Six Nations schedule confirmed for 2023
Additional reporting by Press Association.
Andy Farrell Sport News
Ireland set to start 2023 Six Nations away to Wales
Ireland will open their 2023 Six Nations against Wales in Cardiff and end it at home to England, after the schedule for next year's tournament was announced.
'They're 15 blokes, just like us' - Connacht have no fear of Leinster, says Bealham
He's reluctant to admit he's playing the best rugby of his career, but Finlay Bealham will concede he's never enjoyed the game more than he is now.
Ireland wing Robert Baloucoune signs new three-year Ulster deal
Ireland wing Robert Baloucoune has agreed a three-year contract extension to keep him with Ulster until at least the summer of 2025.
'I'm already speaking to people' - Rowntree sets sights on appointing backroom team
Munster's head coach in-waiting Graham Rowntree says preparations are already under way to recruit his backroom team.
Who’s hot and who’s not: Champions Cup star performers, unbeatable England and reckless red cards
Take a bow, Robert! The Ulster wing’s hat-trick of tries helped his side seal an all-important win at Toulouse on Saturday in the European Champions Cup and boost his hopes of breaking into Andy Farrell’s Ireland XV ahead of the 2023 World Cup. Baloucoune was outstanding throughout, causing significant problems with ball in hand, but his third try was his most impressive. In the 66th minute, with Ulster under pressure, he showed his defensive skills and instinct to intercept a wide pass from Antoine Dupont from within the Ulster 22 and run the length of the pitch unimpeded. The Toulouse fans weren’t happy but Baloucoune was clearly onside and that try could be crucial ahead of the return match in Belfast.
State of the Nation: Ireland making great strides under Andy Farrell’s guidance
Now that the 2022 Six Nations is wrapped up, we delve into the state of affairs in each of the competing nations. Next up, Ireland.
Lancaster: Next England head coach should be English
Stuart Lancaster approves of the Rugby Football Union's strong preference to appoint an English successor to Eddie Jones because of the motivating power of nationality - but he played down any suggestion he could depart Leinster for a second stint at the helm of his native country.