posted Nov 2, 2009

Do you think that Warren Gatland's blast at the GP comes more as honest opinion, justification for not selecting many English-based players for the Welsh squad or simply mind games ahead of Twickenham at the start of the 6N?

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posted Nov 2, 2009

Jerry do you think that Martin Johnson is being resonable in not selecting England players on the basis of their attitude?
Obviously as rugby develops and comes more into the public eye this trend of players being idolised/scrutinised by the media will only increase. My question is it acceptable for a National team coach to dictate how another man lives his life?

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posted Nov 3, 2009

Gatland may not be the best diplomat but he has a point. I think for English rugby to progress we need to change the season structure and be more like the Southern Hemisphere and have the Heineken Cup in a 'block' like Super 14. Glad to see this season the GP games aren't played at Autumn Int time and replaced with AW Cup - couldn't believe last season AW Cup played outside Int games in Autumn leaving GP games bereft of Int players!

Also is it any wonder that the Welsh/Irish sides do well when their sides are the same for both Magners/HC and the sides always 'qualify' for HC?! The concentration of Int players in their teams definitely improves the national sides when they come together.

I think French national & HC rugby will suffer this season too with the influx of overseas players and reduced concentration of national players in what used to be the top 4/5 teams.

Jerry says the GP has a more 'attritional' style of play to it and is more competitive because of the threat of relegation - hmmm doesn't sound very exciting really! While we need the forward power etc it should be there to gain yards and open up opportunities for the backs.

English rugby has much to ponder not least to resolve club vs country 'scraps' and player injury/burn out.

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