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The latest rugby news from Wales and beyond
These are your rugby headlines for the morning of July 31.
SRU sack Williamson after investigation
Scottish Rugby has confirmed it has sacked CEO Alex Williamson after a lengthy investigation into his personal conduct.
Williamson was placed on extended leave back in May amid an independent investigation, which has lasted over the course of several months.
The specifics of the investigation have not been divulged by the union, but Williamson has nevertheless been removed from his position permanently.
It’s understood the probe centred on claims Williamson had entered into an undisclosed relationship with an SRU employee.
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Chairman of Scottish Rugby Limited, John McGuigan, said in a statement: “The board of Scottish Rugby has today dismissed Alex Williamson from his position as chief executive with immediate effect. His dismissal follows the conclusion of an independent investigation into matters that were brought to the board’s attention earlier this year.
“In light of the investigation findings the board of Scottish Rugby concluded that the CEO’s conduct had fallen significantly below the standards we set as an organisation.”
Current chief financial officer David White looks set to become interim chief executive while the governing body begins the process of finding a permanent replacement.
Hearn fuels speculation over Pollock sevens switch
Eddie Hearn has fuelled speculation over the possibility of Henry Pollock switching to sevens rugby to play at the Olympics.
Hearn recently signed Pollock to his Matchroom Talent Agency in a bid to turn the Northampton Saints flanker into one of rugby’s biggest global stars.
A video posted on Hearn’s Instagram story shows Pollock enjoying getting ready to jump off the side of a yacht, on what looks like a sun-soaked holiday abroad.
In the video, Hearn can be heard telling the England star “Be careful. You’ve gotta win the Olympics and the World Cup.”
Pollock leaps off into the sea, with Hearn adding “That’s why they call him star boy”.
The comment around the Olympics will likely be taken by some fans as a possible indication that Pollock may be about to embark on a future spell in rugby sevens.
Pollock would certainly have to leave the 15-a-side game, at least for a bit, if he wanted to be part of the Team GB Olympic team, who didn’t even qualify for the Paris games in 2024.
He would follow in the footsteps of Antoine Dupont, who stood down from the 2024 Six Nations to compete in his home Olympics.
All Blacks told to ‘expect no mercy’
The All Blacks have been told to ‘expect no mercy’ as they gear up for their first full tour of South Africa in 30 years.
New Zealand will face four South African URC sides as part of the eight-match trip, and will be welcomed by the DHL Stormers in Cape Town next week.
And it’s far to say Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis believes the locals will make it a tough night for the tourists.
“On behalf of the people of Cape Town, and every rugby-loving supporter in South Africa, I wish the touring All Blacks the warmest Cape Town welcome,” he said.
“We love having you here in South Africa, and we are thrilled that you kick off your tour in the most beautiful city of them all.
“As far as I’m concerned, there is no greater sporting spectacle in the world than the Green and Gold against the All Blacks, and the excitement for rugby’s greatest rivalry is unlike anything we’ve experienced in decades.
“I also want our visitors to know that it’s nothing personal. Off the field we will be the perfect hosts and treat you like royalty, but on the field, you can expect no mercy, as our Stormers look to become the first provincial SA team in 50 years to beat the All Blacks.
“To everyone attending the Stormers and Springbok matches here at DHL Cape Town Stadium, may you have a wonderful time and cherish this historic occasion.”
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