Quins are gunning for Exiles

On a weekend brimming with rugby in the northern and southern hemispheres, the budding amateur players on these shores will continue to chuck the ball around with some relish.

On a weekend brimming with some agreeable rugby in the northern and southern hemispheres, the budding amateur players on these shores will continue to chuck the ball around with some relish in the Gulf's latest round of matches. The Arabian Gulf Premiership is a long way from the Six Nations in Europe or the Super 14 in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, but names as widespread and wonderful as the Abu Dhabi Harlequins and Dubai Dragons will be hurtling into tackles with as much intent as Richie McCaw in Canterbury, or Martyn Williams in Cardiff.

To those unfamiliar with the region's rugby scene, it sounds very much like a family affair today with the Quins visiting Dubai Exiles. Dubai Exiles lead the standings having collected 19 points from six games. Doha are second on 18 points from their six outings, while the Dragons are two points off top spot, having played one game less. Poor old Kuwait Nomads cannot buy a win, and are pointless after four games. It seems like life in the league can lead to a nomadic existence.

Two of the Abu Dhabi Harlequins coaches, Rory Greene and Alistair Thompson, will depart the Emirates for Richmond tomorrow to witness a week's training in the life of Harlequins in London. They will also take in the Quins match against Gloucester in the Guinness Premiership at the Stoop a week tomorrow. The coach's will hope to glean plenty of tips and advice to aid their own side. A win away at Dubai Exiles should see them board the plane bound for England with some glee.