Dobbo on parking Gelant, Pead’s push

John Dobson says the Stormers didn’t want to wait any longer to expose Haashim Pead in Saturday’s derby, while explaining the omitted Warrick Gelant’s role this season. Pead is set to make his Stormers debut at Cape Town Stadium in the round-three URC clash against...

Saffa bruiser cops hefty ban

The versatile Jacques Vermeulen has been suspended for several Sale Sharks matches following an act of dangerous play. He received a four-match ban after accepting a charge relating to the 20-minute red card he was shown against Saracens on Sunday. The 31-year-old was...

World Rugby cracks down on ‘drop’ tackles

World Rugby has introduced measures targeting two dangerous tackling techniques in an effort to reduce the risk of serious leg injuries. The governing body has moved to explicitly outlaw the “hip drop” tackle, while also issuing new guidance to match officials on the...

Lions sweat on backline duo

The Lions could be without two key men for Saturday’s Jukskei derby against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in round three of the URC. Utility back Erich Cronjé is awaiting the all-clear after leaving the Ellis Park win over the Ospreys last week with a tight hamstring,...

‘Never say never’ to SA-Super Rugby reunion

NZ Rugby CEO Steve Lancaster won’t write off a Super Rugby return for the South African clubs, yet admits things have worked out well in the Republic since the 2020 split. The Bulls, Lions, Sharks and Stormers left Super Rugby and joined the URC, where all have since...