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Wales Online
4 days ago
- Sport
- Wales Online
Today's rugby news as Rees-Zammit makes bold summer call and star says being in Wales was 'pretty tough'
Today's rugby news as Rees-Zammit makes bold summer call and star says being in Wales was 'pretty tough' The latest rugby news from Wales and around the world Former Wales winger Louis Rees-Zammit (Image: Sky Sports ) Here are your rugby headlines for Tuesday, June 17. Rees-Zammit: Lions will win Test series 3-0 Louis Rees-Zammit believes the British & Irish Lions will trounce Australia 3-0 in the Test series this summer. The former Wales wing, who went on the Covid-hit 2021 tour to South Africa, believes the calibre of the Lions players will be too much for the Wallabies and they will comfortably overpower their opposition. Rees-Zammit admitted during an interview with Sky Sports that he misses playing rugby for Wales and would doubtless have been a contender for this summer's tour had he not quit the sport for a shot at the NFL last year. But, speaking four years on from his Lions experience, the Jacksonville Jaguars player predicted: "I personally think they will 3-0 them. But I know Australia in Australia will be tough, but I think there's enough talent in that Lions squad that it will be too much for Australia. "But we will see. I think there will be some great Tests." There are only two Welshmen on this summer's tour to Australia, Jac Morgan and Tomos Williams. And Rees-Zammit believes Morgan has got a real shot at starting the Test matches, although his fellow '21 tourist, Tom Curry, will provide stern competition for him. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. Article continues below "The likes of Jac Morgan has got a chance," he said when asked who he thought would be in Andy Farrell's Test team. "Tom Curry, I was with him in 2021 and I think he has got a really good shot to start. "Then you've got someone like Tommy Freeman who has had an amazing year for Northampton and England, he will be a great threat on the wing. It's a strong team, everyone is going to be great additions this year. I'm excited to see how they do in Australia. "Because of the tour in 2021, me, Tom Curry and Marcus Smith were like the younger group on that tour, we had a great bond so I will definitely be wishing those boys luck. "Tomos Williams is my former team-mate and he has had an amazing year. And Jac Morgan as well. I'm really looking forward to seeing how those boys will thrive in Australia." Williams: Being in Wales was pretty tough Lions scrum-half Tomos Williams says the last couple of years has been "pretty tough" on the international front. Williams is just one of two Welshmen in the Lions squad for this summer's tour - and indication of how difficult things have been at Test level for Wales over the past two seasons. Williams' form for club side Gloucester has remained constant though and his inclusion in Andy Farrell's touring party is well deserved, despite Wales' woes. "Being in Wales was pretty tough, especially over the last couple of years playing internationally," said Williams. "I think the move to Gloucester helped me a lot and given me a break from the international rugby as well and it is nice to go back there. "The way we played suited me and I have got a lot to thank Gloucester for." Williams added that he hoped to do his country proud Down Under, alongside Morgan. "I try not to put too much pressure on myself, but it is just me and Jac [from Wales]," added Williams. "I don't want to speak for him but we are so hugely proud. "It is such an honour to represent your country and the Lions and hopefully we can do them proud." Sexton quizzed on Lions squad make-up Johnny Sexton says he wasn't surprised by the record number of Irish players selected for the upcoming British and Irish Lions tour — and believes head coach Andy Farrell's decisions are fully justified. Farrell, who has also led Ireland since 2019, initially named 15 Irish players in his 38-man squad for the 2025 tour of Australia, with Connacht prop Finlay Bealham added last week following Zander Fagerson's withdrawal through injury. Among the Ireland contingent are 12 Leinster players, three from Connacht, and one from Munster, making up a significant portion of the squad. While some have questioned the imbalance, Sexton pointed to Ireland's recent track record as ample justification. 'Ireland have done pretty well over the last few years — winning the [Six Nations] championship last year, the Grand Slam the year before,' said Sexton, now a kicking coach on Farrell's Lions staff, according to the BBC. He suggested that selection decisions often take a long-term view. 'With some players, coaches look at form over eight or nine years. It's not just about playing well in one or two games during the Six Nations — sometimes you take a broader perspective.' Sexton also highlighted how familiarity with Farrell's coaching methods could have played a role. 'They know the way Andy coaches, they understand the system. It didn't surprise me. Historically, when a Welsh coach was in charge and Wales were doing well, the squad had a Welsh majority,' he added. 'I think it's the same here — the teams that performed best in the Six Nations got selected.' While some observers have raised concerns about perceived national bias, Sexton was philosophical. 'Everyone has their own opinion — that's the beauty of sport,' he said. 'You can go through the players and ask, 'Who exactly are you leaving out?' From what I've seen over the last three or four years, these players have performed consistently.' He also noted the strength of Ireland's performance against England in this year's Six Nations opener as an example of their high standards. Reflecting on the selection process, Sexton praised Farrell for his diligence and fairness. 'I've never seen such a thorough process. Every combination, every player was discussed in detail,' he said. 'Andy did all those players justice — he did the work, asked the right questions, and picked the squad he believes gives the best chance of winning the tour.' S4C land Lions TV coverage S4C will broadcast live free-to-air coverage of the opening match of the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, marking a historic first in partnership with Irish broadcaster TG4, it has been announced. The two public service broadcasters will collaborate to bring fans the Lions' first-ever fixture in Ireland — a clash against Rugby World Cup semi-finalists Argentina at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on Friday. S4C's coverage will be fronted by Sarra Elgan, joined by former Lions and Wales internationals Ken Owens, Jamie Roberts and Mike Phillips, who will provide expert insight and analysis across the channel's platforms. In addition to the opening fixture, S4C will also offer same-day highlights of every game throughout the tour, bringing key moments and expert reaction to viewers each evening. While Sky Sports retains exclusive live rights for the full tour, this new free-to-air partnership offers fans free access across the UK and Ireland. A post-match vodcast will also be available after each game in Australia on S4C Clic, BBC iPlayer, and S4C's YouTube channel, hosted by Elgan and the pundit team, offering in-depth reaction, discussion, and behind-the-scenes content. S4C's head of sport, Sue Butler, added: 'We're delighted to bring free-to-air live coverage of the Lions' opening match to audiences in Wales and across the UK. This historic fixture in Dublin is a fitting way to begin what promises to be an exciting summer of rugby on S4C.' S4C will also broadcast the second Test of Wales' tour of Japan on 12 July. Welsh and English commentary will be available for the Lions v Argentina fixture, with Welsh commentary also available on all highlights programming. Former Llanelli captain dies The Scarlets have announced the passing of former Llanelli captain Aubrey Gale. Article continues below The former forward, who notched up almost 200 games for the West Walian outfit, has passed away at the age of 89. "We are saddened to hear that former Llanelli captain Aubrey Gale has passed away at the age of 89," the Scarlets wrote in a statement. "Aubrey played close to 200 matches for the club between 1956 and 1964, leading the side for the 1961-62 season. "A versatile forward, who played in the back row, second row and front row, he appeared against the touring South African, Australian and New Zealand sides during his career. "The thoughts of everyone at the Scarlets are with Aubrey's family and friends at this sad time." The Scarlets' supporters' X account added: "Sad news…Aubrey was our oldest living Scarlets captain until his passing. Our thoughts and condolences go to his family & friends."
Wales Online
13-06-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Young Wales international's new life gamble pays off after telling Welsh region he'd had enough
Young Wales international's new life gamble pays off after telling Welsh region he'd had enough He wasn't getting picked so told the coach he'd had enough. Now, he's been rewarded in the Top 14 after some impressive performances Carwyn Tuipulotu has started a new chapter in France Welsh back-row Carwyn Tuipulotu has signed a new deal with French club Section Paloise after impressing for the Top 14 side this season. Having initially joined from the Scarlets in February as a medical joker following a brief spell with Saracens, Tuipulotu went on to make nine appearances for the French outfit - crossing for two tries. As such, the club have moved to sign him up for another year, with the option of another season after that. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. 'I love the supporters and this club with its unique history and pride," said Tuipulotu. "I am very honoured and grateful to have been so quickly adopted by the Section family. "A new season is coming up. I am looking forward to it; the club is building something strong and special.' Head coach Sébastien Piqueronies added : "Through his commitment and performances, Carwyn has demonstrated that he's at TOP 14 level. Article continues below "We're delighted to be able to count on him next season. Our third line is becoming more robust and will be even more of a strength in the coming season." The back row has moved overseas. (Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd ) Tuipulotu had long been tipped for senior Wales honours after catching the eye of previous coach Warren Gatland and playing for Wales Under 20s, but fell out of favour at the Scarlets this season, with the Welsh region letting him go. He made 48 appearances for the Welsh region in total after making his senior debut for the club in 2020 against Ospreys. His departure came after an honest conversation with Scarlets' forwards coach Albert van den Berg resulted in him deciding he had to move for his own sake. "It was just an honest conversation and that almost became the turning point," he said. "I said to him I'd had enough and I felt like I should be playing in the team.' Article continues below Tuipulotu still has big senior internationalaspirations after choosing Wales over England as a youngster, recently telling the Times: 'Obviously I have aspirations for Wales. That's every boy's dream who comes from Wales. I'd love to have that as a goal to hopefully go on that summer tour [to Japan]. "I'm just quietly doing my business here in France. Hopefully someone notices and wants to see me." Tuipulotu is the son of former Tonga international Katilimoni, who played for Dunvant and Neath in Wales. Before joining Scarlets, Tuipulotu was part of the Newcastle Falcons academy after studying at Sedbergh School, and was picked up through the Welsh Exiles programme.
Wales Online
10-06-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
The rugby legend Wales didn't want because of the colour of his skin
The rugby legend Wales didn't want because of the colour of his skin Billy Boston has become the first ever rugby league player to receive a knighthood, as part of the King's 2025 Birthday Honours Rugby league legend Billy Boston during the unveiling of a statue in Cardiff Bay to celebrate the achievements of players from Cardiff Bay (Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd ) He grew up in Cardiff's Tiger Bay, is regarded as one of the best rugby league players of all time and now Billy Boston has become the first to receive a knighthood. But the truth is that Billy Boston's incredible skills were not wanted by Wales or his home city thanks to prejudice. Billy, who began playing rugby union as a school boy and represented Neath and Pontypridd in the early 1950s, said he had wanted to play for Wales "with all his heart". That dream was not to be but he went on to find recognition across the border, switching from union to become one of rugby league's all-time legends. Billy was sixth of 11 children born to merchant seaman John Boston, from Sierra Leone, and Nellie who came from Cardiff's Irish community. Born in Butetown in 1934 he represented the Cardiff Schoolboys team in the late 1940s and began his rugby union career with Cardiff International Athletics Club. When racism left his talents overlooked by the union in Wales, Billy became one of the so-called 'codebreakers' - the black and mixed race players who switched from rugby union to league to get on in the sport they loved. More than 150 Welsh rugby union internationals moved to the North of England from 1895 onwards to play rugby league professionally. Billy Boston in 1959 (Image: PA ) Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. Article continues below Billy, who played wing and centre, was doing National Service in North Yorkshire when he was scouted by a number of rugby league clubs and signed for Wigan in 1953. The story goes that Wigan's chairman Joe Taylor and vice-chairman Billy Gore went to the young player's home in Cardiff and offered him £1,000 cash on the table to sign for them. His mother rejected this offer on his behalf, getting them to triple the sum, partly owing to her son's reluctance to sign. It was a good move. Billy went on to score 478 tries in 487 appearances over 15 years with Wigan and his achievements were immortalised in a 10ft bronze statue in the town. During his two-decade career in England the Welshman scored a total of 571 tries, making him the second-highest try scorer in rugby league history and a feared and revered player. He represented Great Britain in 31 Test matches, was part of two Lions tours, scored 24 tries for the national side and was part of the team that won the 1960 Rugby League World Cup. Finishing his career at Blackpool Borough, Billy retired victorious in 1970. Billy spoke of his one regret of not playing for Wales (Image: ITV Wales ) There may have been statues for him at Wigan and Wembley and a gold plate career record, but there was always lingering sadness that Billy had not been recognised at home. The sporting hero repeatedly said he wanted to play for Cardiff RFC and reportedly shed tears after signing for Wigan knowing that it ended his ambitions to play rugby union for Cardiff and Wales. League players at the time were barred from playing union. Billly's dreams of playing for Wales may have been dashed but the sportsman knew he had no choice: 'I was disappointed that Cardiff never showed any interest in me and I think that was because of my colour,' he said. "They certainly wouldn't let me into their clubhouse after I turned professional. I don't think I would ever have been picked for Wales at union.' Asked how it felt, he told one author: 'I would have given all the league glory away just to once pull on the red shirt of Wales.' But he cannot have regretted the heights of his league career. Those who saw Billy on the field describe his magnetic presence and the talent Wales robbed itself of. 'Billy Boston is the most perfect rugby player I have ever seen,' said England's Joe Egan, while late commentator Eddie Waring judged: 'He had that magnetic quality that had the crowd on its toes whenever he received the ball. He was a crowd- puller without any doubt.' The star player got the opportunity and recognition he deserved across the border and was belatedly recognised at home too. Billy is an original inductee of the British Rugby League Hall of Fame, Welsh Sports Hall of Fame and Wigan Warriors Hall of Fame. He was appointed an MBE in the 1996 Birthday Honours "for services to the community in Wigan, Greater Manchester." The Billy Boston Stand at Wigan's Central Park was named in his honour in 2020 and in 2023 Billy, along with fellow rugby league players Gus Risman and Clive Sullivan, were honoured in a statue in Cardiff Bay. To cap this, Billy today becomes the first ever rugby league player to receive a knighthood, as part of the King's 2025 Birthday Honours. It was reported that Billy, who is living with dementia, would have the knighthood conferred before the official announcement of the honour, due to uncertainty over his health. The honour came after a campaign by his MP Lisa Nandy and councillors for him to be recognised, as well as a national campaign calling for the first knighthood for the sport. Article continues below Sir Billy's wife Joan Boston said: 'Billy's family are so proud of him and so excited that everything he's done for the sport and for our community is being recognised. He is a wonderful person who has always loved rugby league and all of the people involved in the sport."
Wales Online
07-06-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Today's rugby news as Wales star diagnosed with stage four arthritis and audio reveals what sparked row
Today's rugby news as Wales star diagnosed with stage four arthritis and audio reveals what sparked row The latest rugby news stories from Wales and beyond Wales international Rhys Webb (Image:) Here are your rugby morning headlines for Saturday, June 7. Wales scrum-half told he needs knee replacement Wales international Rhys Webb has revealed he's been diagnosed with Stage four arthritis and told he needs a knee replacement at the age of just 36. Webb suffered with numerous knee problems throughout is career, including undergoing three ACL reconstructions. His rugby career appears over after he was banned for four years in July, 2024 after testing positive for a growth hormone while playing in France. He now lives and works in Dubai and has strongly denied any wrongdoing. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. Stage four arthritis is often referred to as severe or advanced stag and is characterized by extensive joint damage and significant limitations in daily activities. This stage involves severe pain, stiffness, and a notable loss of mobility. Posting pictures of him in hospital in Dubai, Webb wrote on social media: "After 3 ACL reconstructions, no meniscus, no cartilage, and battling osteoarthritis for the last 10 years my knee has finally waved the white flag. Over the last few months, it's really gone downhill. Some days I can barely walk properly. "Got it scanned… outcome: Stage 4 arthritis. The knee's had it. A full replacement is needed—but at 36, I'm not ready for that just yet. "So I've gone for one last clean-out. The joint's basically like my dad's old toolbox bolts, screws and all sorts floating around causing pain. Hopefully this gives me another 10 years. That's the target. Then I'll deal with the replacement. "But as you know this won't slow me down. I'm going to smash these next few weeks and get my knee back to the best it can be. This is going to be good "Massive thanks for all your messages it really does mean a lot. I'm all good. Just want to stay fit and healthy so I can keep chasing after my kids." Content cannot be displayed without consent Article continues below A statement through is lawyer at the time of the ban last year said: "The sanction imposed on Rhys Webb is not final, and we have immediately instructed a lawyer at the Conseil d'Etat to lodge an appeal to overturn the AFLD's decision. "In the meantime, Rhys wishes to reaffirm his innocence, pointing out that he has never undergone any other disciplinary procedure, of any kind, during his long career as a professional athlete and has never used any doping product, growth hormone in particular." The statement went on to identify what Webb and his legal team believe are "incompetencies" in the AFDL's testing process. Ref mic audio reveals unheard comment that led to row Irish pundit and former Dragons head coach Bernard Jackman has revealed new information about the enraged reaction of Munster's Jack Crowley in last weekend's controversial penalty shootout loss to the Sharks. The young fly-half exploded with rage when Sharks and Springboks scrum-half Jaden Hendrikse went down with apparent cramp as Crowley prepared to take a crucial shot at goal during the shootout. Hendrikse winked at Crowley amid the furore as the Irish man complained to the referee and swore at a Sharks member of staff helping to treat the South African player. Now, Jackman has revealed ref mic audio sheds light on a comment made to Crowley ahead of the shootout that appears to have sparked the tense situation. Speaking on the RTÉ Rugby podcast, Jackman revealed he has now been sent audio of the remarks directed at Crowley before his kick. 'I've actually been sent the ref mic audio from earlier on for the first kick and someone says to Jack that he's a 40% kicker,' said Jackman. 'That's obviously why Jack was so fired up. But to be fair, it didn't impact the result — Jack nailed both his kicks, Conor [Murray] got his, and unfortunately Rory [Scannell] didn't.' Jackman wasn't overly impressed with referee Mike Adamson's handling of the whole situation. 'To be honest, the officials are struggling to control things they see every week, so in a shootout that happens once every few years, it was never going to be properly marshalled," he said. 'Scannell was kicking right beside the Sharks' bench — unless they're incredibly disciplined, there's always going to be something said.' Whiffin finds positives in England collapse Wales U20s coach Richard Whiffin said he learned a lot about his young side after their late collapse against England in their first World Championship warm-up match. Just five of the side that beat England in the Six Nations started at Pontypool Park, but Wales still found themselves leading 14-7 at the break. However, five tries in the final 13 minutes saw England win 47-14. "We were decent for the first 50," said Whiffin afterwards. "I thought we managed the game well. "Our kicking game was strong. We won some aerial battles and our set-piece was good. It gave us the opportunity to be right in the hunt. "Then that last 25 minutes, we lacked a bit of energy. The boys looked tired and we coughed up some soft tries, some intercepts, that blew the scoreboard out. "Disappointed with our energy in that back 20 minutes but pleased with what we put on the field in the first 50 minutes. "We controlled the game and probably left a few tries out there. But I was pleased with our half-backs. They put us in the right areas of the field. "Our set-piece dominated really well. It gave us those opportunities to get scores. There's always the other side of the half and we didn't bring the energy we needed in that second-half. "We've seen the first-half group execute the plan really and we've seen guys put their hand up in that space. We've also seen guys struggle at the level. It gives you a good picture of where guys are at and helps with selection." Finn Russell only dealing with cramp as Bath reached final – Johan van Graan By PA Sport Staff Bath head of rugby Johan van Graan reassured Bath supporters that it was 'only cramp' that forced him to replace Finn Russell before the end of their 34-20 Gallagher Premiership play-off victory against Bristol. The British & Lions fly-half kicked four conversions and two penalties in Bath's comeback win that sent them into next weekend's final at Allianz Stadium Twickenham. 'Multiple parts of his body are cramping,' he said. 'He put in some effort, I thought. His goalkicking was phenomenal, the chases that he put in too. He was still cramping in the changing room but there's no reason to suppose he won't be fine. 'It was amazing how many guys on both sides went down with cramp. It just showed the effort that both teams put in. We worked incredibly hard to get into this position, to get back to Twickenham.' He added: 'That's a Premiership semi-final for you. We knew this was going to be a tough game and we picked a 23 that we believe will get the job done. 'I thought at 34-13, we got some momentum but Bristol is a good team. They kept on attacking and it's never dead on 34-20. 'It was some game of rugby. We knew that we were going to be stretched but we actually defended pretty well. 'At half-time we spoke about our game and composure. It shows that we are a team that is fluid and adaptable. We made one or two tactical changes and then our fitness came through, our hunger, our will to win. 'At 13-6 we had a penalty. Many teams would have kicked for the posts but we went straight for the kill and made it 13-0. 'How good was the crowd! They gave us so much energy so we dominated them in the second half. 'I'm incredibly proud of this win and that we did this not only for ourselves but for the city. The people of Bath were amazing tonight.' Bristol were 13-6 in front at the break and it could have been more. The try of the match was scored by their lock James Dun after Fiji wing Kalaveti Ravouvou set off from his own line, leaving four Bath defenders in his wake. Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam said: 'Firstly well done to Bath. They've had a phenomenal season and they thoroughly deserve to be there in the final, if you take what they've done throughout the year. 'We got on the wrong foot with the referee at the very beginning when (Ellis Genge) Gengey got pushed and said a few things. We got turned over and the boys were phenomenal in holding them out.' Lam conceded that the third quarter was decisive: 'At 13-6 we missed the kick-off receipt and off the back of that they got down there and scored. 'We missed some high balls and the penalty count was 5-1, 10 minutes after half-time so we were down there again and they scored. The second yellow card on Kieran Marmion was not ideal in terms of our attack shape.' But he added: 'Man, I'm so proud of the boys coming back at the end there. Article continues below 'It was a great game and, as I said, Bath thoroughly deserved their place in the final. Theirs is a really complete game and we wanted to disrupt that. 'Don't get me wrong – we are disappointed but we gave it a really good go and we missed out to a quality team.'
Wales Online
05-06-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Ospreys chief reveals latest on WRU talks and makes admission over situation
Ospreys chief reveals latest on WRU talks and makes admission over situation Ospreys CEO Lance Bradley has spoken out Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley with the players (Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd ) Ospreys CEO Lance Bradley says he is confident in the club's future after the Welsh Rugby Union announced it would no longer fund four regions equally. Both Cardiff and the Dragons will be on the new Professional Rugby Agreement next season which will see increased and fixed funding for the next three years, along with significant debt relief. On the flip side both the Ospreys and the Scarlets refused to sign after raising concerns about the WRU's takeover of Cardiff. This means both clubs will remain on the old PRA with less funding, while they could also face significant clawbacks by the WRU. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. But the Ospreys have decided to proceed with their move to St Helen's and have officially submitted a planning application to redevelop the famous old ground. "I'm slightly limited about what I can say in that respect but we are still talking to the WRU about that situation," Bradley told BBC Radio Wales. Article continues below "If we weren't confident of a positive outcome that would obviously make things a lot more difficult. "The fact that we are still proceeding full steam ahead with the development and with the plans for St Helen's does indicate a level of confidence, yes. "In terms of the actual PRA contract there really isn't anything to discuss. "The issue arose around Cardiff going into administration and now being owned by the WRU. "That's the conversation." The WRU have taken the PRA 25 off the table for both the Ospreys and Scarlets and have activated the two-year notice clause on the current contract. Join WalesOnline Rugby's WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free As a result the WRU are seriously considering reducing to three if not two professional clubs, with United Rugby Championship CEO Martin Anayi confirming the league will back Welsh rugby whatever decision it comes to. But Bradley remains confident the Ospreys have a bright future. "I saw Martin Anayi's comments and that's what you would expect," Bradley added. "The WRU are a shareholder of URC so you would expect them to be talking to each other and to be supportive but I don't think you should necessarily read into that we will definitely be going to three regions. "As I say, the conversations are still ongoing. "I am confident of a positive outcomes. "We are working very closely with Scarlets and I completely understand the nervousness and the unsettling nature of where we all are at the moment. "We try to keep fans as updated as possible and as soon as we are able to do that then we will in this situation. "I hope that we are moving closer to a resolution. "We are not there at the moment but I'm hoping we will be reasonably shortly." The Ospreys confirmed the signing of Wales and British & Irish Lions backrower Ross Moriarty from Brive yesterday and have already signed Queensland Reds captain Ryan Smith. But Bradley did admit planning for the future is difficult given the uncertainty surrounding Welsh rugby but is confident the Ospreys will be playing at St Helen's by December of this year. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here. Article continues below "Admittedly that makes planning more difficult and it's a bit frustrating because we think this could have all been avoided," he said. "It is a bit frustrating but life isn't always a smooth road and there's sometimes road bumps in it and this is one of those road bumps. "We are managing our way through that."
