Sports
Rugby Transfer Rumors and Coaching Changes: A Look at Recent Developments in Club Rugby
Saracens have secured the services of former England hooker Rob Webber to join their coaching staff under Mark McCall. Webber, who previously coached in MLR and at Jersey Reds, brings a wealth of experience from his playing days at Leeds Carnegie, Wasps, Bath, and Sale Sharks. His appointment comes as Saracens seek to fill the void left by a departing staff member.
Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, the NSW Waratahs are considering options for their Director of Performance role, with names like Billy Millard, Andy Friend, and a former Wallabies forwards coach in the mix. The Tahs also have their eyes on Scott Wisemantel as a potential coach, contingent upon finalizing their Director of Performance appointment.
Over in the Northern Hemisphere, Stuart Lancaster is actively bolstering his squad by eyeing Grayson Massabiuko as the latest addition to his team. The South African under-20 international is set to join Lancaster’s side and fill the gap left by departing players from the Stormers.
The Premiership champions, Saints, are set to bid farewell to hooker Craig Wright, who is moving to a French club. Additionally, Truro-born hooker, Matavesi, is departing the Saints after a successful stint following his time at Plymouth Albion and Cornish Pirates. His departure signifies a shift in the Saints’ front row setup.
In other coaching news, Stevie Scott has inked a new contract with Bath after a successful campaign. The former hooker is credited with turning Bath’s scrum into a formidable force and will continue to work alongside the coaching staff including Andy Robinson.
Transitioning to transfer market dealings, Vannes have faced setbacks as they lose out on potential signings like former Wallaby lock, Barassi, who is set to join La Rochelle. The competition for top players is heating up with clubs like Lyon making moves to strengthen their squads ahead of the upcoming season.
On the international front, the Sydney Roosters and Gold Coast Titans are making efforts to secure the early release of players from Rugby Australia, showing the growing interest in player movement between codes. Additionally, Stade Francais is eyeing Toulouse‘s outside center Barassi, indicating a potential shift in French club rosters for the upcoming season.
In another noteworthy development, Clermont Auvergne’s tighthead prop is nearing a move to Leinster, highlighting the ongoing transfer activity reshaping club rosters across leagues.