The latest rugby news from Wales and around the world
These are your latest rugby headlines on Sunday, January 4.
‘Magic’ James impresses in cameo
Exeter Chiefs back row Kane James made another impressive cameo off the bench against Bath, with the Wales-born England U20s international continuing to impress as interest grows in where his international future lies.
The 20-year-old, who hails from Haverfordwest, is set to be the subject of another Wales v England tug-of-war in the coming months, having caught the eye with a series of impressive performances at senior level for Exeter.
Having come off the bench to help his side to victory over Leicester Tigers the week before, James made another big impact against Bath on Saturday.
Despite only being brought on in the 63rd minute, the youngster showed again exactly what he can offer in a strong 17-minute cameo, making five carries and 13 tackles.
James’ short but impressive performance saw him rightfully win plaudits, with The Telegraph’s rugby writer Charlie Morgan describing him as “magic” and “a bustling ball of energy to bring off the bench”.
A powerful ball-carrier, James qualifies for both England and Wales, as well as New Zealand. He previously represented Wales at U18 level but made the switch to England U20s in 2024 as they won a historic Six Nations and World Rugby U20 Championship double.
Having ended his stint with the U20s last summer, he is now targeting senior international honours and admits he is open to switching back to Wales to play Test rugby.
“I’ve loved my time in England U20s,” he told The Rugby Paper. “But I mean, it’s now about whatever opportunities come. I’m not tied down anywhere; I’m open to opportunities.
“Whatever happens, happens. There’s a wealth of talent there [in the England senior team]. If it’s with England, then so be it. But if it’s with Wales as well, I’m open to that too.”
Last year, Wales U20s boss Richard Whiffin confirmed that the Welsh Rugby Union had made contact with James in an effort to “keep a relationship” with him, with senior head coach Steve Tandy also making clear his intention to secure as many Welsh-qualified talents as possible to widen his selection pool.
Coach issues update after worrying scenes
Northampton Saints head coach Phil Dowson has issued an update on his captain Fraser Dingwall after the England star left the field in a neck brace during his side’s 66-21 demolition of Harlequins.
There were worrying scenes shortly before the half-time break when the centre’s head was caught on the wrong side while tackling Quins forward Kieran Treadwell, and he lay motionless on the ground as play briefly continued over him.
Dingwall’s team-mate Tom Pearson alerted referee Sara Cox to the severity of the situation, shouting “he’s out, he’s out”, with medics immediately running to the 26-year-old’s aid.
After being treated for several minutes and receiving oxygen, Dingwall was stretchered off wearing a neck brace, although he gave a thumbs-up as he left the field to provide reassurance to concerned fans.
Following the full-time whistle, Dowson gave a further encouraging update as he revealed that the England international was “in good spirits” despite being disappointed to miss out on playing in the second half.
“You saw Fraser Dingwall take a horrible knock,” said the Northampton boss. “But luckily he’s up and about and in relatively good spirits, other than being disappointed.”
The news will come as a relief not just to Northampton, but to England boss Steve Borthwick, with the Six Nations kicking off in just over a month’s time.
Burrows delighted by opportunities
Dragons hooker Oli Burrows says it’s all about the team despite making the most of his recent opportunities.
With Elliot Dee, Brodie Coghlan and James Benjamin all ruled out, Burrows has enjoyed more rugby in recent weeks – culminating in a player-of-the-match performance against the Scarlets on New Year’s Day.
The 23-year-old scored a try, made 19 tackles and had 100% success at the lineout as Filo Tiatia’s side triumphed 28-5 in their third successive home victory.
His form has seen him identified as a potential new front row option for Wales head coach Steve Tandy to consider ahead of the Six Nations, but, for now, Burrows is focused on giving his all to his club side.
“Competition is healthy and we’ve some brilliant hookers at the club, just whenever I get the opportunity I want put my best foot forward and give a good account of myself,” he said.
“I will probably look back on my performance later, but it is more about the result for me. Being a Neath boy, you grow up having that edge against the West Walian teams, so it is pleasing to get the result.
“It means a huge amount to the fans. It was brilliant to have a full house here. The challenge now is backing up these good away performances with away displays.
“We were close against Cardiff,” Burrows added. “The challenge now is how we go up a level and kick on away from here.”