Tuesday Round-Up

Scare for Henry: Ulster and Ireland flanker Chris Henry has undergone a substantial health scare in the past week, after it was revealed that the back rower had suffered a temporary blockage of a blood vessel in his brain. Having been forced out of Ireland’s clash with South Africa two weekends ago at the last minute due to a viral illness, Henry underwent further tests in the days immediately after. Having left the Irish camp for the remainder of the November International series, Henry is now seeking opinions from various specialists on the issue. Although the blockage was only temporary and only relevant to a minor blood vessel, the issue still remains quite serious and the timeframe for his absence remains unknown as yet.

Blues sign Puma: Welsh region the Cardiff Blues have confirmed the signing of Argentina international Joaquin Tuculet. The fullback, who is currently on international duty with the Pumas, will link up with his new teammates at the Cardiff Arms Park following the close of the November International series. Having already enjoyed multiple spells in European rugby with the likes of Sale Sharks, Grenoble and Bordeaux-Begles, Tuculet is well accustomed to the demands which will greet him at the Blues. Head coach Mark Hammett spoke of Tuculet’s quality and strong kicking game in particular when revealing the new signing, the second Argentinean player in two months to join the club, following the arrival of Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino.

Wood receives iRB Honour: Former Ireland hooker and captain Keith Wood has been handed the huge honour of being inducted into the IRB Hall of Fame, at an awards ceremony yesterday evening in London. Taking place at the World Rugby Conference and Exhibition, the IRB put on a special ceremony, whereby 15 individuals from across the game were acknowledged for their contribution to the game in recent decades. Among those honoured alongside the 58 times capped international Wood, were the likes of Michael Lynagh, Ieuan Evans and Jason Leonard. This year’s inductees also saw the first inclusion of players from the women’s game, with six females inducted.

Ryan Sheady