🏉 Exciting rugby buzz today!
Exeter Chiefs chairman, Tony Rowe, is rallying for a new Anglo-Welsh league! He believes bringing Welsh teams into the English Premiership could spark a revitalisation of club rugby. The prospect? Expanding the current 10-team structure to include Welsh regions, creating a larger, more dynamic competition. Discussions seem to be happening in hushed tones, but Rowe is hopeful. Imagine a league brimming with talent, spanning regions not typically associated with rugby. Exciting times ahead? We think so!
In other news, there’s been a twist in the tale of France’s Axelle Berthoumieu. Initially banned for 12 matches for biting Ireland’s Aoife Wafer during a World Cup quarter-final, she’s had her suspension trimmed to nine games after an appeal. Despite this reduction, she’ll miss some critical matches, including the semi-final against England. Berthoumieu has expressed deep remorse and promises to learn from this misstep. Rugby is a sport of respect, after all!
Shifting gears to disappointing news for Irish fans: Hugo Keenan and Joe McCarthy have been sidelined due to surgeries. Keenan’s hip surgery means he’s out for the rest of 2025, missing crucial autumn internationals. Similarly, McCarthy’s foot issue keeps him benched until November. Wishing both a speedy recovery!
Meanwhile, York Valkyrie’s Sinead Peach is in hot water and facing a tribunal for allegedly making a lewd remark towards a referee. Facing a hefty suspension if found guilty, this could drastically impact her season and upcoming play-offs.
Stay tuned as these stories develop. What do you think about the prospect of an Anglo-Welsh league? Is Rowe on the right track, or should rugby traditions stand firm? Let us know your thoughts! 🏉💬