Gloucester have granted Andy Hazell a Testimonial year this season while Guy Easterby has been appointed Chief Scout at Leinster. FULL STORY >>
The Top 14 kicks off on August 26, and the Guinness Premiership and Magners Leagues on the weekend of September 5/6, but none of the clubs will be heading into the season cold.
Ospreys bosses have confirmed that they are in discussions with rugby chiefs in New Zealand with a view to securing the early release of New Zealand A scrum-half Jamie Nutbrown, after the 27-year-old agreed in principle to a two-year contract with the region.
Cardiff Blues have been handed a major fitness boost with the news that Xavier Rush will not be out until the end of the year.
Ospreys centre Gavin Henson has revealed what life under Andrew Hore is like as the Welsh region step up their pre-season training.
Wellington and other tales Six Nations finale Understanding the ELVs
Never ones to miss a couple of moments of mirth, here are a few choice 'De Villierisms'!