Rugby Union News Today, as Leigh Halfpenny announces his retirement from rugby, the Red Roses star hits out at the smaller ball trial and more.
Rob Baxter makes an appeal to Exeter members
Rob Baxter has made a call to all 700 Exeter Chiefs members. The members are set for a Thursday vote at Sandy Park to decide whether they will be sold to Black Knight Sports, the owners of AFC Bournemouth. “I’m very much the rugby voice on the board. But what I would say is that I’m very confident that it’s a positive way forward for the club.”
Leigh Halfpenny announces his retirement
Leigh Halfpenny has announced his retirement from rugby. He had also retired from international rugby in 2023. He will be considered an all-time great for Wales, and the full-back is the third-highest points scorer in Welsh history. Halfpenny joined Cardiff as a kicking coach who also would play when fit at the beginning of the season.
Red Rose hits out at ‘smaller ball’ decision
This autumn, a smaller ball will be used in the WXV series as a trial. A trial has already been held on the Women’s Sevens series. Red Roses outhalf has come out and said it is “the worst decision they have ever made”. The ball will be a size 4.5 and will only be about 3% smaller than the regulation size five ball. Harrison has been a star of the Women’s Six Nations and has kicked all of her 15 attempts in the first three rounds. This has helped England continue their winning run.
Ben Bamber signs long-term contract with Sale Sharks
The Sale Sharks have announced that Ben Bamber has signed a new contract extension, which will keep him at the Sale Sharks until 2030. He spoke on the club’s website, saying, “You can see what’s building here and where the club wants to go. I know it’s not been the best season, but everyone here wants to make this happen, and I want to be a part of it.”
