Japan Tests to be shown on delay

RTÉ television will show full, deferred coverage of Ireland's two Test matches on their tour to Japan. The national network was considering screening the games live, but the 2pm kick-off time locally would mean a 6am start in Ireland.

The station felt they would get a bigger audience if they were to show delayed coverage in the late morning.

Ireland play the first Test on Sunday, June 12th, in Osaka and seven days later conclude their short tour with a second Test in Tokyo.

It's likely RTÉ will screen the matches in programmes starting at midday and running prior to The Sunday Game on RTÉ 2. The Ireland squad head for Japan this Saturday.

Meanwhile, Jeremy Staunton, released by Harlequins at the end of the season just gone, looks likely to announce a deal with London Wasps.

Leinster have confirmed assistant coaches Gerry Murphy and Roly Meates will be part of the new set-up that includes incoming coach Michael Cheika and his assistant, David Knox.

Bobby Byrne has confirmed his return to teaching in Gonzaga, while last year's manager Paul McNaughton will operate under the new title of director of rugby.