Cipriani blackmailed by strippers

Flyhalf Danny Cipriani was allegedly blackmailed for £15,000 by two women, who threatened to divulge his relationship with one of them if he didn't pay the ransom.

Scannell on Ireland bench

Uncapped hooker Niall Scannell has been selected in Ireland's match-day squad for Saturday's Six Nations Test against Scotland at Murrayfield.

Webb back for Wales

Scrumhalf Rhys Webb has been included in Wales' starting lineup for their Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome on Sunday.

Gap has closed in world rugby

Former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw believes very little separates Test teams from the northern and southern hemisphere.