Scotland and Lions star set to be Gregor Townsend's first signing at Newcastle Red Bulls

Friday, 31 October 2025 at 21:50

byRugby Rucker

— he still struggles to deliver more than half a game of consistent impact.

Sir Clive Woodward has taken a swipe at Gregor Townsend over his controversial new role with Red Bull, warning the Scotland boss to focus on his “day job”.

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Townsend has joined Red Bull in a part-time consultancy role, helping to shape their long-term rugby strategy.

At present, Newcastle Red Bulls are the only professional club in Red Bull’s rugby portfolio – sparking suggestions Townsend could have a hand in their rebuild.

The move came just weeks after he signed a new deal to remain Scotland head coach through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Townsend insists he won’t be involved in recruitment decisions, but Daily Mail Sport reports that Newcastle are pressing ahead with plans to sign Scotland scrum-half Ben White — potentially the first big addition under the Red Bull umbrella.

Newcastle target Scotland No.9

White, 26, has become one of Townsend’s most trusted players since making his Scotland debut in 2022.

The London-born No.9 qualifies through his Scottish grandfather and has gone on to win over 25 international caps, earning a reputation for his sharp service, kicking game, and leadership.

After stints with Leicester Tigers, London Irish, and Toulon, the playmaker is now attracting serious interest from both Newcastle and Edinburgh.

Woodward delivers stinging verdict

Speaking exclusively to Daily Mail Sport, England’s 2003 World Cup-winning boss didn’t mince his words.

“Scotland still haven’t won anything with their golden generation of players and the worry I have for them is the next cohort doesn’t look anywhere near as talented,” said Woodward.

“Scotland have struggled at Under-20 level in recent years and that doesn’t bode well.

Gregor Townsend is under pressure after agreeing to work for Red Bull alongside his current role with Scotland. He’d have been better off concentrating on his day job.”

Pressure mounting?

With Newcastle desperate to climb the Premiership table and Red Bull aiming to make their mark in rugby, Townsend’s dual role is sure to attract plenty of attention.

If Ben White does make the move north, it could mark the first major signing of the Red Bull era — and all eyes will be on Townsend to see just how hands-on he really is.

One England and five Springboks selected in 2025 Rugby World XV

The Autumn Internationals kick off this weekend, and attention has quickly turned to the announcement of the 2025 Rugby World XV — a selection that has sparked plenty of debate across the rugby world.

The British & Irish Lions may have returned from Australia with a 2–1 series victory, but their success hasn’t translated into widespread recognition in the 2025 Rugby World XV.

Despite Maro Itoje leading the side to glory as captain, only four Lions make the cut — evidence that while the tour was successful on the scoreboard, it didn’t necessarily produce a team packed with the form players of world rugby.

South Africa, fresh from winning the Rugby Championship, and New Zealand dominate the 2025 Rugby World XV, with France and Italy also making strong contributions.

2025 World XV

1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)

The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)

Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.

3. Wilco Louw (South Africa— Tight-head Prop)

It was always destined to be a man in green, and we reckon ‘Quadzilla’ just edged out his teammate Thomas du Toit. Taniela Tupou can be electric on his day, but the key words are on his day

4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)

A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.

5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)

Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.

6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)

A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.

7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)

Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.

8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)

A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.

9. Antoine Dupont (France — Scrum-Half)

The heartbeat of French rugby, Dupont combines lightning quick service with unmatched running threat from No. 9. Even after injury setbacks, he remains the gold standard for modern scrum-halves.

10. Finn Russell (Scotland — Fly-Half)

Russell continues to redefine playmaking at fly-half—pulling the strings with vision, audacious kicks, and pinpoint passing. His composure under pressure has made him one of the most feared playmakers in the game.

11. Damien Penaud (France — Wing)

Penaud is a finisher supreme, with a try-scoring record that rivals anyone in the world game. Blessed with pace, footwork, and instincts, he can turn half-chances into match-winners.

12. Tommaso Menoncello (Italy — Inside Centre)

Italy’s rising star has the power to break the gain line and the finesse to release his outside backs. His emergence has been a major factor in Italy’s growing competitiveness on the international stage.

13. Jordie Barrett (New Zealand — Centre)

Tall, skilful, and physically imposing, Barrett offers stability in defence and creativity in attack. His kicking game and vision add an extra dimension to the midfield.

14. Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa — Wing)

Still one of the most electrifying players in rugby, Kolbe’s footwork and acceleration can dismantle any defensive line. A proven match-winner in the biggest games.

15. Juan Cruz Mallia (Argentina)

Most metres made, third-most defenders beaten, third-most offloads, and just one aerial spill from 29 takes during the Rugby Championship — Juan Cruz Mallia was immense. As vital for Los Pumas as he is for Stade Toulousain, the Argentine fullback remains one of world rugby’s most underrated stars.

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