Irish rugby coach Philip Doyle, 61, died in a motorbike crash in Snowdonia, north Wales, on June 25. His inquest opened on Wednesday, July 15, confirming he was found by a member of the public on Beddgelert Road, Nant Gwynant. North Wales Police responded to a single-vehicle collision at 11:30 am. The inquest was adjourned pending further investigations.
Doyle's rugby legacy
Doyle was a hugely respected figure in women's rugby. He led Ireland to a historic Women's Six Nations Grand Slam in 2013 and guided them to the Rugby World Cup semi-finals in 2014. He also coached Ulster Women from 2015 to 2016 and became head coach of Scotland Women in April 2019, securing their first-ever series victory in South Africa.
Ulster Rugby paid tribute, calling him "a hugely respected coach and advocate for the women's game." Blackrock College expressed "profound sadness," describing Doyle, affectionately known as 'Goose', as "the most influential coach in the history of women's rugby" and a mentor, friend, and storyteller.
Wales must 'throw a punch' against Springboks
Nicky Smith says Wales must "throw a punch" against South Africa in Durban on Saturday after failing to do so against Argentina. Smith said: "What was most disappointing was we didn't feel like we threw a punch. Against a side like South Africa, we've got to start fast." He added that the set-piece has been a weapon but now faces the ultimate test. Ben Warren, 22, scored his first Test try against Argentina and called the experience "unbelievable."
England back row competition
England face Argentina in Santiago del Estero, with Henry Pollock pushing for a start after a hat-trick off the bench against Fiji. However, Ben Earl remains a consistent performer, ranked third in carries across the Nations Championship. Senior assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth said: "There's no resistance to Henry playing but Ben Earl has been one of our best players for a long time. We're looking at both." Wigglesworth denied being too cautious with Pollock, noting his experience with the Under-20s and senior team.
