The latest twists in the already serpentine bid to reach agreement over the future of European club rugby’s flagship competitions came last night with what was, ultimately, a hardening of resolve on both sides of the barricades.

French rugby chiefs have unveiled plans for a new purpose-built stadium to replace the Stade de France.

Toulouse president Rene Bouscatel has waded into the row over the re-scheduled Six Nations game between France and Ireland with a withering attack on rugby union’s organising bodies, the IRB and the Six Nations organising committee.

IRELAND expect to learn today the new date for their postponed RBS 6 Nations clash with France with the Irish Rugby Football Union also keen to discuss with tournament organisers who will pick up the estimated €45,000 tab for the additional weekend in Paris.

The Stade de France was the centre of farcical scenes last night when Ireland’s RBS 6 Nations match against France was postponed just 10 minutes before kick-off.

IRISH rugby referee Peter Fitzgibbon found himself officiating a bizarre encounter on Tuesday night when the father of Biarritz and French star Imanol Harinordoquy raced onto the pitch and attempted to punch players in a stormy Basque derby.

IRISH rugby referee Peter Fitzgibbon found himself officiating a bizarre encounter on Tuesday night when the father of Biarritz and French star Imanol Harinordoquy raced onto the pitch and attempted to punch players in a stormy Basque derby.

Winger Yoann Huget has withdrawn from the France squad for the World Cup because of a breach of anti-doping rules, according to reports.

FEARS for the welfare of France centre Mathieu Bastareaud are growing after it was revealed that the 20-year-old has been hospitalised suffering from serious psychological problems, according to his club, Stade Francais.

French rugby chief Pierre Camou has given his backing to Les Bleus’ under-fire coaching set-up following the team’s 34-10 thrashing by England in the RBS 6 Nations at the weekend.

ENGLAND Rugby Football (RFU) Union chiefs have urged their French counterparts to nominate alternative entrants for next year’s two European competitions if a proposed boycott goes ahead.