Here are the latest rugby headlines on Friday, May 18.
Gatland issues tributes to Jones and Tipuric
Wales head coach Warren Gatland has issued tributes to both Alun Wyn Jones and Justin Tipuric, who have announced their international retirements just four months out from the Rugby World Cup.
Both Ospreys forwards made their shock announcements public on Friday afternoon, and will not feature in France this autumn despite having been named in Gatland's extended 54-man World Cup training squad.
Paying tribute to his former Wales and Lions captain Jones, Gatland said of the world record cap-holder: “I’d like to congratulate Al on a phenomenal international career. His leadership, dedication and determination are second to none and he has been an incredibly special player for Wales over the past 17 years.
“Every single time he has taken to the training pitch or put on the red jersey in a Test match he has given his absolute all: setting standards and leading by example. I am very fortunate to have been able to have worked with him, with Wales and with the Lions.
“Al’s passion and commitment for his country are limitless and he has been an important pillar for the game in Wales. He and his family can be immensely proud of all he has achieved and in knowing he leaves a lasting legacy in Welsh rugby. We all wish him the very best for the future. Diolch yn fawr iawn am bopeth Al.”
WRU interim chief executive Nigel Walker said: “Alun has been the ultimate servant to Welsh rugby. A powerhouse in the pack his mobility around the field and his inspiring leadership both on and off the pitch has been second to none. His longevity is testament to his professionalism, passion and desire to represent his country. He will be missed on the international stage by Welsh rugby supporters around the globe. He retires from international rugby having earned the respect of all those who have had the pleasure of seeing him play and he is a credit to the game.”
Gatland said of former Wales captain Tipuric: "Justin has been an integral player in the Wales back row since he made his debut back in 2011. He’s quite quiet off the pitch, but his skill set and his work rate really set him apart from others. He doesn't like a lot of fuss but I'd like to congratulate him on a great career. He has made an outstanding contribution to Welsh rugby and I hope everyone will join me in wishing Justin all the best for the future."
Jones, the world's most-capped rugby union player, retires aged 37 having played 158 times for Wales and made 12 British and Irish Lions Test appearances. Wales flanker Justin Tipuric, who won 93 caps, had earlier announced his decision to step down from Test rugby aged 33 after 12 years.
Writing on his Instagram page, Jones said: "Having been selected in this year's preliminary Rugby World Cup squad, and after ongoing dialogue with the coaching staff and WRU (Welsh Rugby Union), I have decided to step away from the international game. So, after 17 years, I look back on special memories with Welsh greats and future Welsh greats."
Tipuric, a three-time Lions tourist who made one Test outing for the touring side, said in a statement released by his agents WIN Sports Management: "During the off-season I've had time to reflect on my playing career, and now seems the right time to step away from international rugby. It has been a privilege to put on the Welsh jersey and have so many great memories.
"I would like to thank all the players and coaches I've been fortunate enough to work with over the years, and the wonderful support I've received from the Welsh public. I am looking forward to spending more time at home and putting all my energies into playing for my home region the Ospreys."
The announcements come a month after fellow Wales forward Josh Navidi called time on his career, being forced into retirement because of a serious neck problem.
Welshman quits English champions to return to Wales
Welshman Leigh Jones is leaving his role as general manager of English Premiership champions Leicester Tigers this summer, it has been announced.
He will depart two years after joining the English club from the Hong Kong Rugby Union, where he served as national coach development manager and head coach before leading the defence and breakdown for Japan at the 2015 Rugby World Cup. He then returned to Hong Kong as head of high performance before joining the Tigers.
A former Ebbw Vale, Newport and Newport Gwent Dragons coach, Jones led the Wales A programme for the Welsh Rugby Union under Sir Graham Henry.
"It has been an interesting and enjoyable two years, transitioning back to the UK from Hong Kong into, what was, a new format for me personally in a competition of the Premiership’s standing," Jones said. “While the work that you do goes largely un-noticed, it proves very important in the daily running of the rugby platform in respect of both the ‘here and now’ and also having a keen eye on the future; introducing and maximising systems, structures and player pathways to safeguard the future of the club. It has been a great thrill to work closely with the coaching team, many of whom are world-class operators, to advise, mentor and simply offer an opinion, when needed.
“I am going to take some time out for my family, including returning home to Wales, after which I will look for the next challenge to throw myself into and contribute to an organisation in the way I have enjoyed so much during this time at Leicester Tigers.”
Leicester are reigning English champions but this term fell one game short of back-to-back Premiership finals.
Leinster boss ready to embrace pressure of Champions Cup final
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen believes that "pressure is a good thing" ahead of Saturday's Heineken Champions Cup final against holders La Rochelle. Dublin's Aviva Stadium will be packed to its capacity of just over 50,000 as Leinster target a record-equalling fifth European title.
They were beaten by La Rochelle in last season's final, but Cullen's team go into battle as marginal favourites on home soil.
"Pressure is a funny thing, isn't it?" Cullen told www.epcrugby.com. "Everyone is nervous because they want to do their best. It is such an amazing tournament.
"We go back to the preparation during the course of the week, and you can't fault the lads. They have prepared really well this week. I can't wait to see them play and deliver something close to their best. That is all we need to do. Pressure is a good thing. That is what we want, we all want to be here. It is pressure, but it's the most positive pressure you could ask for."
Cullen has made two changes from the team that saw off semi-final opponents Toulouse. Ireland internationals Robbie Henshaw and James Lowe return to the starting line-up, with Henshaw forging a familiar midfield partnership alongside Garry Ringrose.
La Rochelle have reached a third successive European final, and their head coach Ronan O'Gara said: "We talk all the time about stifling or stopping Leinster, but stopping La Rochelle is also a subject. This perception is also important. Our last defeat (in the Champions Cup) was almost two years ago.
"I am not too interested in the opponent, even if I respect him. I am focused on my team, on our path and what we are going to do on Saturday. We know it will be very hard, but it is possible. It will be crucial to manage stress in a venue where there will be a lot of adversity. It will be a big test."
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