Millionaire Keith Barwell is the new owner Northampton

Rugby Union

Millionaire Keith Barwell is the new owner of Courage Second Division leaders Northampton. The 51-year-old received the almost unanimous backing of members at an EGM to buy the club for pounds 1m. The decision, by 661 votes to one, means the club, to be known in future as Northampton Rugby Football Club Limited, will now become fully professional.

Ross Cooper has been appointed assistant to the new All Blacks coach John Hart. Cooper was assistant to former New Zealand coach Laurie Mains on the All Blacks' recent tour of Italy and France.