Dean Ryan spoke as beautifully as ever but the most telling statement came from Mike Friday, one of Sky TV’s guest pundits. “Why rob anyone (of) an opportunity to get…
Blogs
The arduous rehab getting Ben Foden ready for the World Cup
If Ben Foden is fit in time for the Rugby World Cup, and selected, it won’t so much be a miracle as the blessed result of some tortuous rehabilitation for…
Analysis: Carl Fearns’ bench impact for Bath
In every title-winning campaign there is an unsung hero, a player who is largely unheralded yet integral to success. For Bath this year, the under-the-radar star has been Carl Fearns. Though…
Saints and Sinners: The weekend’s talking points
The Saints Brilliant Bath It’s not a bad success rate is it? Seven tries from eight visits to the opposition 22 in one match. Such was the pure brilliance of…
Poll: should Manu Tuilagi be banned for the World Cup?
Should Manu Tuilagi be banned from playing in the World Cup? Here are the facts: England head coach Stuart Lancaster has banned Manu Tuilagi from playing for his country during…
Saints and Sinners: The weekend’s talking points
The Saints Warrior spirit As the second half of their clash with Ulster kicked off, Glasgow Warriors trailed 10-6 and knew they needed to conjure four tries and a bonus-point…
Analysis: What Dave Ewers would bring to England
The much-scrutinised practice of selection in sport boils down one essential equation: known quantities against potential– proven performers against untried talents. In the coming months as the Rugby World Cup encroaches…
A letter from South Africa – May
NAKA STEPS DOWN Beleaguered Cheetahs coach Naka Drotske announced in early May that he would retire from coaching at the conclusion of the 2015 Super Rugby season. The Cheetahs have…
Aviva Premiership: Team of the season
15. Alex Goode (Saracens) A consummate, classy operator who never seems to get the credit he deserves. Offers calm authority and precise positioning in defence and hits the line nicely in…
Analysis: Five reasons Leicester Tigers beat Wasps
If ever an 80-minute performance epitomised a club – its values, ethos and ingrained traditions – it was Leicester Tigers’ 26-21 defeat of Wasps at the Ricoh Arena on Saturday.…