The omens approaching Wales’ team hotel yesterday weren’t promising.

The Top 14’s financial watchdog this week released a report showing France’s top 30 clubs have an accumulated debt of almost €34 million — yet nobody here batted an eyelid, writes Ronan O’Gara.

Leeds United’s long and winding history could be about to take another turn, with Hollywood actor Russell Crowe asking his Twitter followers if he should buy the club.

The journey is supposed to end at Twickenham in the World Cup Final on October 31, but it begins in earnest at Musgrave Park.

Former Rugby League star, Ben Te’o, makes his Leinster debut in tonight’s Guinness Pro12 clash with Edinburgh (RDS, 7.35pm), as the champions aim to secure back-to-back league victories for the first time this season.

Sam Burgess says his high-profile, six-figure switch of rugby codes was based on "the challenge" that will await him — and not next year’s World Cup in England.

Four years after leaving his position as Leinster head coach, it appears Michael Cheika is still having a big impact on the province.

Jamie Heaslip revealed yesterday new Ireland forwards coach Simon Easterby has already made a hugely positive impression on Joe Schmidt’s squad as they face in to a crucial 12 months prior to the next World Cup.

Off-field scandals continue to plague Australian mainstream sport

Wigan winger Brian Carney has dismissed talk of a move to NRL side South Sydney Rabbitohs.