Another busy day in the rugby union game as Scotland change six for this weekend, while Ireland, Italy and England also name their teams.
What’s on the site
With the start of the Super Rugby season just over a week away, we have been building up to the 2018 tournament. Today we looked at the Bulls’ and Waratahs’ chances.
Meanwhile, the domestic leagues restart in the northern hemisphere and we have previewed the Premiership and PRO14 action on Friday.
We also had a look at the Six Nations from a betting perspective, providing the best odds for the punter.
What’s in the news
Team announcements dominated proceedings with Scotland boss Gregor Townsend making the most changes following their dismal display against Wales.
The others kept it fairly minimal as Ireland, England and Italy released their 23s for the upcoming weekend of action.
In club matters, Wasps were fined over £20,000 for overspending on the salary cap, although Premiership Rugby were adamant that the Midlanders did not break the rules.
What’s on social media
Eddie Jones’ comments on Rhys Patchell caused a bit of a stir:
Eddie Jones going in hard on Rhys Patchell!!
#ENGvWAL #SixNations #sixnations2018 pic.twitter.com/Joh5utOMbM
— In At The Side (@Inattheside) February 8, 2018
And of course, Welsh supporters and pundits rightly had their say:
Re; Eddie Jones referring to the pressure on Rhys Patchell as 3rd choice fly half.
Those old enough may remember Phil Bennett being 3rd choice before 1976 Five Nations – and that didn’t turn out too badly! #DivineIntervention
— Phil Steele (@philsteele1) February 8, 2018
Eddie’s a bit worried about Rhys Patchell’s potential to hurt England on the weekend then…
— Josh Gardner (@joshgardner) February 8, 2018
What’s on TV
The Six Nations continues this weekend with ITV televising the double-header on Saturday before the BBC broadcasts the Scotland-France clash.
Aviva Premiership rugby also returns and BT Sport will show two matches with Bath and Northampton going head-to-head, while Harlequins take on Wasps.
On Sky Sports, they will screen the England-Wales U20 Six Nations encounter before showing the women’s Six Nations the next day.
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