Alex Bywater

A playing member of South Africa's domestic side the Lions has died of an apparent heart attack in La Rochelle a day before the two sides were due to meet in the European Champions Cup.

Hyron Andrews, a former Sale Sharks lock, has died of a suspected heart attack in news that has shocked the rugby world.

ALEX BYWATER AT DPD STADIUM AT FRANKLIN'S GARDENS: But the opening weekend of the 2026-27 Champions Cup has provided something of a reality check.

As Bristol Bears celebrated and dissected their impressive PREM win over reigning champions Northampton earlier this month, one surprising feature stood out - Louis Rees-Zammit's socks.

ALEX BYWATER: Brendan Venter, glass in hand, is holding court. Saracens' 'wine consultant' is undoubtedly in his element as he paces around the home changing room at StoneX Stadium.

Brendan Venter, glass in hand, is holding court. Saracens' ‘wine consultant' is undoubtedly in his element as he paces around the home changing room at StoneX Stadium, discussing his favourite subject away from rugby.

ALEX BYWATER: In their past 11 competitive matches, dating back to and including May's Champions Cup semi-final defeat by Bordeaux, Bath have won seven and lost four.

Days after adorning the front cover of Tatler alongside fashion royalty in Valentina Pinault, Henry Pollock was the at the centre of a 30-man scrap in the driving rain at Welford Road.

ALEX BYWATER: Ireland and Lions star Tadhg Furlong faces the potential of a long ban after he was cited for allegedly grabbing the groin area of Munster's Gavin Coombes.

Too often these days, international rugby coaches are reticent to admit their teams must win or that players must deliver to avoid being dropped. Borthwick has put his players on trial.