The Rugby Banter Weekly Roundup

Monday 13^th October:

Armitage Linked With Shock Move To Bath then named in Toulon team to play on the weekend

On Monday, Steffon Armitage, last year’s European Player of the Year, was linked with a sensational move back to England with high-spending Bath. The back row, who had previously been rumoured to have considered representing France through the IRB 7’s loophole, would again become eligible for the English National team should he complete a move to Bath.

Marty Moore Ruled Out For Twelve Weeks

The injury crisis at Leinster Rugby shows no sign of abating as, on Monday, tight-head prop Marty Moore was ruled out for twelve weeks with a shoulder injury. Amongst others, Moore joins long term injury absentee’s Sean O’Brien, Cian Healy and Luke Fitzgerald on the injury list at the reigning Pro12 Champions.

Tuesday 14^th October:

French Based Welsh Trio Linked With Return To Wales

On Tuesday, Wales coach Warren Gatland hinted that several of the Welsh players who moved to France in the recent past are keen on returns home. Gatland’s statement ties in with French Publication L’Equipe’s story that Racing Metro trio Jamie Roberts, Mike Phillips and Dan Lydiate would all be repatriated to their native Wales.

"We haven't instigated contact with the players," Gatland said in a Question and Answer session on the WRU website.

"But we are aware that one or two of them are keen to return to Wales sooner rather than later."

Jake White Joins Tonga Coaching Staff Ahead of Autumn Tour

The former Rugby World Cup winning coach Jake White has been added to the coaching staff for Tonga ahead of their November tour to Europe.

The former Sprinboks coach will serve as technical advisor to head coach Mana Otai when Tonga plays Georgia, the United States and Scotland next month.

Wednesday 15^th October:

Chiefs Sign Sevens’ Star Heem

The Chiefs have signed Tasman winger and New Zealand 7’s star Bryce Heem ahead of the upcoming Super Rugby season.

Heem, 25, was represented the Newzealand Barbarians and Auckland at U20 level, previously.

Rokoduguni Targets England Call

Semesa Rokoduguni has revealed that he has ambitions to represent his adopted nation, England.

The Fijian born winger, who served in Afghanistan with the British Army as a tank driver, has been in sterling form with Bath since his arrival last year and now has targeted an England squad berth.

“Playing for England is my goal,” said the elusive 27 year old.

Thursday 16^th October:

Leicester Tigers To Make Dusautoir Move

Leicester Tigers are attempting to go against the grain of cross channel Rugby transfers by signing France and Toulouse legend Thierry Dusautoir. Dusautoir, who has represented France on 67 occasions, is believed to be receptive to a move to the Aviva Premiership.

Friday 17^th October:

Van Der Merwe Extends Racing Metro Deal

South African lock Francois van der Merwe has signed a three-year contract extension with Racing-Metro, the French Top 14 club said on Friday.