Hold onto your seats, rugby fans, because the world of rugby is buzzing with some major moves and unexpected twists! But here's where it gets controversial... Is Gregor Townsend's dual role as Scotland boss and Red Bull advisor a conflict of interest, or a golden opportunity for Scottish Rugby? Townsend is jetting off to Austria to kickstart his 30-day-a-year gig as a rugby advisor for Red Bull, where he’ll be eyeing their ice hockey and football training facilities in Salzburg. While he’s hopeful this partnership will benefit Scottish Rugby, he’s quick to clarify he’s not involved in Newcastle Red Bulls’ recruitment—a point he emphasized to the BBC after a misleading article surfaced. And this is the part most people miss... Townsend’s side hustle could open doors for Scottish players, but it’s also raising eyebrows about where his loyalties truly lie.
Meanwhile, the player market is heating up! Ben White, the Scotland and Lions star, is in high demand. Gloucester has joined the race to sign him, but Toulon remains the frontrunner to keep him when his contract expires. Here’s the kicker: White could replace Tomos Williams at Kingsholm if he turns down a new deal in the West Country—ironic, given Williams was the very player he replaced on the Lions tour last summer. Perpignan, Saracens, Newcastle Red Bulls, Edinburgh, and R360 are also in the mix, making White one of the most sought-after players this season.
Shifting gears, let’s talk about the electrifying fusion of rugby and rock! Guitar prodigy Sophie Lloyd set Twickenham ablaze at the Rugby World Cup 2025 Finals with a jaw-dropping medley of Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” and the Black Eyed Peas’ “Pump It.” Filmed live on one of sport’s grandest stages, her performance perfectly captured the energy of both rugby and rock. If you missed it, you’re in luck—catch the full showcase now on RPTV!
In other news, Fijian fly-half Ben Volavola is heading back to Australia after a stint with Leicester Tigers, signing a one-year deal with Queensland Reds. Volavola, 34, has had a globetrotting career, with stops at Agen, the Crusaders, Melbourne Rebels, Bordeaux, and Racing 92. His return to Australia marks a new chapter in a career that’s spanned continents.
Here’s a fun twist: Henry Slade, the England star, has ruled out playing himself in a potential film adaptation of Rob Kitson’s acclaimed book Exe Men. But fear not—his younger brother Seb, an actor who appeared in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, could step into the role. Slade joked, “I’d be crap playing myself, but my brother could do it—even though he looks nothing like me. Maybe some CGI for his nose?”
On a more somber note, former Dragons winger Ashton Hewitt has hung up his boots at just 30 to pursue a career in consultancy. After 12 years at Rodney Parade, Hewitt is now focusing on diversity and inclusion, proving there’s life—and impact—beyond the pitch. But here’s the question: Is rugby doing enough to support players in their post-playing careers? Let us know in the comments!
Across the pond, Scotland’s Mark Bennett, a Rio Olympic silver medalist, is set to continue his career in Major League Rugby in the U.S. after a stint with Edinburgh. Bennett, 32, is looking to bounce back from an injury-plagued season, and this move could be just what he needs. Controversial take: Could MLR become a serious contender for European talent? Share your thoughts below.
Finally, Portugal’s record try-scorer, Rodrigo Marta, is at the center of a bidding war between two Top 14 sides as his contract with Colomiers winds down. With three tries in five games this season, the 25-year-old is poised for a move to the top flight. The big question: Which club will land this rising star? Pau is in the running, but an unnamed club is also in the mix. Stay tuned!
And let’s not forget Bristol Bears, who are locking down key players like Joe Batley. The England A and Senior squad member has signed a new deal, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the team. Batley’s ambition? To become a Bears centurion and help the team lift the PREM trophy. But here’s the debate: Can Bristol Bears challenge for the title with their current squad? Weigh in below!
From Townsend’s dual role to White’s high-stakes decision, and from Sophie Lloyd’s rock anthem to Marta’s Top 14 move, rugby is serving up drama, talent, and controversy. What’s your take on these developments? Let’s get the conversation started!
