van Poortvliet and Anthony Watson withdrew with injury. George Ford will start at fly-half with captain Owen Farrell banned for the first two pool games. Flanker Tom Curry starts his first game since the Premiership final in May. Open-side Curry, who started the 2019 World Cup final defeat by South Africa, is yet to feature for England this summer after recovering from an ankle injury. Ben Earl replaces Saracens team-mate Billy Vunipola, who is suspended for the opening game following his red card against Ireland in England's penultimate warm-up game, at number eight. Courtney Lawes completes the back row on the blind-side and continues as captain in the absence of Farrell. Wing Elliot Daly has recovered from a knee injury to join May and regular full-back Freddie Steward in the back three. Harlequins' Joe Marchant partners Manu Tuilagi in the midfield - as they did in the defeat by Ireland in Dublin. Replacement scrum-half Danny Care is given the nod over Leicester Tigers' Ben Youngs on the bench in what could be only his second World Cup appearance, having made his first against Uruguay in 2015. England, who are ranked eighth in the world, lost three of their four warm-up games heading into the World Cup. Borthwick's side also face Japan, Chile and Samoa in Pool D, with the top two sides progressing to the quarter-finals. Line-up
England team to face Argentina: Steward; May, Marchant, Tuilagi, Daly; Ford, Mitchell; Genge, George, Cole; Itoje, Chessum; Lawes (capt), Curry, Earl. Replacements: Dan, Marler, Stuart, Martin, Ludlam, Care, Smith, Lawrence.
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Post by eppinggas on Sept 8, 2023 8:23:40 GMT
England v Argentina: Alex Mitchell and Jonny May to start Rugby World Cup opener..
Alex Mitchell and Jonny May will start for England in their World Cup opener against Argentina despite initially missing out on the 33-man squad. Scrum-half Mitchell and wing May were late additions to Steve Borthwick's squad after Jack van Poortvliet and Anthony Watson withdrew with injury. George Ford will start at fly-half with captain Owen Farrell banned for the first two pool games. Flanker Tom Curry starts his first game since the Premiership final in May. Open-side Curry, who started the 2019 World Cup final defeat by South Africa, is yet to feature for England this summer after recovering from an ankle injury. Ben Earl replaces Saracens team-mate Billy Vunipola, who is suspended for the opening game following his red card against Ireland in England's penultimate warm-up game, at number eight. Courtney Lawes completes the back row on the blind-side and continues as captain in the absence of Farrell. Wing Elliot Daly has recovered from a knee injury to join May and regular full-back Freddie Steward in the back three. Harlequins' Joe Marchant partners Manu Tuilagi in the midfield - as they did in the defeat by Ireland in Dublin. Replacement scrum-half Danny Care is given the nod over Leicester Tigers' Ben Youngs on the bench in what could be only his second World Cup appearance, having made his first against Uruguay in 2015. England, who are ranked eighth in the world, lost three of their four warm-up games heading into the World Cup. Borthwick's side also face Japan, Chile and Samoa in Pool D, with the top two sides progressing to the quarter-finals. Line-up
England team to face Argentina: Steward; May, Marchant, Tuilagi, Daly; Ford, Mitchell; Genge, George, Cole; Itoje, Chessum; Lawes (capt), Curry, Earl. Replacements: Dan, Marler, Stuart, Martin, Ludlam, Care, Smith, Lawrence. Difficult to get to revved up about England. They were boring, dull and clueless in the 6 nations. I enjoyed all the 6 nations games - apart from the England games. They were about 4-6 to win this game a month ago. Now an evens contest. Is it really bad to be supporting Argentina? Should be a great tournament with 4 realistic potential champions in France, Ireland, AB's and the Boks. France / AB's this evening should be a belter. |
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