Sponsorship name used by major stadiums in Turin and Sydney
England faces a selection rethink as scrum-half Alex Mitchell is ruled out of the Nations Championship due to a hamstring injury. Northampton’s Archie McParland is also sidelined, prompting Ben Spencer or Harry Randall to join Jack van Poortvliet on the bench for the Australia clash. Fin Smith’s calf recovery is also in focus.
New Zealand has crushed Fiji 66-6 on the Gold Coast with several players sidelined by injuries and suspensions. Kalyn Ponga is training and could be involved in the semi-final; Crossland returns from suspension. Australia and Samoa/Tonga loom in the other semi-final path.
Northern Ireland midfielder Shea Charles has joined Fulham for £30m, becoming the country’s most expensive player. Former international Stuart Dallas backs Charles and teammate Ethan Galbraith for Premier League success, while NI boss Michael O’Neill has built the side around him.
Sydney Marathon organisers confirm a medal features Munich’s Allianz Arena instead of Sydney’s Allianz Stadium. The mistake is acknowledged as an unfortunate error, with the medal described as beautiful and now more unique. Organisers say record participation is expected with over 40,000 runners, and the event proceeds as planned.
Gobena has broken the Sydney Marathon course record with a 2:04:42 win, while Peres Jepchirchir sails to a women’s title in 2:18:31, as Sydney hosts its second World Marathon Major with 40,000 runners on a scenic Harbour Bridge course.
Sion Parry, named Wales-born captain of Ebbw Vale, has been allotted national duties with Canada, missing the SRC early rounds as he chases a World Cup spot in 2027. He balances carpentry with international rugby as he trains for Tests against Fiji, Japan and the USA in the Pacific Nations Cup and beyond.
Shaun Edwards has joined England’s Red Roses as a consultant for the remainder of the WXV Global Series, working with defence coach Sarah Hunter as England prepare for matches against New Zealand and other nations. The move follows England’s 26-26 draw with Canada that ended their 39-game winning streak.
England has clinched a late win over New Zealand in a gripping Twickenham clash, extending their World Cup-era resilience under new coaching and amid a tougher WXV Global Series.
Beale has been recalled to Australia's 36-strong squad to cover Hunter Paisami's absence, bringing 95 caps and versatility for the spring tour ahead of the 2027 World Cup.