The latest rugby news and headlines from Wales and beyond
Here are your evening headlines for Tuesday, April 14.
Wales star returns for derby
Wales centre Eddie James is in line to make his first appearance since the Six Nations after overcoming a shoulder issue.
The 23-year-old started all five matches for Steve Tandy’s side earlier this year, establishing himself as first-choice outside centre.
However, he hasn’t featured since the win over Italy last month.
But he is set to return for the Scarlets for their Welsh derby against Cardiff.
The west Walians also have hooker Ryan Elias and Marnus van der Merwe available, while Wales back-row Taine Plumtree is back in contention.
“People like Eddie are back in the mix,” said Scarlets interim director of rugby Nigel Davies. “It’s good to have him back.
“Both our first-choice hookers are available. We’re fairly good in terms of fitness.
Scarlets will name their side on Friday.
Welsh club release player early to join former team
Cardiff prop Ed Byrne has been released early from his contract at the Arms Park to join former club Leinster on a short-term loan.
The loosehead joined the Blue and Blacks from Leinster in the summer of 2024, but has endured an injury-hit time in the Welsh capital.
Having not played for Cardiff for nearly 500 days, he recently made his return in the Challenge Cup round of 16 against Benetton – managing 40 minutes in his first appearance of the season.
However, that turned out to be his eighth and final outing for Cardiff – having now returned to Dublin.
“Ed leaves the club with our very best wishes for the future,” said Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl. “He has been incredibly unlucky with injuries during his time with the club and I know this has been hugely frustrating to him.
“However, he is a really good person and it was important that we did the right thing for him and his career.
“While he hasn’t played as much as we would have liked, he has contributed a huge amount at the Arms Park through his vast experience, his leadership and the standards he drives.
“With his contract expiring in the summer, this is a great opportunity for Ed to continue his return to rugby at a club he is very familiar with as he looks to secure a contract for next season.”
Byrne came through the Leinster Academy and made 102 appearances for the Irish province. He will join their squad immediately for the remainder of the current block of fixtures.
“We’re delighted to have Ed back in blue for the remainder of this season,” said Leinster head coach Leo Cullen. “Not only is Ed a great character but he also knows our system inside out, brings valuable experience, and will be a timely boost to our front-row options during what is a very busy and competitive stage of the season.
“We’re very grateful to Cardiff Rugby for their understanding and cooperation in facilitating this move.”
Former Wallabies coach to face Wales
Robbie Deans has been added to the Barbarians coaching setup for their summer fixture against Wales at Twickenham in June.
The former Wallabies boss will face Wales just before he starts his role as performance director at Harlequins. Once again working with the famous club, he will coach the Baa-Baas alongside former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson and Racing 92 boss Patric Collazo.
The 66-year-old New Zealand has been involved with the Barbarians on numerous occasions previously.
He has coached them to wins over Ireland and Fiji, while he’s also been involved in other matches against New Zealand, England, Wales and the Springboks – drawing with the latter in 2016.
Speaking on his return, Deans said: “I’m very excited to be coming back to Allianz Stadium and represent the Barbarians.
“It’s such a special place to play and watch rugby. The Barbarians embody all the best elements of the game — playing with freedom, flair, and entertaining supporters on match day. I feel extremely fortunate to have been involved with the world’s most famous club for over a decade.”
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