Rugby fans, there’s plenty to chat about this weekend! First up, former Welsh international Richie Rees has stirred the pot by claiming Wales’ upcoming clash with South Africa is essentially a lost cause. With the game scheduled outside of World Rugby’s international window, our squad is missing a dozen key players who won’t get club releases. We’ve got fresh faces like Dragons’ Brodie Coghlan and Cardiff’s Danny Southworth stepping up, but Rees worries this could be more harmful than helpful for Welsh rugby.
In another hot topic, Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies didn’t hold back his views on the Ireland vs. New Zealand match. The spotlight’s on Tadhg Beirne’s contentious red card. Initially given a yellow for an upright tackle on Beauden Barrett, it was later upgraded after a bunker review, leaving fans and pundits baffled. Even Barrett offered to support Beirne during the disciplinary proceedings, saying he felt for him. Jiffy echoed the sentiment, questioning the fairness of the decision.
Lastly, Ireland coach Andy Farrell bemoaned his team’s “mental switch-offs” leading to their 26-13 loss despite being in the lead. With less than stellar concentration in a big game, Farrell’s keen to bounce back for the remaining Autumn Internationals against heavyweights like Japan, Australia, and South Africa.
Let’s hear your thoughts. Is the Wales vs South Africa match worth the worry without our top players? And was Beirne’s red card justified or simply over-the-top? Share your views below! 🏉