Morning Round Up - News from around the globe

RUPA Awards:

Wallabies and Brumbies star David Pocock has won his third RUPA Medal for Excellence in Sydney. 

Pocock, who also won the John Eales Medal this year, said the award carried an extra weight for that reason.

"It’s a huge honour," he said.

"The RUPA Awards carry a special weight because it’s by the players for the players and to be recognised by teammates is always special but to be recognized by your opposition is always very special.

Johnny Sexton Re-Signs:

"I am delighted to sign a new IRFU contract to continue to play for Leinster and Ireland. It is where I have always wanted to play so I am delighted to extend," said Sexton in an IRFU statement.

Ben Smith off to Pau:

Ben Smith will join Pau after the 2019 RWC after signing with the Top 14 club.

Ardie Savea Re-Signs with NZRU:

The flanker has signed on again with the NZRU following a turnaround on an agreement with Top 14 club, Pau

Rassie Erasmus to step down as Head Coach after the World Cup:

The Springboks Director of Rugby and stand in Coach has confirmed he will not coach the side following the World Cup and will take up his role as Director of Rugby permanently. A new coach has not been appointed as of yet

Dragons and Bernard Jackman part ways:

Jackman took over the coaching of the Dragons in 2017 but has failed to turn the team around. They have won just 2 games in his time in charge. 

"I am grateful to the backroom staff and the players for all their efforts and I wish them every success on and off the field."

The identity of Jackman's successor has not been revealed as the 42-year-old leaves less than 18 months into a three-season contract.

Bulls announce John Mitchell's successor:

Pote Human has been unveiled as the new Head Coach for the Bulls ahead of the 2019 Super Rugby season. Human, who has coached the Griffons and Griquas also played 200 first class games for Eastern Province and Freestate.

He was assistant coach in the Bulls Super Rugby winning campaign as well as the Black Rams in their promotion season in the Japanese Top League.

Henshaw to miss the start of the 6 Nations:

Leinster and Irish midfielder, Robbie Henshaw, will miss the start of the 6 Nations after sustaining a hamstring injury during the November Internationals.