"Fed up" – Nigel Owens slams 'ridiculous' suggested Six Nations format change
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Former top referee Nigel Owens has hit out at suggestions that the Six Nations should introduce a promotion-relegation system following another dismal campaign for Wales.
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For the second year running, Wales collected the Wooden Spoon after finishing the Six Nations winless, extending their losing streak to 17 consecutive Tests.
But Owens believes calls for a relegation playoff against Georgia are completely misplaced.
In his Wales Online column, Owens didn't hold back:
"Let me make one thing perfectly clear – the Six Nations is not a tournament where promotion and relegation should happen. You simply can't get rid of a team or have different sides coming in and out. I'm fed up of hearing people suggest it as an idea, to be honest."
Owens questioned the motives behind these suggestions, suggesting they're either attention-seeking or designed to stir controversy.
He also took a swipe at Georgia head coach Richard Cockerill, who has been vocal about introducing a promotion-relegation system.
"Imagine if he got the Welsh job – would he be calling for the same thing then? Too bloody right he wouldn't!"
For the full story, visit Wales Online.
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15 England Stars Make Our Lions Squad for Australia Tour
With the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour just around the corner, speculation is ramping up about who will get the nod for the three-Test series against Australia.
Andy Farrell will announce his squad live from the O2 Arena in London on May 8th, 2025, and we've taken a stab at selecting the best possible 36-man squad for the tour.
OUR 2025 BRITISH & IRISH LIONS SQUAD
Here's a breakdown of who makes the cut, with 15 England stars included in our strongest lineup.
Props
Andrew Porter (Ireland)
Ellis Genge (England) – The ‘Baby Rhino’ brings his trademark aggression and scrummaging power.
Pierre Schoemann (Scotland)
Kyle Sinckler (England) – A veteran of the 2021 tour, Sinckler's experience will be vital.
Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
Will Stuart (England) – The powerful tighthead earns his spot after a consistent season.
Hookers
Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – The standout Irish hooker is almost a certainty.
Dewi Lake (Wales)
Jamie George (England) – Lions experience and leadership make him a vital inclusion.
Locks
Maro Itoje (England) – One of the first names on the team sheet.
Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – The young enforcer could be a game-changer.
Ollie Chessum (England) – A rising star, providing dynamism and lineout excellence.
Dafydd Jenkins (Wales)
Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
George Martin (England) – Physicality and work rate give him the edge.
Back Row
Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – World-class breakdown presence.
Ben Curry (England) – Edges into contention with his relentless tackling and breakdown work.
Tom Curry (England) – A Lions veteran whose pedigree speaks for itself.
Caelan Doris (Ireland) – A guaranteed starter.
Ben Earl (England) – One of the most explosive players in the Premiership this season.
Jack Willis (England) – His form for Toulouse has been outstanding.
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