The Long Break

Rugby Union

22nd September 2025

BBC

'Trust the process' - Kildunne on World Cup final

Full-back Ellie Kildunne says England will "trust the process" they have been on for the past three years when they face Canada in the World Cup final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 hours ago

21st September 2025

BBC

Packer should start for England in final - Merchant

Lucy Packer can be "the difference" for England if she is given the start against Canada, believes 2014 World Cup winner Kat Merchant.

BBC • Rugby Union → 9 hours ago

ESPN

Women's Rugby World Cup: England's Meg Jones wants to inspire in final

England centre Meg Jones has admitted the nervy semifinal win over France was "exactly what we needed" ahead of next week's Women's Rugby World Cup final.

ESPN • Rugby → 9 hours ago

BBC

'Amazing' boss Lynn backed to turn Wales around

Sean Lynn is the right man to turn around Wales' fortunes after their early World Cup exit, says co-captain Kate Williams.

BBC • Rugby Union → 10 hours ago

ESPN

Women's Rugby World Cup: Why England should be thankful after toughest test yet

England stood up to a stern test from France and in doing so prepared themselves for next weekend's Women's Rugby World Cup final.

ESPN • Rugby → 13 hours ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Rugby Championship to be turfed under massive SANZAAR tours shake-up

The annual tournament between the Wallabies, All Blacks, Springboks and Pumas won’t be sighted again, in full, until 2029.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 19 hours ago

BBC

Rugby Union Weekly

Reaction to the Red Roses reaching the final with Sara, Kat Merchant and Claire Thomas.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

'We have not won anything' - England set sights on final

Prop Hannah Botterman says England will not be celebrating as they "have not won anything" after setting up a Women's Rugby World Cup final with Canada.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

Kildunne comes to party with swagger in semi-final win

Ellie Kildunne is the face of the Women's Rugby World Cup. Against France, she finally delivered the A-list performance she is capable of.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

ESPN

England survive brave France to reach Women's Rugby World Cup final

England reached a seventh-straight Women's Rugby World Cup final with a nervous, thrilling 35-17 semifinal win over France on Saturday.

ESPN • Rugby → 1 day ago

BBC

Packer and Galligan on making the World Cup final

England's Marlie Packer and Rosie Galligan discuss making the Women's Rugby World Cup final and look ahead at their game against Canada at Twickenham.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

Final 'all we've been dreaming of' - Kildunne

Player of the match Ellie Kildunne says reaching the Women's Rugby World Cup final is all England have been dreaming of after beating France in Bristol.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

'Awesome' England handled difficult situation - Mitchell

England coach John Mitchell praises superstar full-back Ellie Kildunne as his "awesome" England side put in a superb second-half display to beat France 35-17 to reach the World Cup final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

Kildunne and Jones shine as England beat France to reach final

Ellie Kildunne scores two tries on her comeback as England dig deeper than they have all tournament to see off a stubborn France and book their place in a seventh successive Women's Rugby World Cup final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

Kildunne 'proved why she's world's best player'

BBC Sport's Ruby Tui, Simon Middleton and Maggie Alphonsi discuss Ellie Kildunne's superb performance for England in their semi-final win against France in Bristol.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

Exeter gain Prem Cup revenge with Bath win

Exeter Chiefs gained some revenge for last year's Prem Rugby Cup final loss, with victory over Bath, at a wet and windy Recreation Ground.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

The Guardian

Kildunne double takes England past France into Women’s Rugby World Cup final

A chance for trophy glory, a piece of rugby history, a bid to end 11-years of hurt.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

Kildunne stars as England see off France to make final

Ellie Kildunne scores twice as England see off a stubborn France to reach their seventh successive Women's Rugby World Cup final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

'Absolutely audacious!' - Kildunne scores two tries for England

Ellie Kildunne scores two fantastic tries to help England to a 35-17 win over France in their Women's Rugby World Cup semi-final in Bristol.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

20th September 2025

ESPN

Canada crowdfunded their way to Women's Rugby World Cup. Now they're in the final

The worst-kept secret at the Women's Rugby World Cup is out: Canada are in the final, and they're eyeing up the winners of England and France.

ESPN • Rugby → 1 day ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Bledisloe Cup setback for Wallabies as key forward ruled out

The Wallabies haven’t beaten the All Blacks at Eden Park since 1986. Their challenge just got even more difficult.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Can French romance and rebellion defy dominant Red Roses?

France have come closer than any other team during England's record run of victories. Beating the tournament hosts in the World Cup semi-final would be the ultimate heist.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

France's unpredictability makes England favourites - analysis

BBC Sport's Maggie Alphonsi and Katy Daley-Mclean believe England are favourites heading into their Women's Rugby World Cup semi-final clash against France due to their ability to "win games in different ways".

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Bad blood between Schmidt and Robertson adds even more spice to Bledisloe

The Wallabies have their best chance of victory at Eden Park in a very long time, aided by recent history between the Wallabies and All Blacks coaches.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

ESPN

Women's Rugby World Cup: Canada overcome New Zealand to reach final

Canada condemned New Zealand to a record 34-19 defeat on Friday to book their spot in next week's Women's Rugby World Cup final.

ESPN • Rugby → 2 days ago

ESPN

Confident Canada set sights on Women's Rugby World Cup history

Canada are confident they can go on to win the Women's Rugby World Cup final at Twickenham next week, regardless of who they face.

ESPN • Rugby → 2 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Canada gun leaves Kiwi's stunned

Canada captain Alex Tessier charges over to score the opening try of the second half against New Zealand.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

'Fairytale' Canada deliver 'seismic' win over New Zealand

Canada stun six-time world champions New Zealand with a masterful display to reach the Women's Rugby World Cup final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Rees-Zammit scores first try for Bears in cup win

Louis Rees-Zammit scores his first try for Bristol Bears to help his new club to victory against his old side Gloucester in the Premiership Rugby Cup.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Woodman-Wickliffe 'devastated' after semi-final defeat

New Zealand winger Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is "devastated" following her side's 11-year World Cup unbeaten run coming to an end following a semi-final defeat against Canada in Bristol.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Why Canada beating New Zealand is a 'tectonic' result

BBC Sport pundits Lesley Mckenzie, Ruby Tui and Katy Daley-Mclean explain why Canada - who crowdfunded to support themselves at the Women's Rugby World Cup - made history by beating New Zealand in the semi-finals.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

'We've got one more job to do' - De Goede focused on final

Canada's Sophie de Goede speaks of her "relief" and "pride" after beating New Zealand 19-34 in the Women's Rugby World Cup semi-final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Superb Canada beat champions New Zealand to reach final

Canada sensationally depose Women's Rugby World Cup holders New Zealand, inflicting the Black Ferns' first defeat in the tournament in 11 years to advance to the final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

The Guardian

Clinical Canada end Black Ferns’ reign and book place in Rugby World Cup final

Canada always had a good chance of beating New Zealand in their Rugby World Cup semi-final but no one anticipated the manner of the win as they dominated the defending champions and played them off the park at times.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Sensational Canada shock New Zealand to make final

Canada inflict New Zealand's first defeat in 11 years at the Womens' Rugby World Cup as a sensational performance books their place in the Twickenham final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

The Guardian

England and France ready to fight for a shot at Women’s World Cup glory

Since defeat in the 2022 final the hosts have won 31 games in a row but semi-final foes France have pushed them closest.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

The half-Australian ex-All Blacks skipper who could revive Anzac Day Bledisloe

David Kirk captained the All Blacks to a World Cup and is now chair of NZR. He is also an Australian citizen – and he has a unique perspective on the needs of rugby on both sides of the Tasman.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

'It's audacious and divine' Pelletier scores early try for Canada

Justine Pelletier scores an 'audacious and divine' try to give Canada the lead in the Women's Rugby World Cup semi final against New Zealand in Bristol.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

The Guardian

Pressure is a privilege for England who must deliver when it matters against France

Everything appears to be in place for the tournament hosts who will be judged on what happens in the next eight days. Without disrespecting any of the opposition the Red Roses have faced, England’s World Cup starts now.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Saracens 'got what we deserved last season'

Saracens flanker Andy Onyeama-Christie says they didn't deserve to make the play-offs last season but are feeling confident for the new campaign.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

19th September 2025

BBC

Warriors 'can't let emotion hold them back' - Everard

Head coach Matt Everard wants Worcester to embrace the emotion of their first home game since going out of business when they face Bath.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

The Guardian

‘Roll over or come back fighting’: Mo Hunt on England pain that left a scar

Scrum-half is savouring every moment of this Women’s World Cup after being cut on the eve of the last one. It is a quiet midweek afternoon on the outskirts of Bristol and, up to now, Natasha “Mo” Hunt has been her normal upbeat self.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Everyone upping game before semi-final - Botterman

England forward Hannah Botterman speaks to BBC Sport's Jo Currie as she gets her hair cut before the Rugby World Cup semi-final against France on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Wales' Botham and Grady to miss autumn games

Wales internationals James Botham and Mason Grady will miss the autumn internationals and the start of Cardiff's United Rugby Championship season after operations.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Morgan and Williams named Wales players of the year

Ospreys flanker Jac Morgan is Wales player of the year after a season that earned selection for the British and Irish Lions, with Wales co-captain Kate Williams taking the women's award.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Three to watch as new-look France face England

France have been forced to make several changes to their team to face England, so who are the new faces coming into their line-up?.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Ulster move 'no gamble', says new recruit Augustus

Juarno Augustus says his move to Ulster "isn't a gamble" after his transfer from last season's European Champions Cup finalists Northampton Saints.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Lock De Goede aims to kick Canada past Black Ferns and into final

Lock Sophie de Goede's goal-kicking skills could hold the key in Canada's bid to reach the Women's Rugby World Cup final.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

The Guardian

Freedom and joy: Rugby World Cup’s quirky quality sets it apart from the pack

This tournament has embraced a festival atmosphere and still seems to be fuelled by a radiant and irrepressible delight with a gleaming sense of fun.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

The Guardian

Sports quiz of the week: shirts, shocks, stars and a stone-skimming scandal

Have you been following the big stories in football, athletics, golf, cricket, rugby, boxing and stone skimming?. Continue reading...

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

England v France World Cup semi-final preview, stats & how to watch

Match preview, kick-off time, teams and head-to-head stats as England face France in the Women's Rugby World Cup semi-finals on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Canada and New Zealand semi-final 'will have everything' - analysis

BBC Sport pundits Maggie Alphonsi and Katy Daley-McLean believe the Women's Rugby World Cup semi-final between Canada and New Zealand could be the "game of the tournament".

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Rugby Union Weekly

Ugo, Sara and Claire Thomas preview the World Cup semi-finals in Bristol.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Retiring White reveals brutal toll on body

Retiring Wallabies halfback Nic White reveals the brutal toll his career has had on his body as he prepares to go under the knife for multiple surgeries.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Women's home nations gain control of autumn games

England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales gain control of their autumn fixtures as part of World Rugby's alterations to the women's global calendar.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

ESPN

John Mitchell: 'I don't really care' what people think of Red Roses rugby style

England coach John Mitchell has said he doesn't care what people think about his side's brand of rugby as they prepare for the World Cup semifinals.

ESPN • Rugby → 3 days ago

The Guardian

Giants New Zealand must be wary of bogey team Canada in World Cup semi-final

Maple Leafs have gone under the radar at Women’s Rugby World Cup but underdogs can upset the champions.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Gilmore succeeds Wilson at Quins as Booth returns

Jason Gilmore is named Harlequins' senior coach as part of a new set-up also including Toby Booth, following the departure of Danny Wilson.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

18th September 2025

BBC

Cling film, fake tan and Block 16 - welcome to Red Roses' Hogwarts

One institution has been taking in teenagers and turning out Red Roses for more than a decade. Why Hartpury's influence might be key to Rugby World Cup glory.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

The Guardian

Hannah Botterman fit to face France in semi-final after fearing her World Cup was over

Hannah Botterman has admitted she feared her Rugby World Cup was over after sustaining a back injury against Australia in England’s final pool match.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Sale Sharks rename ground CorpAcq Stadium

Sale Sharks rename their home ground the CorpAcq Stadium ahead of the upcoming season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Former Worcester players unpaid as club return to Sixways

Several Worcester Warriors players remain unpaid after the club went into administration in 2022.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Newcastle sign South African full-back Coetzee

South African full-back Stefan Coetzee is the latest addition to the Newcastle Red Bulls squad for the forthcoming league season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

ESPN

England vs. France: How to watch, team news

England and France are one match away from securing their spot in the Women's Rugby World Cup final. Here's everything you need to know.

ESPN • Rugby → 3 days ago

ESPN

England restore Ellie Kildunne, Hannah Botterman for Women's Rugby World Cup semifinal

Ellie Kildunne and Hannah Botterman will return from injury for England's Women's Rugby World Cup semifinal clash against France in Bristol on Saturday.

ESPN • Rugby → 3 days ago

BBC

Fit-again England full-back Kildunne starts against France in semi-final

Ellie Kildunne returns from a concussion sustained in England's final pool-stage game against Australia a fortnight ago to take her place as starting full-back in their Rugby World Cup semi-final against France on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Bristol new-boy Jordan feels 10 is 'good' for him

Versatile new Bristol back Tom Jordan says fly-half is the position he enjoys playing most as he prepares for the new season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Exeter can put 'terrible' season behind us - Slade

Exeter's England centre Henry Slade says he and his team-mates are ready to put last year's "terrible" campaign behind them.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

The Guardian

James O’Connor retained for Wallabies’ crunch Tests against All Blacks

James O’Connor has been retained in Australia’s squad for back-to-back Rugby Championship Tests against New Zealand despite flying to England on Monday to join his new club Leicester.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

Fox Sports

Jake Gordon returns for Wallabies as Nic White’s retirement is confirmed

Halfback Jake Gordon has recovered from a hamstring injury to be named in an extended 34-man Wallabies squad for Saturday week’s Bledisloe Cup clash against New Zealand in Auckland.

Fox Sports • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Rugby Union Weekly

Ashy and Sara chat to Max Ojomoh, Tom Jordan and Steve Diamond ahead of the new season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Wallabies rise up 'John Howard Index'

The Wallabies are rising up Nick Phipps' 'John Howard Index' as they continue to win over the Australian sporting public.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Star back row Miller to miss Black Ferns semi-final

Star flanker Jorja Miller will miss defending champions New Zealand's Rugby World Cup semi-final against Canada on Friday night in Bristol.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

ESPN

Autumn internationals rugby fixtures 2025: England, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, more

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ESPN • Rugby → 4 days ago

BBC

Red Roses attack coach defends route-one tries as France lie in wait

England have not come close to realising their potential at the Rugby World Cup, despite four resounding wins, says attack coach Lou Meadows.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Council backs plans for new Bath Rugby stadium

Councillors vote to approve the plans for a new 18,000-capacity stadium for the Premiership winners.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

17th September 2025

BBC

Thomas happy at Gloucester after summer with Wales

Former Test hooker Rhys Thomas is happy to be back in Prem Rugby with Gloucester after a taste of international coaching with Wales.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

The Guardian

It’s ‘game on’ for launch, says rugby’s breakaway R360 league – but how ready is it really?

Co-founder Mike Tindall insists R360 will launch next year but, with financial projections changing, questions remain.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

The Guardian

New Zealand blow as Jorja Miller ruled out of semi-final clash with Canada

Jorja Miller has been ruled out of New Zealand’s semi-final against Canada in a huge blow to the Black Ferns’ hopes of defending their Rugby World Cup crown.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

With All Blacks in crisis mode, Schmidt recalls O’Connor from England

Having flown to the UK at the start of the week, James O’Connor will make a return flight and re-join the squad for the opening Bledisloe Cup clash next week.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Dweba can reignite Springboks career at Exeter - Baxter

Joseph Dewba can use his time at Exeter to force his way back into the South Africa squad, says Chiefs boss Rob Baxter.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Rugby Union Weekly

Meg Jones and Hannah Botterman find out how much Harriet Kemsley has learnt about rugby.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

ESPN

Women's Rugby World Cup: France's Berthoumieu has biting ban reduced

France flanker Axelle Berthoumieu has seen her ban for biting in Sunday's Rugby World Cup quarterfinal victory over Ireland reduced from 12 to nine matches on appeal.

ESPN • Rugby → 5 days ago

ESPN

England to have 'pamper night' before WRWC semi

Rosie Galligan has revealed that England plan to hold a "pamper night" to bring the squad closer together ahead of Saturday's Women's Rugby World Cup semifinal against France.

ESPN • Rugby → 5 days ago

BBC

Mattinson is third Scotland World Cup player to retire

Scrum-half Caity Mattinson becomes the third member of the Scotland squad to retire after Sunday's Women's Rugby World Cup quarter-final defeat by England.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Sale forward Van Rhyn signs contract extension

Sale Sharks forward Ernst van Rhyn signs a three-year contract extension.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

The Guardian

Berthoumieu’s ban cut to nine games and Feleu also out of Women’s Rugby World Cup

Axelle Berthoumieu’s ban for biting Ireland’s Aoife Wafer has been reduced to nine matches but Manaé Feleu’s citing was upheld by a disciplinary committee meaning both will miss the rest of the Rugby World Cup. France play England in the semi-finals on Saturday.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Borthwick backed me to remodel England attack in Argentina - Blackett

New assistant coach Lee Blackett says he had licence to remould England's attack during this summer's successful audition for a permanent role.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Keenan to miss Ireland's November fixtures

Ireland full-back will miss Ireland's November schedule having had hip surgery following the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

16th September 2025

The Guardian

England wing Tommy Freeman sets sights on switch to centre for club and country

England’s reigning player of the year, Tommy Freeman, has revealed he sees his future at outside-centre and intends to continue his transformation into midfield in the coming season.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Feyi-Waboso 'touch and go' for start of season

England winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso is "touch and go" to make his return for Exeter in time for the start of the Premiership Rugby season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Why uncertainty clouds Scotland future despite fine World Cup

Scotland may have enjoyed their best Women's World Cup since 2002, but the buzz evaporated soon after the loss to England, writes Andrew Petrie.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

The Guardian

The Breakdown

South Africa and New Zealand’s selfish decision to go it alone will lead to competition hiatus and looks foolish. Enjoy it while it lasts.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Cramp cocktails and apps - how rugby tracks 'fifth vital sign'

Cramp cocktails and apps are just some of the ways women's' rugby teams have been trying to ensure their players are able to perform at the highest level throughout their menstrual cycle.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Rugby Union Weekly

Ashy and Sara chat to England's new attack coach Lee Blackett and lock Ollie Chessum.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Williams tips angry All Blacks response

Sonny Bill Williams is tipping an angry All Blacks response against the Wallabies in the Bledisloe Cup.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

O'Connor wants to return for Bledisloe

James O'Connor wants to return for the Bledisloe Cup despite flying out to England to join the Leicester Tigers this week.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

Fox Sports

French star handed massive 12-game ban after World Cup biting scandal

French forwards Axelle Berthoumieu, accused of biting, and Manae Feleu are set to miss the Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-final after a disciplinary panel on Monday recommended bans for both.

Fox Sports • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

ESPN

Women's Rugby World Cup: France's Berthoumieu given 12-match ban after biting Ireland star

France flanker Axelle Berthoumieu admitted to biting Ireland's Aoife Wafer in their Women's Rugby World Cup quarterfinal but appealed her 12-match suspension on Monday.

ESPN • Rugby → 6 days ago

BBC

Berthoumieu has biting ban cut to nine games

France back row Axelle Berthoumieu has her 12-match ban for biting Ireland's Aoife Wafer reduced to nine - but will miss Saturday's semi-final against England.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

Sources

BBC • Rugby Union

ESPN • Rugby

Fox Sports • Rugby Union

Fox Sports • Super Rugby

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union

The Guardian • Rugby Union