Danny Cipriani announced a new era by inspiring England to a deserved RBS 6 Nations victory over Ireland at Twickenham.

Andrea Marcato's last-minute drop goal handed Scotland their fourth defeat in this year's RBS 6 Nations - but Frank Hadden's men avoided a second successive wooden spoon by the skin of their teeth.

Just five months after crashing out of the World Cup, Wales sit on the brink of the RBS 6 Nations title and a second Grand Slam in four seasons.

It was a popular pre-tournament tip to be this season's RBS 6 Nations title decider - but England and Ireland are playing only for pride at Twickenham on Saturday.

Italy and Scotland go head to head in Saturday's RBS 6 Nations wooden-spoon decider in Rome.

Paul Stridgeon has been appointed to the England management team as national fitness coach.

Bath Rugby has received a timely boost ahead of the new season with the announcement that scrum-half Michael Claassens has pledged his future to the club, by renewing his contract for another two years.

Former Wales captain David Pickering has been elected chairman of the RBS 6 Nations.

The RBS 6 Nations fixture schedule 2009 has been announced, with matches taking place between Saturday February 7 and Saturday March 21.

The RBS 6 Nations fixture schedule 2009 has been announced, with matches taking place between Saturday February 7 and Saturday March 21.

Full-back Rory Lamont has been ruled out of Scotland's final RBS 6 Nations clash against Italy after breaking a bone in his face in the victory over England.

Michael Bradley has made 11 changes as well as four positional switches to his Connacht side ahead of their final pre-season friendly against Queensland Reds at the Sportsground this evening.

Leinster have appointed second row Leo Cullen captain, replacing Ireland skipper Brian O'Driscoll who has decided to step down.

Glasgow head coach Sean Lineen praised the performance of his young players despite the defeat to Bristol in the Warriors' only pre-season game at Firhill.

New Edinburgh winger Marc Teague thanked head coach Andy Robinson for putting his faith in Scottish players as he prepared to take his first steps as a professional.

Ospreys centre Andrew Bishop has signed a new four-year contract with the Welsh region.

Discussions over staging a revamped Anglo-Welsh cup competition in time for the 2009-10 season are under way.