English rugby union coach and former international player, head coach of England
Scotland has named a 37-man squad for the Nations Championship phase, led by Townsend. The selection prioritizes experience, with returns for Huw Jones and Blair Kinghorn, and the introduction of Ollie Leatherbarrow. Scotland will host New Zealand, Australia and Japan at Murrayfield before Finals Weekend at Twickenham.
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.
Argentina fly-half Tomas Albornoz has been banned for four matches after admitting intimidation of referee Angus Gardner following a Nations Championship match against England on 18 July. The disciplinary committee recognised his actions as intimidatory, issued a four-match ban, and noted early acceptance of the charge, apologies, and a clean disciplinary history.
Maro Itoje has taken a break from England’s Nations Championship fixtures to recover mentally and physically. He has rested during July and is back at Saracens with a full pre-season ahead as England prepare for four Tests in November and a Rugby World Cup in Australia next year.
England's rugby union head coach Steve Borthwick has had his contract extended past the 2028 Six Nations to provide certainty ahead of next year’s World Cup in Australia. The RFU says the move will allow time to decide leadership beyond the tournament while backing the team if they perform well in Australia.
Joe Marchant has moved to Sale Sharks after a France stint, admitting expectations were high yet he has delivered with enhanced communication and versatility. He credits improved language skills and tactical clarity from Top 14 time, and is aiming to earn a return to England duty while continuing his Prem form.