Six Nations review: England exposed to the Farrells’ importance in testing campaign


Owen Farrell and Andy Farrell pictured after England’s loss to Ireland to end the 2023 Six Nations

Sky Sports News’ James Cole takes a look back on the 2023 Six Nations, assessing the state of play with each side ahead of the World Cup in France later this year…

Ireland

Ireland were, quite simply, head and shoulders above the rest in this year’s Six Nations.

Ireland’s Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4Wales 10-34 Ireland
Saturday, February 11Ireland 32-19 France
Saturday, February 25Italy 20-34 Ireland
Sunday, March 12Scotland 7-22 Ireland
Saturday, March 18Ireland 29-16 England

The grand slam was a fitting end to an excellent campaign – and, indeed, an excellent 12 months. They’ve now won 10 Tests in a row, which including an historic series win in New Zealand.

Jonny Sexton seems to be getting better with age and may think twice about his decision to retire after the world cup.

Their back three have all taken their games to another level – James Lowe, Mack Hansen and Hugo Keenan are now a lethal combination. They’ve also got huge strength in depth in their squad to call upon.

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was delighted to clinch the Grand Slam on home turf while England's Steve Borthwick admitted his side fell short.

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Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was delighted to clinch the Grand Slam on home turf while England’s Steve Borthwick admitted his side fell short.

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was delighted to clinch the Grand Slam on home turf while England’s Steve Borthwick admitted his side fell short.

And as for head coach Andy Farrell, he has created an environment in which his players can express themselves and thrive.

Hansen said as much this weekend, suggesting the motivational skills of Farrell are unrivalled

“All the coaches [deserve credit] but Andy, he can just get you up for a game like no other,” Hansen said. “He just seems to say all of the right things and it just sounds cooler in his accent as well.

The RFU must be wondering why on earth they let Farrell go in 2016.

2023 Six Nations final standings

TeamWDLSDBPP
Ireland50079427
France40159420
Scotland30220315
England203-35210
Wales104-6326
Italy005-6011

France

France were slow starters in this campaign and weren’t at their best – not until they produced one of their greatest ever performances to destroy England at Twickenham.

France’s Six Nations 2023 results

Sunday, February 5Italy 24-29 France
Saturday, February 11Ireland 32-19 France
Sunday, February 26France 32-21 Scotland
Saturday, March 11England 10-53 France
Saturday, March 18France 41-28 Wales

Italy were beaten by just five points in Rome in the opening round, they then lost to Ireland and only just held off Scotland before everything finally clicked as they ran riot against England.

Weaknesses had been exposed against Ireland, but you sense this French side will peak when it matters.

France captain Antoine Dupont had another outstanding tournament

France captain Antoine Dupont had another outstanding tournament

In captain Antoine Dupont they have a freakish talent who can single-handedly turn a game, while their back three of Damian Penaud, Thomas Ramos and Etan Dumortier are clinical.

Add to that the fact have one of the biggest and most powerful packs in world rugby and it’s clear why they are bookies favourites to win the World Cup on home soil later this year.

Scotland

Scotland had an excellent campaign and one that has left Scottish supporters wondering why head coach Gregor Townsend’s future beyond the World Cup remains in doubt.

Scotland’s Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4England 23-29 Scotland
Saturday, February 11Scotland 35-7 Wales
Sunday, February 26France 32-21 Scotland
Sunday, March 12Scotland 7-22 Ireland
Saturday, March 18Scotland 26-14 Italy

Finn Russell was scintillating throughout and now that he and Townsend have healed their differences, Scotland are hitting their straps.

Finn Russell was a standout performer for Gregor Townsend's Scotland side

Finn Russell was a standout performer for Gregor Townsend’s Scotland side

What’s more, Blair Kinghorn’s performance against Italy, which saw him bag a hat-trick, has shown also their depth at No 10.

Giant winger Duhan Van der Merwe has taken his game to another level, and the centre combination of Huw Jones and Sione Tuipulotu has been a big success.

Scotland hadn’t won their first two games in this competition since 1996, but they put that to bed with impressive wins over England and Wales. It’s just such a shame that they find themselves in a World Cup pool alongside South Africa and Ireland, from which only two will progress.

England

England are a side in transition and they’re running out of time to be competitive in France.

England’s Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4England 23-29 Scotland
Sunday, February 12England 31-14 Italy
Saturday, February 25Wales 10-20 England
Saturday, March 11England 10-53 France
Saturday, March 18Ireland 29-16 England

New head coach Steve Borthwick has been quick to lay the blame on his predecessor Eddie jones – but Borthwick’s decision to drop Owen Farrell in favour of Marcus Smith against France backfired massively.

Steve Borthwick said England's heavy Six Nations defeat to France was 'painful'.

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Steve Borthwick said England’s heavy Six Nations defeat to France was ‘painful’.

Steve Borthwick said England’s heavy Six Nations defeat to France was ‘painful’.

England fans learnt the hard way just how crucial Farrell is to this side, whether at 10 or 12, which is something that Jones preached for years.

Up front, England’s pack restored some pride on the final weekend in Dublin but the lack of strength in depth – particularly at prop – is striking. Number 8 also remains an issue and calls for Zach Mercer to get a chance will grow.

Behind the scrum, Freddie Steward has been a revelation and was outstanding. His red card in Dublin was harsh and shouldn’t overshadow how well he has played.

Freddie Steward was controversially sent off for England in their final Six Nations game against Ireland

Freddie Steward was controversially sent off for England in their final Six Nations game against Ireland

In Ollie Lawrence, Borthwick has another ball carrying centre aside from Manu Tuilagi, while Jack Van Portvliet has usurped his Leicester team-mate Ben Youngs at No 9. When you look at it like that, Borthwick has made big strides in evolving this team.

The defeat to France aside, England have made progress, albeit they are still well short of the best.

Maybe one day they’ll reflect on that night Twickenham turned Les Bleus and conclude it was a tough but crucial lesson.

Wales

It was a turbulent campaign for Wales, both on and off the field.

Wales’ Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4Wales 10-34 Ireland
Saturday, February 11Scotland 35-7 Wales
Saturday, February 25Wales 10-20 England
Saturday, March 11Italy 17-29 Wales
Saturday, March 18France 41-28 Wales

Head coach Warren Gatland’s reappointment brought much hope to Welsh fans but it didn’t materialise in this campaign.

The chastening defeat to Scotland was a reality check for many. Off the field, the contact row and threat of strike action before England’s visit to Cardiff divided the squad and the game itself.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland oversaw a turbulent Six Nations campaign on and off the field

Wales head coach Warren Gatland oversaw a turbulent Six Nations campaign on and off the field

On the pitch, Gatland continuously chopped and changed his teams during the campaign as he struggled to find the balance between evolution and revolution.

The emergence of young centres Joe Hawkins and Mason Grady is a big plus. Wales also have a plethora of talented back rowers but lacked cutting edge when it mattered.

That said, they’ll be hard to beat come the World Cup – and were they to meet England in the quarter-finals, you wouldn’t rule out Gatland masterminding another England downfall.

Italy

Italy may have ended up winless and with the wooden spoon but they showed they can now compete with the best.

Italy’s Six Nations 2023 results

Sunday, February 5Italy 24-29 France
Sunday, February 12England 31-14 Italy
Saturday, February 25Italy 20-34 Ireland
Saturday, March 11Italy 17-29 Wales
Saturday, March 18Scotland 26-14 Italy

Had they been more clinical against Wales and Scotland, Kieran Crowley’s side could well have produced an upset.

They were also the better team in the second half against England, while they pushed both France and Ireland closer than anyone would have predicted.

Italy were much improved in this year's Six Nations

Italy were much improved in this year’s Six Nations

Italy are better now than ever before – but they must start taking their opportunities.

Unfortunately for them, they find themselves in a World Cup pool alongside New Zealand and hosts France. It’s hard to see them emerging from that one.



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Saudi Arabian GP: Ferrari duo Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz remain optimistic despite engine issues

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were off the pace for Ferrari in both of Friday’s practice sessions at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix; Both Ferraris have taken new power
units in Jeddah; Watch Saudi Arabian GP final practice live on Saturday at 1.30pm on Sky Sports F1

Last Updated: 17/03/23 10:07pm


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Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were both optimistic about Ferrari’s Saudi Arabian GP prospects after Friday practice.

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were both optimistic about Ferrari’s Saudi Arabian GP prospects after Friday practice.

Ferrari duo Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz remain optimistic over their chances at this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix despite the team’s ongoing engine concerns.

It had been confirmed earlier in the week that Leclerc would be taking a 10-place grid penalty in Jeddah after technical issues at the season-opener in Bahrain saw him retire and use up each of the two control electronics systems that each driver is permitted for the campaign, but more bad news was to follow.

Shortly after Friday’s opening practice session began, the FIA confirmed both Ferraris had also taken new power units, which will not instantly cause any further penalties but could lead to infringements later in the season, and is a concerning reflection on the team’s confidence in its reliability.

With the new power units in place, they then delivered an underwhelming display on a track where most had expected them to be far closer to early-season pacesetters Red Bull than had been the case in Bahrain.

Sainz’s seventh in first practice was their highest placing of the day, with Leclerc finishing ninth, a place ahead of his team-mate in the second session, in which the night-time conditions mirror those that Saturday’s qualifying and Sunday’s race will take place in.

Max Verstappen tops the timing sheet in P1 of the Saudi Arabian GP with his final run of the session.

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Max Verstappen tops the timing sheet in P1 of the Saudi Arabian GP with his final run of the session.

Max Verstappen tops the timing sheet in P1 of the Saudi Arabian GP with his final run of the session.

The fact that the Ferraris were almost a second back from reigning world champion Max Verstappen led to suspicions that they had been operating with their engines turned down, which Leclerc confirmed after the session.

“I don’t think we are that bad,” Leclerc said.

“Honestly, the feeling is pretty good but very difficult to read into the performance because everybody is doing different things with power, weight etc.

Despite receiving a 10-place grid penalty, Charles Leclerc is optimistic that Ferrari will perform better at the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

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Despite receiving a 10-place grid penalty, Charles Leclerc is optimistic that Ferrari will perform better at the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Despite receiving a 10-place grid penalty, Charles Leclerc is optimistic that Ferrari will perform better at the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

“But the feeling was quite okay, and the race pace seems to be better than Bahrain so it’s positive.

“We have quite a bit in the locker. How much? Let’s see.

“I’m sure Red Bull still has something hidden, so we’ll see tomorrow but I think it will be closer than what it is for now.”

Oscar Piastri finds the whole track blocked during a flying lap in P2 of the Saudi Arabian GP.

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Oscar Piastri finds the whole track blocked during a flying lap in P2 of the Saudi Arabian GP.

Oscar Piastri finds the whole track blocked during a flying lap in P2 of the Saudi Arabian GP.

Even with Ferrari’s engines running below full capacity, Leclerc complained during second practice over apparent issues, but insisted afterwards that “there was nothing wrong”.

“There were a few moments where I upshifted on kerbs which doesn’t put the engine in the best situation, so I complained just to make sure that everything was fine.”

Sainz: ‘Our position today doesn’t reflect our true pace’

Sainz had said on Thursday that Ferrari were in a “bad situation”, and confirmation that he was also taking a new engine on Friday added context to those comments.

The Spaniard, who shoulders Ferrari’s hopes of challenging Red Bull – and beating Aston Martin and Mercedes – given Leclerc’s grid penalty, was also optimistic regarding the car’s pace.

Karun Chandhok updates us on the track changes for this year's Saudi Arabian GP at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

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Karun Chandhok updates us on the track changes for this year’s Saudi Arabian GP at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

Karun Chandhok updates us on the track changes for this year’s Saudi Arabian GP at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

“I feel closer than Bahrain,” said Sainz, who finished fourth behind the Red Bulls and Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso in the season-opener.

“Our position today doesn’t reflect our true pace.

“We look competitive in the long runs so I am more positive going into the weekend.

“Red Bull are clear favourites but Aston Martin and Mercedes are there with us in terms of pace.

“The overall feeling, I feel closer. If it’s enough to be on the podium or battle at the top we will see on Sunday.”

‘Ferrari will be in the fight for pole’

Sky Sports F1’s Karun Chandhok said he expects Ferrari to be in the fight for pole on Saturday, despite admitting their start to the season has been far from ideal.

“Their fans took a lot of beating last year and everyone was hoping this year was going to start differently, and it hasn’t so far,” Chandhok said.

Look back at Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen’s epic battle for the win at the Jeddah Circuit in 2022.

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Look back at Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen’s epic battle for the win at the Jeddah Circuit in 2022.

Look back at Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen’s epic battle for the win at the Jeddah Circuit in 2022.

“I do think Ferrari were holding back. I do think with all the reliability concerns they’ve got, they haven’t turned the engines up as much as they’d like on a Friday.

“I expect them, certainly in qualifying, to be right in the fight for pole position. What happens in the race, we’ll see as time unfolds.

Sky Sports F1’s Damon Hill added: “It’s a shame, isn’t it? You can build the nicest car in the world but if it hasn’t got a motor, it doesn’t go anywhere.”

Formula 1 street racing is back! Watch the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix live on Sky Sports F1 this weekend. Saturday’s qualifying and Sunday’s race are live at 5pm. Get Sky Sports



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Neurodiversity Celebration Week: British rower Caragh McMurtry, ironman Sam Holness on being autistic


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Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Caragh McMurtry and Sam Holness talk to Sky Sports News reporter Nick Ransom about being athletes with autism

Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Caragh McMurtry and Sam Holness talk to Sky Sports News reporter Nick Ransom about being athletes with autism

This week is Neurodiversity Celebration Week, celebrating the one in five people who think differently. These include autistic, dyslexic, dyspraxic athletes, or those with ADHD, who often face invisible barriers in sport.

In Neurodiversity Celebration Week, former British rower Caragh McMurtry and ironman triathlete Sam Holness talk to Sky Sports News about life thinking differently.

McMurtry, founder of Neurodiverse Sport, an organisation supporting athletes who are neurodivergent, was initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder while competing.

Five years later, she was diagnosed as autistic which allowed her to access more support. She is now using her platform to campaign for better access and understanding within sport.

She explained: “It completely revolutionised my performance and my well-being and I went from being spare to making the Olympic team. I got 17 seconds faster on my 2K and I was generally a lot happier.

“Ultimately, I still faced quite a lot of stigma and discrimination and a lot of that came down to a lack of understanding from the people around me and that’s where I decided to step away and create Neurodiverse Sport.

McMurtry was initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder while competing, before a correct diagnosis of autism five years later

McMurtry was initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder while competing, before a correct diagnosis of autism five years later

“Neurodiverse Sport is ultimately there to change people’s perceptions around neurodiversity, to show them in a positive light or that they can be positive. Difference is not less, it’s not scary, it requires out-of-the-box thinking. It could provide that extra edge.

“We want to create role models because that is something that is really lacking, particularly in sport, because athletes are advised not to disclose their neurodivergence.

“We want to do those things by campaigns, raising awareness and educating sports teams and sports organisations and that’s something we’ve really started to do.”

“There have been a lot of athletes that have come forward and it increases exponentially. A month ago I would have said I’d had 100 athletes come to me and now I can probably say I’ve had 150. A lot of them are elite or people on the Olympic programmes.

McMurtry said many who have contacted her have said, while they are not ready to talk publicly about being neurodivergent, the organisation’s presence has made a difference.

While competing as a rower, McMurtry’s blunt and honest manner often caused issues, as did sensory challenges. She points towards unconscious bias and wants coaches to be aware of neurodiversity.

“It could make a real difference, if something goes wrong with the team, to not pinpoint it down to the person that looks different. It’s human nature really, but it really sent me on a downward spiral.

McMurtry says her autism diagnosis 'completely revolutionised my performance and my wellbeing', as she 'got 17 seconds faster on my 2K'

McMurtry says her autism diagnosis ‘completely revolutionised my performance and my wellbeing’, as she ‘got 17 seconds faster on my 2K’

“It baffles me that neurodiversity is something that is still stigmatised in sport. I just don’t understand how you’re trying to get 0.001 out of your performance, like why are we not looking into that?

“I really think that people, athletes that are different, shouldn’t be made to feel as bad as they do, as isolated as they do. Their differences can be embraced, optimised, then if they don’t make it, that’s fine, it’s fair.”

One athlete McMurtry has already endorsed through her work is Sam Holness, an ironman triathlete who was diagnosed as autistic aged three. He did not speak until he was six and lives in west London with his parents.

Now a Guinness World Record holder for being the first autistic person to compete in the Ironman World Championships, Holness wants to inspire others.

While preparing for this week’s ironman in Lanzarote, Holness said his aims for the next year are to complete a full Ironman in less than 10 hours and complete a marathon in less than three.

On his achievements, he said: “I get comments on Instagram about how inspiring I am during races and training. It’s very enjoyable but sometimes I feel like ‘wow’.”

Holness is an Ironman triathlete who was diagnosed as autistic aged three, and didn't speak until he was six

Holness is an Ironman triathlete who was diagnosed as autistic aged three, and didn’t speak until he was six

Holness continues to overcome communication difficulties, something his dad Tony says is one of his biggest achievements. Meeting new people in new environments is particularly hard.

Enthusiasm for exercise and routine is what Holness puts his success down to: “It helps with my confidence and self-esteem. It takes my anxiety away and makes me feel more relaxed.”

Life away from the soothing repetition of training and competition is more difficult. He says: “At the track, sometimes I have to get away because it gets overwhelming”.

Holness is a Guinness World Record holder for being the first autistic person to compete in the Ironman World Championships

Holness is a Guinness World Record holder for being the first autistic person to compete in the Ironman World Championships

Despite this, Holness has got better at managing crowds. He grew up struggling with parties and gatherings, even attending church, but it was at university, fellow students helped introduce him to new environments.

Thanks to the support of parents Tony and Marilyn, Holness is now able to travel all around the world and compete. As well as difficulties socially, he struggles with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) which requires a carefully constructed diet.

Despite all the difficulties, Holness is clearly enjoying breaking stereotypes as an ironman and using his love of repetitive activity to his advantage.

Holness says for the next year, his aim is to “get to the podium and become a professional triathlete.” This year’s World Championships will be held in Finland, for which he hopes to qualify again.

McMurtry and Holness’ experiences offer an insight into the strengths and challenges of thinking differently in sport. However, like many athletes, they wonder when sport will more openly discuss neurodiversity.



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Lewis Hamilton: Martin Brundle analyses Mercedes driver’s options, including possible Ferrari move

Lewis Hamilton’s future has become a subject of speculation after Mercedes’ disappointing start to the 2023 Formula 1 season; Listen to the latest episode of the Sky Sports F1 Podcast now; watch the Saudi Arabian GP live on Sky Sports F1 this weekend

Last Updated: 15/03/23 3:31pm


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Following Mercedes’ underwhelming start to the season, Sky F1’s Martin Brundle discusses whether Lewis Hamilton should consider a move away from the Silver Arrows. You can listen to the latest episode of the Sky Sports F1 Podcast now.

Following Mercedes’ underwhelming start to the season, Sky F1’s Martin Brundle discusses whether Lewis Hamilton should consider a move away from the Silver Arrows. You can listen to the latest episode of the Sky Sports F1 Podcast now.

Lewis Hamilton must decide whether to remain with Mercedes or move elsewhere for a final “roll of the dice” at claiming a record eighth Formula 1 title, according to Sky Sports F1’s Martin Brundle.

The extension of Hamilton’s current deal at Mercedes, which expires at the end of the 2023 season, had previously appeared to be formality, with both the 38-year-old and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff suggesting as much in recent months.

However, Hamilton’s apparent criticism of his team for failing to “listen” to him over the design of their new W14 car, which was off the pace of reigning champions Red Bull at the season-opener in Bahrain, has led to renewed speculation over the Brit’s future.

Speaking on the Sky Sports F1 Podcast ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Sky Sports pundit Brundle analysed the situation Hamilton is facing.

He said: “I think it’s absolutely clear that taking that eighth title is everything to him now, to move that hightide mark and be right up there and considered the greatest and have one more than anybody else is important to him, and I think he’ll want to drive wherever he can achieve that.

“If he went to Ferrari, for example, would you be certain you could achieve that better there? They’ve got a number of their own challenges at the moment.

Look back at some of the most dramatic moments to have taken place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

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Look back at some of the most dramatic moments to have taken place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

Look back at some of the most dramatic moments to have taken place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

“Would he get in the door at Red Bull? Because that’s the only place right now you’d think he could go to. Could you have a Verstappen-Hamilton line-up? Could you afford them? Do you need that? Because I think Red Bull are quite happy with a number one and a one-and-a-half driver in their car.

“So it’s all very well saying he’ll go somewhere else, but where at the moment? So he’s better to make what he’s got at a magnificent team work.”

‘Hamilton must be tempted by Ferrari’

Hamilton spent the first six seasons of his career with McLaren, before making a somewhat surprising 2013 move to a Mercedes team that had shown little sign of being a championship contender.

However, the start of the sport’s turbo-hybrid era would see Mercedes dominate, with Hamilton going onto win six titles in seven seasons.

Brundle gives his thoughts on Mercedes and Hamilton following their difficult start to the season. You can listen to the latest episode of the Sky Sports F1 Podcast now.

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Brundle gives his thoughts on Mercedes and Hamilton following their difficult start to the season. You can listen to the latest episode of the Sky Sports F1 Podcast now.

Brundle gives his thoughts on Mercedes and Hamilton following their difficult start to the season. You can listen to the latest episode of the Sky Sports F1 Podcast now.

“Going to Mercedes looked like a risk at the time but what we didn’t know was all the things that Ross Brawn, Andy Cowell and many others could tell Lewis – ‘have a look at our hybrid power-unit that we’ve got coming, we’re miles ahead of anybody else.’

“Lewis was able to see that. I don’t think he’ll have that kind of head start if he moves at the moment.

“He’s obviously in the latter part of his career, but I could easily see him having another five years – look at Fernando Alonso – he’s three years older than Lewis and driving probably at his best, or at least equal best.

Hamilton took on the lie detector test - and you might be surprised by some of the results!

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Hamilton took on the lie detector test – and you might be surprised by some of the results!

Hamilton took on the lie detector test – and you might be surprised by some of the results!

“Lewis has got one more roll of the dice to join a team and make them world champions and get all the accolades that he wants, so I think that’s where he’s at the moment.

“‘If in doubt, stay put’, I would have thought would be what he’s thinking. ‘If I can make this work, that’s my best solution, if not I may have to look elsewhere.'”

Despite concluding that staying at Mercedes appears to be Hamilton’s best option, Brundle thinks that the Brit must be tempted to try to emulate fellow seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher by moving to Ferrari and turning around the Italian team’s fortunes.

Ted Kravitz shares his most memorable moments from the Jeddah circuit ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

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Ted Kravitz shares his most memorable moments from the Jeddah circuit ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Ted Kravitz shares his most memorable moments from the Jeddah circuit ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

“There’s a lot of good reasons to stay at Mercedes, he just needs them to tell him how they’re going to sort this out, but you know, (Ayrton) Senna left McLaren to go to Williams, Schumacher went off to Ferrari, didn’t he? And it took a long time but they made that work.

“So these great drivers are not scared of going somewhere and then galvanising and getting a lot of new people around them and making something happen.

“And I think there must be part of Lewis that thinks, ‘you know, I’d love to go to Ferrari and do a Michael Schumacher and really turn that back into (a winning team) – if I can’t win my eighth or ninth right now, why don’t I go and have some fun there?’

“I’m sure these are all playing in his mind and he’ll be talking to his dad about this as well and his management team about where to go from here and that will be exacerbated by the dismal performance of the car in Bahrain.”

Sky Sports F1’s live Saudi Arabian GP schedule

Thursday
2:30pm: Drivers’ Press Conference

Friday
10.50pm: F2 Practice
1pm: Saudi Arabian GP Practice One (session starts 1.30pm)
2:55pm: F2 Qualifying
4:45pm: Saudi Arabian GP Practice Two (session starts 5pm)
6:15pm: The F1 Show: Saudi Arabia

Saturday
1.15pm: Saudi Arabian GP Practice Three (session starts 1:30pm)
3:05pm: F2 Sprint Race
4pm: Saudi Arabian GP Qualifying build-up
5pm: SAUDI ARABIAN GP QUALIFYING

Sunday
1:35pm: F2 Feature Race
3.30pm: Grand Prix Sunday Saudi Arabian GP build-up
5pm: THE SAUDI ARABIAN GRAND PRIX
7pm: Chequered flag: Saudi Arabian GP Reaction

Watch the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix live on Sky Sports F1 this weekend with Sunday’s race live at 5pm. Get Sky Sports



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Green, Khawaja lead Australia to strong first-innings total on day two of fourth Test

Australia has finished on 480 after Usman Khawaja’s epic 180 and Cameron Green’s debut Test century made India’s bowlers toil for almost two days in the field.

The tourists made the most of the best batting pitch of the series, forcing India to bowl 168 overs and take a third new ball in the fourth Test in Ahmedabad.

Australia had 10 overs to bowl at the hosts before stumps but India comfortably survived to finish 0-36, to trail by 444.

India captain Rohit Sharma (17) and young opener Shubman Gill (18) will resume batting on Saturday with Australia desperate for early breakthroughs.

Khawaja made the third-best score by an Australian in India, finishing only behind Dean Jones (210 in 1986) and Matthew Hayden (203 in 2001).

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Jessica Ennis-Hill: Returning from maternity leave to elite sport was ‘one of my biggest challenges’

Jessica Ennis-Hill gave birth to her son in July 2014, before returning to win a third world title in 2015 and claim a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics; “It’s one of the most challenging things I’ve done… There is no clear maternity package; it’s still very much a grey area”

Last Updated: 09/03/23 5:20pm


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Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill says the conversation around women’s health in sport is changing, but progress still needs to be made in many areas.

Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill says the conversation around women’s health in sport is changing, but progress still needs to be made in many areas.

Two-time Olympic medallist Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill described the birth of her first child and her return to elite-level athletics as “one of the most challenging things I’ve done.”

The London 2012 heptathlon champion gave birth to her son Reggie in July 2014, before returning to win a third world title in Beijing in 2015 and claim a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio before announcing her retirement.

With Paris 2024 on the horizon, Ennis-Hill claimed she still gets “that adrenaline rush” when watching her heptathlon event, but stressed that her time at the top is over and she is instead eager to see how an exciting, young Team GB perform on the biggest stage.

Ennis-Hill was speaking to Sky Sports News on a range of topics, including maternity policies in elite sport and the “important conversation” to be had around women’s periods and breaking that taboo…

Ennis-Hill on new government funding for women’s sport

Girls will be granted equal access to all school sport in England as part of a package of measures unveiled by the government to coincide with International Women’s Day.

The government is now promising more than £600m to improve PE across the next two years and up to £57m in funding for facilities outside school hours.

“It makes a huge difference.

“High-profile female athletes performing on the greatest stage, winning medals and taking trophies – doing what they do in such a gracious, incredible way – that transcends down to young girls everywhere, inspiring them.

“And where does it start? At school level.

“So if we can have that funding and that support to really keep those girls engaged at that time, it’s an amazing thing.”

Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill says the success of high profile sportswomen can help inspire younger females to take part.

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Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill says the success of high profile sportswomen can help inspire younger females to take part.

Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill says the success of high profile sportswomen can help inspire younger females to take part.

Ennis-Hill on importance of International Women’s Day

“We’re making steps forward. And we’re seeing it more visibly now.

“We’re not just seeing more high-profile athletes out there performing, but we’re seeing them in the public domain more frequently – hearing their back stories and journeys.

“That’s transcending into younger age groups, which is starting to make a big difference.

“It takes time. It’s a process. But we are making change.

Ennis-Hill on her experience with maternity policies in sport

“I think the conversation around women’s health and female athletes’ physiology – delving deeper into what makes us different and how we perform differently – is so important.

Jessica Ennis-Hill returned to win gold at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing a year on from the birth of her first son

Jessica Ennis-Hill returned to win gold at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing a year on from the birth of her first son

“For me, having my son during my career and then coming back was a real catalyst to that. I didn’t see many athletes do it.

“I didn’t really know it was a thing you could do. I thought you had to have your career, retire and then start your family. But that is beginning to change now. We’re seeing more and more athletes do it – Allyson Felix, Serena Williams.

“And it’s not just athletes starting a family and coming back to participate… they’re coming back to win, at the top of their game again.

“It’s one of the most challenging things I’ve done. There’s so much to navigate your way through. There is no clear maternity package; it’s still very much a grey area.

England's Abbie Ward hopes other nations and other sports' governing bodies will follow the RFU in reviewing and improving their maternity policies.

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England’s Abbie Ward hopes other nations and other sports’ governing bodies will follow the RFU in reviewing and improving their maternity policies.

England’s Abbie Ward hopes other nations and other sports’ governing bodies will follow the RFU in reviewing and improving their maternity policies.

“The likes of Allyson Felix campaigning against big brands, putting policies in place and creating real change makes a difference for so many female athletes thinking about doing it.

“It is a challenging time and it still needs some clear definition about how to support those female athletes.”

Ennis-Hill on breaking the taboo topic of women’s periods

“We have to break so many taboos, but it’s an important one for all of us. Not just for young girls and women, but also for men, for dads, for husbands to understand.

“There’s the physiological changes that female athletes go through, and the barriers they face during those hormonal fluctuations throughout their life, but also the mental side of things.

“We see it with tennis at Wimbledon, and the conversation with high-profile tennis players about how uncomfortable they feel wearing certain colours like white.

“That’s a great conversation to have. We have to move with the times, we have to adapt the way we compete and the kit we have in order to feel comfortable and supported, so we can be the best we can be.”

Ennis-Hill on Team GB’s Paris 2024 hopes

“I’m not going to say I miss it. I feel like I’ve had my time at the top and I really enjoy being part of athletics in a different way now.

Keely Hodgkinson celebrates winning gold in the Women 800 meters at the European Athletics Indoor Championships

Keely Hodgkinson celebrates winning gold in the Women 800 meters at the European Athletics Indoor Championships

“It’s looking very strong. There’s some incredible Team GB athletes coming through, like Keely Hodgkinson, Dina Asher-Smith.

“There were some great performances at the European Indoor Championships – we had three gold medals from three female athletes, Hodgkinson, Laura Muir and Jazmin Sawyers. All had sensational performances.

“I’m really looking forward to the Olympics and seeing how Team GB perform, and how many medals we can get.”



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Bahrain GP: Max Verstappen dominates F1 2023 opener as Fernando Alonso storms to podium after Ferrari woe


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Fernando Alonso overtook the Mercedes pair of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton before getting past Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz to finish third at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Fernando Alonso overtook the Mercedes pair of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton before getting past Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz to finish third at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen eased to a dominant win at the Bahrain GP as Red Bull left their competition behind to start the 2023 Formula 1 season, while Fernando Alonso dazzled to take a well-earned podium for Aston Martin.

Verstappen, aiming for a third straight world title this year, won his first-ever season-opener at a canter after holding his pole position at the start and then racing away, with favourites Red Bull enjoying a dream one-two.

Charles Leclerc was running third behind Sergio Perez, who he had passed off the line before being re-overtaken later in the race, but then suffered a crushing Ferrari power failure with 17 laps remaining.

And Ferrari would then lose the final podium place again thanks to a charging Alonso, who lit up F1’s season-opener.

Charles Leclerc lost power in his Ferrari as he was forced to retire from third in the season opener.

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Charles Leclerc lost power in his Ferrari as he was forced to retire from third in the season opener.

Charles Leclerc lost power in his Ferrari as he was forced to retire from third in the season opener.

Alonso, having already brilliantly passed the Mercedes of George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, the second with a glorious move to catch his fellow multi-world champion off guard, then charged past Spanish compatriot Carlos Sainz on Lap 46 of 57, albeit after some slight contact with the Ferrari.

While not fighting Red Bull, it was a fantastic recovery from surprise 2023 contenders Aston Martin, with Alonso and team-mate Lance Stroll having lost positions and made contact on the opening lap.

Stroll, racing a week after surgery on his wrist, also beat a Mercedes after overtaking Russell.

In the end, Hamilton and Russell had to settle for fifth and seventh in their underperforming W14 cars.

Lance Stroll hit Aston Martin teammate Fernando Alonso on the opening lap of the Bahrain Grand Prix, while Max Verstappen held on to the lead from Ferrari's Charles Leclerc.

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Lance Stroll hit Aston Martin teammate Fernando Alonso on the opening lap of the Bahrain Grand Prix, while Max Verstappen held on to the lead from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.

Lance Stroll hit Aston Martin teammate Fernando Alonso on the opening lap of the Bahrain Grand Prix, while Max Verstappen held on to the lead from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.

Valtteri Bottas was ‘best of the rest’ for Alfa Romeo ahead of Pierre Gasly in the Alpine and the impressive Alex Albon for Williams.

Gasly had a much better evening than new team-mate Esteban Ocon, who received three separate penalties in Bahrain – one for an incorrect grid position, one for not serving his first penalty correctly and another for speeding in the pit lane – before, well out of contention, retiring from the race.

McLaren debutant Oscar Piastri also would not finish the opener, while team-mate Lando Norris was plum last on a nightmare start for the famous Woking team.

Bahrain GP Race Result
1) Max Verstappen, Red Bull
2) Sergio Perez, Red Bull
3) Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin
4) Carlos Sainz, Ferrari
5) Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes
6) Lance Stroll, Aston Martin
7) George Russell, Mercedes
8) Valtteri Bottas, Alfa Romeo
9) Pierre Gasly, Alpine
10) Alex Albon, Williams

Verstappen in control but Alonso lights up opener

There was hope heading into the season-opener that Red Bull, having struggled more than expected through practice and then scraped to pole in qualifying, would be challenged by Ferrari, Aston Martin or Mercedes.

The world champions, though, proved why they are so heavily backed this season.

Max Verstappen sent an ominous warning to his rivals as he cruised to win the season opener in Bahrain, while Fernando Alonso finished third for his first podium with new team Aston Martin.

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Max Verstappen sent an ominous warning to his rivals as he cruised to win the season opener in Bahrain, while Fernando Alonso finished third for his first podium with new team Aston Martin.

Max Verstappen sent an ominous warning to his rivals as he cruised to win the season opener in Bahrain, while Fernando Alonso finished third for his first podium with new team Aston Martin.

Verstappen got an excellent getaway and, while Leclerc passed Perez with a fine start of his own, the Dutchman eased away from his rival of last year by almost a second a lap in the opening stages.

He stopped on Lap 15 to cover off Leclerc and again on Lap 37, those being the only times he relented his lead through different strategies with his team-mate, who also had much better pace than the Ferraris.

Perez patiently waited behind Leclerc before pouncing on the Ferrari before the halfway stage. He finished 12 seconds off a truly dominant Verstappen.

Sergio Perez surged past Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to make it a Red Bull one-two after 26 laps in Bahrain.

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Sergio Perez surged past Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc to make it a Red Bull one-two after 26 laps in Bahrain.

Sergio Perez surged past Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc to make it a Red Bull one-two after 26 laps in Bahrain.

“We can definitely fight with this and also a big thank you to the team again for what they have done over the winter to have a quick race car again,” said Verstappen, who took a maiden Bahrain victory.

The star of the opener, though, was none other than a certain 41-year-old.

Alonso, debuting for his fifth team in F1, was rapid at Sakhir, bouncing back from dropping two places on the opening lap in style.

Mercedes capitalised to get ahead of Aston Martin after Alonso and Stroll’s first-lap scuffles but the double world champion got ahead of Russell on Lap 13, and then superbly hunted down Hamilton.

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso climbed to fifth after a fantastic tussle with Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton.

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Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso climbed to fifth after a fantastic tussle with Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton.

Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso climbed to fifth after a fantastic tussle with Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton.

The two F1 greats battled out over multiple thrilling laps, with Hamilton keeping Alonso at bay at first before the Aston Martin driver, in admittedly a better package right now, stunned his rival down the inside of the slow-speed Turn 10.

He then set after Sainz, who never stood a chance in a Ferrari that was haemorrhaging lap time due to tyre degradation.

Fernando Alonso made yet another overtake as the Aston Martin driver usurped fellow Spaniard Carlos Sainz for third.

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Fernando Alonso made yet another overtake as the Aston Martin driver usurped fellow Spaniard Carlos Sainz for third.

Fernando Alonso made yet another overtake as the Aston Martin driver usurped fellow Spaniard Carlos Sainz for third.

Again, it was a feisty battle – and there was a slight touch after a scrap through Turn Four – but Alonso again dazzled through the twisty middle sector before getting ahead of Sainz on the straight.

It sealed Alonso’s second podium from the last seven years, proving that he – at last – may have made a wise transfer decision.

More to follow.

What’s next?

The Formula 1 2023 season continues with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix from the sport’s fastest street track in Jeddah.

The action is all live on Sky Sports F1 from March 17-19, with Sunday’s race at 5pm.



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Aaron Rodgers: Tom Brady hopes Green Bay Packers quarterback doesn’t retire as he plans ‘darkness retreat’ break

Tom Brady on Super Bowl LVII: “I felt Jalen [Hurts] played incredible… Patrick [Mahomes] played really clutch when he had to. And it was a very fitting end to a great season. They played really one of the great games all season. It was really fun to watch”

Last Updated: 14/02/23 4:07pm


Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady embrace after playing against each other for the final time in a 14-12 win for Rodgers’ Packers this season

Tom Brady, the recently-retired seven-time Super Bowl winning quarterback, hopes Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers doesn’t join him in retirement any time soon, hailing the 39-year-old as “one of the greats”.

Rodgers is planning to embark on a four-day ‘darkness retreat’, this offseason, with the veteran quarterback telling The Pat McAfee Show that he hoped the excursion would help to provide clarity on his future, including retirement.

“It’s an opportunity to do a little self-reflection in some isolation and after that, I feel like I’ll be a lot closer to that final, final decision,” Rodgers said.

Rodgers discusses his future with the team after they failed to make the NFL playoffs with a loss to the Detroit Lions

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Rodgers discusses his future with the team after they failed to make the NFL playoffs with a loss to the Detroit Lions

Rodgers discusses his future with the team after they failed to make the NFL playoffs with a loss to the Detroit Lions

On the latest episode of his ‘Let’s Go!’ podcast, Brady said he hopes Rodgers decides to continue playing – be that in Green Bay or elsewhere.

“You know what, I hope he doesn’t retire,” Brady said. “I think the league needs good quarterbacks, and he’s one of the greats.

“If he retires, it’ll be a sad day for the league.”

Brady appears on the brink of tears after announcing he is retiring 'for good' on a video message to his fans

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Brady appears on the brink of tears after announcing he is retiring ‘for good’ on a video message to his fans

Brady appears on the brink of tears after announcing he is retiring ‘for good’ on a video message to his fans

As for Rodgers’ planned ‘darkness retreat’, Brady said: “Everyone has their different processes they go through. And you know what, I think we all need to get off our phone a little bit more. I think we all need to get away from the TV a little bit more.

“I think we all need a little more nature and a little more silence and a little more peace.

“And however he’s going about it, good for him. Everyone’s got their unique way to process the season. It’s very intense for all of us, and everyone gets to choose what they want to do.”

Sky Sports NFL presenter Neil Reynolds reflects on Tom Brady's NFL career, his highs and lows, and what is next for the seven-time Super Bowl winner.

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Sky Sports NFL presenter Neil Reynolds reflects on Tom Brady’s NFL career, his highs and lows, and what is next for the seven-time Super Bowl winner.

Sky Sports NFL presenter Neil Reynolds reflects on Tom Brady’s NFL career, his highs and lows, and what is next for the seven-time Super Bowl winner.

Rodgers is also currently subject to numerous trade rumours, with ESPN reporting on Sunday that the New York Jets have expressed an interest, and that the Packers are open to moving on from their 15-year starter.

Financial reasons are said to be the major reason behind a potential trade of Rodgers, with Green Bay projected to be $16m over next season’s salary cap. He is due $59.5m in guaranteed money in 2023 and $49.25m in 2024.

Rodgers told McAfee last month that he was “open to all honest and direct conversations” with the Packers. He added that a trade “wouldn’t offend me, and it wouldn’t make me feel like a victim”.

Highlights of the Green Bay Packers against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Week Three of the 2022 NFL season

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Highlights of the Green Bay Packers against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Week Three of the 2022 NFL season

Highlights of the Green Bay Packers against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from Week Three of the 2022 NFL season

Rodgers was named the NFL’s MVP in both 2020 and 2021, but he endured one of the worst seasons of his career in 2022, completing 64.6 per cent of his passes for 3,695 yards and 26 touchdowns, while tossing 12 interceptions (his highest mark since 2010).

Brady disputes that narrative, however. “Certainly from the standpoint of him leaving the game the way that he’s playing, he broke his thumb this year and still played tremendous,” he said. “And you could see as he got healthy throughout the year how incredibly talented he is.

“I hope the good players keep playing. That’s what my hope is. That’s what I tried to do.

“And now you hope that the next generation does that and I hope they have the tools necessary to do that.”

Highlights of the thrilling clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII

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Highlights of the thrilling clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII

Highlights of the thrilling clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII

Speaking of that next generation, Brady also offered his thoughts on Sunday’s epic Super Bowl LVII matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles which featured two of the best young quarterbacks in the game.

The 27-year-old Patrick Mahomes was named Super Bowl MVP for a second time as he defied an ankle injury to lead the Chiefs from behind to a 38-25 win. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts, appearing in his first Super Bowl aged 24, also put in a stellar performance, throwing for over 300 yards and a touchdown, while adding 70 yards and three scores on the ground.

The best plays from Patrick Mahomes' Super Bowl MVP performance, all on an injured ankle

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The best plays from Patrick Mahomes’ Super Bowl MVP performance, all on an injured ankle

The best plays from Patrick Mahomes’ Super Bowl MVP performance, all on an injured ankle

Jalen Hurts' best plays in a Super Bowl that saw him score four touchdowns, including three rushing touchdowns

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Jalen Hurts’ best plays in a Super Bowl that saw him score four touchdowns, including three rushing touchdowns

Jalen Hurts’ best plays in a Super Bowl that saw him score four touchdowns, including three rushing touchdowns

“I felt Jalen played incredible,” Brady said. “Patrick played really clutch when he had to. And it was a very fitting end to a great season.

“The two best teams throughout the course of the year were in the Super Bowl, and they played really one of the great games all season. So it was really fun to watch.”

He added: “I hope these other guys like Patrick can play a long time, and Jalen can play a long time. And Josh [Allen] and Joe Burrow, these tremendous players that bring so much.

“That’s why we watch – not because of the colour of the jerseys, because of the players in the jerseys.”



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St Helens: Will ‘The Fourmidables’ make it five Super League titles in a row in 2023?


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Relive how St Helens won a record fourth straight Super League title, as we look back at some key games from the season.

Relive how St Helens won a record fourth straight Super League title, as we look back at some key games from the season.

St Helens have been at the summit of Super League for over 1,000 days, with four Grand Final wins in a row making them the team to beat and, often, try to emulate.

While they head into the 28th Super League season once again as the favourites, Saints face some big changes as they aim for the feat of a record-extending five Grand Final triumphs in a row.

Ahead of the reigning champions’ trip to Australia to face St George Illawarra Dragons and then NRL kings Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge – both of which are live on Sky Sports – we take a look at what to expect from Saints in 2023…

A new man in charge: Club icon Wellens at the helm

The biggest change for St Helens this year comes at the top. Three-time champion coach Kristian Woolf has departed for pastures new in the NRL, with club icon Paul Wellens earning the chance to lead his hometown club. France head coach Laurent Fraysinnous takes up the role as his assistant, too.

Paul Wellens is immensely proud to replace Kristian Woolf as the new head coach of St Helens, and says 'the club is very close to my heart' after his promotion from assistant coach.

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Paul Wellens is immensely proud to replace Kristian Woolf as the new head coach of St Helens, and says ‘the club is very close to my heart’ after his promotion from assistant coach.

Paul Wellens is immensely proud to replace Kristian Woolf as the new head coach of St Helens, and says ‘the club is very close to my heart’ after his promotion from assistant coach.

Having made nearly 500 appearances for Saints, winning five Grand Finals, five Challenge Cups, two World Club Challenges, plus the Lance Todd Trophy, the Harry Sunderland Trophy, and a Man of Steel award, Wellens knows what it takes to win – and takes great pride in representing both club and town.

The 42-year-old has been in the Saints’ coaching set up since his retirement in 2015 working under both Justin Holbrook and Woolf as an assistant coach. Indeed, the latter touted Wellens as a “one of the best” coaches he has worked with – a sure sign the club believe they have a coach who could oversee a trophy-laden season once again.

A change of coach is never easy, but with Wellens having been so involved with the side already, St Helens will be confident their hometown boy can continue to keep them at the pinnacle of the sport – and the intrigue has already begun as to what style Wellens will have his side adopt.

Bringing the attacking flair to a steely defence

Woolf’s St Helens side renowned for its defensive steel, constantly making it an arduous task for opponents to cross the whitewash against the champions. Indeed, they conceded the fewest number of points of any team in each of the Australian’s three seasons in charge.

St Helens lift their fourth Grand Final trophy in a row after a 24-12 victory over Leeds Rhinos.

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St Helens lift their fourth Grand Final trophy in a row after a 24-12 victory over Leeds Rhinos.

St Helens lift their fourth Grand Final trophy in a row after a 24-12 victory over Leeds Rhinos.

While Wellens naturally wants to keep that dogged defence intact, he also wants to bring his “own ideas and philosophies” and wants the Saints to “play his way”. It should be noted Frayssinous enjoys an attacking style of rugby too.

As a player, Wellens had his best season in 2006 in Daniel Anderson’s incredibly creative side and it sounds like that is something he wants to bring into the fold, focusing on an “attractive style of rugby”.

If he can blend both those styles, St Helens would be an even more fearsome prospect, but to do so is a challenge for any head coach, especially one in his maiden year.

Wellens’ side face their first major test of the year on February 18 as they take on back-to-back NRL champions Penrith in the World Club Challenge and if they can show their strengths on the biggest stage, the Saints will lay down a marker to the rest of the competition once again and Wellens is ready for the challenge.

“The club and community have never been as connected as we are now,” Wellens said ahead of the trip to Australia, which includes a warm-up match against St George on February 11. “It is a huge challenge and obviously I am super proud to have the opportunity to coach this club.

“I am looking forward to what the challenge presents moving forward and there is no greater challenge than going down under and taking on back-to-back Premiers Penrith Panthers in their own back garden.

“But I am not doing it on my own. I am doing it with a fantastic group of players who work so hard and we take on that challenge together.”

Putting faith in the system

The one thing all the teams at the top of Super League have in common is their faith in their youth systems, and St Helens have been the leaders in bringing through young talent for decades.

With only a few signings in the off season, bringing in 2022 Betfred Championship leading try-scorer Tee Ritson from Barrow Raiders and South Sydney Rabbitohs back Wesley Bruines, St Helens have promoted more youngsters into their first team while remaining confident in the rest squad already at their disposal.

Jon Bennison goes over to extend St Helens' lead over the Leeds Rhinos in the Grand Final.

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Jon Bennison goes over to extend St Helens’ lead over the Leeds Rhinos in the Grand Final.

Jon Bennison goes over to extend St Helens’ lead over the Leeds Rhinos in the Grand Final.

Rising star Jon Bennison takes the No 5 shirt with the departure of winger Regan Grace to rugby union. The likes of Joey Lussick, Konrad Hurrell and Curtis Sironen will expected to take on bigger leadership roles as well.

Saints’ players have shown they can win on the biggest stage before, but one worry is that the Saints have not recruited enough.

St Helens CEO Mike Rush has always been confident in his recruitment plan, but if injuries plague the side, there could be a worrying period for Super League’s top team as they turn to their youngsters. They will retain faith in their system, but time will only tell if they reap the rewards yet again.

The return of Dodd

Although St Helens have been quiet on the recruitment front, they will be reinvigorated in 2023 by the return of Lewis Dodd to the halves after he missed most of the 2022 season with an ACL injury.

Before getting injured, Dodd was touted as a future England star and tipped for a place in the Rugby League World Cup squad. On his return, he will be aiming to once again find the form which saw him lead the team around the park in the 2021 Grand Final at just 19 years of age.

Jonny Lomax was so proud of his St Helens team after they claimed their fourth Grand Final in a row after victory over Leeds Rhinos.

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Jonny Lomax was so proud of his St Helens team after they claimed their fourth Grand Final in a row after victory over Leeds Rhinos.

Jonny Lomax was so proud of his St Helens team after they claimed their fourth Grand Final in a row after victory over Leeds Rhinos.

If he can rebuild his half-back partnership with Jonny Lomax, St Helens could be scintillating in attack and bring to life the style of play Wellens has in his mind.

Saints are expected to have a fully fit squad for the beginning of the season, with the likes of blockbusting prop Alex Walmsley also returning from a long injury. With refreshed star players at their disposal, they are well-placed to get off to a flying start.

St Helens face St George Illawarra Dragons on February 11 followed by Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge on February 18. Watch both games along with 66 live Betfred Super League matches, including Magic Weekend, the play-offs and the Grand Final, on Sky Sports in 2023 and stream on NOW TV.



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Six Nations 2023: Warren Gatland says Ireland opener ‘a free hit’ for Wales as ‘buzzing’ England prepare for debut under Steve Borthwick


Ireland prop Finlay Bealham, Wales head coach Warren Gatland and England prop Ellis Genge are just some of the names in the news this week…

We hear from all four camps ahead of Saturday’s Six Nations opening weekend, as Wales host Ireland in Cardiff and England face Scotland at Twickenham…

Gatland: Ireland clash a ‘free hit’ for us | Farrell: ‘No such thing in Test rugby’

Wales boss Warren Gatland has claimed Saturday’s Six Nations opener between Wales and Ireland at the Principality Stadium is a “free hit” for the hosts.

Marginal title favourites Ireland kick off their campaign against Wales, and arrive as the world-ranked No 1 team following a spell of sustained success that saw them claim a Test series triumph against the All Blacks in New Zealand, beat South Africa and Australia and also land a Six Nations Triple Crown.

Wales have claimed four successive Six Nations victories at Ireland’s expense on home soil, while the Gatland factor also cannot be ignored.

His second stint as Wales head coach begins just over three years after the first one ended. When he last held the post between 2008 and 2019, Wales won four Six Nations titles, three Grand Slams and reached two World Cup semi-finals.

“I suppose the free hit for us is that the expectation and pressure is on them (Ireland) to win as favourites,” Gatland added.

“It hasn’t always been the easiest tag for Irish and Welsh teams in the past to carry going in as the favourites.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland says the past week has been 'a challenge', but insists focus for the players is wholly on their Six Nations opener against Ireland

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Wales head coach Warren Gatland says the past week has been ‘a challenge’, but insists focus for the players is wholly on their Six Nations opener against Ireland

Wales head coach Warren Gatland says the past week has been ‘a challenge’, but insists focus for the players is wholly on their Six Nations opener against Ireland

“You can get an upset because there is a huge amount of history and rivalry between those two nations and there has been a lot of close games.

“The secret, and I am sure Andy will be talking about this, is that you don’t run away from that, you look to embrace the expectations of being the No 1 team in the world.

“That is definitely the attitude I would be taking if I was in the Ireland camp. I’ve had that experience in the past with Wales, having to handle the favourites’ tag.

“There were probably one or two games in the autumn when they (Ireland) were under a little bit of pressure and they could have lost or it could have gone the other way, but they knew how to close the game down and manage it.

“We had that experience in 2018 and 2019 with Wales. We went through 14 matches unbeaten, and the thing about that is you’ve got a team that has composure, takes their moment and is able to manage games.

“That is probably the Irish team at the moment.”

The Welsh Rugby Union's acting chief executive, Nigel Walker admitted the organisation had been in denial, despite the warning signs, after allegations of sexism, misogyny and a toxic culture at the organisation were revealed

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The Welsh Rugby Union’s acting chief executive, Nigel Walker admitted the organisation had been in denial, despite the warning signs, after allegations of sexism, misogyny and a toxic culture at the organisation were revealed

The Welsh Rugby Union’s acting chief executive, Nigel Walker admitted the organisation had been in denial, despite the warning signs, after allegations of sexism, misogyny and a toxic culture at the organisation were revealed

Welsh Rugby Union chairman Ieuan Evans has vowed that an external taskforce will be established to help tackle the recent discrimination allegations

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Welsh Rugby Union chairman Ieuan Evans has vowed that an external taskforce will be established to help tackle the recent discrimination allegations

Welsh Rugby Union chairman Ieuan Evans has vowed that an external taskforce will be established to help tackle the recent discrimination allegations

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has backed “massive personality” Finlay Bealham to fill the void left by star prop Tadhg Furlong.

Australia-born Bealham will make his full debut in the championship at the age of 31 by deputising at tighthead on the back of some standout displays for Connacht and a series of impressive Test outings from the bench.

Farrell is hopeful Furlong (calf) will be back in contention for next week’s Round 2 clash with France but has full faith in his understudy, who has won 23 of his 27 international caps as a replacement.

“He’s not quite ready,” Farrell said of Furlong. “In fact, he’s progressing pretty well but he’s not quite there yet.

“He could possibly be there in the next few days or week or whatever, but we just think that Finlay deserves it as well.

Key man Tadhg Furlong (calf) has been ruled out injured for Ireland's opening Six Nations clash vs Wales in Cardiff

Key man Tadhg Furlong (calf) has been ruled out injured for Ireland’s opening Six Nations clash vs Wales in Cardiff

“He’s playing some outstanding rugby at this moment in time. The last game he played, he scored a hat-trick, he’s scrummaging very well, so he deserves a start.

“Tadhg will keep working away to hopefully be fit for the French game.

“Coming back from the autumn, or any camp he’s been in with us, he (Bealham) has had that trust.

“He’s a massive personality within our squad, he’s very popular, but coming out of the autumn and how that translates, going back to Connacht and his performances since then has been top-drawer.”

Connacht tighthead Finlay Bealham is the man to come in for Furlong, and head coach Andy Farrell says he deserves his place

Connacht tighthead Finlay Bealham is the man to come in for Furlong, and head coach Andy Farrell says he deserves his place

Farrell is happy the Principality Stadium roof will be closed for the encounter as he is eager for his in-form team to handle the loudest possible atmosphere.

However, the Englishman laughed off claims from rival Gatland that the clash is a “free hit” for Wales due to Ireland’s position at the top of the world rankings.

Farrell said: “A free shot in Test match rugby? Where do you get them from?

“We’d love to be able to buy one of those. Maybe I’ll buy him a free shot after the game.

Ireland boss Farrell says there is an extra layer of spice to the Six Nations this year

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Ireland boss Farrell says there is an extra layer of spice to the Six Nations this year

Ireland boss Farrell says there is an extra layer of spice to the Six Nations this year

“But there’s absolutely no doubt that Warren will expect his side to win…and so do I. I expect our side to win.

“His past record shows what he’s about in this competition. Finding a way to win has always been key to those teams, and we’re very aware of that.”

Wales: 15 Liam Williams, 14 Josh Adams, 13 George North, 12 Joe Hawkins, 11 Rio Dyer, 10 Dan Biggar, 9 Tomos Williams; 1 Gareth Thomas, 2 Ken Owens (c), 3 Tomas Francis, 4 Adam Beard, 5 Alun Wyn Jones, 6 Jac Morgan, 7 Justin Tipuric, 8 Taulupe Faletau

Replacements: 16 Scott Baldwin, 17 Rhys Carre, 18 Dillon Lewis, 19 Dafydd Jenkins, 20 Tommy Reffell, 21 Rhys Webb, 22 Owen Williams, 23 Alex Cuthbert

Ireland: 15 Hugo Keenan, 14 Mack Hansen, 13 Garry Ringrose, 12 Stuart McCloskey, 11 James Lowe, 10 Johnny Sexon, 9 Jamison Gibson-Park; 1 Andrew Porter, 2 Dan Sheehan, 3 Finlay Bealham, 4 Tadhg Beirne, 5 James Ryan, 6 Peter O’Mahony, 7 Josh van der Flier, 8 Caelan Doris.

Replacements: 16 Rob Herring, 17 Cian Healy, 18 Tom O’Toole, 19 Iain Henderson, 20 Jack Conan, 21 Conor Murray, 22 Ross Byrne, 23 Bundee Aki.

Genge: Buzzing England squad excited under Borthwick | Gray keen to seize Six Nations chance: ‘Previous results vs England give us belief’

England prop Ellis Genge says he is “buzzing” to be back working alongside Steve Borthwick – but has vowed to “kick on and create something new” ahead of his country’s Six Nations opener against Scotland.

Under Borthwick’s tutelage at Leicester, Genge, 27, skippered the Tigers to last season’s Premiership title – nine years after they were last crowned kings of the English domestic game.

Borthwick transformed Leicester’s fortunes in just two seasons as head coach and he has now been tasked with reversing England’s slump following the dismissal of Eddie Jones.

Kevin Sinfield followed Borthwick from Leicester as defence coach, while Tigers tighthead Dan Cole, 35, is back in the England set-up after three years away.

New England head coach Steve Borthwick says he is as excited as the supporters for the Calcutta Cup match against Scotland

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New England head coach Steve Borthwick says he is as excited as the supporters for the Calcutta Cup match against Scotland

New England head coach Steve Borthwick says he is as excited as the supporters for the Calcutta Cup match against Scotland

“I probably did think that I wouldn’t be coached by him again, so I’m buzzing to be working back with Steve and Kev,” said Genge, who moved to his home-town club Bristol following Leicester’s championship triumph.

“But what’s unspoken is that we don’t want to rekindle that Leicester relationship. We want to kick on and create something new.

“We haven’t been speaking about the good old days, even though it was only last year. We’ve been trying to kick on and master what we’re trying to do here.”

Genge, capped 43 times by England, having made his debut in 2016, added: “When he (Borthwick) was captain for England, it probably didn’t end the way he wanted it to end.

“He spoke really well in the meeting the other day. When you hear a coach who has been in that role, numerous times, and ended up captain and then having it taken away from him, you know he really understands.

England loosehead Ellis Genge lauded praise on new head coach Borthwick and the start he has made to the job

England loosehead Ellis Genge lauded praise on new head coach Borthwick and the start he has made to the job

“A lot of coaches always say you’ve got to be better at this, got to be better at that. And Steve does that, but he looks at your super strength and says, ‘That is what I want you to be incredible at’.

“He doesn’t shout, he doesn’t bawl, he’s not one of those that’s going to hang you out to dry in front of people. Don’t get me wrong, he will do if he needs to. But most of the time he speaks calmly and he knows what he’s trying to get across and he makes a very good point of doing that.”

England second row Maro Itoje says Borthwick has made it clear that every player in the squad must fight for their shirt

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England second row Maro Itoje says Borthwick has made it clear that every player in the squad must fight for their shirt

England second row Maro Itoje says Borthwick has made it clear that every player in the squad must fight for their shirt

England will be back in front of the Twickenham crowd for the first time since they suffered a humbling 27-13 defeat to South Africa in November – Jones’ last match in charge.

Genge concluded: “I don’t think we’re a desperate team but we are extremely keen.

“Eddie is an absolutely world-class coach. Rightly or wrongly, the regime has been changed. Whether or not it was on the back of that performance against South Africa, I can’t speak on that.

“But what I can tell you is that we’ve had a great week’s preparation, and we’re excited to move forward.”

Borthwick has called on his players to keep fighting for their places and does not close the door on the possible inclusion of Manu Tuilagi in the future

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Borthwick has called on his players to keep fighting for their places and does not close the door on the possible inclusion of Manu Tuilagi in the future

Borthwick has called on his players to keep fighting for their places and does not close the door on the possible inclusion of Manu Tuilagi in the future

On the Scotland side, Richie Gray is relishing this year’s Six Nations as he admits there were times in recent seasons when he wondered if he would get to play in the tournament again.

The 33-year-old Glasgow lock has won 69 caps but has been on the periphery of the national team for much of Gregor Townsend’s five-and-a-half-year reign.

Gray has made only three Six Nations appearances under the current head coach, with the last of those coming at home to Wales in February 2021.

However, after making a positive impression following a surprise recall to the squad for the recent autumn Tests, he is in line to start Saturday’s Calcutta Cup match.

“Yeah, probably,” he said, when asked if he thought occasions such as this weekend’s Twickenham showdown were in the past for him. “For two years, maybe more than that, I wasn’t really getting in.

Scotland lock Richie Gray says he thought his Six Nations days might be over, adding there is belief they can beat England again

Scotland lock Richie Gray says he thought his Six Nations days might be over, adding there is belief they can beat England again

“With the strength and depth across the second row, it’s an area we’re really strong at, so there were a few moments when you go, ‘I might struggle to get back in here’.

“From that perspective, I’m very fortunate to be back here. I’m making the most of my time and enjoying it as much as I can as I’m very aware how quickly it can all pass by.”

Gray was among the substitutes two years ago when Scotland won at Twickenham for the first time since 1983.

Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has backed Luke Crosbie to bring his Edinburgh form to the national team in Saturday's Six Nations opener against England

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Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has backed Luke Crosbie to bring his Edinburgh form to the national team in Saturday’s Six Nations opener against England

Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has backed Luke Crosbie to bring his Edinburgh form to the national team in Saturday’s Six Nations opener against England

Townsend’s team have claimed the Calcutta Cup in four of the last five years and Gray feels they can draw confidence from memories of 2021 as they bid to ensure Borthwick gets off to a losing start.

“In 2021 we won down there, albeit in very different circumstances with no crowd, but we take belief from that,” he said. “Recent results against England have been favourable, but we’re under no illusions as to how big the challenge is.

“They’re under new management so will have a point to prove. They’ll also be hurting from the autumn and will come out all guns blazing, so we’ll need to match them.

“They’ve got quality across the board. If you look at Borthwick and how he played at Leicester with that traditional strong English pack who want to take you on up front. We’re aware of that as a pack of forwards, it will be a challenge. But one I hope and believe we can match.

“That’s the challenge, to do it when there are 80,000 getting behind their team. How do we react under that pressure? But I certainly believe we can.”

England: 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Max Malins, 13 Joe Marchant, 12 Owen Farrell, 11 Ollie Hassell-Collins, 10 Marcus Smith, 9 Jack van Poortvliet; 1 Ellis Genge, 2 Jamie George, 3 Kyle Sinckler, 4 Ollie Chessum, 5 Maro Itoje, 6 Lewis Ludlam, 7 Ben Curry, 8 Alex Dombrandt

Replacements: 16 Jack Walker, 17 Mako Vunipola, 18 Dan Cole, 19 Nick Isiekwe, 20 Ben Earl, 21 Ben Youngs, 22 Ollie Lawrence, 23 Anthony Watson.

Scotland: 15 Stuart Hogg, 14 Kyle Steyn, 13 Huw Jones, 12 Sione Tuipulotu, 11 Duhan van der Merwe, 10 Finn Russell, 9 Ben White; 1 Pierre Schoeman, 2 George Turner, 3 WP Nel, 4 Richie Gray, 5 Grant Gilchrist, 6 Jamie Ritchie (c), 7 Luke Crosbie, 8 Matt Fagerson

Replacements: 16 Fraser Brown, 17 Jamie Bhatti, 18 Simon Berghan, 19 Jonny Gray, 20 Jack Dempsey, 21 George Horne, 22 Blair Kinghorn, 23 Chris Harris



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