Your weekly roundup of rugby news that has touched the Guinness PRO14. IN THE NEWS Former Ulster fly-half Christian Lealiifano has completed a dream return to rugby’s greatest stage, just three years after being diagnosed with leukaemia. The 31-year-old has been named in Michael Cheika’s 34-man squad for Australia’s Rugby Championship opener against South Africa in Johannesburg on July 20, having last played for the Wallabies in June 2016. The inclusion of Lealiifano represents an incredible comeback for the Brumbies skipper, who joined the Ulstermen on a five-month loan deal in August 2017, just six months after entering remission. Read more Benetton’s cancer survivor Nasi Manu has been called up to the Tonga squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup. The No.8 was diagnosed with testicular cancer at the end of last year forcing him to miss the entire Guinness PRO14 season but after successful chemotherapy treatment, he is in line to make a miraculous return to rugby. Manu lifted the Super Rugby trophy with the Highlanders before making his move to the Guinness PRO14 with Edinburgh back in 2015. PLAYER MOVEMENT Combative back row Nic Cudd has agreed a new contract at Dragons. Fan favourite Cudd, who has made 130 appearances for the region since his debut in 2012, has put pen to paper on a new one-year deal to continue his successful association with the region. The 30-year-old will also be part of the Academy coaching set-up as he continues his recovery from a knee injury sustained last season. Scarlets have signed former Wales international wing Tom James on a two-year contract. The 32-year-old will link up with the squad next week, continuing an impressive career in professional rugby. James played 163 games for Cardiff Blues in two spells that spanned 11 seasons. He also had two years with Exeter Chiefs in the English Premiership. A powerful, pacy runner, he was capped 12 times for Wales, making his last Test appearance against Scotland in the 2016 Six Nations. EDDISON EDITION Los Jaguares, the Argentine franchise in Super Rugby, have made history by reaching their first-ever final, away to the Crusaders in Christchurch this weekend.That has not been without controversy, with the sight of a quasi-international side playing and now beating provincial sides, being questioned by some. What is certain, is that the team have hit form at just the right moment. Read more
