Wednesday Evening Round Up
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London Scottish sign Ollie Allsopp and Luke Hibberd
London Scottish can confirm the signings of Ollie Allsopp and Luke Hibberd ahead of next season.
Both are young backs who are currently playing in National One, the third tier of English rugby. Full story
Josh Navidi season is over
Cardiff Blues have confirmed that Josh Navidi has undergone a successful surgery following the elbow dislocation he suffered against the Scarlets.
The Grand Slam winner came off just minutes into the Blues’ comprehensive PRO14 victory over the Scarlets but the versatile back-rower is now undertaking a period of rehabilitation with a return to fitness in 10 to 12 weeks. Full story
Darren Cave to retire at the end of the season
Ulster centre Darren Cave has announced that he will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season, following 13 seasons at the Province. Read more
Sam Stuart extends Newcastle Falcons stay
Newcastle Falcons scrum-half Sam Stuart is the latest player to renew terms with the Premiership club, signing a two-year contract extension.
The 27-year-old has made 32 appearances for the Falcons since joining from Richmond in the summer of 2017, with 16 of those coming in the Premiership.
Callum Green escapes sanction for alleged biting
The Falcons' second rower was cited by independent citing commissioner Andy Blyth following the match between Newcastle Falcons and Sale Sharks on Saturday 23rd March. This was for allegedly biting an opponent in the 22nd minute of the first half of the Gallagher Premiership match at St James’ Park contrary to Law 9.12 – a player must not physically abuse anyone including biting.
Green contested the charge and, after hearing detailed evidence from an independent expert in 0ral pathology & forensic odontology, the citing was dismissed by the independent panel comprising Ian Unsworth QC (chair) with John Greenwood and Tony Wheat. Green is free to play again immediately.
Brad Barritt suffers minor ankle ligament injury
The centre was forced off late on in Saracens’ Champions Cup quarter-final victory over Glasgow Warriors on Saturday.
Saracens wrote in a statement that "scans were relatively positive and the timeline for Barritt’s return will be determined by how he responds to treatment over the coming week."
Jamie George's top five hookers!
England star Jamie George shares his top five hookers, from Lions opponents to scrummaging beasts to Saracens team-mates.