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Ahead of England’s Rugby World Cup semi-final, we take a look at some reasons for optimism; England vs South Africa takes place on Saturday (8pm kick-off UK time); the match in Paris is a repeat of the 2019 final which the Springboks won

The beauty of knockout rugby is that there is always an upset on the cards and an England win on Saturday could be one for the ages.

Despite being a finalist against South Africa back in 2019, England’s form has significantly dipped, fresh faces and a fresh coaching team headed by Steve Borthwick now helping to drive a side which entered the competition with very little expectations on them from fans.

‘They won’t get out of the group,’ was the first cry, then it was ‘Fiji will get them in the quarter-finals like they did at Twickenham’, now it is ‘South Africa will cruise past England in the semi-finals’.

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England head coach, Steve Borthwick backs his players to succeed against South Africa in their Rugby World Cup semi-final on Saturday and has hailed their progression throughout the tournament

The first two statements were proven to be incorrect and England will believe they can also prove the third as false too. Let’s take a look at why…

Producing a performance too early: Building towards the big dance

Throughout the years in the Rugby World Cup, several nations have performed magnificently in the last four, before failing to hit the same heights in the final. They’ve been said almost to have played their final in the semi-finals.

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Former England winger Mark Cueto does not rule out an England victory against South Africa in the Rugby World Cup semi-final and says all the pressure is on favourites South Africa.

This year, the script was slightly different as two of the quarter-finals produced final-esque clashes.

Ireland and New Zealand had fans at the edge of their seat in a war of attrition which the All Blacks ultimately won before France and South Africa dazzled with their skill and the Springboks edged by just one point. Both games set new heights and brought with it all the emotion that the latter stages of tournament rugby bring.

For England, their quarter-final was a slightly more muted contest against Fiji and it could be something which helps them come Saturday.

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James Cole has all the latest news ahead of the Rugby World Cup semi-finals as Freddie Steward is set to be recalled by England in place of Marcus Smith.

Being on the opposite side of the draw to the tough Pool B, England’s group has not been where the eyes and attention have been focused and with each match, they have built confidence while flying slightly under the radar.

Knockout rugby is about backing performances up and while Ireland dazzled in their win against South Africa and France looked like a tournament favourite, both sides couldn’t bring it home in the moment it mattered.

England have made it to the big dance before and will have the confidence they have the know-how and the rugby smarts to do it again.

Picking up points: Farrell vs Libbok

Although everyone loves to see dazzling tries like those in the opening 20 minutes of the France-South Africa quarter-final but in big matches, it is paramount to pick up points when they are on offer and so focus always turns to the place kicker.

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South Africa have announced their line up for the World Cup semi-final against England.

Indeed, with the way in which Owen Farrell has been kicking from the tee recently, especially in his man-of-the-match performance against Fiji, it is one of England’s big strengths heading into Saturday.

Starting South Africa fly-half Manie Libbok has kicked dreadfully in the World Cup to date, and the man who has often taken over the duties in Faf de Klerk is sat on the bench.

Meanwhile, Farrell’s accuracy has improved as the tournament has unfolded and the England skipper knows how to step up on the big occasions.

The Springboks if required would call on Handre Pollard from the bench but if England have managed to take the contest that deep and make it about the tightest of points margins, they will be happy to have Farrell on their side.

Strength in depth: Avenging the 2019 loss

England’s Rugby World Cup final loss to South Africa in 2019 was a heartbreaking one and most certainly will be fuel for the fire on Saturday.

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England captain Owen Farrell says that the Rugby World Cup semi-final against South Africa on Saturday is a new challenge and nothing to do with the 2019 final when the two teams met in Japan.

The squad will want to avenge that moment and with Jonny May, Manu Tuilagi, Elliot Daly, Owen Farrell, Joe Marler, Jamie George, Dan Cole, Maro Itoje, Courtney Lawes, Tom Curry, Kyle Sinckler, Billy Vunipola, and George Ford all involved in the matchday 23 from four years ago, there will be an abundance of desire in the dressing room to get the job done.

The experienced members of the squad who carry that scar will be alongside an abundance of youth too that carry no extra weight into the contest and so the coupling of the two could work out to be the driving force behind an England victory.

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Sky Sports News’ James Cole previews England’s semi-final clash against South Africa at the Rugby World Cup.

Freddie Steward is back in the side in place of Marcus Smith and the full-back will try and nullify the dangerous high kicks that South Africa can produce.

If the effort matches the energy and the stars align, England will believe they can continue their unbeaten run in this Rugby World Cup.

On Saturday in Paris, we will find out if this is the case.

New Zealand have made two changes for their World Cup semi-final showdown against Argentina on Friday with Mark Telea and Sam Whitelock coming into the starting XV.

Telea was left out the All Blacks’ 28-24 quarter-final victory over Ireland after breaching team protocols.

The 26-year-old starts on the left flank in place of Leicester Fainga’anuku, who drops out of the matchday 23, despite scoring the first of the Kiwis’ three tries against the Irish.

Veteran second-row Whitelock swaps roles with Brodie Retallick in the other alteration to Ian Foster’s starting XV to win his 152nd cap. Retallick is on the bench.

Samisoni Taukei’aho takes the spot of fellow hooker Dane Coles among the replacements.

New Zealand players celebrate after beating No 1 side Ireland last weekend

Head coach Foster has warned his players “not to get softened” by the acclaim which followed their thrilling win over Ireland.

“The best way to recover is to refocus really quickly on what the next challenge is and not to listen too much to any praise you’re given as a group for a performance,” said Foster, who was assistant to Steve Hansen four years ago when New Zealand lost to England in the semi-finals.

“Not to go down that path, not to get softened because everyone’s patting you on the back saying you played well.

“That’s not a good place to be as a team.

“I love the way the team has buckled down, we’ve redefined the challenge for us as a group, we’re not satisfied with where we are now and when you’re clear about your goal for the week the recovery comes along pretty quickly.

“You know that if we’re not right on Friday night at Stade de France, it’s going to be a sad old night and we don’t want it to be like that.

“You get people talking to you about tomorrow and trying to take your eyes off today.

“In 2019 we probably didn’t stop being patted on the back after the quarter-final, hence some of my language today and we’re just trying to dial this back, keep things simple and let’s just worry about Friday.”

Argentina have shaken off a dismal opening-game loss to England to advance to the semi-finals

The Pumas have swapped Gonzalo Bertranou to start ahead of Tomas Cubelli in anticipation of a much faster game than when they overcame Wales 29-17 in Marseille.

There are seven survivors from their last World Cup semi-final in 2015, a loss to an Australia team coached by current Pumas mentor Michael Cheika.

The list includes Matias Alemanno, Agustin Creevy, Tomas Lavanini, Nicolas Sanchez, Guido Petti, captain Julian Montoya and No 8 Facundo Isa, who will play his 50th Test.

Another sell-out crowd of 80,000 fans is expected in Paris for what will be the third World Cup encounter between the two sides, and their second in the knockout stages.

The teams met earlier this year in Mendoza, where the All Blacks opened the Test season with a 41-12 win.

New Zealand: 15 Beauden Barrett, 14 Will Jordan, 13 Rieko Ioane, 12 Jordie Barrett, 11 Mark Telea, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Aaron Smith; 1 Ethan de Groot, 2 Codie Taylor, 3 Tyrel Lomax, 4 Sam Whitelock, 5 Scott Barrett, 6 Shannon Frizell, 7 Sam Cane (c), 8 Ardie Savea.

Replacements: 16 Leicester Fainga’anuku, 17 Tamaiti Williams, 18 Fletcher Newell, 19 Brodie Retallick, 20 Dalton Papalii, 21 Finlay Christie, 22 Damian McKenzie, 23 Anton Lienert-Brown.

Argentina: 15 Juan Cruz Mallia, 14 Emiliano Boffelli, 13 Lucio Cinti, 12 Santiago Chocobares, 11 Mateo Carreras, 10 Santiago Carreras, 9 Gonzalo Bertranou; 1 Facundo Isa; 2 Marcos Kremer, 3 Juan Martin Gonzalez, 4 Tomas Lavanini, 5 Guido Petti, 6 Francisco Gomez Kodela, 7 Julian Montoya (c), 8 Thomas Gallo.

Replacements: 16 Agustin Creevy, 17 Joel Sclavi, 18 Eduardo Bello, 19 Matias Alemanno, 20 Rodrigo Bruni, 21 Lautaro Bazan Velez, 22 Nicolas Sanchez, 23 Matias Moroni.

Rugby World Cup – remaining fixtures

Friday October 20

SEMI-FINAL – Argentina vs New Zealand (8pm, Paris)

Saturday October 21

SEMI-FINAL – England vs South Africa (8pm, Paris)

Friday October 27

3rd Place Play-off – Semi-Final 1 Runner-Up vs Semi-Final 2 Runner-Up (8pm, Paris)

Saturday October 28

FINAL – Semi-Final 1 Winner vs Semi-Final 2 Winner (8pm, Paris)

France captain Antoine Dupont has been named to start vs South Africa in their Rugby World Cup quarter-final on Sunday, a little over three weeks after suffering a fractured cheekbone.

France: 15 Thomas Ramos, 14 Damian Penaud, 13 Gael Fickou, 12 Jonathan Danty, 11 Louis Bielle Biarrey, 10 Matthieu Jalibert, 9 Antoine Dupont (c); 1 Cyril Baille, 2 Peato Mauvaka, 3 Uini Atonio, 4 Cameron Woki, 5 Thibaud Flament, 6 Anthony Jelonch, 7 Charles Ollivon, 8 Gregory Alldritt.

Replacements: 16 Pierre Bourgarit, 17 Reda Wardi, 18 Dorian Aldegheri, 19 Romain Taofifenua, 20 Francois Cros, 21 Sekou Macalou, 22 Maxime Lucu, 23 Yoram Moefana

More to follow…

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Rugby World Cup – Pool B: Scotland’s last chance; Ireland under pressure? Pool C: Fiji to formally dump Wallabies out? Wales already through; Pool A: Italy’s unlikely shot vs Les Bleus; All Blacks well placed; Pool D: England assured of top spot; Argentina, Japan fight it out for QF

We look ahead to a crucial week of Rugby World Cup action, as Scotland and Italy face last chances, while Ireland, hosts France and Fiji may be feeling a bit of pressure…

Pool B: Scotland’s last chance; Ireland under pressure?

Only one place to start with ahead of the final weekend of pool stage fixtures, and that’s the group of death in Pool B, where one of Scotland, Ireland or South Africa will exit the tournament on Saturday.

The trio came into the World Cup all inside the world’s top five in terms of rankings (Ireland No 1, South Africa No 2, Scotland No 5), but a brute of a draw has been handed their way.

With the Springboks having completed their pool fixture schedule last Sunday with a 49-18 win over Tonga in Marseille, they must watch on as Ireland and Scotland face off at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday (8pm kick off BST).

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Watch as Australia and South Africa responded to defeats with wins over Portugal and Tonga

With South Africa having already beaten Scotland 18-3 during the first weekend, Gregor Townsend’s Scots must beat Ireland to stand any hope of reaching the quarter-finals, but owing to the fact Ireland beat South Africa 13-8 two weeks ago, Scotland must beat Ireland and also deny them a losing bonus point.

The odds are on Scotland exiting, therefore, but a win of eight points or more will see Scotland leapfrog Ireland and leave Andy Farrell’s side stranded and out of the World Cup.

There is also one highly unlikely scenario where Ireland and Scotland may both progress at South Africa’s expense, and that is if the Scots beat Ireland by at least 21 points, achieve a try bonus-point in doing so (at least four tries), and Ireland also pick up a try bonus-point of their own in defeat.

Ireland recorded a superb victory over South Africa in their last match

An Ireland victory of any kind will see them top Pool B, and face a likely quarter-final against New Zealand. The runner-up in this pool is likely to face hosts France in the quarters…

Pool C: Fiji need a point to formally dump Wallabies out; Wales already through

After stellar performances in defeat against Wales and victory vs Australia, Fiji looked like a side inhibited by the pressure of expectation last week against Georgia.

Indeed, the Flying Fijians could easily have lost the Test on the day, but did recover in the end to crucially win 17-12 in Bordeaux.

The fact Fiji failed to pick up a bonus-point in victory means there is still work for them to do heading into the final weekend, despite Australia losing twice already to Fiji and Wales.

Fiji eventually picked up a crucial victory over Georgia last weekend, but it was a nervy display

Fiji face Portugal on Sunday in Toulouse (8pm kick off BST), and need a solitary point – either a victory, try bonus point or losing bonus point – to make sure of their quarter-final place and Australia’s first ever pool stage exit from a Rugby World Cup.

Portugal have given Wales and Australia scares already in this World Cup, and so Fiji will hope to put on a show and gain some confidence ahead of a likely quarter-final meeting with England, which would represent a first knock-out appearance since 2007.

Fiji could still overtake Wales and top the pool, if Warren Gatland’s charges – who are already qualified – lose to Georgia on Saturday (2pm kick off BST) in Nantes, and Fiji pick up a bonus-point success.

Pool A: Italy’s unlikely shot vs Les Bleus; All Blacks well-placed

And what of Pool A? Italy were always going to have two chances to progress to the quarter-finals once they won their initial two fixtures against Namibia and Uruguay with bonus points, but the first of those was obliterated in embarrassing fashion last week, as the Azzurri suffered a 96-17 defeat to New Zealand.

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The best of the action from New Zealand’s huge win against Italy at the Rugby World Cup

Italy remain just three points behind France in the Pool A table, however, as Les Bleus failed to beat Uruguay with a bonus point, and the Azzurri face France on Friday in Lyon (8pm kick off BST) knowing victory will dump the hosts and favourites out of their home World Cup.

Les Bleus are likely to be without skipper Antoine Dupont for that clash, and may well be a little nervous heading into the contest, albeit they will still heavily back themselves to pick up the victory required to progress.

The All Blacks face Uruguay on Thursday in Lyon (8pm kick off BST), where victory will guarantee them a quarter-final place.

Pool D: England assured of top spot; Argentina and Japan fight it out for last-eight place

Lastly to Pool D, where England are assured of top spot and progression to the quarters already ahead of their final pool fixture against Samoa on Saturday in Lille (4.45pm kick off BST).

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Highlights of Japan against Samoa at the Rugby World Cup – a result which sent England into the quarter-finals

Argentina and Japan are both locked on nine points, five below England, meaning even an England defeat and bonus-point wins for either will see them finish beneath Steve Borthwick’s men owing to the head-to-head tiebreaker.

The final game of the pool sees the Pumas face the Brave Blossoms on Sunday in Nantes (12pm kick off BST) in a winner-takes-all clash for the final quarter-final slot and a likely meeting with Wales.

England are now through to the quarter-finals after Japan beat Samoa; Japan are now in second place in Pool D after the 28-22 victory; Samoa’s Ben Lam was handed a red card in the second half for a dangerous tackle

England qualified for the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup after Japan saw off 14-man Samoa 28-22 in Toulouse to keep alive their own hopes of progressing to the knockout stage.

The Brave Blossoms go on to face Argentina in the final round of Pool D matches – and only one of them will join Steve Borthwick’s side, who are confirmed as group winners ahead of their clash with Samoa due to their superior head-to-head record, in the knockout phase.

Japan, who reached the last eight for the first time four years ago as hosts, opened the scoring in the 13th minute when Pieter Labuschagne stretched over in the corner and Rikiya Matsuda converted.

A penalty from D’Angelo Leuila got Samoa, without captain Chris Vui through a late change, on the board, but Matsuda’s kick soon restored Japan’s advantage.

Michael Leitch added another try in the corner before Samoa’s Jonathan Taumateine was sent to the sin bin after a shoulder barge in the build-up.

Michael Leitch was on the list of try scorers for Japan that helped Japan hold off a fightback from Samoa

Japan hooker Shota Horie was then shown a yellow card for making head-on-head contact as he stood up in a challenge with Seilala Lam, which went to the TMO for a bunker review but was not upgraded.

Samoa – whose final pool match with England is in Lille on October 7 – made the most of their man advantage, Lam touching down following a driving maul to go into the break trailing 17-8.

Samoa soon found themselves a man down when Ben Lam was sent to the sin bin after the TMO spotted a high tackle into the side of Labuschagne’s head.

Japan extended their lead as Kazuki Himeno was driven over in the corner, but the usually reliable Matsuda failed to convert.

Things then got worse for Samoa when Lam’s card was upgraded to a red before Matsuda again found his range to push Japan further in front at 25-8.

Kotaro Matsushima sprinted clear for what Japan thought was a bonus-point try, but it was ruled out for the slightest of knock-ons from Dylan Riley in the build-up.

Rikiya Matsuda converted three of his side’s tries as they took another step closer to progression

Samoa, though, kept themselves in touch as Duncan Paia’aua went over in the corner, which Leuila converted from a tight angle only for fly-half Matsuda to push Japan clear again with another long-range penalty.

The 14 men battled on and pulled the deficit back again when Christian Leali’ifano dived over and then converted his own try, but Japan held out to set up a potential winner-takes-all showdown with Argentina in Nantes.

What’s Next?

Next up for Samoa is a clash with England on October 7 in Lille, with kick-off at 4.45pm BST.

For Japan, a big clash with Argentina awaits on Sunday October 8 in Nantes, with kick-off at 12pm BST.

England are without captain Owen Farrell and forward Tom Curry for Sunday’s World Cup match against Japan as the duo serve suspensions following red cards; England head coach Steve Borthwick joined by predecessor Eddie Jones in questioning decisions made by World Rugby

Steve Borthwick has accused World Rugby of taking an inconsistent approach to disciplinary issues as the England head coach continues to contend with suspensions for his squad members.

Tom Curry was sent off in the third minute of Saturday’s World Cup victory over Argentina for a dangerous tackle and received a two-match ban, yet similar incidents involving South Africa’s Jesse Kriel and Martin Sigren of Chile failed to produce a dismissal, citing or suspension.

It has raised concerns in the England camp, and beyond, over the officiating of illegal challenges involving the head.

Borthwick also highlighted when Owen Farrell was sent off for a dangerous tackle against Wales and then cleared by a disciplinary hearing, World Rugby intervened by appealing against the decision.

“There has been a large amount of commentary from different sources about what appears to be a lack of consistency and transparency in the decision-making process,” Borthwick said.

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Kevin Sinfield says despite three red cards in four games, England do not have a discipline problem and there is too much ‘noise’ around the squad

“Now it’s not my role to comment on that, it’s World Rugby’s. I also note there was a tremendous amount of comment from World Rugby on Owen Farrell for a couple of weeks during our preparation for this tournament.

“It was a situation that went on and on with lots of comment from World Rugby. I note there hasn’t been very many comments from World Rugby – I’m told – in the last week or so. I will leave that to World Rugby.”

The suspended Curry is one of three players to drop out of England’s starting XV for Sunday’s clash with Japan.

Borthwick has opted to start Lewis Ludlam at No 8 ahead of Billy Vunipola, who is available again after serving a four-match suspension.

While Vunipola could only earn a place on the bench, props Kyle Sinckler and Joe Marler have been inserted to the starting line-up.

Jones: Use of TMO fraught with danger

Australia head coach Eddie Jones also used his press conference on Friday to question the sport’s international governing body.

“I think our use of the TMO in rugby is fraught with danger; that we’re asking a referee in the grandstand to make decisions on a different angle on the game, through video,” former England boss Jones said.

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Australia head coach Eddie Jones was happy to come away with a victory over Georgia in their World Cup opener, but expects his side to improve as the tournament progresses

“And it’s not making the game a better spectacle, it’s not making it a better game for the players, and I think we’re just lucky because international rugby is so popular. But I think we really need to improve the game and at the end of this World Cup there’ll be an opportunity to do that.”

Jones, whose Australia side are also in action on Sunday, against Fiji, suggested that some of the changes implemented by World Rugby in attempt to make the game safer are actually having the opposite effect.

“World Rugby have tried to make the game safer, but they’ve made it more powerful by having more stoppages in the game,” Jones added. “And there’s risk to that, there are risks when the game becomes more powerful.

“The game’s evolving into these 30-second bouts of absolute power. This World Cup will be decided by who can win those power contests. You need the game to be more continuous. The average ball-in-play is 30 seconds, the average break in the game is 70 seconds, so you encourage a power contest. We need more continuous play.”

Follow England’s Rugby World Cup match against Japan across Sky Sports’ digital platforms from 7.30pm, kick-off 8pm on Sunday.

England defence coach Kevin Sinfield laid into the team after defeat to Fiji in late August, says Freddie Steward, with that blast inspiring Steve Borthwick’s men in victory over Argentina in World Cup opener; England triumph 27-10 despite early red card for Tom Curry

Freddie Steward says England’s heroic victory over Argentina in their World Cup opener was inspired by a verbal “rocket” from defence coach Kevin Sinfield after the recent humbling defeat to Fiji.

Steve Borthwick’s men suffered a first-ever loss to Fiji in late August, going down 30-22 in what was arguably the side’s lowest ebb, but they rebounded a fortnight later to defeat Argentina 27-10 despite playing virtually the whole game with 14 men following Tom Curry’s early red card.

Curry faces a disciplinary hearing in Paris on Tuesday, with the flanker expected to learn the length of his ban for a challenge that led to a clash of heads with Pumas back Juan Cruz Mallia.

Full-back Steward said: “We got a bit of a rocket after that [Fiji] game.

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Tom Curry will attend a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday following his red card in England’s opening World Cup match against Argentina.

‘Sinfield a bloke you don’t want to let down’

“There were no complaints about that, it needed to happen. We had a very thorough review, which we needed, and we reaped the benefits against Argentina. It was necessary for that to happen.

“That’s what makes Kev such a good defence coach – he’s so inspiring. He motivates us so much and he’s the sort of bloke you don’t want to let down. That’s testament to him as a bloke. When you go out there, part of it is you do it for him.

“You don’t want to see a guy like that, who puts his heart and soul into us in his work with his defence, feel let down.

“Kev is big on covering each other’s backs. That’s his big thing. He wants a defensive unit that are going to work incredibly hard for each other and, when it goes wrong, cover up for each other.

“Inevitably, you can be as good a defender as you want as a full-back but there are going to be times where it doesn’t go to plan and that is where you get tested. That’s his main ethos.”

Sinfield says England’s win over Argentina was ‘just the start’

Sinfield: Fans would have loved our fight and spirit

Sinfield says England must build on a resolute display ahead of their second World Cup fixture against Japan in Nice on Sunday.

“It is just a start. We saw lots of what we had seen in training against Argentina, which is pleasing, but I still feel there is so much in this team – so much improvement, so much growth,” Sinfield said.

“To get the win, given the noise that has been around us and the way the group have really circled the wagons – metaphorically that is – is really pleasing.

“We saw a fight, a spirit and attitude that the people at home supporting us and in the ground would have loved to have seen, and for us as coaches that is particularly pleasing, (but) we know we need to be better.

“Part of our challenge as coaches and part of the challenge of the playing group is to ensure this is not an anomaly, it is the start.”

Alex Mitchell and Jonny May were not included in England’s original World Cup squad; Tom Curry has recovered from an ankle injury and will play for the first time since May; Dan Cole starts in his fourth World Cup

Alex Mitchell and Jonny May will start for England in their World Cup opener against Argentina on Saturday.

The pair were not in Steve Borthwick’s initial World Cup squad but were called up after injuries and will now take to the field in The Stade Velodrome in Marseille.

Elsewhere, Tom Curry starts for the first time since May having recovered from an ankle injury and Dan Cole starts in his fourth World Cup.

England: 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Jonny May, 13 Joe Marchant, 12 Manu Tuilagi, 11 Elliot Daly, 10 George Ford, 9 Alex Mitchell; 1 Ellis Genge, 2 Jamie George, 3 Dan Cole, 4 Maro Itoje, 5 Ollie Chessum, 6 Courtney Lawes (c), 7 Tom Curry, 8 Ben Earl.

Replacements: 16 Theo Dan, 17 Joe Marler, 18 Will Stuart, 19 George Martin, 20 Lewis Ludlam, 21 Danny Care, 22 Marcus Smith, 23 Ollie Lawrence.

Argentina pick six forwards on the bench against England

Argentina’s Juan Cruz Mallia returns at fullback to face England as coach Michael Cheika opted for six forwards on the bench.

Mallia is part of a back three with goal-kicker Emiliano Boffelli and Mateo Carreras on the wings and a powerful midfield of Santiago Chocobares and Lucio Cinti. Santiago Carreras is at flyhalf and Gonzalo Bertranou gets the nod at number nine.

The team is captained by hooker Julian Montoya, who packs down with props Thomas Gallo and Francisco Gomez Kodela, while the second row is made up of Matias Alemanno and Tomas Lavanini. Former captain Pablo Matera is on the flank along with Marcos Kremer, and Juan Martin Gonzalez is at number eight, as Cheika took the unusual step, for him at least, of naming a 6-2 split between forwards and backs on his bench.

Argentina: 15 Juan Cruz Mallia, 14 Emiliano Boffelli, 13 Lucio Cinti, 12 Santiago Chocobares, 11 Mateo Carreras, 10 Santiago Carreras, 9 Gonzalo Bertranou, 8 Juan Martin Gonzalez, 7 Marcos Kremer, 6 Pablo Matera, 5 Tomas Lavanini, 4 Matias Alemanno, 3 Francisco Gomez Kodela, 2 Julian Montoya (c), 1 Thomas Gallo

Replacements: 16 Augustin Creevy, 17 Joel Sclavi, 18 Eduardo Bello, 19 Guido Petti, 20 Pedro Rubiolo, 21 Rodrigo Bruni, 22 Lautaro Bazan Velez, 23 Matias Moroni.

More to follow…

This is a breaking news story that is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh this page for the latest updates.

Sky Sports brings you live updates as they happen. Get breaking sports news, analysis, exclusive interviews, replays and highlights.

Sky Sports is your trusted source for breaking sports news headlines and live updates. Watch live coverage of your favourite sports: Football, F1, Boxing, Cricket, Golf, Tennis, Rugby League, Rugby Union, NFL, Darts, Netball and get the latest transfers news, results, scores and more.

Visit skysports.com or the Sky Sports App for all the breaking sports news headlines. You can receive push notifications from the Sky Sports app for the latest news from your favourite sports and you can also follow @SkySportsNews on Twitter to get the latest updates.

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England wing Anthony Watson has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup due to a calf problem.

Watson picked up the injury in last week’s warm-up defeat to Ireland and has now been withdrawn from the 33-player squad.

The 29-year-old is the second England player to be forced out of the tournament in recent weeks, with scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet absent due to an ankle issue.

England will be without captain and fly-half Owen Farrell and No 8 Billy Vunipola for the start of the competition after both were handed suspensions for high tackles.

Farrell will sit out the games against Argentina and Japan, while Vunipola will miss the Argentina fixture.

Keith Earls is set to become Ireland’s ninth centurion when they face England in a Rugby World Cup warm-up; he will join Ireland greats such as Brian O’Driscoll, Ronan O’Gara, Rory Best, Paul O’Connell and Johnny Sexton in reaching three figures

Keith Earls admits it will be a mixture of relief and pride to reach 100 Ireland caps after fearing injury issues may cause him to fall short of the milestone.

Munster wing Earls is poised to become only the ninth Irishman to achieve a century of Test outings ahead of Saturday’s World Cup warm-up match with England in Dublin.

The 35-year-old went more than a year without an international appearance amid fitness problems before being recalled by head coach Andy Farrell for the 33-17 win over Italy on August 5.

“I’m trying not to think about it but talking to Andy about if it does happen, he’s telling me: ‘it’s not just another cap, you can’t have a normal week because it’s not a normal week’,” said Earls.

“It would be a massive honour but also just a bit of relief because I was stuck on 98.

“I suppose in the last couple of years I was genuinely thinking every time I stepped on to the field it could be the last time.

“I’d be extremely proud and privileged to join a unique group.”

Earls made his international return against Italy earlier this month

Earls is set to move alongside Ireland greats Brian O’Driscoll, Ronan O’Gara, Rory Best, Paul O’Connell and John Hayes in reaching three figures, in addition to current team-mates Cian Healy, Johnny Sexton and Conor Murray.

He featured in two of his country’s three Tests during last summer’s victorious tour of New Zealand but was then sidelined for autumn victories over South Africa, Fiji and Australia and this year’s Six Nations Grand Slam success.

Earls believes he has enjoyed the best pre-season of his career as he attempts to secure a spot at his fourth World Cup.

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England fly-half George Ford said he and his team-mates are delighted captain Owen Farrell avoided a lengthy ban

Asked if there were times during the past 12 months when he thought his Ireland days may be over, he replied: “Yeah, especially with the talent coming through and the way some of the lads are playing and my injury history last year.

“But I just kept the head down and I’m grateful. I’ve a great relationship with Andy and great trust with Andy and we’ll always be honest with each other.

“I genuinely have probably had my best pre-season this year as a professional rugby player.

“We’ve got everything spot on between all the training, physios, coaches, so it’s been really enjoyable.

“I suppose there’s that bit of pressure as well because you want to repay them [the coaches] as well but Andy’s just big on allowing us to be ourselves and not blowing things up too much or trying anything special.

“It’s just be yourself and if you’re special, you’re special, but it gives you great confidence, especially as an old winger.”

England captain Owen Farrell has had his red card against Wales overturned and is free to play in their Rugby World Cup warm-up match against Ireland on Saturday

England captain Owen Farrell has had his red card against Wales overturned and is free to play in their Rugby World Cup warm-up match against Ireland on Saturday.

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Gareth Davies and George North both scored tries, while Leigh Halfpenny kicked two goals and two penalties; Marcus Smith kicked England’s points; England head coach Steve Borthwick names his squad for the World Cup on Monday, with the sides clashing again at Twickenham next Saturday

Second-half tries from Gareth Davies and George North saw Wales kick off their Rugby World Cup preparations with a 20-9 victory over an out-of-sorts England at the Principality Stadium.

It was a battle of the kickers in the first 40 minutes, with three successful penalties from the boot of Marcus Smith compared to two from Wales’ Test centurion Leigh Halfpenny, giving the visitors a 9-6 lead at half-time.

But the hosts seized the initiative eight minutes into the second half when Gareth Davies was on hand to finish for a try and they surged further in front thanks to George North going over from close range just before the hour mark, with Halfpenny converting both.

Louis Rees-Zammit was unfortunate not to add a third try for the hosts before full-time when he was adjudged to have knocked on after a TMO review, but that did not take the shine off the result or the performance from Warren Gatland’s new-look team.

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What’s next?

Wales and England do it all again on Saturday August 12 when they reconvene at Twickenham for the second Rugby World Cup warm-up clash against each other. First, though, England’s players face a nervous wait to see who will make Borthwick’s 33-player squad for the global gathering when it is announced on Monday.

Ben Youngs, Owen Farrell and Jamie George do not feature in England’s squad to face Wales in one of four upcoming World Cup warm-up friendlies, with Danny Care returning to the line-up having been omitted by Eddie Jones at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Danny Care returns at scrum-half while Ellis Genge captains England as they take on Wales in Saturday’s World Cup warm-up match in Cardiff. 

Care lines up next to Harlequins team-mate Marcus Smith with Ben Youngs, Owen Farrell and Jamie George not featured in the squad as head coach Steve Borthwick selects an experimental side amid World Cup preparations.

Loosehead prop Genge will lead England out as captain alongside hooker Jamie Blamire and tighthead prop Will Stuart on the front row for what will make the first of four friendlies ahead of France in September.

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England attack coach Richard Wigglesworth says the International friendly against Wales on Saturday is not a final audition for the Rugby World Cup.

Davin Ribbans of Toulon plays alongside the Leicester Tigers’ George Martin in the second row, while Tom Pearson partners Northampton Saints team-mate Lewis Ludlam as the two flankers and Alex Dombrandt plays at No 8.

Leicester’s Guy Porter and Joe Marchant of Stade Francais start in midfield, while Joe Cokanasiga of Bath and Max Malins of Bristol line up on either wing with Freddie Steward at fullback.

“England versus Wales in Cardiff is always an exciting and keenly contested fixture,” said England coach Steve Borthwick.

“I am sure this Saturday will be no different as a tremendous first Test match of the Summer Nations Series.

“We have been impressed with how the whole squad has applied itself both on and off the field over this training camp. We are now looking forward to returning to Test match rugby as we continue our preparations for the Rugby World Cup in France.”

England XI vs Wales:

Backs: 15. Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers, 22 caps), 14. Max Malins (Bristol Bears, 18 caps), 13. Joe Marchant (Stade Francais, 15 caps), 12. Guy Porter (Leicester Tigers, 4 caps), 11. Joe Cokanasiga (Bath Rugby, 14 caps), 10. Marcus Smith (Harlequins, 21 caps), 9. Danny Care (Harlequins, 87 caps); Forwards: 1. Ellis Genge © (Bristol Bears, 48 caps), 2. Jamie Blamire (Newcastle Falcons, 6 caps), 3. Will Stuart (Bath Rugby, 25 caps), 4. David Ribbans (Toulon, 5 caps), 5. George Martin (Leicester Tigers, 1 cap), 6. Lewis Ludlam (Northampton Saints, 19 caps), 7. Tom Pearson (Northampton Saints, uncapped), 8. Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins, 14 caps)

Replacements:

16. Theo Dan (Saracens, uncapped), 17. Bevan Rodd (Sale Sharks, 2 caps), 18. Kyle Sinckler (Bristol Bears, 61 caps), 19. Jonny Hill (Sale Sharks, 19 caps), 20. Tom Willis (Saracens, uncapped), 21. Jack van Poortvliet (Leicester Tigers, 12 caps), 22. George Ford (Sale Sharks, 81 caps), 23. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs, 56 caps)

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has handed uncapped pair Stafford McDowell and Cameron Henderson an opportunity to impress after naming an experimental team to face Italy in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup warm-up clash; Rory Darge captains the hosts in the match at Murrayfield

Stafford McDowall and Cameron Henderson are set to make their Scotland debuts in their country’s first World Cup warm-up match at home to Italy on Saturday.

Head coach Gregor Townsend has named an experimental starting XV and replacements bench, with very few of his senior players involved as he runs the rule over his squad before finalising his 33-player group for the showpiece tournament in France in the coming weeks.

Glasgow Warriors centre McDowall starts in the midfield alongside Chris Harris, while Leicester Tigers second row Henderson has been named among the replacements in a team which Rory Darge will captain for the first time.

Outside centre Harris and scrum-half Ali Price are back in the starting line-up after losing their places for the Six Nations earlier this year.

Elsewhere, there is a welcome return for Darcy Graham as he starts on the wing after missing the Six Nations through injury.

The Edinburgh man’s new clubmate Ben Healy, who won his first cap during the Six Nations, will make his first start at fly-half

Glasgow full-back Ollie Smith, who won his third cap in the final Six Nations match against the Italians in March, gets another chance to stake a claim for the No 15 jersey following the recent retirement of Stuart Hogg.

Cameron Henderson is set to win his first Scotland cap off the replacements bench against Italy

In the pack, prop Rory Sutherland is back in the starting line-up while Murphy Walker will win his third cap.

Finn Russell, captain Jamie Ritchie, Grant Gilchrist, Huw Jones, Sione Tuipulotu, Richie Gray, Duhan Van Der Merwe, Pierre Schoeman, Zander Fagerson and Ben White are among several senior players who have been given the afternoon off.

Scotland have further World Cup warm-up matches against France, who they face home and away, and Georgia to come in August.

Townsend’s side then kick off their World Cup campaign against reigning champions South Africa in Marseille on September 10, with Ireland, Romania and Tonga providing their other opponents in Pool B.

Scotland team to face Italy

15 Ollie Smith, 14 Darcy Graham, 13 Chris Harris, 12 Stafford McDowall, 11 Kyle Steyn; 10 Ben Healy, 9 Ali Price; 1 Rory Sutherland, 2 George Turner, 3 Murphy Walker, 4 Sam Skinner, 5 Scott Cummings, 6 Luke Crosbie, 7 Rory Darge (captain), 8 Matt Fagerson.

Replacements: 16 Stuart McInally, 17 Jamie Bhatti, 18 Javan Sebastian, 19 Cameron Henderson, 20 Josh Bayliss, 21 Jamie Dobie, 22 Blair Kinghorn, 23 Cameron Redpath.

London Irish have until 4pm on Tuesday June 6 either to complete a proposed takeover by an American consortium or for owner Mick Crossan to commit to club for entirety of the 2023-24 campaign; London Irish were hit with winding-up petition by HMRC on Friday

London Irish are expected to be suspended from the Gallagher Premiership on Tuesday when the deadline to prove they have the finances needed to operate next season expires.

Irish have until 4pm on Tuesday either to complete a proposed takeover by an American consortium or for owner Mick Crossan to commit to the club for the entirety of the 2023-24 campaign.

As of Monday, the buyout was no closer to being finalised with key documentation including proof of funds yet to be supplied to the Rugby Football Union, while Crossan is intent on severing ties.

Only 50 per cent of the staff payroll for May was paid and the outstanding wages must also be settled if Irish are to take their place in next season’s Premiership.

It was Crossan’s failure to pay the salaries in full last week that persuaded the RFU to extend the deadline by six days in the hope that staff and players would get the money owed to them.

Irish’s outlook deteriorated further on Friday when they were issued with a winding-up petition by HM Revenue and Customs over an unpaid tax bill.

Petitions have been filed against London Irish Holdings Limited and London Irish Rugby Football Ground Limited.

The demise of the Exiles, who finished the Premiership in fifth place, would conclude the darkest season in the history of the English club game after Wasps and Worcester folded because of their own financial difficulties.

Wasps have been demoted to the foot of the rugby pyramid after their new owners failed to secure the funding needed to relaunch in the Championship, while Worcester have gone quiet on their plan of rebuilding from the fifth tier.

Irish have debts in the region of £30m and do not own their own stadium, instead playing at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium after a 20-year spell at Reading’s Madejski Stadium.

Bill Sweeney and Simon Massie-Taylor, chief executives of the RFU and Premiership Rugby respectively, were accused by MPs of presiding over a “failure on an epic scale” following the collapse of Wasps and Worcester, but Irish have been given every opportunity to secure their future.

The governing bodies have been forced to weigh the desire to see the Exiles survive with the need to put plans in place for next season, with the reduction of clubs from 13 to 10 requiring a different league structure.

If a third club is lost, the bleak financial climate of the Premiership in the post-Covid era will be highlighted once again with teams able to operate through the funding of benefactors.

Gallagher Premiership results – Saturday: Bath 61-29 Saracens, Bristol 36-21 Gloucester, Leicester 17-20 Harlequins, London Irish 17-14 Exeter, Sale Sharks 54-12 Newcastle Falcons

A round-up of Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership action as London Irish finished a difficult week on a high.

London Irish 17-14 Exeter Chiefs

Two tries from Juan Martin Gonzalez ensured London Irish finished a difficult week on a high as they saw off Exeter Chiefs 17-14 at the Gtech Stadium.

The build-up to the game had been far from ideal for Irish, whose players were paid late as the club’s proposed takeover continues to drag on.

In a game that swung one way then the other, Tom Hendrickson looked like he had earned Chiefs the victory, only for Gonzalez to turn it around for the Exiles to secure a fifth-placed finish, their best return in 14 years since they reached the Premiership final.

Declan Kidney paid tribute to his side, ranking the emotion of this week up there with anything he has experienced in the game.

He said: “For the year’s work, I’m delighted for everybody in the organisation. The players have been brilliant, when you think that is only our second game in six weeks.

“The fact we have finished up with the best of the rest, for some it might not mean much but for us, given where we’ve come from, we’re absolutely delighted with it.

“There were many, many challenges, like every club in this league, that we have had to overcome. Some of them have been more recent and how the boys did that, how the coaches, strength and conditioners, everyone stayed on track. These lads were always going to play.

“These lads have gone from Championship to 10th, to ninth, to eighth and now to fifth.

“We’re planning for a rich future with the age of the lads out on the pitch, that is what we are building it on. There is a rich future for this club on the pitch and I’m sure the people off the pitch will do the business and see it through.”

Bristol 36-21 Gloucester

Bristol missed out on a Heineken Champions Cup spot for next season despite a hard-fought 36-21 win over local rivals Gloucester as they were pipped by Bath on points’ difference.

The bonus-point victory was not enough for Bears to stay in eighth place in the final table as Bath’s winning margin over Saracens proved crucial.

Semi Radradra scored two tries on his farewell appearance for Bristol while Sia Naulago, Magnus Bradbury and Harry Thacker were also on the try-scoring sheet, with AJ MacGinty adding four conversions and a penalty.

Ollie Thorley and Jonny May scored Gloucester’s tries and there was also a penalty try award, with Adam Hastings and Billy Twelvetrees each adding a conversion.

Bath 61-29 Saracens

Bath ran in nine tries in a 61-29 win over a game Saracens second string to snatch the last Heineken Champions Cup spot next season from local rivals Bristol.

Hooker Tom Dunn scored a hat-trick as Johann van Graan’s resurgent side notched a fourth successive Gallagher Premiership victory, a run that has propelled the club from the bottom of the table to that all-important eighth qualifying place.

The Rec broke into wild celebration as news came through from Ashton Gate that Bristol’s winning margin against Gloucester had not been enough.

Leicester 17-20 Harlequins

Chris Ashton’s decorated career ended with a red card as Leicester were defeated 20-17 by Harlequins.

The former England winger, who is retiring at the end of the campaign, was dismissed towards the end of the first half for a dangerous high tackle on opposite number Cadan Murley.

Despite the loss, Leicester’s semi-final at Sale next week was confirmed, while Quins wideman Murley will end as the top-flight’s leading scorer with 15 tries.

Sale Sharks 54-12 Newcastle Falcons

Sam James scored twice as Sale Sharks warmed up for the play-offs by dispatching Newcastle Falcons 54-12.

The hosts went behind early but responded comprehensively, running in eight tries at the AJ Bell Stadium, which will play host to Sharks’ semi-final clash with Leicester Tigers next Sunday.

Newcastle arrived knowing they would prop up the table regardless of the outcome but made the stronger start, and crossed for the afternoon’s opening score when Pedro Rubiolo crashed over following neat footwork from Elliott Obatoyinbo.

Marlie Packer and Hannah Botterman both went off with injuries against Ireland but have made the starting line-up; Helena Rowland will make her first start of the campaign; England face France on Saturday at Twickenham, with kick-off at 1pm

Simon Middleton has named his final Red Roses squad to take on France in the Women’s Six Nations 2023 decider, Marlie Packer and Hannah Botterman coming through injury scares to start.

Captain Packer and loose-head prop Botterman both limped off during England’s 48-0 win over Ireland but have been cleared to start and head up an experienced pack.

Sarah Bern also returns to the starting line-up at tight-head prop, with Lark Davies at hooker to make up the front row.

The rest of the pack then remains unchanged with Zoe Aldcroft, Sarah Beckett, Sadia Kabeya, and Alex Matthews completing the forwards.

A big change comes in the backs as Lagi Tuima drops out of outside centre for Helena Rowland, who will make her first start of this year’s campaign alongside Tatyana Heard at inside centre.

Helena Rowland will make her first start of the tournament as she comes in at outside centre

The only other change in the backs comes as Lucy Packer returns at scrum-half, Natasha Hunt dropping to the bench after starting against Ireland, with Holly Aitchison continuing at fly-half.

Claudia MacDonald and Abbie Dow then continue on the wings, with Ellie Kildunne at full-back.

The replacements have also received a boost as Poppy Cleall makes her return from injury.

Ahead of his final match in charge of England, Middleton expressed how excited he is for the “landmark” match at Twickenham

“We’re really excited and looking forward to Saturday’s match against France in what will be another landmark moment in the women’s game,” said Middleton.

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England women’s rugby union head coach Simon Middleton explains why he has made the decision to step down from his role saying it was for the ‘good of the programme’

“We’ve had some entertaining and tight battles with France over a long period of time and this one will be no different.

“Both teams have had strong Six Nations campaigns off the back of presenting different game plans from what we have seen before.

“France will also be relishing the challenge and David Ortiz, Gaelle Mignot and their team will have prepared their players well.

“I think it’s only fitting at this point to also recognise and pay tribute to Jessy Tremouliere, one of the greats of the game, as she calls time on her international playing career. She will be missed, for sure.

“Notwithstanding, the players we knew at the start to be unavailable for the tournament, this is the first week in the competition we can say we have a near-full squad to select from.

Poppy Cleall will be a big return on the bench for England on her return from injury

“Credit must go to our medical and strength and conditioning teams who have worked tirelessly with our players to ensure their availability. At the same time, the return of some of our more established players means that others will inevitably miss out.

“Whilst I know they will be bitterly disappointed in missing the game, they should take immense pride in their performances throughout the Six Nations in terms of both playing and helping to prepare the side. Once again, this has been a tremendous squad effort and typifies everything good about the Red Roses.

“Playing in front of a record crowd is a huge marker of where the game is at. It’s huge testament to the hard work of many people at the RFU and it bodes extremely well building up to the 2025 World Cup.”

Both England and France enter the clash unbeaten and will play in front of a record crowd for a women’s game at Twickenham, with over 53,000 tickets already sold.

England team to face France

England: 15. Ellie Kildunne, 14. Abby Dow, 13. Helena Rowland, 12. Tatyana Heard, 11. Claudia MacDonald, 10. Holly Aitchison, 9. Lucy Packer, 1. Hannah Botterman, 2. Lark Davies, 3. Sarah Bern, 4. Zoe Aldcroft, 5. Sarah Beckett, 6. Sadia Kabeya, 7. Marlie Packer, 8. Alex Matthews

Replacements: 16. Connie Powell, 17. Mackenzie Carson, 18. Maud Muir, 19. Poppy Cleall, 20. Morwenna Talling, 21. Natasha Hunt, 22. Amber Reed, 23. Jess Breach

Northampton Saints beat an understrength leaders Saracens, who had Duncan Taylor sent off early on, to move up to fourth; Harlequins kept their slim play-off hopes alive with a thumping victory at home to Newcastle Falcons

Round-up of Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership action as Northampton Saints beat 14-man Saracens and Harlequins defeated Newcastle Falcons.

Northampton Saints 38-29 Saracens

Despite having the numerical advantage for much of the game, Northampton were made to work hard before finally claiming an eighth consecutive home victory in the Premiership, as well as bringing an end to Saracens’ run of six successive wins at Franklin’s Gardens.

Alex Moon, Lewis Ludlam, Tommy Freeman, Rory Hutchinson, Fraser Dingwall and Smith all scored tries for the home side, with Smith adding four conversions, as they kept themselves in the running for a semi-final spot for a second season running.

Rotimi Segun, who in fact opening the scoring, crossed for two of Saracens’ four tries, with Theo Dan and Manu Vunipola grabbing the others, the latter adding three conversions and a penalty.

Harlequins 48-20 Newcastle Falcons

Harlequins scored eight-tries against bottom side Newcastle Falcons to go sixth – seven points behind Northampton – and keep their slim play-off hopes alive.

Two Tries by Alex Dombrandt and further scores from Andre Esterhuizen, Louis Lynagh, Josh Bassett, Dino Lamb, Joe Marchant and Fin Baxter ensured the two-time Premiership champions eventually ran out comfortable winners at the Twickenham Stoop.

They were made to work hard for the result by Newcastle, however, as tries from Mateo Carreras and Freddie Lockwood left the match finely poised at 22-20 as it went into its closing stages.

However, Quins rallied with four tries in the final 10 minutes to surge clear in what was a successful return to action for England prospect Louis Lynagh, who was in the side for the first time this season after a long-term knee injury.

Centre Marchant made his final appearance at The Stoop before he joins Stade Francais next season, and his try was one of the most popular acts of the day, although he also missed the final conversion from in front of the posts.

Interim chief executive Nigel Walker described the vote as the “beginning of a journey” to bring “trust and faith” back to Welsh Rugby; the Welsh Rugby Union will now appoint an independent non-executive director as chair

Welsh Rugby Union member clubs voted overwhelmingly in favour of major governance reforms at an extraordinary general meeting on Sunday.

Of the 252 votes cast either at the Princess Royal Theatre in Port Talbot or by proxy, only seven did not vote in favour, meaning the 75 per cent majority needed was comfortably exceeded.

The WRU will now appoint an independent non-executive director (INED) as chair and recruit two further new INEDs to its 12-person board, doubling the total number of independent representatives to six, with the overall aspiration to ensure at least five directors are women.

Interim chief executive Nigel Walker said: “This is just the beginning of a journey which will see the trust and faith of a nation in Welsh rugby restored and revitalised.”

The meeting was chaired by WRU president Gerald Davies who called it ‘quorate’ well ahead of an 11am start, with the 95-attendee threshold (to make any vote valid) also easily met.

The EGM also heard from WRU chair Ieuan Evans, chair of the WRU’s community game board John Manders and Walker, with company secretary Rhodri Lewis overseeing proceedings alongside independent scrutineer Jonathan Rhodes.

“I’m delighted with the support members have shown for the board’s recommendation today,” said Evans, who set out his stated mission to modernise the governance of the WRU in his New Year address at the start of 2023, just a few weeks after his own election.

“We now have a line in the sand from which we intend to move forward purposefully, swiftly and better prepared to serve Welsh rugby’s needs. This is another historic day in the 142-year history of the WRU.

“Members have taken the opportunity to pay something forward of huge significance to our great rugby playing country’s children… and its children’s children.”

In the new configuration four board members will still come from the WRU council which is entirely elected by member clubs, one of whom will be the community game board’s chair.

The remaining two spots on the board will be filled by the WRU CEO and a new director role for someone who can support and further the women’s game.

All changes will take place in context of the overall aspiration to ensure at least five directors are women.

The annual general meeting of the WRU, which will see a natural changing of the guard for a number of WRU council members takes place in November, and the WRU has already planned a timeline for appointments, with the new chair to come in first and the following processes to be completed before the end of 2023.

“This is significant step forward in the process we are following which will secure a sustainable future for the professional game in Wales,” said Professional Rugby Board chair Malcolm Wall.

Wales’ four professional regions have been cleared to begin officially re-signing players after agreeing the first Standard Contracts in Welsh rugby’s history. 

The Professional Rugby Board and Welsh Rugby Players Association presented the standard contracts to multiple players and their agents over the last day that will make existing and new offers legally binding.

Players had threatened to take strike action prior to last month’s Six Nations match against England amid contractual uncertainty dating back to last summer.

Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets had only been allowed to make verbal offer in recent weeks.

The WRU said its Rugby Management Board (RMB) and PRB members completed a “significant amount of work” on the contract and rights licence, receiving formal acceptance from the Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) and players’ agents on Friday.

“This is significant step forward in the process we are following which will secure a sustainable future for the professional game in Wales,” said PRB chair Malcolm Wall.

“A lot of hard work has gone into getting us to this stage and we are delighted to say our four professional sides are now in a position to offer legally binding contracts as necessary.

“We remain hugely grateful to the players themselves for their patience and understanding and look forward now to the point where the full agreement can be signed which underpins the PRB’s strategy for the future of the game – a moment which this latest development proves is now closer than ever.

“A huge amount of credit should also go to the directors at each of our professional teams for ensuring that we reach this critical and pivotal stage for the game in Wales.”