Here are your rugby evening headlines for Wednesday, June 10.
Saracens incident sees England stars axed
The nightclub incident involving Saracens player Totoa Auvaa and members of the England cricket team has seen captain Ben Stokes and bowler Gus Atkinson axed from the team to play New Zealand in next week's second Test. Auvaa is currently under investigation himself by club Saracens after an altercation in a London nightclub allegedly ended with a member of the England security team needing stitches.
Stokes and Atkinson broke team protocols by being out after midnight as they celebrated Sunday's victory over the Black Caps at Lord's, alongside Saracens players who were on their end-of-season social. Auvaa threw a punch at Atkinson, according to the Telegraph. Earlier in the night, England cricketers had been mixing with Saracens players at the White Horse pub in Parsons Green. Around 20 rugby players were said to be present, with Stokes seen enjoying rum and cokes with England rugby captain Maro Itoje.
The cricketers remain subject to an internal investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board – and another by the independent Cricket Regulator – but fears that Stokes was ready to stand down as skipper, or even announce his international retirement, have cooled. Instead, the ECB has bought some time by leaving both men out of next Wednesday's clash at the Kia Oval without administering any formal disciplinary action. Stokes has been replaced as captain by Joe Root.
Former Wales captain named in Barbarians squad
Former Wales captain Carys Phillips is set to play against her country after being added to the Barbarians squad. The Barbarians take on Wales in a double-header at Twickenham later this month, with the men's match being followed by the women's in London. The famous club have announced a host of new additions to their squad, including hooker Phillips. The 87-cap Phillips could have the distinction of playing against her own nation on June 27.
Elsewhere, former England internationals Poppy Leitch and Bryony Cleall will come out of retirement to play for the invitational side. Scotland's Christine Belisle, Spain's Laura Delgado and USA's Charli Jacoby are also named, along with Italy's Ilaria Arrighetti and Australia's Emily Chancellor. Former New Zealand international Ruby Tui was the first name to be confirmed for the Barbarians.
“It is great to be able to name so many experienced international players in this latest squad announcement,” said Barbarian F.C Women's lead Fiona Stockley. “The lure of the Barbarians is second to none and we have players from across the globe who are excited to wear the famous black and white jersey at Allianz and take on Wales in just under three weeks. We would like to thank all the clubs and Unions who we have worked with on selecting these players and we look forward to announcing the final squad next week.”
Welsh second-row leaves Worcester
Welsh second-row Tom Golder will leave Worcester Warriors to join London Scottish ahead of next season. Golder played just three times during his one season with the club, having spent a considerable time on the sidelines with a broken foot. Despite that, the former Harlequins lock made an impression at the club as they went on to win the Championship.
“We’re extremely grateful for Tom’s contribution this season, both on and off the pitch,” said Warriors head coach Matt Everard. “He's grown as a player and a person throughout the year and we are excited to watch his development and wish him the best of luck at London Scottish next year.” The 22-year-old, who has played for Wales U18s and U19s, will join London Scottish for next season. His new side were relegated from the Championship, dropping down to National One after losing a play-off against Blackheath.
