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News & Opinions articles
Topical articles and commentary on rugby events around the world.
North vs SouthEach year rugby people endlessly compare the game in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere. They argue about who would win a hypothetical Grand Final between the Heineken Cup and Super Rugby champions. Similar comparisons are made between Six Nations and Tri Nations (from this year to be known as The Rugby Championship). As ever in rugby debates, objectivity is in short supply!
One day soon Japan may replace Italy in the Six NationsMark Reason wonders whether Italy deserve their place in the Six Nations for eternity.
The Heineken Cup barometerThe Heineken Cup is not a reliable barometer when it comes to the Six Nations, which may be why France are the favourites to win the championship this year while Ireland are dominating the club/provincial scene in Europe.
6 Nations Anticipation...With the quarter finalists having been decided for the Heineken Cup,the European focus can now shift to the 6 Nations. National coaches will have keenly observed their charges in club and provincial colours as they prepare for the the next 2 months of international championship rugby.
Connacht's HeroesConnacht’s win over Harlequins in the Heineken Cup is probably the most famous in the history of the Irish province. Connacht has a mere 7% of the rugby players registered in Ireland and has long been the poor relation of the four proud provinces. Rugby will always battle with Gaelic Football, Hurling and Soccer in this predominantly rural province. The Irish inter provincial championship was established in the 1920’s and Connacht has a mere 2 wins to it’s name over that time.
Wales v IrelandWales, like England, have opted for a dash of youth in their Six Nations squad. Six uncapped players in their 35 include the 18-year old wing Harry Robinson, who has made his mark on the sevens circuit.
England’s club owners launch another ruinous takeover bidMark Reason despairs at the English clubs’ latest attempt to hijack the season in order to fund their daft wage bills.
Lions 2013Lions CEO John Feehan has confirmed that the coach for the 2013 tour to Australia will be announced after the 6N’s. It would appear that the choice is between Warren Gatland, Andy Robinson and Declan Kidney, with Ian McGeechan always a possibility.While Robinson and Kidney are quality coaches with some notable successes, surely the position is Gatland’s to lose.
England needs a great leader to compete at the next World CupMark Reason likes the start that Stuart Lancaster has made as England coach, but wonders if there is a captain out there to continue the good work.
JG's Round-UpOur undercover man’s weekly round up of news from around the rugby world, this week featuring: the Quins size of heart, Robeshaw for England Captain, 6 Nations anticipation, Sexton versus O’Gara and new appointments.
