Now that the Gallagher Premiership is ring-fenced, investment in clubs is beginning to appear. Why? Well, the money is secure, with no risk of relegation. Will the RFU lose control of the game as rich benefactors seek financial satisfaction?
One area of the game I would explore is a World Club Championship with the team that finishes top in each of the major league competitions (Top 14, Super Rugby, URC, and Gallagher Premiership) competing for the ultimate prize of becoming the best globally.
Four teams, two semi-finals and a final, played over a week in Singapore, the Middle East, or the USA? I think spectators would travel to watch such an event. Two games on Tuesday, the final and the 3rd and 4th place playoff on Saturday.
Fuming
Meanwhile, this past week it was refereeing standards that came to the fore. The Investec Champions Cup final was easily won by Bordeaux, but Leinster coach Leo Cullen was fuming over the quality of the refereeing by Karl Dickson. Cullen was later joined in his criticism by Ireland’s top official, John O’Driscoll.
More fuel was added to the fire when referee Karl Dickson admitted he had made several mistakes.
Quite simply, referees have got to stop coaching the players, as in “get back onside”, and penalise the offence. Players will continue to risk infringements if all they get is advice!
Finally, my quote of the week comes from Exeter’s Italian Lock Andrea Zambonin, talking about his nation’s maiden victory against England in the Six Nations in March: “I loved beating you guys in the Six Nations… and your food’s rubbish too!”
Does he realise that’s the real reason why we go to coach in Italy - the food!
Wherever you live, enjoy your rugby.
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.