ESPNscrum Festive Countdown - December 18
Cipriani's footwork and bare-faced cheek
ESPN Staff
December 18, 2012

It's that time of year again and in what is now surely a tradition to rival the turkey, the tree and all the trimmings, we're delighted to herald the return the ESPNscrum Festive Countdown for your amusement.

Once again, we'll be counting down the days until the big one with an assortment of trivia and novelties to brighten your day - sadly, chocolate not included. Check out our latest offering below and be sure to check back tomorrow for your latest dose of festive fun!

Oh, Danny boy

Danny Cipriani both enjoyed and endured his two seasons in Super Rugby with the Melbourne Rebels before moving back to the Aviva Premiership this summer. In Australia he was at the centre of a number of controversial off-field incidents as well as showing some flashes of brilliance on the pitch. This performance, though, against the Western Force in March will be what many Rebels fans will remember him for.

Quote unquote

"I don't care if he speaks French. It just means he's getting it wrong in two languages."
BBC TV commentator Brian Moore frothing at referee Alain Rolland's handling of the scrum.

Trivia Time

Who are the reigning Olympic champions in rugby having won the last competition which was held in 1924? Find out here

And something you may have missed...

ESPNscrum endeavours to bring you an intoxicating mix of news, views and analysis and one or two of these gems may have passed you by over the last 12 months - but don't worry, we've dusted them off for your pleasure.

Campo courts controversy
"Why does the smh get a girl to write about rugby. Growden who was a great jornio and now we have someone who has no idea about the game!"

David Campese's response to the appointment of Georgina Robinson at the Sydney Morning Herald leads to a backlash

Picture Perfect

We've also trawled the archives for some of the best shots of year for your visual pleasure - here we have Grand Slam winner Dan Lydiate shaking the royal hand.

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