Rugby Union news

Chris Robshaw admits he was disappointed to miss out on a spot in the Lions squad but will keep himself fit in case of a late call-up.

Wales flanker Dan Lydiate believes the mood inside the British & Irish Lions camp is good ahead of their tour of Australia next month.

Paul O'Connell has backed Sam Warburton to rise to the challenge of captaining the British & Irish Lions despite his tender years.

Jonny Wilkinson says he is hopeful of being fit enough to play for the British & Irish Lions if called upon for the tour of Australia.

Lions captain Sam Warburton claims domestic distractions will be no excuse if the team aren't successful on the tour of Australia.

James O'Connor is ready to grasp his opportunity after Australia coach Robbie Deans suggested he would be starting at number 10.

Former England star Jonny Wilkinson's memorable season has continued by being named European Player of the Year.

Jonny Wilkinson admits helping Toulon to Heineken Cup glory is as good as his 2003 World Cup triumph with England.

Australia coach Robbie Deans has decided to leave Quade Cooper out of his initial 25-man squad to face the British & Irish Lions.

Jonny Wilkinson kicked 11 points as Toulon defeated Clermont Auvergne 16-15 to win the Heineken Cup at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

George Smith looks set to miss Australia's upcoming series with the British and Irish Lions after suffering a knee injury.

Ireland and Munster fly-half Ronan O'Gara has announced his retirement and will take up a coaching role with Racing Metro next season.

Leinster coach Joe Schmidt is eyeing further glory after Friday's victory over Stade Francais in the final of the Amlin Challenge Cup.

Scarlets fly-half Rhys Priestland will miss Wales' summer tour of Japan after being ruled out for eight weeks with an Achilles injury.

Leinster's Isaac Boss has said his side will not underestimate Stade Francais in the Amlin Challenge Cup final at the RDS.

Clermont Auvergne assistant Alex King says his side are confident that they can deal with the threat of Toulon's Jonny Wilkinson.

Bath have confirmed Fijian back Semesa Rokoduguni has agreed to an extension with the club.

Clermont's Nathan Hines believes his side must handle the pressure if they are to get the better of Toulon in the Heineken Cup final.

George North is confident the British & Irish Lions can emerge victorious from their tour of Australia.

Brian O'Driscoll has signed a new deal which will see the veteran centre play for Leinster and Ireland next season.