Western Force have announced that scrum-half Justin Turner has signed a new two-year contract with the franchise.
The Perth native, who was this week named in the Australian U20s side for next month's IRB Junior World Cup in Argentina, is set to make his first Super 14 start in Saturday's clash with the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein and Force General Manager of Rugby Mitch Hardy believes Turner is destined for great things.
"It has been an impressive rise from Justin," he said. "Coming from the academy to making his debut and now starting on Saturday night it is great reward for the hard work he has put in.
"It is fantastic to see another local West Australian player come through the system and have an impact for the Western Force in Super Rugby. Justin is a great example of the opportunities that are being presented to quality young players in WA. We have great confidence that he'll continue to improve and make an important contribution to the Western Force going forward."
Toulon-bound Carl Hayman has hinted at a possible return to the Newcastle Falcons at some point in the future. The former All Blacks prop will make what is scheduled to be his last appearance for the Falcons when he leads the team out to face London Wasps at Kingston Park on Saturday. However, Hayman has admitted that he could be tempted into returning to the North-East at a later date.
"It's been a great experience," Hayman told The Northern Echo. "In terms of results, it hasn't been ideal, and the team isn't in the position in the table we would like. But on the whole I've really enjoyed my time in the North-East and it's a part of my life I will look back on with fond memories. I've enjoyed living and playing here, and I could definitely do so again."
Rory Best is a doubt for Ireland's upcoming southern hemisphere tour after sustaining what looked like a serious ankle injury in Ulster's Magners League clash with Connacht on Friday night.
The 27-year-old hooker was stretchered off in the early stages of the second half of the game at Ravenhill in clear discomfort and there are now fears that he will not be fit to travel to New Zealand and Australia.
Bristol's bid to return to the Guinness Premiership at the first attempt remains on track after a 28-15 victory over London Welsh in their Championship semi-final at the Memorial Stadium on Friday night. Bristol will now play the winners of Saturday's clash between Bedford Blues and the Exeter Chiefs for the right to play in the top flight next season.
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1. Max Verstappen ()
