England fullback ben Foden had a lonely ride home following his side's Six Nations opener in Cardiff © Getty Images

Back by popular demand (OK, a couple of people asked what had happened to it) is our semi-regular look at what rugby's leading names are saying on the social networking phenomenon that is Twitter.

There appears to be no stopping the growth of the micro-blogging site and it continues to hit the headlines following Wales' decision to impose a Twitter ban during this year's Six Nations. Thankfully there is still plenty of banter going on out there but sadly it crosses the line on occasion.

Former England hooker and BBC commentator Brian Moore pulled the plug on his account (@brianmoorerugby) this week having had enough personal abuse aimed his way in the wake of the Six Nations opener in Cardiff. Love or loathe his style of delivery, his Tweets were often insightful and his concise analysis will be missed.

He's not the only one threatening to down tools in the face of some out-of-hand banter with former England star and ESPN analyst Austin Healey - never one to shy away from a verbal exchange - pondering his next move going by his latest post.

"@brianmoorerugby I think I'm going to just go back to abusing people in person has a much better feel don't you think"

He's still around, for now, and crops up again in our pick of what rugby's Twitterati have been Tweeting about of late:

"Home sweet home! Good journey with just @dannycare9 and myself on the team bus back home! Nursing a small but very worthwhile hangover!"
England's Ben Foden - aka the Most Unpopular Man in Wales - reveals that the rest of the England squad were lost in Cardiff - but they left their share of the beer.

"Back across the bridge...don't know where all the lads are there's only myself and @ben_foden on the coach! Weekend off to chill!!"
Danny Care was Tweeting on the way home too - great conversationalists obviously.

"Looking forward to a trip to Rome tomorrow for the BBC team along side Keith Wood. Any words you wanna see if I can squeeze in??"
Sidelined by injury, Ireland's Tommy Bowe gets his kicks as a pundit for his side's game against Italy - but my not get invited back.

"You always get the impression watching the French that if they cared a lot, all the time, they could literally do what they like #skills"
Bath's Oly Barkley was amongst those impressed by France's opening Six Nations victory over Scotland.

"Pulling into Paris plenty of traveling jocks(not in 1st of course) loads of banter 6 nations is great isn't it"
Former England interntional and ESPN analyst Austin Healey does his bit for Anglo-Scottish relations.

"@IamAustinHealey: If hartley snaps in cardiff and kills someone gatlands fault?"Bit of sledging never hurt anyone! you should know that"
Wales legend Jonathan Davies weighs in on the verbal jousting that preceded England's victory over Wales in Cardiff with this question to Healey.

"Let's take a breath, we won. Tomorrow we'll look at it closer, let's not shoot off out mouths now"
Injured Ireland No.8 Jamie Heaslip urges his followers not to make any rash judgements about his side's far-from-impressive opening victory against Italy in Rome.

"Can someone send me the words to the Welsh National anthem? Keen to join in. What a cracking song!!!"
Former England international and Sky Sports pundit Will Greenwood gets a little swept up in the emotion of Friday night's Six Nations opener in Cardiff.

"Wow! The history, the emotion, the brilliance of those who have gone before. It is the 6 Nations. Love it. Here's to a great Championship..."
Former England captain Will Carling auditions for a return to the pundits pool with one of many updates to his tens of thousands of followers during the Millennium Stadium clash.

'Our man at the ground' James Sadler has been providing the Twitter world with an insight into ESPN's coverage of the Premiership © @ESPNRugbyTV

The Premiership season is in full swing and so is our coverage of English rugby's top flight. TV viewers in the UK are in for a treat with a total of 43 LIVE games coming their way over the course of the campaign courtesy of our broadcast colleagues and our readers are also set to benefit with not only video highlights and analysis but also an exclusive behind-the-scenes insight from 'our man at the ground' James Sadler. His ESPNRugbyTV Twitter feed will be familiar to those who already follow our MatchDay LIVE service and we hope that the colour he brings adds to your enjoyment of this season's Premiership.

Anyway, enough about us and more about the real stars of the show - rugby's Twitterati.

"Just finished skydive from 14000 ft!!!! Free falling for a minute was so good"
Wallabies and Brumbies star Matt Giteau enjoys some down time ahead of the end of year tour. Did Robbie Deans know?

"Off to a promo for bundaberg rum.. should be fun.. Hope Will genia brings his high chair!!"
The Fainga'a brothers - Anthony and Saia - are the latest to mock their vertically-challenged Wallabies team-mate Will Genia.

"Ethan moody born 5.37am weighing 8 pounds,mum and baby doin great. Thanks to all the staff at ruh bath and all the messages of support."
England and Bath star Lewis Moody delights in the latest addition to his family.

"The world is against me. KFC has actually run out of chicken. Hmmmm probably a good thing..."
Bath's Duncan Bell is thwarted in his attempt to re-fuel following his side's latest Premiership victory.

"I've come to the conclusion that while I was sleeping last night a herd of migrating buffalo broke into my flat and trampled me. Body=Sore!"
Victory comes at a cost for Bath skipper Luke Watson.

"http://twitpic.com/2r6lhf - There I go again looking for worms!"
Bath's Nick Abendanon sees the funny side of being on the end of a crunching tackle.

"Actually might get a Zimmer frame..."
Injured and frustrated, the Sharks' Ross Skeate considers his options.

"Entourage and jersey shore to watch when I get home. The inbetweeners was class last night."
Leicester's Jordan Crane offers an insight into his TV viewing and his life as a whole maybe?

"Nando's was once again amazing!! Great service in the one in Walton aswell! Quiet night in and an early night before the game tomorrow!"
England and Quins scrum-half Danny Care offers his latest glowing endorsment of the chicken restaurant of choice for today's rugby player.

"@danny_care unbelievable you lot. Is there something about Nando's that I just don't get?!
Although Bath's Olly Barkley just doesn't get what all the fuss is about.

Tigers boss Richard Cockerill is not a fan of Twitter © Getty Images

The crackdown has begun. Leicester Tigers boss Richard Cockerill has banned all of his players from using Twitter (and Facebook) after Jordan Crane revealed his recent injury blow via the micro-blogging website.

"The next time he [Jordan] does that, I'll break both his ankles," said Cockerill at the official launch of the new Premiership season."None of our players will be tweeting or Facebooking anything about Leicester rugby club ever again."

Will the rest of the Premiership clubs follow suit? I hope not after we launched our brand new Twitter modules on the site.

Better get the latest ramblings while you can...

"Lost 34-30, the score matched the amount of fights during the gAme.. Not our finest hour, but we will Come back better for the experience!"
Northampton's Shane Geraghty reflects on a colourful pre-season loss to Dax.

"2 days of absolute focus trained like an animal!Physically and mentally ready,we play Racing Metro club Friday,lets start something special!"
Toulon's Joe van Niekerk talks up his side's preparation for their Top 14 clash with Racing Metro. The result? A 36-31 defeat for Toulon and a yellow card for Big Joe.

"@JordanCrane86 what you doing on here- does this mean cockers is gonna break both your ankles ha"
Saracens' Richard Wigglesworth responds to some Twitter chatter from Jordan Crane in the face of a supposed ban.

"In durban and loving the weather! Bout to have a coffee and UNO challenge wit @drew_mitchell and @adamcoopy"
Wallabies star Matt Giteau bounces back from his side's latest Tri-Nations setback with a game of cards with his team-mates!

"Scrummaging today. Graham Rountree along to help out. And low an behold, despite being injured and unable to train, PDJ comes out to watch!"
Gloucester and England lock Dave Attwood accuses team-mate Paul Doran Jones of some social networking.

"@BryanHabana hey brother wats up? unlucky happens to the best of us, iv prob dropped more than iv caught haha. Catch you in bloom bro..!"
Wallabies fullback James O'Connor has some sympathy for Springboks winger Bryan Habana who gift-wrapped a try for his Wallabies rival.

"Watching Ali G Indahouuuuuse. Can't imagine having grandchildren and still not finding it funny. There lies your problem Oliver :-)"
Bath and England's Olly Barkley feels guilty about his love of Ali G.

"Possibly the greatest film box set you can get http://tweetphoto.com/41719359"
It appears Olly Barkley is not the only one with some guilty DVD pleasures with team-mate Tom Biggs another with questionable taste.

"@GeorgeGregan thanks Georgie just trying to follow in your footsteps. But don't think these thin legs will get to your record"
Springboks centurion Victor Matfield thanks Wallabies legend George Gregan for his best wishes and admits his all-time record of 139 Test caps is out of his reach.

"How bad is this,16 funerals and 1 wedding at 25 that isn't good."
Stade Francais and England's James Haskell longs for a litte joy in his life.

"Punched out a few laps in the pool instead of weights today and I have a new found appreciation for swimmers.. My big ass was like an anchor."
Wallabies winger Drew Mitchell is not a natural in the water.

Ugo Monye, Paul Doran Jones and James Haskell take a break from pre-season training to rub shoulders with Will Smith © @jameshaskell

Nigel Melville, CEO and President of Rugby Operations at USA Rugby, is no stranger to the world of Twitter (@NigelMelville) so I dare say he is well aware of the exemplary promotional work being done on behalf of the game in the States using the micro-blogging tool.

However, it may be a surprise to some of you when I tell you those responsible are Hollywood actor Ashton Kutcher and NFL star Reggie Bush. Now, neither of these two rather high-profile figures are on the USA Rugby payroll but they will not be short of tickets should they want to catch the Eagles in action any time in the future.

The reason? Just a few simple words posted on their accounts - and the fact that they happen to have a rather large following monitoring their every word.

Bush (@reggie_bush) was the first to offer the sport a boost with the following comments last month that went out to the 1,228,766 (and counting) people who crave an insight into the life of the Saints star.

"Watching the Australia v England rugby game. Rugby is far more dangerous than American Football! Wonder if I would be any good at rugby?"

"So I think Rugby might be my new favorite sport! I was watching re-runs all night last night and today! New Zealand has a really good team!"

The fact that rugby has a new fan in the form of Bush can only help its bid for more exposure but his efforts have since been eclipsed by Kutcher (@aplusk) who offered the following to his incredible 5,311,674 (and more) fans.

"I wish Rugby was bigger in the States. It's so fun to watch."

As Kutcher was in Australia at the time there is the danger that he had caught some NRL action rather than Wallabies especially as his post came before their Tri-Nations victory over the Springboks in Brisbane. But we will not be seeking clarification and I doubt Melville will either.

Which leads us into our latest selection of musings from rugby's Twitterati...

"Very good day at shanks wedding yesterday, was good to see @gareththomas14 still gets dressed in the dark ...."
Cardiff Blues' Richie Rees has a little dig at former team-mate Gareth Thomas following Tom Shanklin's wedding.

"Friendly reminder 4 my boy @Rabbit832. Don't forget to pack your hair straightener for Melbs! We all know u battled with the brissy humidity"
Australia's Adam Ashley-Cooper wades in with some banter at the expense of team-mate James O'Connor who obviously spends a fair bit of time on his hair - you'd never guess it would you?!

"@AdamCoopy bro mum asked me to get the tone of foundation u were wearing last night? Also can u still get her those discounts with napolean or somethin?"
Wallabies wing James O'Connor responds in kind.

"Going unintentionally commando. Not good after a long sweaty run."
Bath and England prop Duncan Bell goes public with something he shouldn't have.

"@duncanbell3 that is possibly the biggest over share of information in the history of the universe!"
And Bell is told just that by team-mate Luke Watson.

"Just wanna thank everyone for there kinds prayers! Yes my beautiful daughter has arrived! Thank you all for your kind words!"
New Zealand scrum-half Piri Weepu delights at the arrival of his baby daughter - that allows him to rejoin the All Blacks ahead of their Melbourne clash with the Wallabies.

"Was a tough game! Very physical game from both teams and even the camera man lol.. Good start to the trinations :)"
Australia's Quade Cooper reflects on his side's victory over South Africa and his hilarious brush with a cameraman that left him bloodied and bruised.

"Saw inception last night..guarantee it'll mess with your head!! Off to the gower today before wrist op on Thursday....then the cote d'azur!!"
Like nearly every other rugby player on Twitter, Jamie Roberts made time to see the Leo DiCaprio movie Inception this week - and was impressed - before continuing his re-hab/pre-season in the south of France.

"Average day on training camp- wake up at 6, train, eat, train, sleep, eat, train, eat, train, eat and sleep."
Unlike some others, London Irish's Nick Kennedy knuckles down in pre-season.

"Something rank for you - my dog vomited a baby wipe up with his dinner last night!!"
Toulon's Tom May takes a break from pre-season to deliver this delight to his followers.

"No matter how little money and how few possesions you own, having a dog makes you rich... Never complain nor change their loyalty to you:)"
Man's best friend is also Neemia Tialata's. Note - what is it with dogs and rugby players? Quade Cooper has just got himself one and it appears most of the other Wallabies (Mitchell, Giteau etc) already have one?!

"Wow pre-season has started with a Bang. I am fully shattered. It's nice to be back with @olliephillips though. His hairy face makes me smile."
The bromance between James Haskell and Ollie Phillips is alive and well as Stade Francais step up their pre-season.

Tendai Mtawarira is rather proud of his South African passport © @No1Beast

Well it appears the attention of the Twitter masses was all a bit too much for former All Black Jonah Lomu. After heralding his arrival with our last volume of Tweet Treats, the big man showed he had lost none of his pulling power by attracting followers in their thousands and cultivating friendships around the world. But as soon as he was here - he was gone again. @JonahLomu11 is no more. But he was always good for a comeback or two...

Anyway, here's our latest selection of what rugby's Twitterati have been saying in the last couple of weeks:

"Damn dog whenever young kids come to visit he always tries to hump them."
The Blues' Alby Mathewson is embarrassed by the behaviour of the family pet.

"50 mile Sportive bike ride today. 3 hours so pretty happy. Thought the days of having to stare at Martin Johnson ar@e were over. Alas not!"
Former Saracens and England star Richard Hill reacquaints himself with Martin Johnson's backside as part of a charity bike ride - get involved here

"This is a real 1st for me. Ordering takeaway pizza from pizza hut for the kids and NOT getting anything for me."
Bath's Duncan Bell commits to his pre-season diet plan.

"is not joining LeBron James, D-Wade and Chris Bosh at the Miami Heat. Apparently he is too short, too slow and too s**t. Whatever."
Leicester and England hooker George Chuter makes light of the media carnage generated by James' high-profile switch from the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers to the Miami Heat.

"didn't sleep last night just lay and got munched my mosquitos all night..how long before malaria sets in?"
Ulster and Ireland's Andrew Trimble may need some medical attention by the time you read this.

"Just been cutting down a tree never, seen so much Stella sweating out of pores."
Cardiff Blues' Andy Powell is winning his fitness battle.

"Tri-Nations is tough. If you are just a little of your game you get drilled. Some good lessons to learn out of the game."
Springboks lock Victor Matfield reflects on his side's hammering at the hands of the All Blacks.

"These journalists in NZ are unbelievable, they asked our media liaison officer which "Tribe" Gio Aplon is from, he couldn't stop laughing!"
South Africa's BJ Botha gets a giggle out of the NZ media's treatment of squad newcomer Gio Aplon.

"Going on my first family holiday for about 6 years!! Can't wait to see the Care clan carve up fuerteventura!!"
How long before Quins and England scrum-half Danny Care falls out with his family and heads home?

"Here we got my green card :).feels good to finally have one .got it yesterday .Come Tri nations"
Springboks prop Tendai Mtawarira is extremely proud of his hard-earned South African passport after a protracted row over his citizenship.

"Thanks to everyone for their support regarding the EPS omission. Decisions are there to be respected and used positively wherever you can."
Bath and England's Olly Barkley accepts his international demotion with the sort of maturity that should ensure the door remains open.

"I LOVE this weather! Might treat myself to a Pimms on the green."
Pre-season continues to take its toll on London Irish's Nick Kennedy.

England's Danny Care, David Strettle, Chris Ashton, Shontayne Hape and Ugo Monye joke after diving with sharks at Ocean World in Sydney © Getty Images

Watch out world - former All Black Jonah Lomu has vowed to give "this Twitter thing a good run" and is set to steamroller all-comers in the manner in which England's Mike Catt was despatched at Newlands in 1995. Perhaps the sport's only global superstar, Lomu surfaced at the weekend and soon had the fans flocking to get a glimpse inside the big man's world.

For those not aware, he is currently plying his trade with Marseille in the south of France but remains a huge draw across the globe. Close on 2,000 followers in just a day or so - he has his sights set on Neemia Tialata's unofficial Twitter King crown (approx 4,000) but both have some way to go to eclipse the 10,000+ boasted by Ireland's Brian O'Driscoll (although his entries have a rather corporate feel) or the 30,000+ following the movements of former England captain Will Carling - my money is on Lomu returning to haunt old Bumface.

Anyway, here's our latest selection of what rugby's Twitterati have been saying in the last couple of weeks:

"Wasn't pretty, but winning is winning. Little one-per centers cost us some rhythm. Great thing about Rugga - next week we get another shot.."
The Springboks' Dewald Potgieter refuses to dwell on his side's laboured victory over Italy in Witbank and sets his sights on putting things right in next weekend's second Test.

" just hanging in rm with @QuadeCooper watching an old Wallbies v All blacks test, think sharpe still has hair:"
Wallabies fullback James O'Connor enjoys some downtime in the build up to his side's clash with England in Sydney - and can't help but have a dig at folically-challenged team-mate Nathan Sharpe.

"I'm shattered. 2 days of shopping in Manhattan has killed me."
England Saxons prop Duncan Bell was on Churchill Cup duty last week and mixed up his training with a bit of retail therapy.

"In the team room enjoying john fogarty getting abuse for having small unpleasant looking ears!!"
Ireland's Andrew Trimble enjoys a bit of tour banter during their stay in New Zealand.

"Thanx to the guys from SAA for getting me on my flight to East London even though I was very late!!"
South Africa's Bryan Habana offers an example of the power of celebrity.

"Had an amazing day today!! Went shark diving which was unbelievable and then played with koalas and kangaroos!! Absolutely loved it!!"
Who said touring was hard work? England's Danny Care appears to be having fun in Australia.

"Life hasn't been the same without the bok jersey .I am waiting for a breakthrough.I am not discouraged but faithful, Everyone is behind me."
South Africa's Tendai Mtawarira is desperate for an end to his eligibility row and a return to Springboks colours.

"Had a weird morning wrestling in Bondi with Mearsy, Worzel and Taity and was then treated to story time on the 389 by the Boosh. Pure gold!"
More tour fun and games - this time with England's Olly Barkley.

"@JonahLomu11 that's soo good! Haha you tube mike Catt poor fulla!!"
Australia's Quade Cooper welcomes Jonah Lomu to the Twitter world and cracks a joke at Mike Catt's expense.

"I'm coming for the crown bra @neyza3 lol. 2000 by the morning tweeters?"
Former All Black Jonah Lomu makes a play for Neemia Tialata's unofficial crown of rugby's Twitter King.

"Steve Thompson killing my toilet" - Ben Cohen (@RugbyBenCohen) catches Steve Thompson with his pants down © @RugbyBenCohen

It was no surprise to hear this week that England's World Cup squad have been banned from using Twitter during the tournament.The micro-blogging site has been the source of controversy several times in recent months and it is only a matter of time before a major Twitter-based scandal sends shockwaves through the sporting world.

We'll have to wait and see if the Football Association's attempts to keep a lid on things works and the Rugby Football Union will no doubt be following events closely although I'm not sure if there is call for a similar decision ahead of next year's Rugby World Cup? Whilst you ponder that question - here's what rugby's Twitterati have been up to of late...

"Just had to clean up the biggest poo from Ethan in the world. It hit his neck, belly button and seeped down to his knees. Nice."
Bath's Duncan Bell delights in the joys of fatherhood.

"Taking in an open air London Bus tour with some of the boys. Little team dinner tonight. Been laughing all day! And London is amazing!"
Toulon lock Ross Skeate reveals a taxing build-up to the Barbarians' clash with England.

"Black eyed peas were unreal!! Will.I.am was amazing but still not good enough for cheryl...anybody have her number for me??"
Harlequins and England scrum-half Danny Care sets his sights pop princess Cheryl Cole.

"Ok... Let's make this thing charitable! If I say the words 'Mary Poppins' on tv, who is prepared to donate money to a brilliant cause?"
Bath's Luke Watson does a bit of charity work - via his stint in front of the Sky Sports cameras for the Super 14 Final. (He bottled it).

"Cheers Toulon!amlin cup rugby it is...!"
Gloucester's Olly Morgan reflects on Cardiff Blues' victory over Toulon that means Gloucester will be playing in Europe's second tier next season.

"Thank you for the support really need it now .My heart is that bok jersey .Peter De Villiers and Regan Oskins working hard to sort this out."
The citizenship row surrounding South Africa's Tendai Mtawarira drags on and he hopes for a favourable resolution.

"Great victory, great support http://twitvid.com/3FPJP"
Cardiff Blues scrum-half Richie Rees reflects on his side' European Challenge Cup victory over Toulon by offering an insight into the post-match celebrations.

"my tattoo took 10hours lol feels good now"trying to be tough" lol its jsut added to my old one which was about family and my life so far :)"
The Reds' Quade Cooper celebrates a stand-out season by getting a new tattoo.

"Just touched down after an incredible day...needless to say I'm on the p**s...."
Cardiff Blues centre Jamie Roberts delights in his side's European success and makes a bee line for a pub.

"@neyza3 real hot here! Sweating like mad!! Hope you boys aren't too keen when we come down, we've had a long season!!:)"
Ospreys and Wales prop Adam Jones asks Neemia Tialata and his fellow All Blacks to go easy on the tourists next month.

"Just been to watch street dance 3D @SKYCITYCinemas with my lil nieces... Remind me not 2 buy a 3D tv it's not worth it gives ya sore head:("
Hurricanes and All Blacks prop Neemia Tialata is not impressed by 3D technology.

"Can't believe @ollymorgs has forked out on a 3D tv. Think he wants to check his hairline up close!"
The end of the season obviously does not mean the end of banter according to Gloucester's Andy Hazell with his team-mate Olly Morgan in the firing line.

"Just realised Im doing 3 winters in a row. Might have to hit the electric beach.....haha! That's a big NO chance!"
Biarritz's Karmichael Hunt reflects on the downside of being a highly-paid, much-wanted, well-travelled, multi-talented sportsman.

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Olly Morgan?

"Look at this bad boy" - Sale wing Ben Cohen is rather proud of his latest toy © Twitpic

Off the leash at the end of another gruelling campaign, many of our leading Twitter lights are launching into their post-season with the kind of vigour that was in some cases sadly missing from their on-field performances - but we don't mind as long as they continue to entertain.

Enjoy their latest musings and don't be too jealous...

"All packed for my holiday, most importantly have got Hulk Hogans new book to read"
Newcastle's Tom Biggs looks forward to his hard-hitting holiday read.

"On my way to get very drunk for 2 days. Tomorrow dressed as a quarter of the Village People. Tonight..... probably jeans and t-shirt."
London Irish lock Nick Kennedy makes an early start on his pre-season training.

"@BJBotha mate you play more golf than rugga,Ive not touched my Callaways in 6 months!Yes I'm a little jealous!Do they shorten your clubs?!"
Sharks skipper John Smit is a little jealous of the amount of free time Ulster's BJ Botha appears to have.

"4 and a 1/2 hours bus ride and we arrive into St Etienne's Siberian cold. I now know where to come when global warming takes full effect!"
Toulon's Ross Skeate is not happy about swapping the Mediterranean sun for the less favourable climate of St Etienne ahead of their Top 14 semi-final clash with Clermont Auvergne.

"Recovering today after an awesome end of season fancy dress yesterday at the Church!! What a place!! We definitely finished the season well!"
Harlequins' Danny Care reports that his side's end of season celebrations went off without incident this year. No Bath players in sight.

"Is over the moon that the tour plane hits homeground in time for Glastonbury 2010. Find me in the dance village wearing one of these :-)"
Bath's Olly Barkley is delighted his England return will not prevent him getting his latest electro fix at the Glastonbury festival.

"South beach Miami...jst witnessed a guy riding down the street with a live racoon on his head wearing a nappy...a place for all sorts!"
Gloucester's Rory Lawson winds down at the end of the season with a trip to the States.

"Failure doesn't mean u are a failure it just means u haven't succeeded yet. Iv got my :( sad face on & can't get ovr how bad we played!---->"
The Hurricanes' Neemia Tialata reflects on the end of his side's Super 14 play-off hopes.

"For some reason i have been nominated for Rear Of the Year. Could you vote it would be the first thing i have ever won www.rearoftheyear.com."
Not content with the exposure provided by the latest Stade Francais calendar, James Haskell welcomes another chance to raise his profile.

"@ollybarkley well done buddy. I remember the last tour we went on my mum is still in shock bless her."
Sale wing Ben Cohen congratulates Olly Barkley on his England return and recalls what we imagine was a colourful tour experience in years gone by.

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Rory Lawson?

Look no hands! Pocket dyanmo Danny Care (@danny_care) considers a new career as a jockey © Twitpic

Twitter continues to offer up headline fodder the worldwide web and rugby is no exception. A a recent tweet from Sharks skipper John Smit (‘Scan on my neck today, with the ref getting the engage setup distance wrong my neck got caught in an engage & now its a tad sore! Hold thumbs’) was taken as a slight on the referee in question - South African Jonathan Kaplan - cue headlines.

I doubt Smit really has a real beef with Kaplan (or maybe he has?) and was perhaps just a little disgruntled to pick up what he saw as a needless injury (the Springboks skipper was to undergo further scans). You would think a player of Smit's profile would be aware that nothing he says is going to go unnoticed - and maybe he is and this is a well-orchestrated piece of spin aimed at getting his message across without incurring the wrath of officials.

Enough analysis. Here's some tea break-fodder for your delectation.

"Cream cheese bagel and cappucino.....goes down like a homesick mole:)"
Ulster prop BJ Botha delights in a light refreshment.

"@karmichaelhunt I watched the game my man, what about Harinordiquay's face mask?
Former Wallabies winger Lote Tuqiri is not the first to have trouble with Imanol Harinordoquy's name and is equally baffled by the facial attire of the Biarritz No.8.

"@LoteTuqiri i know bra, poor dude had an op on his nose a week back. he was looking like a hockey goalie. the man can play though!"
Multi-code football star and Biarritz fly-half Karmichael Hunt offers a reply to his compatriot and, like the rest of us, is full of respect for his team-mate.

"Walton Nandos is one of the best I've been to. Top class service and chicken."
London Irish lock Nick Kennedy considers a career as a restaurant critic.

"Apparently Luke Rooney found a leprechaun under his bed last night"
Toulon's Ross Skeate revels in team-mate Luke Rooney's night time activities.

"A first at the club today.The blood testers were in carrying out random tests. No more cock watchers checking out your piss then?"
Gloucester's Andy Hazell shares his surprise at the WADA's latest tactics.

"Can't believe Akona's bad luck. He ran next to me when his leg just snapped again."
Bulls lock Victor Matfield sympathises for team-mate Akona Ndungane who broke his leg during a training run.

"A nice summer BBQ with some of the boys and their famlies. All was going well until BBQ exploded in flames. Luckly I had eaten already."
Stade Francais forward James Haskell reveals how close we an to a "Stade stars wiped out in BBQ disaster" headline.

"So good coming home to a clean house and know you can just relax n watch something on tv! Man vs wild please be on!!!!"
Reds star Quade Cooper, famed for his super hero-like kicking style, reveals his hero is Bear Grylls.

"What's up tweepz.been a lazy Sunday morning so far.I really am getting old can't do this going out drinking thing anymore"
Hurricanes wing Cory Jane claims to be past it - at 27.

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Nick Kennedy?

Ma'a Nonu's secret is out - he is a massive fan of The Wiggles! © Twitpic

It was not too surprising to read this week that the billions of tweets being written and more importantly read have got the dollar signs rolling in the eyes of some of the web's leading players. Let's hope that Twitter remains ad-free, as that is surely one of its strengths, but I'm not quite sure how long it can hold out on that in the face of its growing popularity.

Anyway - enough series stuff - back to the joys of the latest micro-blogs of the rugby world's rich and moderately famous.

"I feel like Cilla Black with the amount of questions I'm getting wondering whether Tommy Bowe is single or not."
Leinster centre Brian O'Driscoll insists he is not Irish team-mate Tommy Bowe's publicist or dating agent.

"Stena Line was impressive, so much better than lining up like cattle @ the airport, not looking forward to the 2hr bus ride though!"
Ulster prop BJ Botha delights in experiencing a ferry as volcanic fallout at the heart of the Magners League.

"I do love it when people take my tweets and spend hours commenting and mocking me. while your doing that i'm actually living a life."
Stade Francais star James Haskell bites back at his social-networking critics.

"Can't wait to play at Wembley today!! Gotta be every lads dream to play there...gonna sneak a football out there and have a kick around!"
Harlequins Danny Care looks forward to gracing the much-maligned Wembley turf in his side's Premiership clash with Saracens.

"Cutting and watering the lawn after a game then settling down to watch Britian's Got Talent. Have a word with yourself Oliver."
An insight into the domestic bliss of Bath fly-half Olly Barkley.

"@Bryan_Habana how bout you boys!! One of the best tries ever!! Finished by the man himself!! Well done bro look fwd to seeing you Friday :)"
Reds play-maker Quade Cooper is full of respect for Stormers speedster Bryan Habana ahead of their Super 14 showdown next week.

"Great result....magners o clock!"
Cardiff Blues centre Jamie Roberts looks forward to some liquid refreshment after his two tries helped see off the Scarlets.

"When I stand in my current kitchen, I can touch all 4 walls without moving my feet. The new one is much bigger."
London Irish lock Nick Kennedy looks forward to moving on to bigger and better things.

"@neyza3 bro lost last night! Should have one! Need yiu to show mw around In the summer!!!!!"
Ospreys and Wales prop Adam Jones sets up a play date with All Blacks prop Neemia Tialata for this summer when the two should clash on the international stage.

"Is well happy about Bath moving their headquarters to Wayne manor. I wonder if Brucey keeps bats underneath....."
Bath fly-half Olly Barkley again - reflecting on his side's new training base Farleigh House courtesy of the club's new owner Bruce Craig.

See you next time and don't forget you can follow my updates by clicking here.

Hurricanes prop Neemia Tialata enjoys a game of All Blacks Monopoly during his Easter break © Twitpic

Back after a short break - Tweet Treats returns to offer you an insight into the lives of rugby's rich and famous (ok, not in all cases).

Twitter continues to hit the headlines with the micro-blogging service at the heart of a story about Jonah Lomu this week. Rumours surfaced on the web that the All Blacks great had died of a heart attack in France. The hoax was swiftly denied by his club Marseille-Vitrolles but not before one fan called Amemait had lamented the loss with this priceless Tweet - "All my childhood idols are dying. Steve Irwin, Edmund Hillary, Jonah Lomu, that guy from Jaws."

Here's what the rest of the rugby world have been talking about on Twitter of late:

"The wire is over. I now have my life back!"
Ireland and Munster lock Paul O'Connell admits to a high-quality TV addiction.

"Loving Easter, psyched for Jonathan creek tonight."
Newcastle's Tom Biggs admits to a crap TV addiction.

"Feels like he's been in a train collision, only without his own train"
Bath centre Olly Barkley reflects on his side's crushing Premiership loss to Leicester.

Sending my first tweet from my #iPad. Wow there is no way anyone can slate this thing once they have played with it. Amazing!! Photos soon"
Gloucester's Andy Hazell is in love with his latest techy toy.

"Going on my 2nd ever stag do on saturday. All I'm allowed to bring is a tux, musical instrument and a fold out garden chair."
London Irish lock Nick Kennedy admits to some nerves ahead of a trip to Bournemouth - did he return in one piece?

"Chocolate seems so much nicer in egg format."
Leinster stalwart Brian O'Driscoll admits to a chocolate fix over the Easter weekend.

"Just finished putting two bedside tables together!! Feeling very proud of myself!!"
A small victory for Wales and Ospreys prop Adam Jones.

"I suck! I own 2stadiums & most expensive players/street Milz $350 and Richie $400.I have $382 &eggs 2spend:) Help!"
Hurricanes prop Neemia Tialata enjoys a game of All Blacks monopoly during his Easter celebrations.

"Having a quick expresso before our psychotic fitness trainer gets stuck into us this morning! If you dont hear from me,he has done me in!"
Sharks skipper John Smit braces himself for training.

"Happy Easter 2 everyone!! Isn't it amazing that JC died for all our sins just so that we can have relationship with God. Be blessed"
Stormers speedster Bryan Habana issues a reminder to his followers that Easter is not all about stuffing your face.

"I like pizza."
Blues and All Blacks lock Ali Williams continues his re-hab from a season-ending Achilles injury.

Former Wales international Scott Quinnell (@ScottQuinnell) tries to squeeze into a Ferrari owned by Chris Evans @achrisevans © Twitpic

The Twitter phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down with the 10 billionth tweet posted on the micro-blogging site this week - and among that deluge were these gems...

"Watching top gear! This show makes me wish I had a porche or a lambo or a bently how good!!!! I can dream ??"
Rising Reds star Quade Cooper sets his sights on some new wheels.

"We fought like brave man out there .That game was ours .We were denied a penalty try and made small errors ,but its coming .I can feel it."
Sharks prop Tendai Mtawarira assures fans that his side are close to getting things right - after four straight defeats in the Super 14.

"Is watching Roadhouse because Mum and Dad never allowed me to when I was younger. Score!"
Bath's Olly Barkley shows some fondness for a Patrick Swayze classic.

"Rotate your right foot clockwise and then your right hand anticlockwise that's what happens to me when i try and play the guitar AND sing."
London Irish lock Nick Kennedy admit his plans for life after rugby are still a work in progress.

"Took a few quid off Rob Kearney playing darts last night. The practice in camp is paying off."
Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll not only sets the standard on the field but in the team's games room.

"have 2 grow face hair in SA rookies have 2 grow a mo, under 24 games full goatie,25-49 chops f**k thats me.ova 50 anything they want"The Hurricanes' Cory Jane reveals one of the tour rules as his side begin the South African leg of their Super 14 campaign.

"looking forward to catching up with my #capetown tweeps... wat day is good for "@neyza twitter lunch" this week? my shout ya dig!...."
The Hurricanes' Neemia Tialata offers to shout lunch for his followers in Cape Town - that could end up messy - has he not heard about what happen when you advertise a house party on Facebook?

"Just understand dudes,things written on here end up as quotes in the paper.I can feel them watching us all now!!:)"
Former Cardiff Blues and now Crusaders rugby league star Gareth Thomas is wary of watching eyes.

"I love the fact that the crusaders jerseys have got the 3 feathers over it and is red..Makes me feel good.."
And just to prove him right I thought I would post his views on his new playing kit. Enough said.

"Fruit pastills have just made a comeback too my car picnic. I might get refreshers if they still do them."
England and Stade Francais flanker James Haskell does not seem too concerned about the tug-of-war over his services - preferring to re-stock his car with sweets.

"Gutted about Stade loss. I'm off to the gym. Would have gone earlier but dog ran away for 4hrs. He is back."
But Haskell did remember to check the result (his side took a hammering at the hands of Toulouse in front of 80,000 at the Stade de France).

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Nick Kennedy?

Who says the modern player doesn't eat burgers? England flanker James Haskell tucks in - no chips mind © Getty Images

Another busy week in the land of Twitter - but what have rugby's twitterati be talking about? We offer you our pick of their musings...

"how good is entourage? Would I rather be Vinnie Chase or Ari Gold? I can't decide..."Wales and Cardiff Blues centre Jamie Roberts has good taste when it comes to his TV fodder - and it's got to be Vinnie surely?

"Sore head but the win is worth the headache"
Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll reflects on his side's Six Naitons victory over England at Twickenham after an accidental knee to the head from lock Paul O'Connell brought a premature end to his game.

"I'm lost for words after today. I thought we had it, finger tips is all that makes the difference."
England flanker James Haskell is gutted following his side's narrow loss to Ireland.

"I've done more interviews about this legends game than I used to leading up to Cup Final. We are all retired you know and not that good now"
Former England and Leicester stalwart Martin Corry is suddenly centre of attention again ahead of the England Legends v Irish Legends clash on the eve of the Six Nations clash between the same two countries.

"In the sheds n it's nearly show time! Boys are pumped... See you all after the game. Tweet ya later"
Reds playmaker Quade Cooper tweets from the changing room ahead of his side's clash with the Blues - a first for Tweet Treats.

"Anyone seen a big jaw anywhere ??? @Jamiehuwroberts http://twitpic.com/14suhq"
Wales and Cardiff Blues scrum-half Richie Rees continues his banter with team-mate Jamie Roberts.

"Right who's still up? Always hard gettin to sleep after a game:( 2.14am here & I'm wide awake, time 4 some #mw2"
Hurricanes and New Zealand prop Neemia Tialata suffers a little insomnia in the wake of his side's Super 14 victory over the Lions and opts for a little Modern Warfare therapy.

"Big game Friday! Need to find my gum shield!!"
Wales prop Adam Jones has a minor panic ahead of his side's Six Nations showdown with France.

"Got the kids at the park then Im going 2 go have mcds 4 the last time 4 3weeks cos I going 2 try stay off it in SA.my little goal"
Hurricanes star Cory Jane continues his battle with a fast food addiction.

"I found out today through the GPS system we wear to train that i ran just under 6ks in a session. no wonder my legs feel like lead."
England flanker James Haskell is more than a little surprised by his work-rate during training.

"@jameshaskell most important - how many times did you touch the ball in those 6kms?? Good luck for the weekend"
Waratahs coach, and Haskell's former boss at Stade Francais, Ewen McKenzie tries to wind up his former charge.

"Just watched news here in New Zealand and watched a Minister offer his resignation for putting 2 bottles of wine on his gov cred card,$70!!!"
Sharks skipper John Smit is stunned by what constitutes a political scandal in New Zealand while on his Super 14 travels.

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Richie Rees?

Wales' Jamie Roberts delights in telling the world that team-mate Richie Rees loves reading about himself © Twitpic

It appears the recent headline-grabbing antics of Wales' Jonathan Thomas and Andy Powell have got coach Warren Gatland worried about the power of social networking sites and the destabilising effect they can have on his side. This week he asked a lawyer who specialises in defamation, privacy and reputation management to address the players on the perils of posting messages.

Is this the first step towards a general crackdown? Will contracts soon include social networking clauses? Only time will tell. But we'll continue to make hay while the sun shines...

"My table tennis has gone to pot since I had my eyes lasered. No excuses any more..."
Ireland's Brian O'Driscoll rues one of the side effects of laser eye surgery.

"http://twitpic.com/14dzpo <--- this can't be wrong?Haha, don't hate now fellas just cz I like 2 look after myself:)"
Hurricanes and All Blacks star Neemia Tialata reveals to the world his fondness for a pedicure.

"@neyza3 they worked the core like no other movie can! Should sell step bros the movie on t.v as and ab excercise lol"
Reds and Wallabies pivot Quade Cooper tells Neemia Tialata that he thinks the Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly movie Step Brothers should form part of his daily exercise routine.

"Bride! Owww http://tweetphoto.com/11717140"
The Hurricanes' Tamati Ellison joins the Twitter fraternity and Tweets on his wedding day.

"65 - 72 is one of the strangest results I have heard for ages! there cant have been a tackle made!!"
Toulon's Tom May can't get his head around the Chiefs' Super 14 victory over the Lions.

"Hit yea http://tweetphoto.com/11956598"
The Hurricanes' Cory Jane gets his latest fast food fix - the breakfast of champions?

"@GreenwoodRugby watching you now. If you want me to write some banter down I'll only charge a small fee."
England and Stade Francais forward James Haskell watches Will Greenwood on Sky Sports' Soccer AM and offers him some media training.

"haskell, the day i need your chat is the day i call it quits! fact!"
Former England international Will Greenwood politely declines Haskell's kind offer.

"Just visiting my grandfather in hospital! The mans hitting on the nurses! My Nan just laughs cause he thinks he's cool! Bahahaha! Shot pop!"
The Hurricanes' Piri Weepu delights at his grandfather's womanising - in hospital!

"@QuadeCooper cuz can u take zac guildfords head off 4 me 2moro night"
Cory Jane urged the Reds' Quade Cooper, we assume in jest, to nobble his All Blacks rival Zac Guildford when the Crusaders visited Brisbane in the Super 14. Cooper opted to orchestrate his side's 41-20 victory by more conventional means.

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Tamati Ellison?

Chow time for the Sharks and Springboks' John Smit © yFrog

Another week and another Twitter-based controversy - no not Neemia Tialata's suicide bomber get-up (how did he get away with that one?) - but a comical exchange between Wales' Ian Evans and Jonathan Thomas at the expense of gay referee Nigel Owens.

Evans: "Legs and ass are in bits, can't move."
Thomas: "U gotta stop hanging round with Nigel Owens!"

Thankfully Welshman Owens, who knows both players well, took the comment in the spirit it was intended and accepted there was nothing malicious about Thomas' ill-advised Tweet.

So what else has been happening in the Twitter world this week?

"@lancearmstrong Mr. Armstrong, any top tips before I cycle 3,000km in 1 month for charity?Not the norm for an 18 stone ex-int rugby player"
Former England international Lawrence Dallaglio asks some guy who has done a bit of cycling in his time for a few tips ahead of his charity Cycle Slam.

"Just woke up and the body is sore! Feel like I'm 100yrs old :( Feel for the boys and the fans! Can't fault the effort! Happy valentines all!"
The Reds' Quade Cooper is feeling the effects of a bruising Super 14 opener against the Waratahs.

"@adamjones3 wats good bruh? Yeah 2nd half come bk 2 beat the blues. Bruh u knw I'll cme ovr anyday. Cardiff is the place 2b."
Hurricanes prop Neemia Tialata suggest to Ospreys prop Adam Jones that if he was to head north it would be to Cardiff - not Swansea.

"addicted to Weetabix. Lost was brilliant. I have no idea what is going on, what happened to the polar bear?"
Newcastle's Tom Biggs admits defeat in trying to understand the long-running and frankly confusing ABC drama.

"random question, but does Jordan(Katie Price) have real eyebrows or are they painted or tattooed on? Surely she didn't opt for that look!!"
Leicester winger Lote Tuqiri needs to get out more.

"Ladies and gents baby barney smit is now mobile and walking, took his 1st steps on sunday so should have him on the scrum machine next week!"
A big week in the house of Sharks and Springboks skipper John Smit - will Barney be packing down at hooker or tight-head?

"What does a man eat when he hates cooking."
As he embarks on his latest long spell of re-hab, Blues and All Blacks lock Ali Williams remembers he has a Twitter account.

"My thoughts and best wishes go to my Good friend Thom Evans injured against Wales today."
Stade Francais and England back row James Haskell is one of many players to express concern for Scotland's Thom Evans after he picked up a nasty injury against Wales.

"Done 2 dumb things 2day.had a bite of meat and half my tooth broke off & went 2 pay my phone bill over phone and put on 1200 instead of 200"
The Hurricanes' Cory Jane is not having a good day.

"Uni assignment extension granted - great times"
Cardiff Blues and Wales scrum-half Richie Rees celebrates a small victory - such are the demands of a professional sportsman determined to maintain his studies.

The Hurricanes' Neemia Tialata courts controversy with his outfit for a trip to the Wellington 7s © Twitpic

It's been another busy week in the Twitter world what with the big Six Nations kick off, the impending Super 14 kicks off, George Smith's retirement from international rugby and Lee Byrne's successful appeal against a two-week ban. Here's our pick of the word on the web.

"Wellington def knows how to put it on when it comes to 7's weekend!!!http://twitpic.com/11s5nx awesme @NZI_Sevens"
Hurricanes prop Neemia Tialata enjoys a day at the Westpac Stadium - but his chosen fancy dress costume may land him in some trouble.

"On the way to the airport with "king of the gym" Ezra Taylor .. Not a fan of flying but couldn't be more happy to be getting on the plane :)"
The Reds' Quade Cooper is glad to get back to work and put his burglary controversy behind him.

"Sport is rarely a game of perfect, certainly not in your first match back together as a team since November."
Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll reflects on his side's far from impressive Six Nations opener against Italy.

"Another one bites the dust. George Smith is an absolute legend!! He will carve up the S14 this year. Deserves every accolade he gets.."
Leicester's NRL-bound winger Lote Tuqiri pays tribute to his former Wallabies team-mate George Smith following his international retirement.

"Well,twitterers.You have spoken.I am buying this tom..Will take a pic of me walking through Cardiff with it on.Happy days:)"
Cardiff Blues' Gareth Thomas takes some sartorial advice from his followers. Click here to see his latest wardrobe addition.

"Great to see my roomie @jameshaskell dotting down!! Love the dodgy celebration too!!"
Stade Francais scrum-half Ollie Phillips is delighted his team-mate James Haskell got on the scoresheet for England at Twickenham.

"http://twitvid.com/89453 - On the plane back from rotorua.Skux and pow rapping."
The Hurricanes' Cory Jane catches his team-mates Ma'a Nonu and Piri Weepu rapping - talented bunch those Kiwis.

"Q.c Adam lewis blackstone chambers.what a legend and he is welsh!!!"
Wales and Ospreys fullback Lee Byrne pays tribute to his legal team for getting his two-week ban lifted.

"Last day of training this week. Then of to go and have a look at a few Buffalo farms. I will post some pics."
South Africa and Bulls lock Victor Matfield shuns the golf course for buffalo farms?

"Just managed to get katherine jenkins, whose in the room, to sing!! Amazing!!! What a voice! Thank you! http://twitpic.com/11p512"
England legend Lawrence Dallaglio Tweets during his day out at Twickenham.

London Irish lock Nick Kennedy had to perform under pressure earlier this week © Getty Images

It's an exciting time in the rugby world what with this year's Six Nations and Super 14 looming but the Twitterati don't bother themselves with such trifling matters. Check out our pick of what rugby's great and good have been saying on the social medium this week.

"The drugs testers have tracked me down AGAIN! Another wee in front of an old dude."
London Irish lock Nick Kennedy rues the demands of the modern game.

"Sarah Cox is killing me, how the hell she's got a job! Totally waste of time, I'm going to tune into Classical FM will be a better show!"
The Ospreys' Cai Griffiths has had it with Radio 1 DJ Sara Cox - and he's got a point.

"Soccer AM - not as good as it used to be!"
Ireland and Leinster centre Brian O'Driscoll was another to have a moan - and another with a point!

"I see how it is..Now Jamies on here no one wants Alfie:) You guys are lucky i dont take things to heart:)"
Cardiff Blues veteran Gareth Thomas jokes about Jamie Roberts' popularity since he joined the Twitterati.

"Home alone for the next 2 months (hopefully) as Hask is away with the england boys. Got to amuse myself with an aussie :( Mark Gasnier!!"
Stade Francais scrum-half Ollie Phillips ponders life without his friend and team-mate James Haskell.

"mane i just had to retweet this vid cz its funny as helll-----> http://twitvid.com/0E8DB milsy would kill me if he knew i posted this hah"
New Zealand prop Neemia Tialata delights at fun and games at the expense of fellow All Black Mils Muliaina - click on the link to join in the fun.

"Mane all the skin on the bottom of my feet has been ripped off.not a good feeling"
Hurricanes winger Cory Jane reflects on a painful pre-season outing.

"Back in england in the car on the way home. I'm not feeling the best knee hurts and 12 stitches in my face. Good times."
Stade Francais and England's James Haskell licks his wounds after his latest European outing.

"Great day so far; run, swim in bay 4 team, gym, lunch now! Good to see lads back jumping off the pier at 8am & no crying Biggsy this year."
England 7s coach Ben Ryan reports from Wellington ahead of the latest stop on the IRB Sevens circuit and pines for Tom Biggs.

"On our way back home, after a not so great week results wise,but we learn from our mistakes, not our success."
The Sharks' Keegan Daniel refuses to get disheartened by his side's poor pre-season showing.

"In camp tomorrow! Wonder if it's all changed since last year! Nice to have everything done for me for 9 weeks!"
Ospreys and Wales prop Adam Jones looks forward to an easy life in the Wales camp for the duration of the Six Nations.

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Keegan Daniel?

The high life - a photo from Neemia Tialata's personal album © Tweetphoto

News reaches us that concern is growing amongst the powers that be that Twitter represents a PR disaster waiting to happen. Whether Manchester United's decision to bring a halt to their players' social networking will spark a tidal wave of similar action is yet to be seen but bookmakers are reportedly taking bets on the next club to crack down.

Rugby has not been immune to Twitter-induced scandal with a couple of All Blacks feeling the wrath of coach Graham Henry last year but could rugby escape the social network police? Why we ponder that question here's the latest from the sport's Twitter geeks.

"Acting is hard work! Think I'll stick to my daily job! So much respect for actors..."
All Blacks prop Neemia Tialata reports from a shoot for a TV ad.

"Back in England in the car on the way home. I'm not feeling the best knee hurts and 12 stitches in my face. Good times."
Stade Francais and England star James Haskell takes a break from posing in his pants to reflect on his side's bruising Heineken Cup loss to Edinburgh - but his pain will be eased by the fact that the French side still progressed to the last eight.

"Getting irritated by the price of Nice to London - it's only an hour for god's sake!"
Cross-Channel commuting begins to niggle Toulon's Tom May.

"As one last thought,the requests for Andy Powell have been heard,and I will get him on here!! That will be fun:) "
Cardiff Blues' Gareth Thomas vows to get team-mate Andy Powell on Twitter - watch out.

"So good to have a weekend off and delighted to find American Pie on Sky One, awesome film."
Newcastle and England 7s star and debatable film critic Tom Biggs.

"I'm in the towers hotel! Drinking! Sweet!"
Ospreys and Wales prop Adam Jones reveals one of his drinking haunts in Swansea.

"Way past my bedtime but had a great birthday. 31 isn't all that bad."
Leinster and Ireland centre Brian O'Driscoll joined the party this week.

"I'll have you know that @jameshaskell asks to do this to me as he says he finds my hair 'offensive' and it makes him want to vomit!!"
Stade Francais' Ollie Phillips discusses a mutual shaving session with his team-mate James Haskell.

"Just a thought to a rugby icon, Bill McLaren before we all shut eye for the day, "great memories of a great rugby voice" God bless."
Sharks and Springboks skipper John Smit is one of many to pay tribute to the late Bill McLaren.

We remind you that none of the above accounts have been verified but we're happy to take the chance for your entertainment - but would anyone masquerade as Tom Biggs?

Tough pre-season for John Smit going by his latest Twitter post! © Tweetphoto.com

It's time to dip back into the Twitter behemoth for our latest fix of rugby chit-chat. Here's what some of the sport's leading lights - and some other bods - have been saying in the last week.

"Is the whole world in Harrods?? the ground floor was a brawl to get to the stairs!"
Toulon's Tom May gives Aldi a miss in favour of Knightsbridge's finest on a trip to London, January 16

"Had a great week of training and team building in Michaelhouse, here we had to slide down a hill like a kid!!!"
Sharks and Springboks skipper John Smit reflects on a week of pre-season. Tough eh? As you can see from the photo! January 16

"I'm sitting on my own laughing like an idiot to fawlty towers again. It is amazing it doesn't matter how many times I watch it."
Stade Francais and England star James Haskell enjoys some downtime, January 13

"On the train back to Paris with my old pal Epi Taione. Am trying to convince him to change his name back to Paddy Power.Good times."
Stade Francais scrum-half Ollie Phillips shares a joke with former Tongan international and Racing Metro player Epi Taione, January 13

"Just finished intervals/gym session in the rain. Thanx for all the tattoo ideas if u have some pics send them in I wanna see more ideas."
Hurricanes and All Blacks prop Neemia Tialata looks for some ink advice, January 16

"The Newport Dragons boys buried Gethin Jenkins's car under a pile of snow. Nice one guys:)"
Cardiff Blues veteran Gareth Thomas is tickled by the pranks of his international colleagues at the expense of Cardiff Blues prop Gethin Jenkins, January 14

"I just tried to get out of the drive i was like a ice road trucker...knocked supermarket on the head!!!"
Ospreys and Wales fullback Lee Byrne has a few issues with the recent cold snap that engulfed the UK, January 12

"Indoor contact training was tough! My head ate 1 of our forwards knees. I've got a fair shiner on my forehead."
Former Wallabies winger and now Leicester winger Lote Tuqiri take one from the team - but recovered to take his place at the weekend, January 12

"It's lunchtime and I have been seeing how long can go without eating mcdonalds.nearly been a week and I'm hanging out 4 it.might break soon."
Hurricanes and All Blacks winger Cory Jane risks the wrath of his side's dietician, January 14

"Daddy day care today and I am feeling tired they are wearing me out and am all cbeebies out."
Worcester Warriors winger Marcel Garvey juggles parenting demands with those of a professional player, Janunary 14

Stade Francais' James Haskell takes time out from Twittering to tackle Biarritz's Damien Traille © Getty Images

The Twitter phenomenon appears to know no bounds and the great and the good of the rugby world are not immune to its lure - except perhaps All Blacks coach Graham Henry who joked that he thought it was a new English fly-half during their recent European tour.

In what I am sure will turn into a series of illuminating posts, here is a selection of what some of the technology-savvy rugby players to have embraced the micro-blogging tool have been up to in the last week.

“Top team effort in the snow. Basteraux is an animal and my feet are frozen”
Stade Francais wing Ollie Phillips blogs from the stands following his side's Top 14 win against Biarritz at the Stade de France.

"And I am not sure how much longer I can stay in a room with Martyn Williams farting. It's torture!"
Cardiff Blues' Gareth Thomas offers an insight into big match preparation ahead of his side's Magners League clash with Edinburgh.

"I just ran into Martin Johnson outside the supermarket, forgot how big and scary he was!! Or for some of his current players is!"
Leicester's Australian winger Lote Tuqiri makes himself at home at the Premiership club.

"I'm getting my kit ready and then seperating my egg whites ready for my omelette in the morning, preparation is key!!!!"
Ospreys star Lee Byrne is obviously home alone - and bored.

"First week of pre-season finish. This is definitly not my favourite part of the season."
Springboks and Bulls lock Victor Matfield begins the long and painful road that is pre-season.

"Another tough day in Africa,some fitness this am, then 18 holes at Durban CC with Butchie, I'm hanging in there."
In contrast, his international skipper John Smit is still kicking back with his mate Butch James whose knee injury is obviously improving on the golf course of SA!

"Good luck to my little mate Freier for his back operation tomorrow! Lets hope it doesn't make him any shorter."
Brumbies captain Stephen Hoiles offers friend and Waratahs hooker Adam Freier some support.

"Just found an amazing place in Paris to get a massage and a Turkish bath. I will be returning often."
Stade Francais and England star James Haskell has taken to life in the French capital.

"Where can I find a good sled, inflatable rings have been the best so far."
Newcastle and England 7s star Tom Biggs looks to the worldwide web for some advice before taking advantage of the recent cold snap.

"On the BBQ now, weather has been the best, I'm on holiday, I'm just living the dream right now and getting a tan haha how bout that."
Hurricanes and New Zealand winger Cory Jane enjoys the last throes of the off-season.