Thursday Morning Round Up
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Rugby Australia backed by government to bid for 2027 Rugby World Cup
Rugby Australia has confirmed that the Australian Government has backed the Union in bidding for the 2027 Rugby World Cup which will follow the showpieces in Japan and France.
The formal bidding process is expected to commence in 2020 and Rugby Australia confirmed the backing of their government with the following statement:
Sevu Reece's contract situation could prevent him from representing Fiji
Crusaders winger Sevu Reece is on Fiji head coach John McKee's radar for a place in his squad for the Rugby World Cup in Japan but his contract situation may prevent him from turning out for his country of birth, according to McKee.
Sam Whitelock's new deal proves New Zealand Rugby will reward loyalty
Sevu Reece "would love to play for Fiji" according to Fiji head coach John McKee but his contract situation may prevent him from turning out for his country of birth. https://t.co/EbpAjy31Fs
— Ultimate Rugby (@ultimaterugby) May 2, 2019
New Zealand Rugby has made an unprecedented deal in order to keep one of the best locks in the game in New Zealand with Sam Whitelock penning a new four-year deal.
The test centurion has been granted the opportunity to play in Japan after the World Cup while still being able to represent the All Blacks in 2020.
Highlanders chase Crusaders first five for next season - reports
The Highlanders are reportedly looking to snap up the signature of Crusaders' first five Mitchell Hunt for next year as the Dunedin franchise continue their search to replace Lima Sopoaga.
SEE ALL THE SUPER RUGBY LINE-UPS HERE
Two Exeter Chiefs' Nominated for RPA Players' Player of the Year
Henry Slade & Santiago Cordero are among the five nominees https://t.co/NYPqOG8ey8
— Ultimate Rugby (@ultimaterugby) May 1, 2019
Top 14 club chasing Ronan O'Gara
La Rochelle is trying to persuade Crusaders assistant coach Ronan O'Gara to join the club, according to French news reports.
Various French media outlets reported that La Rochelle want O'Gara to replace backs coach Xavier Garbajosa when the former French international leaves at the end of the season.
Ken Pisi set to leave Saints
Northampton Saints have announced that winger Ken Pisi will be leaving the Club at the end of the season having made over 130 appearances for the club scoring 38 tries.
Bryn Gatland set for six months on the sidelines
Bryn Gatland suffered a serious foot injury playing for Highlanders in Super Rugby and is set to be sidelined for six months.
