The latest rugby news and headlines from Wales and beyondWarren Gatland is not heading to Japan(Image: Peñarol Press)

Here are your rugby evening headlines for Tuesday, August 26.

Springbok breaks silence after ‘adverse’ drug test

South Africa prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has broken his silence after he was stood down from international duty following an “adverse analytical finding” during random drug testing.

The Springboks confirmed earlier this week that the two-cap forward would not feature in South Africa’s upcoming fixtures against New Zealand in order to defend himself in the case. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby.

And the player has now addressed the matter himself in a brief statement issued by his management.

“I have always played the game with integrity and respect,” Ntlabakanye said.

“I trust that the process will show I did not seek to gain an unfair advantage. My only wish is to represent my country with honour.”

Springboks prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye(Image: Getty Images)

On Sunday, SA Rugby confirmed the results of the prop’s test and insisted he disputes ‘that he has committed an anti-doping violation’.

The statement added: “The non-performance enhancing substance for which he tested positive was prescribed by a specialist physician early in 2025 for medical reasons and taken with the approval and the supervision of a medical doctor specifically appointed to manage the medical affairs of professional rugby players.

“Ntlabakanye was transparent in his declarations, acted in good faith and at all times followed the medical due process as prescribed by the industry. He relied on the relevant professional medical advice and at no time did he seek to obtain an unfair advantage nor did he take any medical substance without prior medical authorisation.”

Rowntree lands job, not Gatland

Japan Rugby League One outfit Urayasu D-Rocks have confirmed the appointment of former Munster boss Graham Rowntree as their new head coach, replacing ex-Scotland international Greig Laidlaw.

Former Wales coach Warren Gatland had been reported as close to the job in Japan – but those reports proved to be wide of the mark.

Former Scotland scrum-half Laidlaw was only in charge of the club for a season after Johan Ackermann stepped aside after leading them to promotion in 2024. Laidlaw has now been appointed as their ‘executive club ambassador.’

“I am very honoured to have the opportunity to lead such an ambitious and proud club. Japanese leagues are becoming more and more competitive every year,” said Rowntree.

“We look forward to building an environment that can change and adapt so that we can become more competitive.”

England wing nearing rugby return

Former England wing Christian Wade is seemingly nearing a return to rugby union.

The former Wasps, Racing 92 and Gloucester speedster switched codes to join rugby league giants Wigan Warriors earlier this year. However, in recent days, both RugbyPass and the Daily Telegraph have reported that Newcastle Red Bulls, following their recent takeover, are ready to bring Wade back to the 15-a-side game.

Wigan coach Matthew Peet has now all but confirmed Wade’s likely exit.

“I don’t think it’s my place to comment,” he said about recent reports. “I know the crack and know what’s going on.

“But I just think we owe it to Christian to let him make an announcement when the time is right for him. I’ll repeat what I said, he’s been a great addition to the club.”

The 34-year-old scored twice on his debut for the Warriors, but hasn’t played in the last month after some difficulties defensively.