News in Brief
BBC look to expand rugby rights
The BBC is hoping to ensure that Wales' internationals remain free-to-air
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- The BBC are looking to expand their free-to-air television list and add Wales' home internationals and highlights from British & Irish Lions tours to the list of sporting events that cannot be made pay-per-view.
The system is coming under review for the first time since it's inception in 1998. It currently includes the World Cup and Six Nations but if the BBC Trust get their way it will expand to include all of Wales' Six Nations and autumn internationals as well as the Lions tour.
The move which has come under fire from the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) who believe it would hinder the commercial viability of matches and tournaments. "We must ensure we get the best possible broadcasting deal for Welsh rugby" a WRU spokesman told the Western Mail.
- The RFU disciplinary hearing currently investigating former Bath trio Michael Lipman, Alex Crockett and Andrew Higgins has been extended until Monday, August 3. The players face charges of " conduct prejudicial to the interest of the game", including "taking prohibited substances and wilful refusal to take a drugs test".
- Western Force have completed the signing of former Brumbies wing and one-time Wallaby Mark Bartholomeusz on a two-year deal.
- New Wasps recruit Jason Hobson has been ruled out for six months after rupturing his Achilles during training. The former Bristol prop has undergone surgery on the injury.
- Glasgow scrum-half Sam Pinder, 30, has parted ways with the club to take up a coaching position in Hong Kong.
© Scrum.com
1. Max Verstappen ()
