Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, Jack van Poortvliet and Seb Atkinson are handed England central contracts for the first time as Steve Borthwick shakes up his squad.

England's Red Roses are in pre-season training before the upcoming WXV Global Series and have been using the controversial smaller balls.

Former All Blacks star Ma'a Nonu responds to the haka by performing one of his own before his side, the Sharks, take on New Zealand in Durban.

Ospreys respond publicly to WRU plans for the first time with the belief four professional Welsh sides is the way forward.

Reading owner Rob Couhig says the club have had "serious discussions" with Bath about the Prem Rugby club playing at their stadium.

Northampton Saints name Jim Henry as their new defence coach following the departure of Lee Radford.

Ulster captain Iain Henderson will miss several months of the new season after hip surgery during the summer.

Gloucester Rugby confirm they will not be returning to Villa Park to face Leicester Tigers in the Prem next season.

Wing Lisa Neumann returns from injury as head coach Sean Lynn names 14 uncapped players in a 46-strong squad preparing for four autumn Tests.

Fijian Saimoni Vunilagi has died of suspected heatstroke after a training session, his Japanese club Kyuden Voltex announce.