Ireland Squad Announcement for Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024

Peter O’Mahony Named Captain for the Champions hip

Head Coach Andy Farrell has unveiled the 34-player Ireland squad for the upcoming Guinness Men’s Six Nations, appointing Peter O’Mahony as the team captain for the 2024 Championship.

Preparation Kick-off in Dublin

The Ireland squad will kickstart their preparations at the IRFU High Performance Centre in Dublin on Monday, gearing up for the first Championship match against France at Stade Velodrome in Marseille on Friday, 2 February (Kick-off 9pm local time/8pm Irish time).

O’Mahony Takes the Helm

Peter O’Mahony, with 10 previous captaincies, assumes the leadership role for the Championship, succeeding Jonathan Sexton, who retired after the last year’s Rugby World Cup.

New Additions to the Squad

Farrell introduces three additional players – Oli Jager, Thomas Ahern, and Sam Prendergast – joining the Ireland squad for a pre-tournament training camp in Quinta do Lago, Portugal.

Championship Fixture Highlights

After the opening clash against France, Ireland faces back-to-back matches at Aviva Stadium against Italy on Sunday, 11 February, and Wales on Saturday, 24 February. The team then travels to Twickenham to confront England on Saturday, 10 March, before concluding the Championship against Scotland at Aviva Stadium on Saturday, 16 March.

Coach Farrell’s Optimism

Commenting on the squad, Coach Farrell expresses optimism: “The forthcoming Men’s Guinness Six Nations presents an opportunity for us to grow and develop… The squad is in good shape.”

Captain O’Mahony’s Pride and Expectations

Newly appointed captain Peter O’Mahony shares his pride: “To be now asked to captain Ireland ahead of the Six Nations is without doubt one of the proudest moments of my life.”

Sold-out Home Matches

All three of Ireland’s home matches at Aviva Stadium are sold out, with RTÉ and Virgin Media providing free-to-air coverage in the Republic of Ireland and BBC and ITV broadcasting in the United Kingdom.

Ireland Squad – Guinness Six Nations 2024:

Forwards (19):

Ryan Baird (Leinster/Dublin University)(15)
Finlay Bealham (Connacht/Buccaneers)(36)
Tadhg Beirne (Munster/Lansdowne)(46)
Jack Conan (Leinster/Old Belvedere)(41)
Caelan Doris (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(36)
Tadhg Furlong (Leinster/Clontarf)(72)
Cian Healy (Leinster/Clontarf)(125)
Iain Henderson (Ulster/Academy)(79)
Ronan Kelleher (Leinster/Lansdowne)(26)
Jeremy Loughman (Munster/Garryowen)(4)
Joe McCarthy (Leinster/Dublin University)(5)
Peter O’Mahony (Munster/Cork Constitution)(101) CAPTAIN
Tom O’Toole (Ulster/Ballynahinch)(12)
Andrew Porter (Leinster/UCD)(59)
James Ryan (Leinster/UCD)(59)
Dan Sheehan (Leinster/Lansdowne)(21)
Tom Stewart (Ulster/Ballynahinch)(2)
Nick Timoney (Ulster/Banbridge)(3)
Josh van der Flier (Leinster/UCD)(57)

Backs (15):

Bundee Aki (Connacht/Galwegians)(52)
Harry Byrne (Leinster/UCD)(2)
Craig Casey (Munster/Shannon)(13)
Jack Crowley (Munster/Cork Constitution)(9)
Ciaran Frawley (Leinster/UCD)(1)
Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster)(30)
Robbie Henshaw (Leinster/Buccaneers)
Hugo Keenan (Leinster/UCD)(36)
Jordan Larmour (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(30)
James Lowe (Leinster)(26)
Stuart McCloskey (Ulster/Bangor)(15)
Conor Murray (Munster/Garryowen)(112)
Calvin Nash (Munster/Young Munster)(1)
Garry Ringrose (Leinster/UCD)(57)
Jacob Stockdale (Ulster/Lurgan)(37)

Training Panellists:

Oli Jager (Munster)*
Thomas Ahern (Shannon/Munster)*
Sam Prendergast (Lansdowne/Leinster)*

* denotes uncapped player

Analysing Rugby Injury Trends: A Comprehensive Look at Player Safety

Rugby, a physically demanding sport, sees its players navigating a field of challenges, including the risk of injuries. In this article, we delve into recent statistics to shed light on the frequency and nature of injuries in rugby, differentiating between male and female players and examining trends across various playing levels.

Click here for in-depth look

Overall Injury Frequency: A Comparative Overview

Male players, experiencing a slight increase, now face an average of 17 matches before sustaining an injury, down from the previous 14 matches. Female players, however, maintain the status quo at 25 matches per injury. The injury incidence rate has seen a positive shift for both genders, with a decrease from 55 to 43.3 injuries per 1,000 player hours for men and a marginal increase from 29.8 to 30.3 injuries per 1,000 player hours for women.

School Senior Cup Players: A Closer Look

School Senior Cup players show a noteworthy increase in the number of matches required to incur an injury, rising from 16 to 22 matches. However, the injury incidence rate has decreased from 42.4 to 38.5 injuries per 1,000 player hours compared to the 2019/20 season.

Senior Club Injury Breakdown: Tackles and More

In senior club matches, the tackle remains a significant contributor to injuries. Analyzing injury events, 64% of men’s and 71% of women’s match injuries result from tackles. Further breakdown reveals that 45% of men’s tackle-related injuries are sustained by the ball carrier, while 55% are sustained by the tackler. For women, 66% of tackle-related injuries come from the ball carrier, and 34% from the tackler.

Male Club Match Injury Occurrence: Top Injuries

Examining injury occurrences in male club matches, concussion rates have increased from 7.6 to 9.1 injuries per 1,000 player hours. Conversely, ankle ligament sprains have decreased from 5.3 to 5, and hamstring strains have seen a slight increase from 4.6 to 4.7 injuries per 1,000 player hours.

Female Club Match Injury Occurrence: Shifting Patterns

In female club matches, ankle sprains have seen a significant rise from 2.9 to 4.3 injuries per 1,000 player hours. Knee sprains have also increased from 1.4 to 3.7 injuries per 1,000 player hours, while concussions have shown a decline from 3.6 to 2.5 injuries per 1,000 player hours.

School Senior Cup Match Injury Occurrence: Notable Reductions

For School Senior Cup matches, concussion rates have decreased from 9.6 to 7.5 injuries per 1,000 player hours. Ankle sprains also exhibit a decline from 4.1 to 3.6, and shoulder dislocation/subluxation has seen a substantial reduction from 7.2 to 2.7 injuries per 1,000 player hours compared to the 2018/19 season.

England’s 2024 Six Nations Squad Revealed: Notable Omissions and Rising Stars

High-Profile Exclusions: Sinckler and Vunipola

In a surprising turn of events, England’s 2024 Six Nations squad witnesses the absence of heavyweights Kyle Sinckler and Billy Vunipola. Speculations about their potential Premiership exits add intrigue to Coach Steve Borthwick’s strategic choices.

Dynamic Tighthead Options

Borthwick’s response to the missing duo includes seasoned players Dan Cole, Will Stuart, and Joe Heyes stepping up as tighthead options. The uncapped trio of Ben Earl, Alex Dombrandt, and Chandler Cunningham-South is set to make an impact at No 8, introducing a fresh perspective to England’s forward pack.

New Blood: A Blend of Youth and Experience

A notable feature of the squad is the infusion of seven uncapped players, promising a blend of youth and experience. The inclusion of talents like Cunningham-South, Oscar Beard, Fraser Dingwall, Tom Roebuck, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Fin Smith, and Ethan Roots signals a strategic move to build for the future.

Captaincy Revelation: George Takes the Helm

Jamie George as the squad’s captain, a role that adds a layer of leadership to the experienced hooker. The captaincy decision sets the tone for England’s campaign, providing stability amidst the notable exclusions.

Return of the Veteran: Spencer’s Comeback

Bath scrum-half Ben Spencer’s return to the national setup after his 2019 World Cup final appearance adds a compelling narrative. Spencer’s stellar performance in his captaincy role at Bath earns him a well-deserved recall, bringing both experience and form to the squad.

Uncertainties and Disciplinary Hearings

While the exclusion of Alfie Barbeary raises eyebrows, there’s a possibility of his inclusion pending a disciplinary hearing. This adds an element of suspense to the squad dynamics, with Borthwick’s decisions contingent on the outcome.

Front Row Assurance: Marler and Genge Overcome Fitness Concerns

The front row sees the return of Joe Marler and Ellis Genge, overcoming fitness concerns at loosehead. This development provides Borthwick with a sense of relief, ensuring a robust and experienced front row for the upcoming challenges.

Balancing Act: Rehabilitation Group

A rehabilitation group comprising George Martin, Manu Tuilagi, Anthony Watson, Raffi Quirke, and Jack van Poortvliet underscores England’s commitment to nurturing and reintegrating key players. Striking a balance between experience and emerging talents, this group adds depth to the squad.

As England prepares for the 2024 Six Nations, Borthwick’s strategic decisions and the uncapped players’ potential impact promise an intriguing journey for fans and a glimpse into the future of English rugby.

ENGLAND SENIOR MEN’S 36-PLAYER TRAINING SQUAD

FORWARDS

Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 18 caps)
Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers, 107 caps)
Alex Coles (Northampton Saints, 3 caps)
Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks, 41 caps)
Chandler Cunningham-South (Harlequins, uncapped)
Ben Curry (Sale Sharks, 5 caps)
Theo Dan (Saracens, 7 caps)
Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins, 15 caps)
Ben Earl (Saracens, 25 caps)
Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears, 58 caps)
Jamie George (Saracens, 85 caps) – captain
Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers, 7 caps)
Nick Isiekwe (Saracens, 11 caps)
Maro Itoje (Saracens, 76 caps)
Joe Marler (Harlequins, 88 caps)
Beno Obano (Bath Rugby, 3 caps)
Tom Pearson (Northampton Saints, 1 cap)
Ethan Roots (Exeter Chiefs, uncapped)
Will Stuart (Bath Rugby, 33 caps)
Sam Underhill (Bath Rugby, 30 caps)

BACKS

Oscar Beard (Harlequins, uncapped)
Danny Care (Harlequins, 96 caps)
Elliot Daly (Saracens, 64 caps)
Fraser Dingwall (Northampton Saints, uncapped)
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter Chiefs, uncapped)
George Ford (Sale Sharks, 91 caps)
Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints, 3 caps)
George Furbank (Northampton Saints, 6 caps)
Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby, 21 caps)
Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints, 11 caps)
Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks, uncapped)
Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs, 57 caps)
Fin Smith (Northampton Saints, uncapped)
Marcus Smith (Harlequins, 30 caps)
Ben Spencer (Bath Rugby, 4 caps)
Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers, 31 caps)

Ireland Under-20 Men’s Team Gears Up for 2024 U-20 Six Nations Championship

The anticipation builds as Ireland’s Under-20 Men’s head coach, Richie Murphy, prepares his talented squad for the upcoming 2024 U-20 Six Nations Championship, set to kick off in just over two weeks.

🗣️ “It’s a huge honour and a massive opportunity to captain this side.”

Evan O’Connell was today named Ireland U20s captain for the upcoming Six Nations.#FutureIsGreen pic.twitter.com/ZCkBL3cve3

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) January 16, 2024

Last Season’s Triumphs:

Recapping the stellar performance of the Ireland Under-20s in the previous season, securing consecutive Grand Slam titles and reaching the World Rugby U-20 Championship final highlighted their success. The only setback came against a formidable France team.

Returning Players and Leadership:

The 2022/23 graduates, led by newly-appointed captain Evan O’Connell, along with familiar faces like Joe Hopes, Danny Sheahan, Brian Gleeson, and Hugh Gavin, set a high standard. Murphy emphasizes their focus on weekly performance, steering away from the pressure of past achievements.

Performance Over Results:

Addressing expectations, Murphy emphasizes the team’s commitment to being performance-based rather than result-oriented. With a nearly new team, their goal is to take each game as it comes, starting with the formidable challenge of facing France in the first match.

Senior Debuts and Squad Depth:

Three members of the 31-player squad have already made senior debuts for their provinces, showcasing the depth of talent in the IRFU Under-20 Men’s program. Murphy acknowledges the tough decisions in finalizing the squad, with plans to potentially add one more player based on All-Ireland League performances.

Captain Evan O’Connell’s Leadership:

As Evan O’Connell steps into the role of captain, he brings not only physical prowess but also leadership qualities showcased during the previous successful campaign. His uncle, Paul, a former captain, adds a familial connection to Ireland’s rugby legacy.

Energia All-Ireland League Experience:

Most of the squad, including O’Connell, has gained valuable experience in the Energia All-Ireland League, providing a crucial stepping stone from school to senior rugby. Murphy emphasizes the importance of AIL in developing both physicality and speed required at the U-20 level.

Coaching Team and New Additions:

Willie Faloon and Aaron Dundon continue their coaching roles, while former Ireland international Ian Keatley steps in as the new backs coach, succeeding Mark Sexton. Keatley’s impact is already evident, bringing experience and valuable insights to the team.

Preparations and Training Camps:

The squad recently trained with Clontarf’s AIL team and will embark on a short training camp in Belfast, including a session with Queen’s University at Kingspan Stadium. The strategic blend of physicality from the AIL and the desired speed prepares the team for the challenges of the upcoming Six Nations.

As the Ireland Under-20 Men’s team readies itself for the U-20 Six Nations Championship, the blend of seasoned players, emerging talents, and experienced coaching staff positions them as formidable contenders. The focus on performance and continuous improvement echoes their commitment to success on the international stage.

Ireland U20s Squad:

Forwards (17):

Alex Usanov (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Ben Howard (Terenure College RFC/Leinster)
Danny Sheahan (Cork Constitution FC/Munster)
Henry Walker (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Stephen Smyth (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Patreece Bell (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jacob Boyd (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Andrew Sparrow (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Joe Hopes (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
Billy Corrigan (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Evan O’Connell (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster)(captain)
Alan Spicer (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Bryn Ward (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Sean Edogbo (UCC RFC/Munster)
Josh Stevens (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Brian Gleeson (Garryowen FC/Munster)
Luke Murphy (Shannon RFC/Munster)

Backs (14):

Oliver Coffey (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
Tadhg Brophy (Naas RFC/Leinster)
Will Wootton (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jake O’Riordan (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster)
Jack Murphy (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Sean Naughton (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
Hugo McLaughlin (Lansdowne FC/Leinster)
Ethan Graham (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Hugh Gavin (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Rory Ellerby (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Wilhelm de Klerk (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Finn Treacy (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Stephen Kiely (Shannon RFC/Munster)
Ben O’Connor (UCC RFC/Munster)

Ireland U20 Fixtures:

• Saturday, 3 February: France v Ireland, Stade Maurice David, 9.10pm local time/8.10pm Irish time
• Friday, 9 February: Ireland v Italy, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
• Friday, 23 February: Ireland v Wales, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
• Friday, 8 March: England v Ireland, Recreation Ground, 7.15pm
• Friday, 15 March: Ireland v Scotland, Musgrave Park, 7pm

Wales star winger Louis Rees-Zammit to quit rugby for shot at playing in the NFL

In a significant move, Gloucester Rugby has granted immediate release to Louis Rees-Zammit, allowing the 22-year-old winger to pursue his dream in the National Football League (NFL).

**Embracing the NFL International Player Pathway (IPP)**

Louis Rees-Zammit has accepted a coveted invitation to join the NFL International Player Pathway (IPP). This unique opportunity provides elite athletes worldwide with the chance to secure a spot on an NFL roster.

**Grateful Reflections: Gloucester Rugby’s Impact**

Expressing deep gratitude, Rees-Zammit acknowledges Gloucester Rugby’s pivotal role in shaping his career. From his early days at Hartpury College to earning Lions caps, the club has been instrumental in his professional development.

**A Journey Through Professional Development**

Reflecting on his growth as a player, Rees-Zammit highlights the support received from Gloucester Rugby. The journey from Hartpury College to representing Wales and the Lions has been a testament to the club’s influence.

**American Football Aspirations: A New Professional Chapter**

Rees-Zammit shares his vision of playing American football in the US, underscoring the rarity of such opportunities in a career. He believes that now is the right time to explore a new professional chapter.

**CEO’s Perspective: Alex Brown on the Departure**

Alex Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Gloucester Rugby, provides insights into the departure. While expressing sadness at seeing Rees-Zammit leave, Brown acknowledges the magnitude of the NFL opportunity and expresses pride in the club’s role in his development.

**Best Wishes from Gloucester Rugby**

Despite the sadness surrounding the departure, Gloucester Rugby extends its best wishes to Rees-Zammit. The club takes pride in contributing to the development of a player now poised for a new adventure.

**Departure to Florida: Commencement of the IPP Program**

Louis Rees-Zammit is set to leave the UK for Florida this week, marking the beginning of his journey through the NFL International Player Pathway (IPP). This move signifies a pivotal moment as he ventures into a new chapter of his professional career.

Head Coach Richie Murphy has announced the 31-man Ireland U20s squad for the 2024 U20 Six Nations, featuring four players from last year’s Grand Slam-winning campaign. Evan O’Connell, the Munster second row, will captain the team in their opening fixture against France on February 3.

O’Connell, along with second row partner Joe Hopes, back row Brian Gleeson, and centre Hugh Gavin, are part of the 2024 Championship squad, having contributed to last year’s success. Ireland begins their Championship in France before two consecutive home matches at Musgrave Park against Italy and Wales on February 9 and February 23, respectively.

The team faces England at The Recreation Ground in Bath on March 8, concluding the Championship against Scotland in Cork on March 15. The squad has prepared through camps at the IRFU High Performance Centre, including Challenge Matches over the Christmas period.

Coaching staff for the 2024 Championship includes Willie Faloon (Defence and Lineout), Aaron Dundon (Scrum and Contact Coach), and former Ireland international Ian Keatley as Backs Coach.

In a statement, Murphy expressed excitement about the young players representing Ireland in the Six Nations, emphasizing their work-rate and commitment. The team looks forward to the challenges ahead, with support anticipated at Musgrave Park in Cork.

PwC, in their nineteenth year sponsoring the Ireland U20 squad, expressed confidence in Ireland’s performance, highlighting the team’s dedication and teamwork. IRFU President Greg Barrett acknowledged the importance of the U20s program in Irish Rugby, appreciating PwC’s longstanding support.

The Ireland U20s squad includes forwards and backs, and tickets for home matches at Musgrave Park are available via Ticketmaster.ie. The team’s fixtures include matches against France, Italy, Wales, England, and Scotland throughout February and March.

Ireland U20s Squad:

Forwards (17):

Alex Usanov (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Ben Howard (Terenure College RFC/Leinster)
Danny Sheahan (Cork Constitution FC/Munster)
Henry Walker (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Stephen Smyth (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Patreece Bell (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jacob Boyd (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Andrew Sparrow (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Joe Hopes (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
Billy Corrigan (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
Evan O’Connell (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster) (capt)
Alan Spicer (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Bryn Ward (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Sean Edogbo (UCC RFC/Munster)
Josh Stevens (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Brian Gleeson (Garryowen FC/Munster)
Luke Murphy (Shannon RFC/Munster)

Backs (14):

Oliver Coffey (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
Tadhg Brophy (Naas RFC/Leinster)
Will Wootton (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
Jake O’Riordan (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster)
Jack Murphy (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
Sean Naughton (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
Hugo McLaughlin (Lansdowne FC/Leinster)
Ethan Graham (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
Hugh Gavin (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Rory Ellerby (Queen’s University RFC/Ulster)
Wilhelm de Klerk (UCD RFC/Leinster)
Finn Treacy (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
Stephen Kiely (Shannon RFC/Munster)
Ben O’Connor (UCC RFC/Munster)

Ireland U20 Fixtures:

• Saturday, 3 February: France v Ireland, Stade Maurice David, 9.10pm local time/8.10pm Irish time
• Friday, 9 February: Ireland v Italy, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
• Friday, 23 February: Ireland v Wales, Musgrave Park, 7.15pm
• Friday, 8 March: England v Ireland, Recreation Ground, 7.15pm
• Friday, 15 March: Ireland v Scotland, Musgrave Park,

**1. Owen Farrell’s Potential Move to Racing 92**

Despite Racing 92’s denial, persistent rumors surround Saracens and England star Owen Farrell’s potential move to the Parisian club. Stuart Lancaster’s admission of interest has fueled speculation, but the stumbling block remains the reported €600,000 (£515,000) fee required to buy Farrell out of his Saracens contract for the final two seasons.

**2. Controversial Replacements for Farrell at Saracens**

Saracens are actively exploring replacements for Farrell, with Paddy Jackson being one option that might not sit well with the fans. Paolo Garbisi, the Italian international, is also under consideration, along with reports linking Ihaia West to the Premiership club, potentially being released by La Rochelle to manage their salary bill.

**3. Munster’s Loss: Carbery and Janse van Rensburg to Bordeaux**

Bordeaux is reported to have signed two internationals for the upcoming season, with Joey Carbery and Rohan Janse van Rensburg making the move from Munster.

**4. Courtney Lawes’ Contract Situation and Potential Moves**

Northampton Saints’ Courtney Lawes is open to staying in the Premiership but insists on being paid what he is ‘worth.’ While he explores options at Brive and Provence, Toulon remains a potential destination.

**5. Manu Tuilagi’s Future and Interest from Top 14 Clubs**

Top 14 clubs, including Bayonne and Montpellier, are vying for England and Sale Sharks center Manu Tuilagi, whose contract expires at the end of the season. Perpignan is currently in pole position to secure his signature.

**6. Toulon’s Pursuit of Springboks Center Andre Esterhuizen**

Andre Esterhuizen might depart Harlequins, with Toulon considering a move for the Rugby World Cup winner, despite his high salary demands.

**7. Saracens’ Recruitment: Signing of Newcastle Prop Phil Brantingham**

Saracens are in talks to confirm the arrival of Newcastle Falcons prop Phil Brantingham, indicating the club’s ongoing recruitment efforts.

**8. Gloucester’s Ruan Ackermann Eyeing Return to South Africa**

Gloucester’s Ruan Ackermann is in talks with a South African URC side as he aims to secure a Springbok call-up, expressing a desire to play in South Africa again.

**9. Tomos Williams Confirmed Signing for Gloucester**

Wales international scrum-half Tomos Williams is set to join Gloucester ahead of the next season, confirming the signing.

**10. Lyon’s Interest in England’s Jonny Hill**

Top 14 club Lyon is reportedly interested in signing England and Sale Sharks lock Jonny Hill, shifting their focus after unsuccessful attempts with other targets.

**11. Toulon’s Failed Attempt to Sign Toulouse’s Baptiste Germain**

Toulon failed in their attempt to sign Toulouse’s Baptiste Germain, as the player is under contract until June 2025, and Toulouse is not willing to negotiate an early exit.

**12. Departure of Racing 92’s Juan Imhoff and Waisea Nayacalevu’s Future at Toulon**

Racing 92’s Juan Imhoff is set to leave the club at the end of the season, while Fiji captain Waisea Nayacalevu considers options, including talks with Montpellier, regarding his contract extension with Toulon.

**13. Pita Ahki’s Contract Negotiations with Toulouse**

Tongan centre Pita Ahki is negotiating a reduced salary to stay at Toulouse beyond the current season, with Bordeaux and an overseas team expressing interest.

**14. Toulon Secures Signings of Kyle Sinckler and Lewis Ludlam**

Toulon is set to finalize a deal with Kyle Sinckler, backed by reports that the agreement has been reached. Additionally, Northampton Saints forward Lewis Ludlam is signed for Toulon.

**15. Northampton Saints’ Pursuit of Aaron Wainwright**

Northampton Saints are reportedly exploring options to sign Aaron Wainwright, considering the potential departure of Ludlam and Lawes next season.

**16. Mason Grady’s Decision to Stay in Wales with Cardiff Rugby**

Centre Mason Grady is set to extend his stay in Wales with Cardiff Rugby, rejecting interest from Premiership clubs.

**17. Coaching Extension: Edinburgh’s Sean Everitt**

Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt has extended his contract for two more years, keeping him with the Scottish club until June 2026.

**18. Ma’a Nonu’s Continuation in Major League Rugby**

All Blacks legend Ma’a Nonu has signed a contract extension with the San Diego Legion for the 2024 Major League Rugby season.

**19. Peato Mauvaka’s Potential Departure from Toulouse**

• Toulouse’s Peato Mauvaka, unhappy with his substitute role, attracts interest from several Top 14 clubs, including Montpellier, Stade Francais, Lyon, and Toulon, despite his contract until June 2026.

Andy Farrell Expected as British and Irish Lions Head Coach for 2025 Australia Tour

Confirmation and Legacy in London

Andy Farrell, the 48-year-old English coach, is poised to take over the coveted position of head coach for the British and Irish Lions’ 2025 tour to Australia. Expected to be announced as Warren Gatland’s successor, Farrell’s confirmation is anticipated during a lunchtime press conference in central London.

Stellar Coaching Record and Irish Rugby Success

Widely regarded as an exceptional candidate, Farrell’s credentials include orchestrating a Grand Slam victory and securing an unprecedented 2-1 series win in New Zealand in 2022. His tenure also witnessed Ireland’s significant ranking and performance ascent until being overtaken by South Africa at the end of the recent World Cup.

Endorsement and Enthusiasm from IRFU

The Irish Rugby Football Union is supportive of Farrell’s elevation to this esteemed role, with David Nucifora expressing eagerness about the potential appointment back in December. Farrell’s coaching prowess and success with Ireland position him as a strong contender, especially considering the likelihood of the majority of the touring squad hailing from Ireland.

Career Trajectory and Lions’ Past Engagements

Starting his career as a player in both codes before transitioning to coaching, Farrell’s Lions’ experience includes contributions to victorious campaigns in 2013 and 2017. Despite missing the recent South Africa tour due to prior commitments, he is now set for a potential sabbatical, allowing him to assume this critical coaching role.

New Era for Lions: Future Tour Details

This appointment marks the end of Gatland’s tenure since 2009, opening a new chapter for the Lions. The upcoming tour schedule commences against Western Force on June 28, culminating in the first Test in Brisbane on July 19.

List of Up-and-Coming Rugby Stars for 2024 Six Nations

Ireland

**Ciaran Frawley**

Leinster’s potential at fly-half to fill the void left by Johnny Sexton’s retirement.

**Calvin Nash**
Munster’s promising winger vying for a spot in the back three.

**Tom Stewart**
Ulster’s try-scoring hooker pushing for a national team call-up.

**Jack Boyle**
Emerging talent from Leinster eyeing the loosehead vacancy.

**Tom Ahern**
Munster’s athletic forward, a hybrid flanker/lock, adding squad depth.

**Oli Jager**
Munster’s Crusaders-trained tighthead prop with impressive credentials.

**Cian Prendergast**
Connacht’s rising blindside flanker, showcasing effective rucking skills.

Wales

**Cam Winnett**
Cardiff Rugby’s standout full-back contender following notable performances.

**Morgan Morris**
Consistent Ospreys player aiming for a spot in the back row.

**Teddy Williams**
Skilful second-rower from Cardiff Rugby with a rugby-rich lineage.

**Ioan Lloyd**
Scarlets’ versatile talent comfortable at fly-half and full-back positions.

**Mackenzie Martin**
Cardiff Rugby’s dynamic No. 8 making an impact in the league.

**Cai Evans**
Dragons’ utility back showcasing prowess at fly-half and full-back.

**James Botham**
Physical back-row asset returning after injury setbacks.

**Ben Thomas**
Cardiff’s versatile back showcasing prowess across multiple positions.

**Alex Mann**
Former footballer excelling as a blindside flanker for Cardiff Rugby.

**James Fender**
Ospreys’ rookie second-rower stepping into significant shoes.

**Ryan Woodman**
Dragons’ versatile forward with experience in multiple positions.

**Cameron Hanekom**
Vodacom Bulls’ No. 8, potentially eligible for Wales.

**Rhys Ruddock**
Experienced Ireland international, soon eligible for Wales.

Scotland

**Kyle Rowe**
Glasgow’s potential wing sensation with an unconventional backstory.

**Matt Currie**
Edinburgh’s versatile centre, comfortable at 12 and 13.

**Nathan McBeth**
Glasgow’s prop impressing with his form, eligible through heritage.

**Alex Samuel**
Young lock from Glasgow, a potential addition to the squad.

**Connor Boyle**
Edinburgh’s dynamic flanker pressing for national recognition.

Italy

**Alessandro Izekor**
Benetton’s athletic flanker catching attention for his play.

**Mirco Spagnolo**
Benetton’s rising star at loosehead prop making a swift impact.

**Giacomo Ferrari**
Zebre’s promising openside flanker making strides in the league.

**Edoardo Iachizzi**
Benetton’s versatile back five forward providing depth options.

**Matteo Nocera**
Young prop from Zebre aiming for a spot in the national team.

**Leonardo Marin**
Talented fly-half from Benetton with Test experience at a young age.