All Blacks coach Henry knighted

Updated December 31, 2011 10:36:41

All Blacks coach Graham Henry, who guided New Zealand to Rugby World Cup victory in October, has been rewarded with a knighthood in the nation's New Year's honours list.

Henry, now Sir Graham, has been made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for his service to the national sport.

The honour comes after he redeemed himself in the eyes of a rugby-obsessed New Zealand public by taking the All Blacks to the World Cup win, albeit by a narrow 8-7 margin over France in the final.

Four years earlier, Henry had been publicly castigated in New Zealand when, again under his stewardship, the All Blacks crashed out of the 2007 World Cup in the quarter finals.

"I feel very honoured, very humbled in getting this award," Henry said after the knighthood was announced.

"Obviously winning the Rugby World Cup put the icing on the cake.

"I don't think I'd be standing here today if we hadn't done that."

The 65-year-old Henry, who is affectionately known as "Ted", stepped down as All Blacks coach after the World Cup ending a remarkable era which saw him rated as one of the most successful coaches in any sport.

In eight years at the helm, the All Blacks played 103 Tests and returned a winning average of 85.4 percent.

Henry has since turned down offers to join overseas clubs but said he is keen to develop an advisory coaching role, and not just for rugby.

"If I can pass some knowledge on to other coaches, not only in rugby but other sports, I'd enjoy that."

Richie McCaw, who captained the All Blacks to their World Cup victory, turned down the offer of an immediate knighthood saying it did not seem appropriate while he was still playing.

AFP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, rugby-union-world-cup, new-zealand

First posted December 31, 2011 08:47:46

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Eddie Jones named as new Japan coach

Updated December 27, 2011 10:11:51

Former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones has been appointed head coach of Japan's national rugby team to replace All Blacks legend John Kirwan.

Jones, 51, took the Wallabies to the 2003 World Cup final and was technical adviser to South Africa when the Springboks won the 2007 World Cup in France.

"I'm very excited and honoured to have the job as head coach of Japan," Jones said.

"The first thing we're going to have to do is to win. I want Japan to win and be in the top ten in the world. We need to develop a solid play that suits Japanese players.

"We've got a very big challenge ahead us.

"The great thing about Japanese rugby is we have a very strong domestic company competition and strong university and high school competitions.

"We're going to quickly add in 30 or 40 players for the next World Cup."

Jones, whose wife is Japanese, has been managing Japan's Top League side Suntory Sungoliath since 2009.

In the 2010-2011 season, Suntory finished runners-up in the Top League and won the separate national championship under Jones. This season they are currently leading the Top League after eight straight wins.

He emerged as Kirwan's likely successor after Japan came home winless from the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Japan will host the World Cup in 2019 and will be looking to avoid the embarrassment of becoming the first host country to fail to make the knockout stages.

Kirwan failed to break the Brave Blossoms' 20-year World Cup win drought at the New Zealand tournament.

He opted not to seek a new contract to his current five-year deal which expires at the end of this month.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, japan

First posted December 26, 2011 19:48:00

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Pumas coach given extension

Updated December 22, 2011 13:25:03

Argentina coach Santiago 'Tati' Phelan, who steered the Pumas to the 2011 Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, has been handed a new two-year contract.

After a third place finish at the 2007 World Cup in France, the South Americans went out in the quarter-finals to hosts and eventual champions New Zealand earlier this year.

"Tati's appointment as trainer confirms our interest in ratifying his tenure, which was extremely satisfactory from various points of view," Argentine Rugby Union (UAR) president Luis Castillo said.

"Now is the time to continue working to improve day by day and face a new calendar with a lot of activity."

Ranked seventh in the world, they will make their debut in a major annual competition next year when they take part in the new southern hemisphere championship with Australia, New Zealand and South Africa which is replacing the Tri-Nations.

Never before have they faced a year with 12 test matches, having had to sit by and watch the Tri-Nations and Six Nations from afar and make do with only six matches, three in each of the year's two test windows.

Fellow former Pumas Fabian Turnes, Mauricio Reggiardo and Marti Gaitan will continue as Phelan's coaching staff.

Daniel Hourcade was confirmed as coach of the Pampas XV, a reserve side that won South Africa's Vodacom Cup this year.

Reuters

Tags: rugby-union, sport, argentina

First posted December 22, 2011 13:25:03

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Hansen named All Blacks coach

Updated December 16, 2011 15:14:21

New Zealand Rugby Union has appointed Steve Hansen as the new coach of the world champion All Blacks, replacing Graham Henry who stepped down after winning the World Cup.

Hansen was widely tipped to get the prestigious role after serving as Henry's assistant for the past eight years.

The 52-year-old former policeman did not announce who his assistants would be.

The previous coaching team was in place for eight years, but as well as Henry stepping down backs coach Wayne Smith has moved to the Super Rugby side Waikato Chiefs.

Making the announcement, NZRU chairman Mike Eagle said Hansen was the best possible candidate for the job.

"I want to congratulate him on his appointment," he said.

"He is an outstanding coach and has been a key part of a hugely successful All Blacks team since becoming an assistant coach in 2004.

"He has huge respect and backing from the team and his peers and is the right man to now lead the team."

Eagle said having a World Cup-winning coach involved in leading the team forward was a huge advantage and allowed for a seamless transition.

Hansen said he was both excited and honoured to be chosen to succeed Henry.

"I have huge pride in New Zealand rugby and I'm passionate about the All Blacks and New Zealand," he said.

"I feel humbled and proud to be given the opportunity to lead the team into its next phase.

"My aim will be to leave the team in a better shape than how I found it and to enhance its legacy."

Hansen has been appointed for a two-year term and was the only candidate recommended by an appointment panel to go through to an interview with the full NZRU Board.

His preferred coaching team has also been unanimously approved by the NZRU and will be announced once employment details are settled.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted December 16, 2011 13:52:01

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Wilkinson retires from Test rugby

Updated December 13, 2011 07:03:23

England fly half great Jonny Wilkinson, the second-highest points scorer in history, has retired from international rugby union.

"I would like to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from international rugby," Wilkinson said in a statement.

"To do so fills me with great sadness, but I know I have been blessed in so many ways to have experienced what I have with the England rugby team," Wilkinson added.

The former Newcastle playmaker said he would continue playing for Toulon, the French club he joined in 2009.

"For me now, I will continue to focus ever harder on my goal of being the very best I can be with Toulon Rugby Club and continue to embrace and enjoy wherever that path takes me."

Wilkinson assured himself of a place in rugby union history with his extra-time drop goal that saw England win the 2003 World Cup final against hosts Australia in Sydney.

But afterwards his Test career was blighted by a succession of injuries and at the recent World Cup in New Zealand even his normally reliable goal-kicking let him down as England, beset by off-field problems, crashed out in the quarter-finals to France.

Widely regarded as the best defensive fly half Test rugby has seen, Wilkinson's international retirement means England will start the defence of its Six Nations title away to Scotland in February without him in its squad.

The 32-year-old Wilkinson bowed out from Tests as England's record points scorer with 1,179 points from 91 Test matches, a haul comprising six tries, 162 conversions, 239 penalties and a record 36 drop goals.

He also scored 67 points in six Tests for the British and Irish Lions on tours of Australia (2001) and New Zealand (2005) for an overall tally of 1,246 - second only behind All Black Dan Carter.

But in the view of some pundits, Wilkinson became symptomatic of all that was wrong with a misfiring and conservative England attack in that during his numerous injury absences none of his possible successors were able to make the number 10 shirt truly their own.

Wilkinson's statement added: "To say I have played through four World Cups, two Lions tours, 91 international games and a ridiculous number of injuries and other setbacks gives me an incredibly special feeling of fulfilment.

"But by now I know myself well enough to know that I will never truly be satisfied!" he added.

"It goes without saying that I would like to wish Stuart Lancaster, his coaches and the England squad every bit of success available to them," added Wilkinson, who also saluted the much criticised England backroom staff at this year's World Cup, of whom only scrum supremo Graham Rowntree will be working with interim boss Lancaster.

"I would also very much like to extend those wishes to Martin Johnson, Brian Smith, Mike Ford, John Wells, Graham Rowntree and the rest of the England 2011 World Cup management team who have been fantastic and deserve people to know that."

Fellow World Cup winner Lewis Moody, England's captain in New Zealand before announcing his Test retirement in October, told Sky Sports he'd been "humbled" to have played alongside Wilkinson.

"I'm saddened but his contribution over the years, his work ethic, professionalism and commitment, has been immense," the Bath flanker said.

"The fact he missed four years of international rugby but still amassed 97 caps is unimaginable," Moody said.

"It's a real shame he's decided to retire but what he's given to the sport, and a generation, is immense."

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted December 13, 2011 07:03:23

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Guildford cops ban for drunken rampage

Updated December 14, 2011 10:22:34

All Blacks and Crusaders winger Zac Guildford has been barred from the first Super Rugby game next year as punishment for his drunken spree in the Cook Islands last month.

In a ruling following a New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) misconduct hearing, Guildford was also ordered to undergo alcohol treatment and counselling at his own expense.

Guildford was in the small Pacific island nation for a friend's wedding when he staggered naked, drunk and bleeding into a bar and allegedly assaulted two people.

He was also accused of harrassing an athlete and making lewd sexual comments as she was on a training run along a road on the main island Rarotonga.

The NZRU ruled Guildford's conduct was unprofessional and brought the game into disrepute, and imposed a four-match ban covering the Crusaders' three preseason matches and their opening Super Rugby game against the Blues.

It was the second time in two months that Guildford and alcohol have hit the headlines after he was publicly reprimanded for his behaviour by the All Blacks management during the Rugby World Cup.

"Taking players out of rugby is not something we do lightly. But we have taken into account the fact that with regard to alcohol-related behaviour, Zac does not have an exemplary record," NZRU manager Sorensen said.

"On this occasion, he embarrassed himself, his family, his team-mates, and New Zealand Rugby. We believe Zac brought the game into disrepute and the sanctions reflect the gravity of the situation and the need for a real pathway to recovery."

Guildford acknowledged in a statement that his behaviour had been unacceptable, and he was working to resolve his issues.

"I am embarrassed by what has happened, but I know that I let down the many people who support me," he said.

"I am focussed on getting myself into the place I need to be when I return to rugby next year."

AFP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted December 14, 2011 10:22:34

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Sharpe wins RUPA award

Updated December 14, 2011 20:21:44

Western Force captain Nathan Sharpe has taken out the Rugby Union Players' Association Medal for Excellence for a third time.

The medal is voted on by all Australian-based rugby union professionals.

In his 14th Super Rugby campaign, Sharpe surpassed former Brumbies playmaker George Gregan as the most capped player in the competition across all three SANZAR countries and joins the former half-back as a three-time award winner.

In 2011 Sharpe also broke the club's long standing consecutive appearance record when he played his 53rd straight match for the Force.

AAP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, perth-6000, wa, australia

First posted December 14, 2011 20:21:44

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Giteau enjoys first win with Toulon

Updated December 14, 2011 12:16:09

Former Wallabies star Matt Giteau has enjoyed his first win with French Top 14 club Toulon.

The 92-Test ace teamed with English World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson as Toulon climbed to third spot on the ladder with a 34-12 victory over Agen on Tuesday.

Toulon's tries came courtesy of Gabriele Lovobalavu in the third minute, Jone Tawake (38), Leo Senatore (46) and Konstantine Mikautadze two minutes from time.

Twenty-four hours after he announced he was quitting the international scene, Wilkinson added 12 points from four penalties, but also missed several other goals including all three conversion attempts.

The 2003 World Cup hero collected his penalties for Bernard Laporte's side in the 10th, 21st, 23rd and 55th minutes before the fly half received a standing ovation when he was replaced with 18 minutes left.

After the game Laporte, talking about Wilkinson's decision to concentrate on club rugby, remarked: "It was his decision, there was no pressure (from Toulon), but it's all the better for the club.

"He's 32, he took the wisest decision. If he had decided to continue he had more to lsoe than to gain. I wasn't surprised by his choice."

Laporte added: "It's not insignificant to end an international career like his. I'm sure he is emotional and must still be thinking about it."

Toulon moved on to 35 points, five behind second-placed Clermont with table toppers Toulouse on 43.

Agen are fifth with 32 points.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, france

First posted December 14, 2011 12:07:45

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Wilkinson announces international retirement

Updated December 13, 2011 18:33:43

England's World Cup winning star fly half Jonny Wilkinson, who famously broke Australian hearts in 2003, has retired from international rugby.

The 32-year-old kicked the winning drop goal in extra-time in the World Cup Final against Australia in Sydney in 2003.

He ends his career as England's record points-scorer with 1,179 points from 91 matches and is second on the all-time list behind only All Black Dan Carter.

Wilkinson said he would play on with French club side Toulon.

"I would like to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from international rugby," Wilkinson said in a statement on his website.

"To do so fills me with great sadness, but I know I have been blessed in so many ways to have experienced what I have with the England rugby team."

Wilkinson's feat in 2003 assured him a place in rugby union history.

But afterwards his Test career was blighted by a succession of injuries and at the recent World Cup in New Zealand even his normally reliable goalkicking, so long a cornerstone of his game, let him down as England, beset by off-field problems, crashed out in the quarter-finals to France.

Wilkinson bowed out with a haul comprising six tries, 162 conversions, 239 penalties and a record 36 drop goals.

He also scored 67 points in six Tests for the British and Irish Lions on tours of Australia (2001) and New Zealand (2005) for an overall tally of 1,246.

But in the view of some pundits, Wilkinson became symptomatic of all that was wrong with a misfiring and conservative England attack in that during his numerous injury absences none of his possible successors were able to make the number 10 shirt truly their own.

Wilkinson's statement added: "To say I have played through four World Cups, two Lions tours, 91 international games and a ridiculous number of injuries and other setbacks gives me an incredibly special feeling of fulfilment.

"But by now I know myself well enough to know that I will never truly be satisfied!" he added.

Fellow World Cup winner Lewis Moody, England's captain in New Zealand before announcing his Test retirement in October, told Sky Sports he'd been "humbled" to have played alongside Wilkinson.

"I'm saddened but his contribution over the years, his work ethic, professionalism and commitment, has been immense," the Bath flanker said.

"The fact he missed four years of international rugby but still amassed 97 caps is unimaginable," Moody said.

"It's a real shame he's decided to retire but what he's given to the sport, and a generation, is immense."

Stuart Lancaster, appointed England's acting head coach following the post World Cup resignation of team manager Martin Johnson (the 2003 World Cup winning captain) also paid tribute to Wilkinson.

"Jonny has had a fantastic international career which has spanned four World Cups and 91 caps and ranks as one of England's greatest ever players," Lancaster said in a Rugby Football Union (RFU) statement.

"He will of course be remembered for that drop-goal but he is more than that, a model sportsman - down to earth and hard working, who has never stopped trying to be the best that he can."

ABC/AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted December 13, 2011 06:04:38

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England turn to Lancaster for Six Nations

Updated December 09, 2011 11:33:25

England continued to cut ties with their dismal World Cup campaign when Stuart Lancaster was named caretaker coach for next year's Six Nations championship.

Lancaster will take charge while a permanent replacement is sought for Martin Johnson, with Graham Rowntree and Andy Farrell as his assistants.

Johnson resigned last month after England's World Cup quarter-final exit following a disappointing tournament rife with problems on and off the pitch.

Attacking coach Brian Smith did not seek a new contract following criticism of his performance by the England players and the future of two other members of Johnson's coaching team, Mike Ford and John Wells, is under discussion, acting Rugby Football Union (RFU) chief executive Stephen Brown said.

The 42-year-old Lancaster, a former Leeds forward, is currently in charge of the second-string England Saxons team. His first game in charge of England will be the start of its Six Nations defence against Scotland on February 4.

"I am proud to have this opportunity and feel a great sense of responsibility," Lancaster told a news conference.

"I am very privileged to be here. We have 41 games before the next World Cup and we want players with talent and character who are hungry and ambitious to achieve."

Reuters

Tags: rugby-union, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted December 09, 2011 11:33:25

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Gill extends Reds' contract

Updated December 07, 2011 15:22:36

Young Queensland Reds flanker Liam Gill has signed an extension that will keep him at the Super Rugby champions until the end of 2013.

The 19-year-old enjoyed a successful inaugural season as a fulltime squad member in 2011 and capped a memorable year by also winning the Queensland Premier Rugby title with his club Sunnybank.

Gill made his Super Rugby debut off the bench for the Reds in round three against the Brumbies.

He later made his run-on debut against the Western Force in round 17 when he went head-to-head with Australia's first-choice openside flanker and captain David Pocock from the Western Force.

Queensland coach Ewen McKenzie was delighted to keep Gill at the Reds.

"He has a big future ahead of him and to see him already offer so much on the playing field at such a young age is exciting for the team and our fans," he said.

AAP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted December 07, 2011 12:54:52

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Barnes 'getting back to his best'

Updated December 06, 2011 11:05:53

Resurgent Wallabies back Berrick Barnes is convinced he is almost back to his best after producing two strong performances at the end of a tough year.

Sidelined for the latter stages of the Super Rugby tournament following issues with footballer's migraine, Barnes just squeezed into the Wallabies' World Cup squad.

He then formed an exciting new midfield combination with James O'Connor on Australia's two-match tour of Britain, playing primarily at inside centre with the latter calling the shots from five-eighth.

With first-choice playmaker Quade Cooper sidelined by a serious knee injury, Barnes relished the chance to start the tour matches against the Barbarians and Wales.

"I feel like I'm getting back to my best sort of footy in the last couple of games, which has been good and that comes with consistent footy and it comes with getting opportunities starting games as well," Barnes told reporters at Sydney Airport on Tuesday.

A strong contender to play five-eighth for the Waratahs next year, Barnes admitted Wallabies coach Robbie Deans clearly preferred to use him at inside centre.

"I've enjoyed playing it and at the end of the day I'll take a Test start wherever I can get it and especially after the year I've had," Barnes said.

"It's been great to get back into the Test side and more importantly just enjoy my footy.

"It was a pretty big call to take me on that World Cup squad so I appreciate that, but there's been a lot of hard work and stuff behind closed doors."

Barnes was impressed with the way O'Connor handled the switch to a major playmaking role.

"He did extremely well in his first outing there at Test level," Barnes said.

While he was one of the success stories of the tour, Barnes was not taking anything for granted and expected Cooper to come back better than ever from his surgery.

Winger Lachie Turner said he would undergo scans to ascertain the extent of a fractured thumb suffered against Wales.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, rugby-union-world-cup, super-14, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted December 06, 2011 11:05:53

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SBW to fight for heavyweight belt

Updated December 06, 2011 12:36:07

All Blacks back Sonny Bill Williams will seek to add a boxing title to his Rugby World Cup winner's medal when he fights for the New Zealand heavyweight belt next year.

The former rugby league international will fight 33-year-old Richard Tutaki for the vacant title in Hamilton on February 8.

Williams has a clause in his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union that allows him to continue to compete in the ring.

The 26-year-old has had four bouts, winning them all while Tutaki has won 19 of his 41 fights with one draw and 21 losses.

AAP

Tags: boxing, sport, rugby-union, new-zealand

First posted December 06, 2011 12:31:20

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Barnes fit to face Wales

Updated November 30, 2011 08:37:26

Wallabies playmaker Berrick Barnes has declared himself fit for Saturday's Test against Wales in Cardiff.

The injury-plagued inside centre hurt his shoulder in Australia's 60-11 victory over the Barbarians last weekend at Twickenham.

The man of the match in Australia's 21-18 victory over Wales in last month's World Cup bronze medal match trained with the national team on Tuesday afternoon in miserable conditions on the outskirts of Cardiff.

He is expected to line up at No.12 for the second straight week outside of new fly half James O'Connor.

Barnes, who this year battled migraines, showed some discomfort talking to the media on Tuesday but was confident of being ready for Saturday.

"I was a bit frustrated on the weekend, because something innocuous like that it just shits you because you are just wrong place, wrong time," he said.

"Every time I seem to go on spring tour I always seem to get injured.

"I have done an ankle, done a knee, done a few other things and did my knee in Italy the year before. It is just the way it goes.

"Last year I did not miss a game and this year I have had head problems. I just try to stay in the game."

Wales coach Warren Gatland made six changes to his team for Shane Williams' farewell match at Millennium Stadium.

The New Zealand mentor put on a mask with Williams' face on it as part of 'Shane Williams Day' in the Welsh camp on Tuesday.

Gatland said his players had to put the clamps on the Wallabies and that he was not upset by O'Connor being shifted from wing to fly half.

"I am happy that he is playing at No.10 than on the wing," he said.

"I think he is an outstanding winger as well. That is the key for the Australian team is not give them space.

"Not let them off-load."

Captain Sam Warburton returns after missing last month's match against the Wallabies through suspension.

Centre Scott Williams, half-back Lloyd Williams, fly half Rhys Priestland, lock Ian Evans and prop Scott Andrews have also all been named in the starting line-up.

Injuries ruled out centre Jonathan Davies, lock Alun Wyn Jones, props Paul James and Adam Jones while halves Mike Phillips and James Hook were not released by their French clubs.

Wales:

Leigh Halfpenny, George North, Scott Williams, Jamie Roberts, Shane Williams, Rhys Priestland, Lloyd Williams; Toby Faletua, Sam Warburton (capt), Dan Lydiate; Ian Evans, Bradley Davies; Scott Andrews, Huw Bennett, Gethin Jenkins

Replacements: Matthew Rees, Ryan Bevington, Ryan Jones, Justin Tipuric, Tavis Knoyle, Dan Biggar, Alex Cuthbert

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, australia, wales, united-kingdom

First posted November 30, 2011 07:13:27

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Wales set to test O'Connor

Updated December 02, 2011 17:45:26

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has urged James O'Connor to keep an open mind on his playing position, as he prepares for the playmaking role against Wales this weekend.

O'Connor is set for a stern test of his fly half credentials from a young, confident Welsh side determined to send departing winger Shane Williams out on a winning note at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on Sunday (AEDT).

The assured and versatile O'Connor made a bright start in his first appearance at number 10 for the Wallabies in last weekend's 60-11 rout of the Barbarians at Twickenham.

With close friend and regular fly half Quade Cooper out injured, O'Connor has hinted that his time in the position is only a temporary measure and he is best suited to inside centre.

But Deans sent a reminder that the 21-year-old's long-term role is not settled and the team's best interests should come first in deciding it.

"His stated preference is 12 but you find over time that players let go of their individual preference and ideally start to think of what is in the best interests of the group and team," he said.

"He is of great value where ever he is, so it does not matter in the long run but he is capable of mastering both (inside centre and fly half)."

The Welsh backs have spent the past week devising plans to stifle O'Connor.

"It will be a different experience but he is conscious of that," Deans said.

O'Connor would not be the first to make a successful transition from the outside backs to fly half for Australia.

Wallabies great Stephen Larkham was full-back before being shifted to number 10 for the national team in 1998.

There were concerns raised about Larkham's tactical kicking but he more than made up for any shortcomings with his ability to ghost through the tightest defences.

Larkham played in the Wallabies' sides that won the World Cup in 1999 and reached the final in 2003.

O'Connor also has an uncanny ability to shed tackles.

The youngster's opposite number in Cardiff will be the impressive Rhys Priestland, one of the revelations of the 2011 World Cup before being hit by injury.

Priestland, who missed the Wallabies' 21-18 win over Wales in the World Cup bronze medal match, says the Welsh have done their homework on O'Connor.

"We have been working hard all week trying to nullify him," he said.

"We are going to try to limit the amount of damage he can do."

The Wallabies are bracing for exciting wing veteran Williams to be provided with plenty of ball in his last chance to bamboozle international opposition.

But Priestland says the little man with the dancing feet will not receive any special service.

"For that 80 minutes it is just Wales versus Australia, it does not really matter who is retiring or who is in their first game," Priestland said.

"It is just us against them and afterwards we will celebrate what a great career he has had.

"But if it is not on to give it to Shane, we are not just going to give it to Shane."

Wallabies outside centre Rob Horne is in doubt for Sunday's match after pulling up with hamstring tightness.

He is likely to be replaced by Anthony Faingaa.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, united-kingdom, australia

First posted December 02, 2011 17:45:26

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Aussies fifth at Dubai Sevens

Updated December 04, 2011 16:12:45

Australia's men's team defeated South Africa in the plate final on Saturday to finish fifth at the Dubai Sevens tournament.

Australia won the match 17-14, a third tier title decider between defeated quarter-finalists, having been thrashed by eventual champion Fiji in its last eight match.

Australia trailed South Africa 14-5 at half-time but bounced back with tries to Hamish Angus and Lewis Holland, who scored after the final siren, to steal the win.

The victory moves Australia up to sixth spot after two rounds of the the IRB World Sevens Series, following last weekend's event on the Gold Coast where the home side finished fourth.

The third leg of the series is in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, next weekend, with Australia grouped with South Africa, Canada and Kenya.

Meanwhile, the Australian women's team defeated United States 22-5 to secure third place.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, rugby-7, sport, united-arab-emirates

First posted December 04, 2011 16:12:45

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Brumbies let former skipper Hoiles go

Updated November 30, 2011 19:37:20

The Brumbies have released injury-plagued former skipper Stephen Hoiles from the final year of his Super Rugby contract.

Hoiles has battled an Achilles problem for the past 18 months, playing only the opening game of the 2011 season.

The 30-year-old intends to play again, but it will not be with the Canberra-based side with which he spent six seasons including two years as captain in 2009 and 2010.

"Because of my injury, this past year has been a difficult one for the club and for me, but we have had a good discussion and I feel very comfortable with the decision we have mutually agreed on," Hoiles said in a statement on Wednesday.

"My rehab is coming along well and it's my intention to return to the playing field in the not too distant future.

"Where exactly that will be is something that will unravel in the months ahead."

AAP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, canberra-2600, act, australia

First posted November 30, 2011 19:37:20

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Horne ruled out of Wales Test

Updated December 02, 2011 23:08:45

A tight hamstring has forced Waratahs centre Rob Horne to withdraw from Australia's team to play Sunday's (AEDT) rugby Test against Wales at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

Horne failed to complete Thursday's training session at the Ospreys' base in Swansea.

Coach Robbie Deans promoted Queensland Reds centre Anthony Faingaa from the bench to the starting line-up and named Melbourne Rebels half-back Nick Phipps as the new bench man.

Phipps joins Ben Tapuai and Ben Lucas as Australia's backline reinforcements.

The pair of Bens are in line to become the third and fourth Test newcomers provided by the Queensland Reds this season, following Rod Davies (Wallaby number 851) and Beau Robinson (852) who debuted during the Test against Samoa in Sydney in July.

The Wallabies will complete their preparations for the match with the captain's run at the Millennium Stadium on Friday afternoon.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, united-kingdom, australia

First posted December 02, 2011 23:08:45

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Horne in major doubt for Wallabies

Updated December 02, 2011 10:49:01

Anthony Faingaa is in line to replace Rob Horne in Australia's starting line-up for Sunday morning's (AEDT) Test against Wales in Cardiff.

Outside centre Horne pulled up with hamstring tightness at Thursday's training session outside of Swansea.

Faingaa is expected to be elevated off the bench with half-back Nick Phipps coming onto the bench.

Horne, 22, will be given until Friday morning to prove his fitness but it is unlikely the Wallabies will risk him considering his history of hamstring problems.

"Rob Horne finished training today a bit tight so there is a possibility that he might not be able to take his place," Wallabies coach Robbie Deans said.

Horne's career has been punctuated by injuries.

He was dogged by hamstring problems early on and elbow troubles have stifled his progress in recent times.

The Waratahs player had looked like he was cementing his place in the national team following some good showings at the World Cup.

He played on and scored a try with a broken cheekbone in Australia's group win over the USA.

He also put in a strong 71-minute performance, after coming on for Kurtley Beale, in Australia's 21-18 win over Wales in the World Cup bronze medal match.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, australia

First posted December 02, 2011 07:33:05

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French rugby player's father joins brawl

Updated November 30, 2011 12:44:19

The father of French international Imanol Harinordoquy brought the Top 14 Basque derby between Biarritz and Bayonne to a halt after running onto the pitch to defend his son.

Harinordoquy's father came down from the stands in the sixth minute of the clash and faced up to Bayonne flanker Jean-Jo Marmouyet after his son got involved in a punch-up behind the play.

Harinordoquy senior's admirable sense of family loyalty was brought to an abrupt end by Bayonne fly half Benjamin Boyet, who tackled him to the ground before Biarritz hooker Benoit August stepped in to restore order.

Christian Gajan, Bayonne's director of rugby, was outraged by Harinordoquy's father's behaviour.

"I find his behaviour deplorable that he came onto the pitch to defend his son by boxing with (Jean-Jo) Marmouyet at the beginning of the match," he said.

"You could have been mistaken for believing it was a youth match between two local villages, it was a scandalous episode."

Harinordoquy junior - who is known as one of the tougher customers in the sport and a veteran of three World Cups - opted not to comment.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, france, australia

First posted November 30, 2011 12:37:21

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South African Rugby

Wallaby Ioane signs to stay in Australia

Updated December 04, 2011 12:57:50

Wallabies star Digby Ioane has shunned a seven-figure Japanese offer to sign an extended three-year deal with Queensland and the Australian Rugby Union.

Rated among the most destructive wingers in world rugby, Ioane on Sunday revealed he would remain in Brisbane until the end of the 2014 season in a major boost to the Wallabies and Queensland Reds.

The 26-year-old broke the news on his Twitter account after again impressing in Australia's 24-18 Test win over Wales at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium early Sunday morning (AEST).

"4 got 2 tell u my friends! Gonna stay in australia for the next 3 years!!! God is good an we r #reds," Ioane posted.

Ioane had received a $1 million per season offer to play with Japanese club Kubota midway through this year's Super Rugby season.

He reportedly verbally agreed to take up the lucrative deal to play alongside former Wallabies team-mate Hugh McMeniman before denying it and saying he would make up his mind after the World Cup.

The re-signing saga dragged on to the end-of-season tour of Britain but Reds coach Ewen McKenzie was always quietly confident of retaining Ioane for Queensland's 2012 Super Rugby title defence.

Not only for his speed and attacking power, Ioane is a crowd magnet for the Reds after lighting up Lang Park in 2011 with his breakdancing try celebrations.

"Obviously we're quite pleased it's finally over," McKenzie said.

"That ices the cake for us.

"We've retained 25 of the 30 (contracted players) from last year which is a great position to be in after winning the title and it gives us a good capacity (for success again)."

McKenzie agreed Ioane's 2011 form deservedly made the 21-Test winger a natural choice in any world 15 team.

"I think he's had an outstanding year," he said. "It was surprising he'd only played 11 Tests before this season due to injuries.

"He's a bit of an enigma as a winger. He's got such a high work-rate, he doesn't play wing like in an orthodox way which we're pleased about.

"He touches the ball more than anyone else apart from the (halves) and he makes a positive impact with every touch."

Three-year contracts are a rarity in Australian rugby these days and the Reds were quick to push for a long-term deal for Ioane, who moved back to Ballymore from the Western Force in 2008.

"When he left the Western Force he was looking for love in a team sense and he found camaraderie and a great environment," McKenzie said.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted December 04, 2011 12:56:31

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Rugby For Beginners - Basic Rules & Positions

Cipriani no sure thing for Rebels No 10

Updated November 29, 2011 17:06:14

Danny Cipriani may be eyeing the England number 10 jersey but he is no certainty to even play fly half for Melbourne Rebels.

The former England playmaker stated after his appearance for the Barbarians on the weekend that he was going to be the fly half for the Rebels in the 2012 Super Rugby season.

He declared he would start there, with new recruit James O'Connor at number 12, captain Stirling Mortlock at outside centre and another prized signing Kurtley Beale at full-back.

But with O'Connor completely outplaying Cipriani in his first start as Wallabies fly half as the Australians trumped the Barbarians 60-11 at Twickenham, the import has some serious competition.

Melbourne coach Damien Hill says no jerseys are locked in.

"It's great to hear Danny so enthusiastic but with all respect to him, it's not how we work here," Hill said.

"We select players based on performance, behaviours, the talent we have available; there's going to be some selection challenges ahead.

"It's going to be what's best for the team."

Hill was impressed by O'Connor's commanding performance and says he is an option at fly half.

"Definitely. He's shown himself now at 10, 12 on the wing and at full-back so he's a talented player," Hill said.

"James' work in the contact was excellent, he's ability to direct the play, his offloads, just his general go-forward was excellent."

Hill says it is unfair to compare O'Connor and Cipriani because of the latter's lack of preparation in an unfamiliar team that was soundly beaten.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, melbourne-3000

First posted November 29, 2011 16:46:34

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Higginbotham ready to knock out Rocky

Updated December 01, 2011 11:31:17

Wallabies back rower Scott Higginbotham is relishing the chance to tighten his grip on the number six jumper in Sunday morning's Test against Wales in Cardiff.

With 75-Test veteran Rocky Elsom sidelined following hamstring surgery, Higginbotham is set to make only his fourth Test start this weekend.

Elsom, 28, an inspirational servant of Australian rugby, released his hold on the position of blindside flanker with an ordinary performance in the World Cup semi-final loss to New Zealand.

Such was the manner of his showing that it raised questions about whether the former Wallabies skipper will be able to become Australia's first-choice number six again.

"It is a chance for me to step up," Higginbotham said.

"Everyone plays football to start, I will take my chances."

The 25-year-old former Australian Sevens player has enjoyed quite a year since coming off the bench for his Test debut in Australia's 59-16 win over France in Paris.

He was part of Queensland's Super Rugby title-winning side and started in Australia's 21-18 victory over Wales in the World Cup bronze medal match.

The 195cm, 110kg Higginbotham's combination of speed and athleticism for his size has proved attractive to Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

The late bloomer was keener on surfing, soccer and basketball before rugby took hold of him at the age of 17.

However it has not all gone to script.

He hurt his back warming up for his Test debut against South Africa last year in Pretoria and his back seized up again after being named to play against the USA at the World Cup.

Higginbotham expected the Welsh to play an up-tempo style of play at the Millennium Stadium in Shane Williams' farewell.

"It seemed alright for some of us Reds players talking after the match it was quick football like we play at the Reds," he said.

He said limiting the influence of Wales skipper and openside flanker Sam Warburton was a key for the Australian back row.

"He is a massive part of their team," he said.

Fiery number eight Ben McCalman (eye irritation) and skipper James Horwill (bench) were expected to return to the Australian starting line-up.

The Wallabies were due to release their team for the final match of the year at 9:00am (8:00pm AEDT) on Thursday.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, australia

First posted December 01, 2011 08:40:00

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