Cardiff Blues director of rugby Dai Young and Leinster coach Alan Gaffney have welcomed the introduction of the end-of-season play-offs in the Magners League.

Phil Pask - a key member of England's support staff for three World Cup campaigns - has landed a Twickenham return.

Edinburgh coach Andy Robinson has revealed his delight at the number of Scottish players in his squad.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Leicester Tigers may have claimed a pre-season win over the Ospreys but they couldn't spoil the party atmosphere as Shane Williams kicked off his testimonial season at the Liberty Stadium.