Nissa Rugby will play in France's PRO D2 next season after winning their appeal against an initial decision to deny them promotion. The club, coached by Welshmen Gareth Baber and Barry Maddocks, with former Wales internationals Tyler Morgan and Owen Williams in the squad, had celebrated promotion in May after beating Stade Montois in a play-off.
Financial Guarantees Provided
However, uncertainty followed as club president Jean-Baptiste Aldige and association president Patrice Prevot resigned. Nissa were summoned to the Rugby Regulatory Authority on Friday to provide financial guarantees for next season, with the threat of relegation if they failed.
The appeals committee ruled in their favor, imposing a suspended two-point deduction for budget inconsistencies. Aldige, through his company Sport Inside Europe, provided the €4.6 million required to start the season.
Scarlets to Host Welsh Derby
The Scarlets will face the Dragons in a pre-season friendly at Llandovery's Church Bank ground on Friday, September 11 (7pm). Proceeds will support Llandovery College's fundraising campaign. The match falls between Scarlets' friendlies against Exeter Chiefs and Saracens.
Scarlets director of rugby Nigel Davies said: “We are pleased to be back in Llandovery for this exciting pre-season fixture in the heart of our region, where so many of our great players have come from and where exciting new Scarlets talent develops.” Llandovery RFC chairman Peter Rees added: “We are delighted to host the fixture both as part of our established partnership with the Scarlets and in support of Llandovery College.”
Scarlets Bring Back Harrington
The Scarlets have re-hired Brad Harrington, former head of athletic performance, on a consultancy basis. He will combine on-site work with remote support throughout the season. Harrington, currently with Argentine Rugby Union, previously spent six years at the club.
Davies commented: “Brad is someone I’ve worked closely with over many years and have enormous respect for. His experience across international rugby, Super Rugby and some of the world’s leading performance environments gives him a unique perspective.” Harrington added: “It’s fantastic to be back at the Scarlets. The club has always been very special to me.”
All Blacks Survive Scare
The All Blacks beat Stormers 38-21 in their tour opener, but were pushed hard. With 12 minutes left, the score was 14-14 before Rieko Ioane scored. Coach Dave Rennie said: “We know we need to be better – and we will be.” The All Blacks face the Sharks on Tuesday, with Rennie expecting changes and citing discipline issues after being reduced to 13 players.
