RFU unveils new Guinness Premiership drug policy

GUINNESS Premiership players caught taking drugs will escape with a fine and be given anonymity from next year.

But they will be disciplined and have their names made public if they fail two tests within 18 months, according to the Daily Mail.

The Rugby Football Union is introducing the measures as part of a crackdown on the use of illegal substances in England’s domestic competition.

It follows a drug scandal at Bath led to four players being suspended and another – former Australian international Justin Harrison – being given his marching orders. CLICK HERE to read more.

England confirm five-match tour of Australia and NZ

ENGLAND has confirmed it will play five matches Down Under in June as part of their preparations for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

According to The Telegraph, the Martin Johnson-coached side will play the Wallabies in Perth and Sydney, as well as two midweek games against the Western Force and Australia A prior to the first and second tests respectively.

The tour – which will be the 2003 Rugby World Cup winner’s longest since the trek to South Africa in 2000 – will conclude with a match against the New Zealand Maoris in Auckland. CLICK HERE to read more.