jonh wrote:
This is pretty much my stance.
I don’t like the new rules but I think they could be a lot worse.
I don’t see how they will ruin the game although initially we need to accept there will be an increase in penalties through a natural transition process.
I don’t think that anyone has mentioned limited minutes yet? Apologies if someone has.
Using Harry Smith as a back example he cannot play more than 30 full games per year ie 2400 minutes per year.
Even assuming zero internationals, he won’t be able to play all possible games assuming we get to the CCF and GF.
What will the club do in 2025 when there is a planned tour of Australia? Assume that Smith will play 3 games in Australia and limit his game time for Wigan to 27 full games?
Could this be the end of internationals and/or the World Cup for English players?
Liam Farrell for example will be limited to 25 full games per year so I assume that he retire from international rugby as potentially most forwards will going forward.
Obviously this may lead to most teams having a “back” on the bench to reduce the number of 80 minutes games played but would say Leeming be “accepted” as back substitute for game A if he replaces Smith but a forward substitute if he say replaces O’Neil?
If player welfare is now paramount then why continue with meaningless loop fixtures and the even more preposterous Magic Weekend?
Obviously Jon questions not just aimed at yourself.