'The players will decide' - where next for rugby's civil war?

Rob Baxter, the director of rugby for Exeter, has raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposed R360 rebel league on English club rugby. He believes that if this league goes ahead, it could significantly undermine the Premiership by diverting top talent like the newly signed Australian centre Len Ikitau away from the league. This situation highlights the urgent need for the Premiership to enhance its appeal and retain its best players to ensure its survival and competitiveness.

Len Ikitau has made it clear that he values his opportunity to represent Australia at the 2027 World Cup over joining the rebel R360 competition. This decision highlights his commitment to national pride and the significance of competing on the world stage, which resonates with fans and aspiring athletes alike.

In an interesting turn of events, 14 players from Manchester City's first-team squad have been called up for international duty this October, while 12 others have been left out. This selection highlights the depth of talent within the team and the importance of international matches in showcasing players on a global stage. It also raises questions about the impact of these commitments on the club's performance in upcoming fixtures.

The rebel R360 rugby league is facing significant challenges after major unions announced that players who join the league will be ineligible for national teams. This decision has left senior figures in the rugby community believing that the league is effectively dead unless it can negotiate terms with the top rugby nations. The lack of sanctioning from World Rugby further complicates the situation, highlighting the difficulties the league faces in gaining legitimacy and support from the broader rugby world.

Rugby star Ilona Maher has been honored with her own Barbie doll, a move that aims to reshape beauty standards for young girls. Maher expressed her hope that when girls play with the doll, they will see her broad shoulders and strong arms, which can influence their perceptions of beauty. This initiative not only celebrates Maher's achievements in sports but also promotes a more inclusive representation of beauty, encouraging girls to embrace their strength and individuality.

Mattel is launching an Ilona Maher Barbie as part of a new initiative aimed at encouraging girls to stay involved in sports. By collaborating with international rugby stars, this campaign highlights the importance of female representation in athletics and aims to inspire young girls to pursue their passions in sports. This effort not only promotes physical activity but also empowers girls to break barriers and challenge stereotypes in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Mattel is launching an Ilona Maher Barbie as part of a new initiative aimed at encouraging girls to stay involved in sports. This collaboration with international rugby stars highlights the importance of female representation in athletics and aims to inspire young girls to pursue their passions in sports, fostering a sense of empowerment and community.

U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher has made headlines as one of four rugby players featured in Mattel's latest campaign, which aims to inspire young girls. This initiative not only celebrates Maher's achievements in sports but also promotes female empowerment and representation in traditionally male-dominated fields. By creating a Barbie doll modeled after Maher, Mattel is sending a powerful message that girls can aspire to be athletes and break barriers, making this a significant moment for both the sport and young fans.

In a significant move, England and seven other major rugby nations have announced a ban on players who join the controversial R360 league. This decision, which includes countries like Ireland, Scotland, and France, aims to protect the integrity of international rugby by ensuring that those who participate in the rebel league will not be eligible for international matches. This matters because it highlights the ongoing tensions within the sport and the efforts of traditional unions to maintain control over their players amidst rising competition from alternative leagues.

The International Rugby Players Association is cautioning players against rushing into lucrative deals with the start-up competition R360. This warning highlights the potential risks involved in such agreements, urging athletes to consider the long-term implications on their careers and finances. As the sports landscape evolves with new opportunities, it's crucial for players to make informed decisions that prioritize their well-being.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are celebrating their advancement to the NLCS after a thrilling series against the Philadelphia Phillies, with rookie pitcher Roki Sasaki playing a pivotal role. His outstanding performance in the NLDS not only showcased his talent but also resonated with fans worldwide through a heartfelt postgame message. This moment is significant as it highlights the impact of young players in high-stakes games and brings excitement to the postseason.

Natalia Bryant has made her debut as a creative director, paying tribute to her late father, Kobe Bryant, through a short film titled 'Forever Iconic: Purple and Gold Around the World.' This project showcases her talent and honors her father's legacy, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the creative team involved. It's a significant moment not just for Natalia but also for fans of Kobe, as it brings together creativity and remembrance in a heartfelt way.

In an exciting game at MetLife Stadium, New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart showcased his skills against the Philadelphia Eagles, scoring a rushing touchdown and connecting with Wan'Dale Robinson for another. The highlight of the night was a humorous moment when Dart high-fived a referee during a touchdown celebration. This performance not only boosts Dart's confidence but also energizes the Giants' fanbase, making it a memorable evening for everyone involved.

During the Thursday Night Football game between the Eagles and Giants, Al Michaels mistakenly referred to a trade involving Saquon Barkley multiple times. While such slip-ups can happen in live broadcasting, they highlight the pressure commentators face and the importance of accuracy in sports reporting. Fans and analysts alike took notice, sparking discussions on social media about the role of commentators in shaping narratives around players and teams.

The Philadelphia Phillies faced a heartbreaking end to their 2025 season after a critical throwing error by Orion Kerkering allowed the Los Angeles Dodgers to score the winning run in the NLDS. This moment not only sealed the Phillies' fate but also sparked intense criticism towards Kerkering, highlighting the pressure players face in high-stakes situations. The game had seen a strong performance from Kyle Schwarber, who helped the team avoid elimination in Game 3, making the loss even more painful for fans and players alike.

The Savannah Bananas are bringing their unique brand of baseball entertainment to Gillette Stadium, and fans couldn't be more excited! This tour promises to deliver a fun-filled experience, blending sports with entertainment in a way that only the Bananas can. It's a great opportunity for local fans to enjoy a lively event and create lasting memories.