The Long Break

Rugby Union

26th June 2026

The Guardian

Saracens player escapes formal sanction over nightclub punch that sparked Stokes crisis

The Saracens academy player who triggered the Ben Stokes captaincy crisis by throwing a punch at his England teammate Gus Atkinson has escaped without being disciplined.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 1 hour ago

BBC

Trailfinders target 'underdog' victory against Saracens

Ealing Trailfinders look for a first-ever Premiership Women's Rugby title as they face three-time winners Saracens at the Stoop.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 hours ago

25th June 2026

BBC

PWR secures first multi-million pound sponsor deal

Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) has secured its first title sponsorship deal which will see over £3m invested into the league.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 hours ago

BBC

Wales women name five uncapped players for Barbarians

Five players will make their senior debuts for Wales when they take on the Barbarians at Twickenham on Saturday (17:00 BST).

BBC • Rugby Union → 7 hours ago

BBC

Morgan to make Wales men's return against Barbarians

Flanker Jac Morgan is back in Wales' starting line-up for Saturday's uncapped fixture against the Barbarians at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

BBC • Rugby Union → 8 hours ago

BBC

Cardiff captain Belcher out of Wales summer games

Cardiff hooker Liam Belcher is out of Wales' summer matches because of a neck injury.

BBC • Rugby Union → 9 hours ago

BBC

The Welsh hooker preparing to play against Wales

Dragons hooker Elliot Dee will start for Barbarians against Wales at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 15 hours ago

BBC

Wales and Barbarians ready to add to rich history

Wales and the Barbarians will add another chapter to their rich history in a double-header in London on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 22 hours ago

BBC

Beating the Barbarians would be everything - Lynn

Wales head coach Sean Lynn says beating the Barbarians on Saturday would mean everything to his side.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

The Guardian

Qatar Airways puts Nations Championship sponsorship on hold due to fallout from war

Qatar Airways has put its £80m sponsorship of rugby union’s new Nations Championship on hold due to the fallout from the war in the Middle East.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

24th June 2026

BBC

Lewis revives Wales career in problem position

Dillon Lewis is back in the international fold after a two-year absence as Wales look to solve their problems at tight-head prop.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

BBC

England 'incredibly happy' to rest Itoje against South Africa

England assistant Richard Wigglesworth says leaving Maro Itoje out of next month's game with world champions South Africa is the right decision.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 day ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Can try harder: Will the Wallabies embrace the high-risk attack style changing world rugby?

The Hurricanes used all-out attack to smash records and rivals on the way to a Super Rugby title. And other major teams around the globe are doing the same.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Fit-again Callender to lead Wales against Barbarians

Fit-again Alex Callender to lead from the front when Wales take on the Barbarians at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

North prepares for one last dance against Wales

George North will finish his sparkling rugby career on Saturday when he plays for the Barbarians against his country Wales at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Cardiff sign Tonga's Paea from Moana Pasifika

Cardiff sign Tonga back-five forward Semisi Paea from Super Rugby Pacific side Moana Pasifika.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

The Guardian

Marcus Smith vows England will ‘leave it all out there’ against South Africa

Marcus Smith says England are flying south determined to make a fast and furious start to the new Nations Championship at South Africa’s expense next week.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

England wing Venner to stay at Gloucester-Hartpury

England winger Mia Venner signs a new deal to stay with Gloucester-Hartpury.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

23rd June 2026

BBC

Attack coach Gleeson leaves Bath

Bath attack coach Martin Gleeson leaves the club after eight months in the role.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Quins poach Super Rugby champions' attack coach

Harlequins appoint Brad Cooper as their new attack coach, as they reshape their backroom staff for the 2026-27 season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Red Roses stars in line for £100K to retain World Cup

The Red Roses' top stars stand to earn £100,000 with England in 2029 should they successfully defend their Women's Rugby World Cup title in Australia.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Lake to captain Wales in summer internationals

The Gloucester-bound hooker will captain Wales in this summer's four internationals, stating with Saturday's game against the Barbarians at Allianz Stadium.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

The Guardian

The Breakdown

From that crunch classic in Paris to the Red Roses’ trailblazing and Rhys Carré’s try, our pick of the moments that made the 2026-27 season. Best games attended1) 14 March, France 48-46 England.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

BBC

Bristol sign Wales back row Lewis

Bristol Bears sign Wales back row forward Bethan Lewis for the 2026-27 season following her departure from Gloucester-Hartpury.

BBC • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Rugby lights up Sydney Harbour

After the Vivid drone show disaster, Rugby Australia are making sure their upcoming drone show ahead of their upcoming Test match goes without a hitch.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

A swift Wallabies return could help keep Marky Mark in rugby after NRL exit

Mark Nawaqanitawase is switching codes again in a few months, after successful stint in rugby league. And selection on the Wallabies Spring Tour spot could be influential, on several fronts.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 2 days ago

The Guardian

Jamie George captains England again as Borthwick plays it safe for brutal summer tour

At some stage there will be better times ahead for English rugby. They have an encouraging amount of young talent, a decent age profile and another 15 months to develop prior to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Injured Dombrandt set for long spell on sidelines

Harlequins' Alex Dombrandt faces a lengthy absence with an ACL injury sustained in England's international against a France XV.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Injured Dombrandt set for long spell on sidelines

Harlequins' Alex Dombrandt faces a lengthy absence with an ACL injury sustained in England's international against a France XV.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Itoje rested as Caluori among five England call-ups

England captain Maro Itoje will miss England's Test against South Africa on 4 July after being left out of the entirety of the summer's Nations Championship action.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Itoje rested as Caluori among five England call-ups

England captain Maro Itoje will miss England's Test against South Africa on 4 July after being left out of the entirety of the summer's Nations Championship action.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

22nd June 2026

BBC

North on Barbarians bench for farewell against Wales

George North to come off the Barbarians bench for the last game of his professional rugby career against Wales at Twickenham.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Baxter urges Ridl to build on impressive season

Exeter Chiefs boss Rob Baxter says top try-scorer Campbell Ridl must ensure he does not become a "one-shot wonder".

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Baxter urges Ridl to build on impressive season

Exeter Chiefs boss Rob Baxter says top try-scorer Campbell Ridl must ensure he does not become a "one-shot wonder".

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Savea new All Blacks captain as Fineanganofo in squad

Ardie Savea has been made the All Blacks captain in coach Dave Rennie's first squad announcement, while Newcastle-bound winger Fehi Fineanganofo gets a first call-up.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Savea new All Blacks captain as Fineanganofo in squad

Ardie Savea has been made the All Blacks captain in coach Dave Rennie's first squad announcement, while Newcastle-bound winger Fehi Fineanganofo gets a first call-up.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Cullen to leave Leinster at end of next season

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen is to leave his role with the Irish province at the end of next season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Cullen to leave Leinster at end of next season

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen is to leave his role with the Irish province at the end of next season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Firefighting prop Scoble set to play last Wales game

Firefighter Jenni Scoble is set to play her final game for Wales against the Barbarians at Twickenham on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Firefighting prop Scoble set to play last Wales game

Firefighter Jenni Scoble is set to play her final game for Wales against the Barbarians at Twickenham on Saturday.

BBC • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Super Rugby shifts to 10-team competition after Moana Pasifika officially exits

Super Rugby will change shape yet again in 2027 after the demise of a second club in two years, but there won’t be a return of the conference system.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 3 days ago

BBC

Prem Rugby play-offs set to move to neutral venue

The Prem Rugby play-offs are set to move from home advantage to a neutral venue from the 2029-2030 season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Prem Rugby play-offs set to move to neutral venue

The Prem Rugby play-offs are set to move from home advantage to a neutral venue from the 2029-2030 season.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Schmidt goes one-on-one with Atko

Joe Schmidt goes one-on-one with Michael Atkinson before his final month as Wallabies coach.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Tandy's Wales prepare for challenging summer of travel

Welsh domestic rugby might have finished at the end of May but there is very little rest for the Wales national men's side this summer.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Tandy's Wales prepare for challenging summer of travel

Welsh domestic rugby might have finished at the end of May but there is very little rest for the Wales national men's side this summer.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Attacking rugby is winning rugby. It’s time for the Wallabies to follow suit

Saturday’s Super Rugby decider continued a most-welcome trend in the 15-man game.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

The Guardian

Pollock and Smith tune into Springbok summer after on-song Saints' Prem triumph

Attention switches to England’s tour squad announcement as the Northampton and Exeter players patch up and press on.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

21st June 2026

BBC

Feyi-Waboso risked England place for Exeter return

Exeter winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso says he had no choice but to risk his England chances this summer by playing in the Prem final only three weeks after breaking his jaw.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Feyi-Waboso risked England place for Exeter return

Exeter winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso says he had no choice but to risk his England chances this summer by playing in the Prem final only three weeks after breaking his jaw.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Every moment ached with importance as Northampton win compelling final

Northampton show their grit and unity to prevail in a tussle of a Prem final with Exeter and secure their third English title.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

BBC

Every moment ached with importance as Northampton win compelling final

Northampton show their grit and unity to prevail in a tussle of a Prem final with Exeter and secure their third English title.

BBC • Rugby Union → 4 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

The secret to Donaldson’s Wallabies comeback? The run-it-straight challenge with a ‘street fighter’

The Wallabies’ on again, off again playmaker Ben Donaldson was dropped last year and told to work on getting more physical in contact. His coach knew just the man.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

'We'll be back' vows Exeter skipper Jenkins after final loss

Exeter captain Dafydd Jenkins says his side will return to Prem Rugby finals after their defeat by Northampton.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

'We'll be back' vows Exeter skipper Jenkins after final loss

Exeter captain Dafydd Jenkins says his side will return to Prem Rugby finals after their defeat by Northampton.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Can 'best Northampton team ever' become one of English rugby's greats?

Does Northampton Saints' second Prem Rugby title in three seasons suggest a dynasty is being built at the club?.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Can 'best Northampton team ever' become one of English rugby's greats?

Does Northampton Saints' second Prem Rugby title in three seasons suggest a dynasty is being built at the club?.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

The Guardian

Prem final matchwinnner Hendy tipped for England call: ‘He’s a special player’

Northampton’s matchwinner George Hendy has been hailed as a player of international class after helping his side win their second English domestic title in three seasons.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Northampton beat Exeter to win Prem Rugby title

George Hendy's two tries secure Northampton Saints the Prem title with victory over Exeter Chiefs at Allianz Stadium.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

The Guardian

Northampton’s great entertainers provide fitting ending to glorious Prem season

Saints, led by Fin Smith and Henry Pollock, showed why they are the masters of divine rugby in final win over Exeter . There is no such thing as the “right” winner. The only winner is the one with the most points come the final whistle.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Northampton beat Exeter to win Prem Rugby title

George Hendy's two tries secure Northampton Saints the Prem title with victory over Exeter Chiefs at Allianz Stadium.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

The Guardian

Northampton crowned Prem champions after Hendy’s double sees off Exeter

A fast and furious Prem season was never going to end with a dull whimper.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Captain Doris ruled out of Ireland matches

Ireland captain Caelan Doris will miss July's Nations Championship matches with Australia, Japan and New Zealand with a foot injury.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Captain Doris ruled out of Ireland matches

Ireland captain Caelan Doris will miss July's Nations Championship matches with Australia, Japan and New Zealand with a foot injury.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

20th June 2026

The Guardian

‘No better way to end’: Ollie Devoto on retirement, MLR title hopes and why US hasn’t nailed rugby yet

The England center will finish a decorated career on Sunday as his Chicago Hounds face the California Legion seeking their first Major League Rugby crown.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Why try-addict Grace cannot quit despite latest injury

Regan Grace on the comeback trail after another injury blow that made the dual-code wing consider retirement.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Why try-addict Grace cannot quit despite latest injury

Regan Grace on the comeback trail after another injury blow that made the dual-code wing consider retirement.

BBC • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Hurricanes continue first-half onslaught

Callum Harkin scores next to the posts as the Hurricanes continue a first-half blitz against the Chiefs in the Super Rugby final.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 5 days ago

BBC

Ireland's Doris will get new injury checked out

Leinster captain Caelan Doris will get a new injury checked out after being forced off in the early stages of his side's 36-7 United Rugby Championship final win over the Bulls.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Five-try Leinster rout Bulls to retain URC title

Leinster retain their United Rugby Championship title with a resounding 36-7 win over the Bulls at Croke Park in Dublin.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

The Guardian

Janse van Rensburg fluffs chance on England debut in defeat against France

Benhard Janse van Rensburg’s hopes of a try-scoring England debut were dashed by fumbling hands as France emerged conclusive 35-19 winners in their non-cap international in Vannes.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

England XV well beaten by France in summer warm-up

France prove too skilful for England in the teams' non-Test summer warm-up in Vannes, easing away to a comfortable victory.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

England XV well beaten by France in summer warm-up

France prove too skilful for England in the teams' non-Test summer warm-up in Vannes, easing away to a comfortable victory.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

England's Kildunne joins Bristol Bears for 2026-27

England full-back Ellie Kildunne joins Bristol Bears for the 2026-27 PWR season following her exit from Harlequins.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

England's Kildunne joins Bristol Bears for 2026-27

England full-back Ellie Kildunne joins Bristol Bears for the 2026-27 PWR season following her exit from Harlequins.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

The Guardian

Exeter threaten Northampton’s title ambitions in final where underdogs thrive

Despite finishing third in the regular season table Exeter Chiefs are confident they can cause an upset at Twickenham. Prem finals do not always unfold as anticipated. Six of the last seven editions have been settled by six points or fewer and favourites are not guaranteed to have it their own way.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

19th June 2026

BBC

James takes over as Wales scrum coach

Wales appoint Paul James as the national team's permanent scrum coach.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

James takes over as Wales scrum coach

Wales appoint Paul James as the national team's permanent scrum coach.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Feyi-Waboso to start for Exeter in Prem final

England winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso will start for Exeter in the Prem final against Northampton less than three weeks after facial surgery.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

The Guardian

Visualisation and hunger to achieve: Henry Pollock reveals substance beneath the style

Back-row’s colossal performance in Prem semi-final proves he is ready to come of age for Northampton against Exeter. As Henry Pollock idly plays with the straggly end of his blond rat’s tail on a sunny day in Northampton, he looks wholly at ease.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Tshiunza hopes Sale move will not end Wales chances

Forward Christ Tshiunza is waiting to find out if he can still play for Wales under the minimum caps rule after opting to move to Sale from Exeter.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Tshiunza hopes Sale move will not end Wales chances

Forward Christ Tshiunza is waiting to find out if he can still play for Wales under the minimum caps rule after opting to move to Sale from Exeter.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Wallabies squad announced ahead of Ireland clash

The Wallabies squad has been announced ahead of a blockbuster match set against Ireland.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

From training brawl to Wallabies call: How Miles Amatosero learned to walk the line

Six months ago, the giant NSW lock was in hot water for punching a teammate in training. Next month he is on track to win a Test debut.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

North to bid farewell for Barbarians against Wales

George North will bring the curtain down on his professional rugby career by playing for the Barbarians against Wales at Twickenham.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

'Old dog' Slipper U-turns on Australia retirement

Veteran prop James Slipper has gone back on his international retirement to return to Australia's ranks after being named in the Wallabies squad for the forthcoming Nations Championship.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

'Old dog' Slipper U-turns on Australia retirement

Veteran prop James Slipper has gone back on his international retirement to return to Australia's ranks after being named in the Wallabies squad for the forthcoming Nations Championship.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

'You'd want to go out like Furbank has' - Dowson

Northampton director of rugby Phil Dowson previews the side's Prem Rugby final against Exeter that will mark the end of George Furbank's Saints career.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

'You'd want to go out like Furbank has' - Dowson

Northampton director of rugby Phil Dowson previews the side's Prem Rugby final against Exeter that will mark the end of George Furbank's Saints career.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Saints ready for Prem final against Exeter

Northampton Saints' Henry Pollock, Tommy Freeman and head coach Sam Vesty look ahead to their Prem final against Exeter.

BBC • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

The Guardian

Sports quiz of the week: World Cup, US Open, Wimbledon and Royal Ascot

Have you followed the big stories in football, cricket, golf, tennis, athletics, rugby union, horse racing and MMA?. Continue reading...

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 6 days ago

BBC

Janse van Rensburg backed for first England run-out

Benhard Janse van Rensburg's enthusiasm and energy have won over his new England team-mates, says George Ford.

BBC • Rugby Union → 7 days ago

BBC

Can Exeter complete remarkable title-winning turnaround?

Can the Chiefs complete a remarkable turnaround from their worst-ever season to become Prem champions?.

BBC • Rugby Union → 7 days ago

Sydney Morning Herald

Salakaia-Loto’s omission casts big shadow over Wallabies squad

The giant lock will surely be back in the reckoning when his Reds coach Les Kiss takes over from Joe Schmidt. But how many other selection differences will there be, and how does that help the Wallabies and the players?.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 7 days ago

Fox Sports

‘Uneasy’ legend’s retirement backflip confirmed as Wallabies name three rookies for July Tests

Veteran prop James Slipper has been named in coach Joe Schmidt’s 37-strong Australia squad for the opening three Tests of the Nations Championship, with a trio of potential debutants also included.

Fox Sports • Rugby Union → 7 days ago

The Guardian

James Slipper answers SOS for coach Joe Schmidt’s last three Wallabies Tests

Veteran prop James Slipper and uncapped trio Declan Meredith, Lachlan Shaw and Miles Amatosero have all been included in the Wallabies squad for next month’s Nations Championship Tests in Australia.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 7 days ago

The Guardian

Feyi-Waboso declared fit for Prem final after jaw surgery in boost for Exeter

Manny Feyi-Waboso has been declared fit to return for Exeter in Saturday’s Prem final at Twickenham.

The Guardian • Rugby Union → 1 week ago

BBC

Exeter's Feyi-Waboso declares himself fit for Prem final

Star wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso clears himself to play in Saturday's Prem final against Northampton in a huge boost for Exeter Chiefs.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 week ago

18th June 2026

BBC

Furbank targets fairytale end to Northampton career

Captain George Furbank is targeting a "fairytale finish" with Northampton as his decade at the club ends in Saturday's Prem final at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.

BBC • Rugby Union → 1 week ago

Sydney Morning Herald

‘We need fast-jumping locks’: Schmidt explains snub of Reds enforcer in last Wallabies squad

Outgoing coach Joe Schmidt named a relatively settled squad for Australia’s July Tests. But there was still room for some selection shocks.

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union → 1 week ago

Sources

BBC • Rugby Union

ESPN • Rugby

Fox Sports • Rugby Union

Fox Sports • Super Rugby

Sydney Morning Herald • Rugby Union

The Guardian • Rugby Union