Seven Saints played for their respective countries in the first round of World Cup Group games over the weekend.
England
Alex Walmsley made his debut in England’s 29-10 win over the Lebanon. The forward had been ruled out of the opener with Australia due to a virus which saw him being placed on a drip. James Roby was rested for the match whilst Jonny Lomax missed out through injury. Mark Percival still waits his introduction to the tournament.
Wales
Morgan Knowles scored a try in Wales’ disappointing 72-6 loss to Fiji. Regan Grace also played in the defeat that ends Welsh hopes of progression.
Scotland
The Bravehearts still have a chance of progressing in the World Cup, but they will have to beat Samoa this weekend. They suffered a 74-6 loss to New Zealand at the weekend. Luke Douglas appeared in the game and was the Scots’ top tackler.
France
Like Scotland, Theo Fages’ France have a chance of qualifying if they beat England, and Australia defeat the Lebanon this weekend. Even then, points’ difference is more than likely to see them miss out. Fages captained the French in their 52-6 loss to the hosts.
Ireland
Kyle Amor and Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook continued their excellent World Cup performances in Ireland’s narrow 14-6 loss to PNG. They will have to beat Wales by a significant margin and hope PNG slip up against the winless USA to progress. Even then, points’ difference is likely to keep them out of the quarter finals.
