Sport on TV this week

Thursday
Serbia v Spain, 7:30pm, Virgin 2

Friday
France v Italy, 7:30pm, Virgin 2

Saturday
South Africa v All Blacks, 4pm, Sky Spts
Rep of Ireland v England, 5pm, RTE2
Greece v Finland, 7:30pm, Virgin 2
Argentina v Australia, 8pm, Sky Sports

Sunday
Castkeknock v Raheny, 1:45pm, TG4
Middleton v Erin’s Own, 3:40pm, TG4
La Rochelle v Toulon, 4pm, Prem Sports
Bulgaria v N Ireland, 5pm, Virgin 2
NFL Red Zone, 6pm, Sky Sports Mix
US Open Tennis Final, 7pm, Sky Sports
Portugal v Scotland, 7:30pm, Virgin 2
Cowboys v Browns, 9:30pm, Sky NFL

Paralympics coverage on RTE 2 all week

The post List of Live Sport on TV this week – RTE, Virgin, TG4 and BBC appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Reports have emerged out France this evening that Bayonne, a prominent club in France’s Top 14, has initiated discussions with Irish rugby star Tadhg Furlong. This news has sparked widespread speculation about Furlong’s next career move. Is this a tactical negotiation ploy to boost his wage demands at Leinster, or is the seasoned prop genuinely considering a move to France?

A Potential Loss for Leinster and Irish Rugby

Should Furlong decide to join Bayonne, it would mark a significant loss for Leinster and Irish rugby. Furlong has been a crucial player for both his club and country, renowned for his scrummaging strength and dynamic play. His departure would undoubtedly leave a gap in Leinster’s front row, raising concerns about the team’s future performance.

L'Aviron Bayonnais a entamé des discussions avec le pilier droit de l'Irlande et du Leinster, Tadhg Furlong. Le joueur n'est pas contre l'idée d'évoluer à l'étranger pour la première fois de sa carrière qu'il a passé exclusivement en Irlande @Rugby_Prime pic.twitter.com/dqqfKb72vh

— Tanguy – Rugby Prime (@tanguyscigala) August 16, 2024

Opportunity Knocks for Finlay Bealham

While Furlong’s exit would be a blow, it could also create a significant opportunity for Finlay Bealham. The Connacht prop has proven himself a reliable performer, often stepping up in Furlong’s absence. With Furlong potentially out of the picture, Bealham could seize the chance to solidify his position as Ireland’s first-choice tighthead prop.

What’s Next for Furlong?

As negotiations continue, the rugby world will be watching closely to see if Tadhg Furlong remains loyal to Leinster or takes on the challenge of French rugby. Either way, the outcome will have a lasting impact on the future of Irish rugby.

The post Tadhg Furlong Reportedly in Talks with Bayonne: What’s Next for the Irish Prop? appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

As Connacht Rugby prepares for the 2024-25 season, their squad depth shows a promising mix of experience and emerging talent. Here’s a detailed look at the squad across different positions:

**Back Three**
1. Mack Hansen
2. Santiago Cordero
3. Shayne Bolton
4. Shane Jennings
5. Andrew Smith
6. Chay Mullins
7. John Porch
8. Shane Mallon*

**Back Row**
1. Shamus Hurley-Langton
2. Cian Prendergast
3. Conor Oliver
4. Paul Boyle
5. Sean Jansen
6. Oisin McCormack

**Locks**
1. Niall Murray
2. Oisín Dowling
3. Josh Murphy
4. Darragh Murray
5. Joe Joyce
6. David O’Connor

**Out-Half**
1. Josh Ioane
2. Jack Carty
3. Harry West*
4. Sean Naughton*
5. JJ Hanrahan (Injured)

**Scrum-Half**
1. Matthew Devine
2. Colm Reilly
3. Caolin Blade
4. Ben Murphy

**Centre**
1. Bundee Aki
2. Cathal Forde
3. Byron Ralston
4. Piers O’Conor
5. Hugh Gavin
6. David Hawksaw
7. John Devine*

**Hookers**
1. Dylan Tierney-Martin
2. Dave Heffernan
3. Eoin De Buitléar
4. Adam McBurney

**Props**
1. Finlay Bealham
2. Peter Dooley
3. Denis Buckley
4. Jack Aungier
5. Jordan Duggan
6. Sam Illo
7. Temi Lasisi

Thoughts on Connacht’s Squad Depth

Connacht Rugby’s 2024-25 squad depth reflects a strong balance across all positions. The back three offers a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talent, while the back row features a robust selection of versatile players. The locks are well-covered with a blend of experience and potential, and the out-half and scrum-half positions are supported by both seasoned and promising players. In the centre, Connacht has a depth of talent that could prove crucial in high-stakes matches. The hookers and props demonstrate a solid foundation with depth and strength in the forward pack.

Overall, Connacht’s squad looks poised for a competitive season with a mix of experience, emerging stars, and depth across key positions.

The post Connacht Rugby 2024-25 Squad Depth Analysis appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

EPCR has secured a three-year partnership with Premier Sports, making them the lead broadcaster for the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup in the UK and Ireland through the 2026/27 season. This deal includes coverage of all 63 Investec Champions Cup matches and extensive EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures, including pool matches, knockout rounds, and finals.

Premier Sports, a key player in the rugby broadcasting landscape, already covers the BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) and TOP14. This new deal will see Premier Sports expand its rugby coverage to include all top European club fixtures, positioning itself as the most comprehensive rugby destination in the UK and Ireland.

The broadcaster aims to launch a 24/7 rugby channel, featuring the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup at its core. Premier Sports’ extensive rugby lineup will include 80 European fixtures, 151 URC games, and 110 TOP14 matches, showcasing their commitment to delivering unmatched rugby content.

Jacques Raynaud, CEO of EPCR, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Premier Sports’ ambition to enhance rugby coverage and ensure maximum visibility for EPCR competitions. Mickey O’Rourke, Managing Director of Premier Sports, emphasized the channel’s dedication to expanding rugby coverage and providing exceptional viewing experiences for fans.

With the 2024/25 season kicking off on December 6, 2024, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to three seasons of premier club rugby action, exclusively on Premier Sports.

DATES FOR INVESTEC CHAMPIONS CUP AND EPCR CHALLENGE CUP 2024/25 SEASON

Round 1: 6/7/8 December 2024

Round 2: 13/14/15 December 2024

Round 3: 10/11/12 January 2025

Round 4: 17/18/19 January 2025

Round of 16: 4/5/6 April 2025

Quarter-Finals: 11/12/13 April 2025

Semi-Finals: 2/3/4 May 2025

EPCR Challenge Cup Final: 23 May 2025

Investec Champions Cup Final: 24 May 2025

The post Premier Sports new Broadcaster for Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

While the second- and third-year players have already started pre-season training, the new first-year players will join tomorrow at UCD. The first-year players and their clubs are: Oliver Coffey (Blackrock College RFC), Billy Corrigan (Old Wesley RFC), Caspar Gabriel (Terenure College RFC), Hugo McLaughlin (Lansdowne FC), Ruben Moloney (UCD RFC), Alan Spicer (UCD RFC), Andrew Sparrow (UCD RFC), Niall Smyth (Clontarf FC), Stephen Smyth (Old Wesley RFC), and Alex Usanov (Clontarf FC).

Broughton commented, “These players had a busy few months and needed a break after their performances with Ireland U-20s in South Africa. We look forward to welcoming them to UCD. Each player’s journey is unique, and we thank the families, coaches, and teachers for their support and contributions to the players’ development. We also acknowledge the efforts of our provincial and national age-grade staff.”

Year One – Secondary School / Underage Club:
– Oliver Coffey – Blackrock College / Blackrock College RFC
– Billy Corrigan – Presentation College, Bray / Old Wesley RFC
– Caspar Gabriel – Terenure College / Rugby Union Donau Wien, Vienna, Austria
– Hugo McLaughlin – Gonzaga College / Old Belvedere RFC
– Ruben Moloney – Blackrock College / Blackrock College RFC
– Alan Spicer – Belvedere College / Malahide RFC
– Andrew Sparrow – St Mary’s College / Terenure College RFC
– Niall Smyth – Blackrock College / did not play underage rugby in New York
– Stephen Smyth – Kilkenny College / Co Carlow FC
– Alex Usanov – Belvedere College / Malahide RFC

Year Two:
– Hugh Cooney
– Fintan Gunne
– Gus McCarthy
– Henry McErlean
– Liam Molony
– Andrew Osborne
– Conor O’Tighearnaigh

Year Three:
– Ben Brownlee
– Aitzol King
– Diarmuid Mangan
– Rory McGuire
– Charlie Tector

The post List of players in the Leinster Rugby academy appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

For Irish rugby fans, this caused them to erupt in cheers once again! The boys in green have secured another Six Nations title, which marks a significant achievement for Ireland, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in European rugby. Here’s how they reigned supreme:

Dominant start against France

Following their Grand Slam heroics in 2023, Ireland entered the 2024 Six Nations with a target painted on their backs. The hunger for another championship was palpable, not just among the players but also within the passionate Irish rugby fanbase. This desire manifested from the very first games with France in Marseille.

The match at the Orange Vélodrome was a captivating display of attacks from Ireland, dismantling the French challenge with a comprehensive 38-17 victory. The first half belonged firmly to the visitors. A shift in personnel saw scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park and lock Tadhg Beirne cross the line for well-constructed tries, showcasing the variety of threats Ireland possessed.

France’s challenge was further hampered by a red card shown to Paul Willemse just before the break for a high tackle, reducing them to 14 men. Despite this setback, France rallied momentarily, with Damian Penaud scoring a try to narrow the deficit to a mere seven points at halftime.

The second half saw Ireland capitalize on their numerical advantage. Calvin Nash extended their lead with a try in the corner before Paul Gabrillagues responded for a resurgent France (though Peter O’Mahony was sin-binned for a technical offence in the lead-up).

However, Ireland remained relentless. Dan Sheehan secured a crucial bonus point with Ireland’s fourth try just past the hour mark, effectively putting the game to bed. Substitute Ronan Kelleher added a further try in the closing stages, capping off a dominant performance with a five-try haul for the Irish.

This dominant display was a thrilling start for fans who tuned in to watch the match. For those who missed the action, you can watch the Six Nations tournament replay, allowing you to relive this sensational performance and all the other heart-stopping moments of the game.

Defensive masterclass shuts down Wales

The Welsh, known for their expansive attacking style, were hindered by Peter O’Mahony. Time and again, the Welsh backs were frustrated by Ireland’s well-organized defensive line, forced into errors and unable to penetrate the green wall.

While the game itself was tight, Ireland’s clinical edge reigned. Johnny Sexton, back after recovering from his injury, made a well-executed backline move that resulted in a try for Robbie Henshaw.

Wales struggled to break down the resolute Irish defense, managing only a solitary penalty from fly-half Gareth Anscombe. The final score of 31-7 reflected Ireland’s defensive masterclass, effectively suffocating the Welsh attack.

If you watch Ireland RWC23 highlights of their match against New Zealand, you’ll see that their defensive prowess is excellent. They showed the same greatness during their third-round clash against Wales at the Aviva Stadium.

Clinical control against Italy

Ireland’s home encounter against Italy in the second round exemplified their clinical efficiency. From the outset, the Irish dominated possession, utilizing a tactical kicking game to pin the Italians deep in their own territory.

Johnny Sexton planned the attacks with pinpoint precision, exploiting any weaknesses in the Italian defense. Winger James Lowe capitalized on one such opportunity, slicing through the Italian backline to score a try in the corner.

The breakdown area proved to be another Irish stronghold. CJ Stander and Peter O’Mahony dominated the collisions, securing crucial turnovers and creating scoring opportunities for their backs.

Fly-half Joey Carbery, starting in Sexton’s absence due to a minor injury, added valuable points through penalties and conversions. Ireland’s clinical execution continued throughout the match, with further tries from Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose solidifying their dominance. The final score of 36-0 reflected Ireland’s ruthless efficiency.

A setback with England

Ireland’s unbeaten run came to a halt in their clash against England at Twickenham Stadium. Despite a valiant effort, a last-minute drop goal by England fly-half Marcus Smith snatched victory from the grasp of the Irish.

The match itself was tense and tactical, with both teams cancelling each other out for large periods. England struck first through a try from center Ollie Lawrence, but Ireland responded with four well-executed penalties from fly-half Jack Crowley.

The turning point came just before halftime when winger James Lowe dived over in the corner for a crucial Irish try.  However, England fly-half George Furbank replied with a try of his own shortly after the break, keeping the scoreline tight.

The tension escalated throughout the second half, with both sides exchanging blows.  Despite a valiant defensive effort from Ireland, England managed to claw their way back into the game. With the clock ticking towards red and the score tied at 22-22, Marcus Smith stepped up to convert a pressure drop goal, sending a collective groan through the Irish supporters and securing a dramatic victory for England.

A tense climax with Scotland

The final round of the Six Nations was a nail-biting match between Ireland and Scotland at Aviva Stadium. Ireland managed to get ahead early on with two well-executed tries. The first saw winger James Lowe weave through the Scottish defense to touch down, while the second stemmed from a well-worked lineout play that resulted in a score for center Bundee Aki.

However, the resilient Scots refused to crumble. Fly-half Finn Russell orchestrated several attacking forays, keeping the Irish defense on their toes. Their persistence paid off with a late solo try from winger Huw Jones, who exploited a gap in the Irish defense to sprint clear and score under the posts. This brought the score to a heart-stopping 17-13 with just minutes remaining on the clock.

Captain Johnny Sexton’s tactical kicking pinned Scotland deep in their own territory, while the Irish pack, led by Peter O’Mahony, dominated the breakdown, slowing down Scottish attacks and forcing errors. The final whistle blew to a deafening roar from the Irish faithful, securing a famous victory and their second consecutive Six Nations title.

Final thoughts

What a Six Nations performance for Ireland! Dismantling France was just the beginning, and that dramatic win over Scotland to secure back-to-back titles? Pure magic! This is a new era for Irish rugby, and they’ve well and truly cemented themselves as European powerhouses.

The post Ireland at the Six Nations 2024  appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Ireland’s Journey in Pool A at the 2024 Paris Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympic rugby sevens match schedule has been unveiled by World Rugby and Paris 2024 today, with just 16 days to go until the sport has the honor of kicking off the Games on 24 July, two days ahead of the Opening Ceremony.

Ireland’s Challenging Pool A Opponents

Ireland finds itself in Pool A for the 2024 Paris Olympics, sharing the group with formidable opponents: New Zealand, South Africa, and Japan. This group promises thrilling encounters, as each team brings its unique strengths and tactics to the fore.

Key Matches for Ireland

• Ireland vs. South Africa: Ireland’s campaign kicks off on 24 July at 17:30 CET with a challenging match against South Africa. This match is crucial as both teams aim to set a strong tone for the tournament.
• Ireland vs. Japan: Following this, Ireland faces Japan at 21:00 CET on the same day, a match where the Irish team will hope to leverage their experience and agility.
• Ireland vs. New Zealand: The third encounter for Ireland in Pool A is against rugby sevens giants New Zealand at 16:30 CET on 25 July. This match will be a true test of Ireland’s skills and strategies, as New Zealand is known for its dominant performances in the sport.

Exciting Fixtures and Anticipation

The Stade de France will witness a series of electrifying matches. The opening clash between Australia and Samoa at 15:30 CET on 24 July will set the stage for an action-packed day. Hosts France, inspired by global superstar Antoine Dupont, will face the USA at 16:30 CET, followed by double Olympic champions Fiji taking on debutants Uruguay at 17:00 CET.

As the tournament progresses, fans can look forward to key match-ups in Pool A, including New Zealand versus South Africa at 21:30 CET on 24 July. These matches are not just crucial for group standings but are also expected to showcase high-quality rugby sevens action.

Ireland’s Preparation and Squad

Team Ireland has officially ratified the selection of the Ireland Men’s and Women’s Sevens squads to compete at this summer’s Olympic Games. Head Coaches James Topping and Allan Temple-Jones have named their 12-player squads, marking another landmark moment for the Ireland Sevens programme.

Ireland Men’s Squad Highlights

Harry McNulty will captain Ireland Men, aiming to build on their impressive HSBC SVNS Series season where they finished second overall. McNulty, along with Terry Kennedy, Jordan Conroy, Hugo Lennox, Jack Kelly, Gavin Mullin, and Mark Roche, are set to represent Ireland for the second consecutive Games, having competed in Tokyo.

The team also includes new additions like Hugo Keenan and Andrew Smith, who have been re-integrated into the squad recently. Niall Comerford, Chay Mullins, and Zac Ward are also set for their Olympic bows, having been integral members of the squad during the SVNS Series campaign.

Looking Forward to Paris 2024

As Ireland continues its preparations, the focus remains on being in the best shape mentally and physically for the Games. The team will continue training at the IRFU High Performance Centre before a 10-day training camp in Tours.

Ireland’s participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics represents a significant moment for the nation’s rugby sevens programme, showcasing the talent and hard work of the players and staff. As the Games approach, fans and supporters eagerly await the thrilling performances and potential triumphs that lie ahead.

The post Ireland 7s at Olympics – Squad, Fixtures, Kick Off Times appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

As the 2024/25 rugby season approaches, Connacht Rugby appears poised to make a significant impact in both domestic and European competitions. With a blend of seasoned internationals, emerging talent, and strategic signings, the team looks formidable on paper.

Predicted Starting XV

1. **Peter Dooley** – The experienced prop brings stability and power to the front row, crucial for solid scrummaging.
2. **Dylan Tierney-Martin** – A dynamic hooker known for his work rate around the park and accuracy in the lineout.
3. **Finlay Bealham** – The cornerstone of the scrum, his experience and versatility are invaluable.
4. **Josh Murphy** – A reliable presence in the second row, offering both physicality and lineout prowess.
5. **Niall Murray** – Another strong lineout option and a player who excels in open play.
6. **Cian Prendergast** – A rising star, known for his relentless work rate and ball-carrying ability.
7. **Shamus Hurley-Langton** – A dynamic flanker with a knack for turnovers and robust defense.
8. **Sean Jansen** – A powerful number eight, providing go-forward ball and defensive solidity.
9. **Matthew Devine** – A young scrum-half with a sharp pass and excellent game management skills.
10. **Josh Ioane** – The playmaker, bringing creativity, vision, and a reliable boot.
11. **Shayne Bolton** – An explosive winger with the ability to break tackles and finish clinically.
12. **Bundee Aki** – The talismanic centre, offering leadership, hard running, and defensive organization.
13. **Cathal Forde** – A promising talent at outside centre, known for his pace and agility.
14. **Mack Hansen** – A versatile and dangerous back, capable of turning the game on its head with individual brilliance.
15. **Santiago Cordero** – The Argentine dynamo at fullback, providing attacking flair and counter-attacking prowess.

Bench Impact Players

16. **Dave Heffernan** – An experienced hooker, providing reliable set-piece skills and impact off the bench.
17. **Denis Buckley** – A seasoned prop with plenty of experience in the scrummaging department.
18. **Jack Aungier** – A strong and mobile prop, offering depth in the front row.
19. **Oisín Dowling** – Versatile in the second row or back row, adding physicality and work rate.
20. **Paul Boyle** – A dynamic back-rower, known for his ball-carrying and tackling.
21. **Hugh Gavin** – An emerging scrum-half, bringing energy and quick service.
22. **Ben Murphy** – A utility back, capable of covering multiple positions in the backline.
23. **Byron Ralston** – A powerful and fast winger, adding finishing power and defensive solidity.

Potential Starters

Connacht’s squad depth is bolstered by several players who could make a significant impact this season. Here are some names to watch:

– **Caolin Blade**: The experienced scrum-half, always a threat with his sniping runs and quick ball distribution.
– **Piers O’Conor**: A versatile backline player, capable of covering centre and wing, offering both creativity and solid defense.
– **Joe Joyce**: A robust lock, bringing physicality and leadership in the pack.
– **Darragh Murray**: An emerging second row, known for his athleticism and lineout skill.
– **Conor Oliver**: A dynamic flanker, excellent at the breakdown and in open play.
– **David Hawkshaw**: A talented fly-half or centre, providing tactical nous and versatility.
– **Shane Jennings**: A promising back with speed and agility, capable of playing across the back three.
– **Chay Mullins**: A young back with potential, known for his pace and finishing ability.
– **Andrew Smith**: A strong and versatile backline player, offering depth and physicality.

Conclusion

Connacht Rugby looks set to be a formidable force in the 2024/25 season. With a well-balanced starting XV.

CONNACHT RUGBY SQUAD 2024-25

Props
Jack AUNGIER
Finlay BEALHAM
Denis BUCKLEY
Peter DOOLEY
Jordan DUGGAN
Sam ILLO
Temi LASISI

Hookers
Eoin DE BUITLÉAR
Dave HEFFERNAN
Adam MCBURNEY
Dylan TIERNEY-MARTIN

Locks
Oisín DOWLING
Joe JOYCE
Josh MURPHY
Darragh MURRAY
Niall MURRAY
David O’CONNOR

Back Row
Paul BOYLE
Shamus HURLEY-LANGTON
Sean JANSEN
Oisín MCCORMACK
Seán O’BRIEN
Conor OLIVER
Cian PRENDERGAST

Scrum-Half
Caolin BLADE
Matthew DEVINE
Ben MURPHY
Colm REILLY

Out-Half
Jack CARTY
JJ HANRAHAN
Josh Ioane

Centre
Bundee AKI
Cathal FORDE
Hugh GAVIN
David HAWKSHAW
Piers O’CONOR
Byron RALSTON

Back Three
Shayne BOLTON
Santiago CORDERO
Mack HANSEN
Shane JENNINGS
Chay MULLINS
John PORCH
Andrew SMITH

The post Connacht Rugby squad for 2024/25 and strongest starting team appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

According to social media rumors, Ioane is set to compete with Jack Carty and Sean Naughton for the coveted ten jersey, with JJ Hanrahan sidelined until next March due to injury.

This move could significantly bolster Connacht’s squad, offering a dynamic and experienced playmaker to the mix. Sources suggest the deal should be confirmed in the coming days.

Josh Ioane’s Rugby Journey

Early Career and Rise with the Highlanders

Josh Ioane’s rugby journey began with Otago, where he made an immediate impact. His impressive performance in his debut season caught the attention of the Highlanders, who signed him for the 2018 Super Rugby season.

Breakthrough Season in 2019

During the 2019 Super Rugby season, Ioane emerged as a regular starter despite the presence of experienced Marty Banks. Ioane’s ability to consistently score points was a highlight of the season, finishing as one of the highest points-scorers with 114 points.

All Blacks Selection and International Debut

Ioane’s domestic form did not go unnoticed, and on 2 July 2019, he was named by head coach Steve Hansen as one of four uncapped players in New Zealand’s All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship. Although initially overlooked in the starting lineup, Ioane made his international debut for New Zealand against Tonga on 7 September 2019. He made an immediate impact, replacing Beauden Barrett at half-time and scoring 8 points in a 92–7 victory.

Continued Domestic Success

Ioane continued to perform at a high level in domestic competitions. After leaving the Highlanders, he joined the Chiefs for the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season. His tenure with various teams showcases his adaptability and consistent performance on the field.

Career Statistics

| Years | Team | Apps | Points |
|———–|————–|——|——–|
| 2017–2022 | Otago | 57 | 427 |
| 2018–2021 | Highlanders | 43 | 229 |
| 2022– | Chiefs | 29 | 74 |

Potential Impact at Connacht Rugby

Competition for the Ten Jersey

If Ioane’s move to Connacht materialises , he will be vying for the starting fly-half position with seasoned player Jack Carty and emerging talent Sean Naughton. This competition is expected to elevate the overall performance of the team as players push each other for the starting role.

Filling the Void Left by JJ Hanrahan

With JJ Hanrahan likely out until next March due to injury, Ioane’s presence will be crucial. His experience and skill set will be invaluable in guiding the team through the upcoming season, providing stability and creativity in the backline.

Josh Ioane’s potential move to Connacht Rugby is a significant development for Irish Rugby, where Leinster currently have four international tens. Questions will have to be asked why Connacht had the go find a non Irish qualified player to fill the gap left by the Hanrahan injury.

The post All Black Josh Ioane Linked with Move to Connacht Rugby appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

European Rugby Fixtures and Pool Draws for 2024/25

Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup Pool Draws

The road to Cardiff began today (Tuesday, July 2) with the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup pool draws taking place in Cardiff, the host city for the finals.

Key Highlights from the Draw

• Stade Toulousain (Investec Champions Cup title-holders) and Hollywoodbets Sharks (EPCR Challenge Cup winners) join Pool 1.
• Leinster Rugby and Stade Rochelais rivalry set to reignite in Pool 2.
• Vodacom Bulls, Northampton Saints, Munster Rugby, and Saracens make Pool 3 highly competitive.
• RC Vannes, making their EPCR Challenge Cup debut, will face Gloucester Rugby and Black Lion in Pool 3.
• Fixtures for the 2024/25 season to be announced later this month.
• The EPCR Finals Weekend will be hosted at Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium.

The Draw Event

Held in the shadow of the Principality Stadium, presenters Sarra Elgan and Vincent Pochulu, along with ball drawer Elma Smit and official scrutineer Simon Thomas, led the event. The draws were streamed live on EPCRugby.com and broadcast on beIN SPORTS, SuperSport, and FloRugby.

Investec Champions Cup Pools

Pool 1:

• Stade Toulousain
• Union Bordeaux-Bègles
• Hollywoodbets Sharks
• Exeter Chiefs
• Leicester Tigers
• Ulster Rugby

Pool 2:

• Leinster Rugby
• ASM Clermont Auvergne
• Stade Rochelais
• Bristol Bears
• Benetton Rugby
• Bath Rugby

Pool 3:

• Northampton Saints
• Munster Rugby
• Vodacom Bulls
• Stade Français Paris
• Saracens
• Castres Olympique

Pool 4:

• Glasgow Warriors
• Racing 92
• Sale Sharks
• DHL Stormers
• RC Toulon
• Harlequins

EPCR Challenge Cup Pools

Pool 1:

• Cardiff Rugby
• Connacht Rugby
• Toyota Cheetahs
• USAP
• Lyon Olympique Universitaire
• Zebre Parma

Pool 2:

• Montpellier Hérault Rugby
• Section Paloise
• Newcastle Falcons
• Dragons RFC
• Emirates Lions
• Ospreys

Pool 3:

• RC Vannes
• Black Lion
• Aviron Bayonnais
• Scarlets
• Edinburgh Rugby
• Gloucester Rugby

Tournament Format and Schedule

The formats for both the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup follow the pool format introduced last season. Each club will play four matches against different clubs from other leagues, either home or away.

Fixtures, including dates, venues, kick-off times, and TV coverage, will be announced later this month. The season will be played over eight weekends, starting in December, with the knockout stages culminating in the EPCR Finals Weekend at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on May 23-24, 2025.

Investec Champions Cup Key Dates

• Round 1: December 6-8, 2024
• Round 2: December 13-15, 2024
• Round 3: January 10-12, 2025
• Round 4: January 17-19, 2025
• Round of 16: April 4-6, 2025
• Quarter-finals: April 11-13, 2025
• Semi-finals: May 2-4, 2025
• EPCR Challenge Cup Final: May 23, 2025
• Investec Champions Cup Final: May 24, 2025

For more details and highlights of today’s draws, visit EPCRugby.com.

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