http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/sport/rugby/?service=Rss http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ireland-await-new-date-for-match-16116695.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ireland-await-new-date-for-match-16116695.html?r=RSS Ireland will learn in the next two days when their aborted RBS 6 Nations match against France is to be restaged after it was postponed amid shambolic scenes in Paris on Saturday night. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 20:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/tuilagi-and-lawes-return-16116672.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/tuilagi-and-lawes-return-16116672.html?r=RSS Manu Tuilagi and Courtney Lawes have returned to England's RBS 6 Nations squad after missing the victories over Scotland and Italy. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 19:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/halfpenny-leads-wales-to-victory-16116655.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/halfpenny-leads-wales-to-victory-16116655.html?r=RSS Leigh Halfpenny contributed 22 points as an improved second-half display saw Wales put themselves on course for a potential Triple Crown with a 27-13 victory over Scotland at the Millennium Stadium. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 17:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/goode-boots-sarries-to-victory-16116654.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/goode-boots-sarries-to-victory-16116654.html?r=RSS Alex Goode scored 17 points with the boot as Saracens recorded a 22-17 Aviva Premiership victory over Wasps at Adams Park. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 16:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/oconnell-reflects-on-bizarre-day-16116650.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/oconnell-reflects-on-bizarre-day-16116650.html?r=RSS Ireland captain Paul O'Connell has described the postponement of Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash with France "as a bizarre end to a strange day". Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 16:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/foden-haunted-by-rome-blunders-16116642.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/foden-haunted-by-rome-blunders-16116642.html?r=RSS Ben Foden will be haunted by the mistakes that forced England to come from behind to beat Italy in the RBS 6 Nations Championship at a freezing Stadio Olimpico. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/confusion-reigns-after-french-farce-16116614.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/confusion-reigns-after-french-farce-16116614.html?r=RSS The Stade de France was the centre of farcical scenes on Saturday night when Ireland's RBS 6 Nations match against France was postponed just 10 minutes before kick-off. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 09:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/mcgeechan-enthused-by-heathcote-16116602.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/mcgeechan-enthused-by-heathcote-16116602.html?r=RSS Tom Heathcote gave Bath director of rugby Sir Ian McGeechan plenty of reason for cheer as the young fly-half masterminded a 30-24 win over Newcastle. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/oshea-easter-not-finished-yet-16116603.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/oshea-easter-not-finished-yet-16116603.html?r=RSS Harlequins director of rugby Conor O'Shea maintains Nick Easter has unfinished business with England after the number eight helped the Aviva Premiership Leaders to a 30-23 defeat of London Irish. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/redpath-critical-despite-victory-16116604.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/redpath-critical-despite-victory-16116604.html?r=RSS Gloucester coach Bryan Redpath was far from impressed despite Freddie Burns' late penalty giving them a 27-24 victory over Northampton Saints. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/lancaster-happy-with-resolve-16116605.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/lancaster-happy-with-resolve-16116605.html?r=RSS England's interim coach Stuart Lancaster was proud of the resolve his side showed in bouncing back from a "mad five minutes" to beat Italy 19-15 in freezing Rome. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/baxter-plays-down-tigers-double-16116606.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/baxter-plays-down-tigers-double-16116606.html?r=RSS Exeter coach Rob Baxter acknowledged that international call-ups helped his team to record two wins over Leicester in the Aviva Premiership this season. Rugby Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/chiefs-climb-to-fifth-16116564.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/chiefs-climb-to-fifth-16116564.html?r=RSS Exeter moved up to fifth place in the Aviva Premiership as they completed a season's double over Leicester with a 19-11 win at Sandy Park. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 20:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/franceireland-clash-called-off-16116563.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/franceireland-clash-called-off-16116563.html?r=RSS Ireland's RBS 6 Nations clash with France has been postponed due to the weather conditions in Paris. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 20:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/england-claim-narrow-italy-victory-16116555.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/england-claim-narrow-italy-victory-16116555.html?r=RSS England dug themselves out of a snow-hole in freezing Rome to beat Italy 19-15 with another charge-down try from Charlie Hodgson and Owen Farrell's perfect kicking display. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/bath-fight-back-for-bonuspoint-win-16116548.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/bath-fight-back-for-bonuspoint-win-16116548.html?r=RSS Bath collected a welcome 30-24 bonus-point win to climb away from the Aviva Premiership relegation zone - but had to endure a a few sticky moments as bottom club Newcastle showed they are still full of fight. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/burns-hands-gloucester-victory-16116547.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/burns-hands-gloucester-victory-16116547.html?r=RSS A late penalty from Freddie Burns gave Gloucester a 27-24 victory over Northampton in a thrilling game at Kingsholm. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/williams-inspires-quins-win-16116545.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/williams-inspires-quins-win-16116545.html?r=RSS Harlequins returned to winning ways as winger Tom Williams helped orchestrate a 30-23 victory over London Irish which extended their lead at the top of the Aviva Premiership. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wasps-in-search-of-survival-boost-16116531.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wasps-in-search-of-survival-boost-16116531.html?r=RSS Wasps resume Aviva Premiership action against Saracens on Sunday seeking to put distance between themselves and bottom side Newcastle. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 13:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/weir-determined-to-take-chance-16116529.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/weir-determined-to-take-chance-16116529.html?r=RSS Gallus is a fine Glaswegian word to describe Duncan Weir, who hopes to make his Scotland debut in Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales in Cardiff. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 13:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/all-or-nothing-for-halfpenny-16116530.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/all-or-nothing-for-halfpenny-16116530.html?r=RSS Leigh Halfpenny readily admits that goalkicking is a "hero or zero" occupation. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 13:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/warburton-wales-must-win-easy-16116493.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/warburton-wales-must-win-easy-16116493.html?r=RSS Wales captain Sam Warburton believes that "scraping through" to victory will not be acceptable when his team resumes RBS 6 Nations business against Scotland on Sunday. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/evans-unfazed-by-wales-clash-16116467.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/evans-unfazed-by-wales-clash-16116467.html?r=RSS Scotland wing Max Evans anticipates he will be able to keep his emotions in check on his return to the Millennium Stadium, the arena where his brother Thom suffered a career-ending neck injury. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/robshaw-keen-to-prolong-captaincy-16116460.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/robshaw-keen-to-prolong-captaincy-16116460.html?r=RSS Chris Robshaw wants to keep hold of the England captaincy on a long-term basis - and against Italy on Saturday night he will go out and prove it. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ireland-wait-on-pitch-inspection-16116461.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ireland-wait-on-pitch-inspection-16116461.html?r=RSS Ireland's RBS 6 Nations clash with France on Saturday night will undergo a pitch inspection 90 minutes before kick-off. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/more-injury-woe-for-fourie-16116453.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/more-injury-woe-for-fourie-16116453.html?r=RSS Sale Sharks and England flanker Hendre Fourie looks set for another spell on the sidelines after injuring his shoulder against Worcester Warriors. Rugby Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/blair-boots-blues-to-victory-16116379.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/blair-boots-blues-to-victory-16116379.html?r=RSS Seventeen points from the boot of Cardiff Blues full-back Ben Blair proved decisive in a 22-15 over Connacht where the attendance was as significant as the scoreline. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 22:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/macleod-kicks-sale-to-victory-16116366.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/macleod-kicks-sale-to-victory-16116366.html?r=RSS Nick Macleod kicked five penalties as Andrew Sheridan's first game of the season resulted in a narrow 15-12 victory for Sale over Worcester in the Aviva Premiership. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 22:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ospreys-edge-victory-in-edinburgh-16116330.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ospreys-edge-victory-in-edinburgh-16116330.html?r=RSS Ospreys overcame a raft of international absences to tighten their grip on second spot in the RaboDirect PRO12 with a workmanlike 15-14 victory over an Edinburgh side with nine regulars missing. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 21:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-still-in-the-hunt-16116325.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-still-in-the-hunt-16116325.html?r=RSS Ulster notched up their third consecutive bonus point RaboDirect PRO12 victory to keep their play-off hopes alive with Stefan Terblanche's last-minute try bringing Brian McLaughlin's side maximum points from a 30-12 win. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 21:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wallace-drafted-in-by-ireland-16116254.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wallace-drafted-in-by-ireland-16116254.html?r=RSS Ireland have called up Paddy Wallace as cover for Jonathan Sexton ahead of Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash with France. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/clerc-eyes-success-over-the-irish-16116198.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/clerc-eyes-success-over-the-irish-16116198.html?r=RSS Prolific France winger Vincent Clerc has warned Ireland ahead of Saturday's RBS 6 Nations showdown in Paris that he revels in the space they offer. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/stade-de-france-given-green-light-16116193.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/stade-de-france-given-green-light-16116193.html?r=RSS The Stade de France has passed a pitch inspection conducted on Friday afternoon in preparation for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations showdown between France and Ireland. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/barnes-penalty-was-right-call-irb-16116191.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/barnes-penalty-was-right-call-irb-16116191.html?r=RSS The International Rugby Board and RBS 6 Nations have exonerated referee Wayne Barnes of blame for Ireland's 23-21 RBS 6 Nations defeat by Wales. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/italy-clash-intrigues-corbisiero-16116158.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/italy-clash-intrigues-corbisiero-16116158.html?r=RSS England's history boy Alex Corbisiero is not part of the X-box generation, preferring his degree studies on the unification of Italy to computer games. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/harden-extends-kingsholm-stay-16116135.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/harden-extends-kingsholm-stay-16116135.html?r=RSS Tighthead prop Rupert Harden has signed a new contract with Gloucester. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:52:04 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/sharpe-announces-retirement-date-16116136.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/sharpe-announces-retirement-date-16116136.html?r=RSS Australia lock Nathan Sharpe has announced that he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the upcoming Super Rugby campaign with Western Force, ruling out him making farewell appearances against Scotland and Wales. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:52:04 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/best-ready-for-paris-pain-16116134.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/best-ready-for-paris-pain-16116134.html?r=RSS Rory Best has warned Ireland they must be prepared to break through the pain barrier if they are to rescue their RBS 6 Nations by overcoming France. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/age-no-barrier-for-kalman-16116137.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/age-no-barrier-for-kalman-16116137.html?r=RSS Prop Ed Kalman completes a triumvirate of three uncapped Glasgow Warriors on the Scotland replacements' bench for Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales - but his route towards a first Test cap is more circuitous than that of Duncan Weir and Stuart Hogg. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ford-fancies-falcons-chances-16116138.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ford-fancies-falcons-chances-16116138.html?r=RSS Newcastle will resume their fight for Aviva Premiership survival on Saturday, with defence coach Mike Ford claiming: "We are starting to show more steel and resilience." Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wales-heading-north-with-george-16116139.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wales-heading-north-with-george-16116139.html?r=RSS Wales' teenage rising star George North will go into Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash against Scotland being hailed as "a superstar of the game". Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/mcbryde-wary-of-wounded-scotland-16116025.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/mcbryde-wary-of-wounded-scotland-16116025.html?r=RSS Robin McBryde believes Scotland will be encouraged by an impressive Millennium Stadium performance two years ago when they look to stop Wales in their tracks on Sunday. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/strettle-happy-to-bounce-back-16116026.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/strettle-happy-to-bounce-back-16116026.html?r=RSS England wing David Strettle embodies the inspirational truth behind the quote from legendary American football coach Vince Lombardi: "It's not whether you get knocked down but whether you get up". Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/oconnell-wants-to-avoid-mistakes-16116010.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/oconnell-wants-to-avoid-mistakes-16116010.html?r=RSS Paul O'Connell admits Ireland's failings during their RBS 6 Nations opener against Wales offer a blueprint on how to lose to France. Rugby Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ashton-hails-improved-discipline-16115827.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ashton-hails-improved-discipline-16115827.html?r=RSS Chris Ashton believes life on the straight and narrow is already paying dividends for England as they prepare to tackle Italy at the Stadio Olimpico. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 22:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/denton-aims-for-consistency-16115828.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/denton-aims-for-consistency-16115828.html?r=RSS Scotland number eight David Denton is determined to outshine Wales counterpart Toby Faletau in the cauldron of the Millennium Stadium on Sunday. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 22:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/leinster-stretch-lead-at-top-16115768.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/leinster-stretch-lead-at-top-16115768.html?r=RSS Leinster stretched their lead at the top of the RaboDirect PRO12 table to 14 points after surging past Benetton Treviso 42-8 at the RDS. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/glasgow-secure-comfortable-win-16115753.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/glasgow-secure-comfortable-win-16115753.html?r=RSS Glasgow rose to third in the RaboDirect PRO12 table after a comfortable 19-9 victory over Scarlets in an uninspiring encounter at Firhill Stadium. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/laulala-heading-to-munster-16115713.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/laulala-heading-to-munster-16115713.html?r=RSS Cardiff Blues centre Casey Laulala will join Munster at the end of the season. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/munster-make-laulala-move-16115655.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/munster-make-laulala-move-16115655.html?r=RSS Munster have announced the signing of Cardiff Blues' midfield star Casey Laulala on a two-year contract. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/scots-want-roof-closed-16115648.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/scots-want-roof-closed-16115648.html?r=RSS Scotland plan to meet fire with fire in Sunday's RBS 6 Nations match with Wales, with captain Ross Ford confirming the visitors have asked for the Millennium Stadium roof to be closed. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/jones-set-for-lock-role-16115645.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/jones-set-for-lock-role-16115645.html?r=RSS Former Wales captain Ryan Jones will take the place of banned lock Bradley Davies in Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash against Millennium Stadium visitors Scotland. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/sheridan-set-for-sharks-return-16115638.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/sheridan-set-for-sharks-return-16115638.html?r=RSS England prop Andrew Sheridan is set to make his comeback five months after suffering a World Cup-ending injury in New Zealand. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/earls-back-for-ireland-16115613.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/earls-back-for-ireland-16115613.html?r=RSS Keith Earls has been restored at outside centre for Ireland's RBS 6 Nations clash with France in Paris on Saturday night. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/hogg-primed-for-scotland-chance-16115580.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/hogg-primed-for-scotland-chance-16115580.html?r=RSS Stuart Hogg is determined to make a lasting impression if handed his debut in Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales in Cardiff. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/yachvili-sidelined-for-ireland-game-16115570.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/yachvili-sidelined-for-ireland-game-16115570.html?r=RSS France scrum-half Dimitri Yachvili has been ruled out of Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash against Ireland in Paris with a back problem. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/england-unchanged-for-italy-clash-16115522.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/england-unchanged-for-italy-clash-16115522.html?r=RSS Chris Robshaw will captain an unchanged England team in Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Italy in Rome's Stadio Olimpico. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ross-keen-to-make-amends-16115496.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ross-keen-to-make-amends-16115496.html?r=RSS Ireland prop Mike Ross accepts his team cannot afford to underperform for a second successive weekend when they meet France on Saturday night. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/laidlaw-relishing-first-start-16115497.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/laidlaw-relishing-first-start-16115497.html?r=RSS Greig Laidlaw is ready for the responsibility of being Scotland fly-half, beginning in Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/priestland-wants-better-discipline-16115498.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/priestland-wants-better-discipline-16115498.html?r=RSS Rhys Priestland has revealed Wales' RBS 6 Nations squad have reiterated among themselves the need for watertight discipline in Test matches. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/botha-warning-over-italy-clash-16115499.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/botha-warning-over-italy-clash-16115499.html?r=RSS Saracens lock Mouritz Botha has warned his England team-mates not to take Italy lightly as they bid to build on their opening RBS 6 Nations win over Scotland. Rugby Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/henry-takes-nz-development-role-16115332.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/henry-takes-nz-development-role-16115332.html?r=RSS Graham Henry has signed a part-time contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union to help develop the next generation of coaches. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/dragons-hit-with-fine-and-forfeit-16115231.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/dragons-hit-with-fine-and-forfeit-16115231.html?r=RSS Newport Gwent Dragons have received a £10,000 suspended fine and forfeited last Friday's LV= Cup game with Saracens. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/castrogiovanni-we-must-stop-errors-16115187.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/castrogiovanni-we-must-stop-errors-16115187.html?r=RSS Martin Castrogiovanni accepts Italy will have to play the "perfect game" if they are to stand any chance of marking their Olympic Stadium debut with a first victory over England. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ferris-cleared-by-hearing-16115179.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ferris-cleared-by-hearing-16115179.html?r=RSS Stephen Ferris will be available for Ireland's RBS 6 Nations clash with France on Saturday after being cleared of tip-tackling Wales lock Ian Evans. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/jackson-to-return-16115158.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/jackson-to-return-16115158.html?r=RSS Glasgow stand-off Ruaridh Jackson will make his comeback from injury when Warriors host Scarlets in the RaboDirect PRO12 on Thursday night. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/davies-banned-for-seven-weeks-16115150.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/davies-banned-for-seven-weeks-16115150.html?r=RSS Wales lock Bradley Davies will miss the rest of this season's RBS 6 Nations Championship after receiving a seven-week ban. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/two-changes-for-scotland-16115129.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/two-changes-for-scotland-16115129.html?r=RSS Scotland have made two enforced changes for Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales in Cardiff, with Greig Laidlaw set to make his first Test start. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/telford-player-sorry-over-racism-16115124.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/telford-player-sorry-over-racism-16115124.html?r=RSS The lower-league rugby player banned for 18 weeks after being found guilty of racially abusing an opponent has apologised for his conduct to the player he targeted. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/two-changes-for-italy-16115094.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/two-changes-for-italy-16115094.html?r=RSS Italy coach Jacques Brunel has made two changes to the side that lost the RBS 6 Nations opener against France for the game against England in Rome on Saturday. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/trio-pen-sale-deals-16115052.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/trio-pen-sale-deals-16115052.html?r=RSS Wales international Dwayne Peel has signed a new two-year contract with Aviva Premiership club Sale Sharks. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/gamboa-makes-edinburgh-move-16115053.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/gamboa-makes-edinburgh-move-16115053.html?r=RSS Edinburgh have signed Argentina prop Ulises Gamboa from RaboDirect Pro12 rivals Aironi until the end of the season. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/racism-suspension-handed-out-16115004.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/racism-suspension-handed-out-16115004.html?r=RSS A rugby player has been suspended for 18 weeks after being found guilty of racially abusing an opponent. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/weight-matters-for-morgan-16114988.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/weight-matters-for-morgan-16114988.html?r=RSS Ben Morgan has revealed the punishing training regime that helped turn him from a part-time builder, part-time rugby player into a full England international. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/robinson-salutes-retiring-parks-16114970.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/robinson-salutes-retiring-parks-16114970.html?r=RSS Scotland head coach Andy Robinson paid tribute to the retiring Dan Parks as he signalled his readiness to turn to a new generation of fly-halves in Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales. Rugby Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/flood-returns-to-tigers-16114731.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/flood-returns-to-tigers-16114731.html?r=RSS Toby Flood has been released to play for Leicester this weekend - but Lee Dickson is still part of England's plans for their RBS 6 Nations clash with Italy in Rome. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/worcester-play-down-richards-link-16114709.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/worcester-play-down-richards-link-16114709.html?r=RSS Worcester Warriors have ruled out the possibility of former England number eight Dean Richards joining them as director of rugby - at least for the time being. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wales-braced-to-lose-davies-16114706.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/wales-braced-to-lose-davies-16114706.html?r=RSS Wales look destined to lose lock Bradley Davies from their RBS 6 Nations plans on Wednesday - but two other World Cup forwards could return for next Sunday's clash against Scotland. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/sarries-announce-abu-dhabi-fixture-16114705.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/sarries-announce-abu-dhabi-fixture-16114705.html?r=RSS Saracens have arranged a friendly with Fijian champions Nadroga Stallions in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi on Friday, March 9. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/farrell-discipline-is-key-16114704.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/farrell-discipline-is-key-16114704.html?r=RSS Andy Farrell reinforced the need for England to avoid tip tackles after Bradley Davies and Stephen Ferris were cited for foul play incidents over the weekend. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/parks-calls-time-on-scotland-career-16114701.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/parks-calls-time-on-scotland-career-16114701.html?r=RSS Scotland fly-half Dan Parks has retired from international rugby with immediate effect, the Scottish Rugby Union have announced. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/we-are-very-disappointed-kearney-16114683.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/we-are-very-disappointed-kearney-16114683.html?r=RSS Ireland have revealed they are "very disappointed" with the decision to cite flanker Stephen Ferris. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/jackson-set-for-comeback-16114663.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/jackson-set-for-comeback-16114663.html?r=RSS Scotland fly-half Ruaridh Jackson is to make his return in Glasgow Warriors' RaboDirect PRO12 clash with Scarlets at Firhill on Thursday. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/four-changes-for-france-16114623.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/four-changes-for-france-16114623.html?r=RSS France have promoted Imanol Harinordoquy to their starting line-up as one of four changes for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Ireland. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/parisse-is-a-top-player-palmer-16114618.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/parisse-is-a-top-player-palmer-16114618.html?r=RSS England second row Tom Palmer insists leading Italy brings out the best in Stade Francais team-mate Sergio Parisse. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/new-deal-for-pyrgos-16114582.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/new-deal-for-pyrgos-16114582.html?r=RSS Henry Pyrgos has handed Glasgow a boost by signing a long-term contract extension. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/davies-and-ferris-cited-16114557.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/davies-and-ferris-cited-16114557.html?r=RSS Wales lock Bradley Davies and Ireland flanker Stephen Ferris have both been cited for foul play during Sunday's RBS 6 Nations game between the countries in Dublin. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/davies-likely-to-face-hearing-16114483.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/davies-likely-to-face-hearing-16114483.html?r=RSS Bradley Davies should discover today whether he will be cited for an incident of foul play that could end his RBS 6 Nations season after just one game. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/new-teams-for-rugby-sevens-16114458.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/new-teams-for-rugby-sevens-16114458.html?r=RSS Three new teams are to be added to the roster for rugby sevens as the sport moves towards its inclusion in the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. Rugby Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ireland-preparing-for-france-test-16114132.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ireland-preparing-for-france-test-16114132.html?r=RSS Ireland's RBS 6 Nations squad will reconvene on Wednesday to prepare for a major character test - tackling tournament favourites France in Paris. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/laidlaw-eager-to-help-scotland-16114114.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/laidlaw-eager-to-help-scotland-16114114.html?r=RSS Greig Laidlaw is confident he can show Scotland the way to the try line if selected for Sunday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/dates-set-for-cup-semifinals-16114115.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/dates-set-for-cup-semifinals-16114115.html?r=RSS Competition organisers have confirmed the dates and kick-off times for this season's LV= Cup semi-finals. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rankings-blow-for-scotland-16114092.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/rankings-blow-for-scotland-16114092.html?r=RSS Scotland have dropped outside the world's top 10 following their RBS 6 Nations home defeat against England on Saturday. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/evans-getting-new-career-on-track-16114093.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/evans-getting-new-career-on-track-16114093.html?r=RSS Former rugby star Thom Evans will compete over 60 metres in the scottishathletics National Senior Indoor Championships at the Kelvin Hall in Glasgow on February 19. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/dickson-hands-england-hope-16114057.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/dickson-hands-england-hope-16114057.html?r=RSS England scrum-half Lee Dickson could yet participate in Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Italy. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/haag-happy-with-home-semifinal-16114010.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/haag-happy-with-home-semifinal-16114010.html?r=RSS Bath forwards coach Martin Haag was delighted to secure a home LV= Cup semi-final against Leicester with a comprehensive win over Exeter. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/lancaster-welcomes-fight-for-places-16113946.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/lancaster-welcomes-fight-for-places-16113946.html?r=RSS Stuart Lancaster warned Toby Flood he cannot expect to walk straight back into the England team for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash with Italy. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/kidney-ireland-still-alive-16113941.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/kidney-ireland-still-alive-16113941.html?r=RSS Coach Declan Kidney refuses to give up on the RBS 6 Nations title despite Ireland's controversial 23-21 defeat by Wales. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/we-were-lucky-gatland-16113942.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/we-were-lucky-gatland-16113942.html?r=RSS Wales boss Warren Gatland admitted his team "got out of jail" after they claimed a dramatic RBS 6 Nations victory over shell-shocked Ireland at the Aviva Stadium. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/strokosch-set-for-perpignan-16113943.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/strokosch-set-for-perpignan-16113943.html?r=RSS Scotland flanker Alasdair Strokosch will leave Gloucester at the end of the season to join French club Perpignan, the Aviva Premiership side have announced. Rugby Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:02:00 +0000