Nations Championship

The Nations Championship promises global ambition, but brutal July travel schedules for Wales, England and Scotland raise serious player welfare questions.

Antoine Dupont will miss France's July Nations Championship matches against New Zealand, Australia and Japan, with Paul Graou called up.

Nations Championship Trophy revealed as 12 leading rugby teams prepare for the new global tournament starting on July 4.

England captain Maro Itoje's involvement in this summer's tour appears increasingly unlikely after he was not included in Steve Borthwick's latest training camp.

Ireland winger Mack Hansen has been ruled out of the summer tour to Australia and New Zealand for the inaugural Nations Championship as he continues his recovery from a foot injury.

England will begin their Nations Championship campaign with a major Test against South Africa in Johannesburg on 4 July, setting up a repeat of the 2019 Rugby World Cup final.

Wales head coach Steve Tandy has named an extended 48-man training squad ahead of the inaugural Nations Championship, including former England Under-20s star Kane James.

The Nations Championship starts on July 4, 2026, with New Zealand vs France in Christchurch before the London Finals Weekend.

Defence coach Murchie enjoyed success during his time at Glasgow Warriors, and you would expect him to produce a similar defensive strategy with Wales.