News in brief: Brand signs new Irish deal

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London Irish scrum-half Rory Brand has signed a new contract.

The 23-year-old made his Premiership debut last August and has played 11 times for the Exiles.


“Rory has had to bide his time for opportunities at senior level,” said director of rugby Declan Kidney.

“He’s constantly improving day in, day out at the training ground, which tells you all you need to know about his character.”

Two of Fulham’s first three Championship matches of the season have been selected for live coverage on Sky Sports.

The Whites’ opening game, at home to Middlesbrough, has been moved to Sunday, 8 August, and will kick off at 1.30pm, while the derby at Millwall on Tuesday, 17 August (kick-off 7.45pm) will also be screened.

QPR’s Championship match at home to Barnsley and Carabao Cup tie at Leyton Orient will also be on Sky. The Barnsley game on Saturday, 21 August will now kick off at 12.30pm. Rangers face Orient on Wednesday, 11 August (7.45pm kick-off).

Young goalkeeper Tom Middlehurst has joined Harlow Town on loan from QPR for three months.

Fulham pair Bobby Decordova-Reid and Michael Hector have been included in Jamaica’s squad for the Gold Cup.

Brentford will play a pre-season friendly at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday, 17 July. Kick-off 3pm.

Emiliano Marcondes is in talks with Nottingham Forest following his recent release by the Bees.