Friday Round-Up

Sanchez to Toulon: Toulon club officials have announced that flyhalf Nicolas Sanchez will join up with the squad in the coming weeks, as a medical joker for the long term injured Frederik Michalak. Having injured his shoulder during Toulon’s clash with Stade Francais, it is now understood that Michalak will require surgery to repair damage, leaving head coach Bernard Laporte with just two viable options in the ten jersey in the shape of Wallaby duo James O’Connor and Matt Giteau. The impending arrival of Sanchez, who will link up with his new teammates on October 6th following the close of the Rugby Championship, comes at a pivotal time for the reigning French and European champions, as they look to ascertain their title credentials once more. Having left Bordeaux Begles at the close of last season, Sanchez has been without a club since, with his performances on the international stage impressing Laporte and co. just enough to earn himself a contract back in the big time. With James O’Connor set to return to the Queensland Reds and Super Rugby at the beginning of next year, Sanchez will provide much needed competition for Giteau. along with his compatriot Juan Martin Hernandez, who arrives at the club in January.

Ulster sign lock: Irish province Ulster have today announced the signing of New Zealand born lock forward Ronald Raaymakers on a short term contract. A former Under-20 representative with New Zealand, Raaymakers will arrive at the Belfast based club following the close of his current ITM Cup campaign with ounces Manukau. Upon arrival, Raaymakers will provide much needed cover in the second row, following injuries to Irish international pair Dan Tuohy and Iain Henderson. Behind the likes of Franco Van der Merwe, Neil McComb and Lewis Stevenson, Raaymakers will provide cover as the fourth choice second row. Raaymakers is expected to link up with his new teammates at Ravenhill in the next month or so.

Ryan Sheady