Nick Knowles acquires stake in Cornish Pirates rugby team

Television presenter Nick Knowles has become a shareholder in the Cornish Pirates. This follows the club's recent investment from Pittsburgh-based Stonewood Capital Management, marking American ownership in English rugby. The Cornish Pirates aim to raise visibility and attract more investment as part of a longer-term development plan, despite challenges including stadium requirements for promotion to the Premiership. Chief executive Sally Pettipher emphasized the importance of solid business planning and infrastructure to support the team's ambitions. Work on the main grandstand at the Mennaye Field is still in progress and will not be ready for the pre-season game against Saracens later this month.

• 11:24 AMYahoo Sports — TV presenter Knowles buys stake in Cornish Pirates
• 11:15 AMBBC Sport — TV presenter Knowles buys stake in Cornish Pirates