Here are the latest rugby headlines on Wednesday, February 26.
O'Driscoll seriously impressed by Wales
Ireland legend Brian O'Driscoll has praised Matt Sherratt's new-look Wales team, claiming they caused Ireland more problems than any other side since 2023.
Wales were transformed in Cardiff under their interim coach, scoring two tries and coming close to a few more as they released the shackles amid a raucous atmosphere.
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O'Driscoll was seriously impressed with what he saw and says Wales were the most dangerous side Ireland have faced since New Zealand at the Rugby World Cup.
He told Off the Ball: "They stressed us more than any team has since the World Cup, I would say. It's a very difficult place to go and play - loud, a great atmosphere, my favourite stadium to play in.
"It's an amazing atmosphere and creates and extra aspect. They were more confident, had released the shackles. For Ireland to grind their way through that shouldn't be underestimated. It's a tough place to go and play. That team was obviously unrecognisable from the two performances before that and a lot more before that.
"They stretched us so much. New Zealand got us a few times in November but so many times lads were biting in because they had to respect the short runner. That's so unlike us and that is testament to that Welsh attack. They had us in trouble a number of times."
Townsend's future on line
Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has been warned his future is on the line ahead of Wales' visit in the next round of the Six Nations.
The Scots have failed to deliver again despite having the most talented quad for a generation, losing to both Ireland and England to end their Championship hopes.
Townsend's contract runs until 2026, but a shock defeat to resurgent Wales in Edinburgh would put him in big trouble, according to pundits as many fans call for change. Glasgow Warriors coach Franco Smith, who is on the WRU's shortlist to replace Warren Gatland, would likely come into contention if Townsend were to leave.
BBC rugby pundit Tom English said: "Let's see how they got on against Wales and France. If they lose both of those games we might be having a conversation about whether the Gregor Townsend era has run its course. But those conversations are happening (already) for sure among the rugby public.
"This is his eighth Six Nations Championship and if it finishes with one win, that is not a great look is it. You can't talk about progress, even if there are injuries, if that happens. That could be a tricky moment for him. If Wales come and win, Townsend could be in trouble I think."
Centre Huw Jones admits the Wales game is a must win.
"We’re gutted about the result against England. We are really proud of the performance because we scored three tries and did enough to win. It’s just disappointing.
"But yeah, that Wales game is obviously now huge. Two games to go, and I think if we can play well, like we did at Twickenham, then we’ve got a chance of salvaging something.
"I’m not going to lie, it is really frustrating to be talking about having to salvage something again. We’ve got a week off to regroup, and then a big two weeks after that. But yeah, it’s two losses on the bounce. It’s tough, but we can still get something out of this competition."
Dragons star signs new deal
Dragons centre Aneurin Owen has signed a new long-term deal to stay at the Welsh club,
The academy product is currently captain of the region and has become a key man since making his debut in 2020.
Head coach Filo Tiatia praised the 24-year-old after he committed his future, saying: "Aneurin is a real servant to those around him and someone who leads by action.
"He is undoubtedly starting to really inspire the players around him with the way he performs as a young captain."
Owen said: "We have the right people with an exciting number of academy players coming through to start pushing on [and] become more successful," he said.
"It's been a big season with the honour of captaining the side in recent weeks and I'm excited about continuing to get better and develop my game at my club."
