Rugby’s Six Nations fallout begins
So Eddie O’Sullivan has gone. Certainly pushed, his departure has been dressed up as a resignation, which will benefit all parties. Whatever, at least Ireland can now move on and, hopefully, regain some of the lost ground. Let’s just hope that whoever takes over is given the same level of support and autonomy as O’Sullivan was, and is brave enough to make some sweeping changes.
Over in England, meanwhile, rumours abound. Will Martin Johnson be brought in to the setup as Team Manager? The BBC seem convinced he will. But is this enough? I have great respect for Brian Ashton but I wonder if he is the right man to be leading the coaching team. When one considers what Sir Clive Woodward achieved, or rather how he achieved it, I wonder if a more significant shake-up and approach might be more productive. After all, with the pool of players in England far exceeding that of any other rugby nation, it should be reasonable to expect a lot more in terms of results.
