2024 South Africa Spring Series Tour

[Burgs]

Honestly though, with no ill will against the guy at all, that is exactly why Australian rugby needs a proper NRC. Players get pulled into SR before it is clear whether they have what it takes, both physically and mentally. That is a big investment to make, not least because it excludes development of someone else. When someone gets a SR contract, there ought to be a reasonable expectation that they'll be seen on the field, and will be ready when needed. It does feel like Pasitoa has seldom ever been available, and he is far from the first player like that. A lot of them locals too, so perhaps preparation even through junior ranks is something that needs to be considered too - trying to do too much, too fast, because they are playing catch-up from the start?

At minimum an Under X comp as curtain raiser to Aus v Aus SR fixtures should be achievable with minimal investment.
Same extended Squad, same flights, same venue costs.

[tjs10]

At minimum an Under X comp as curtain raiser to Aus v Aus SR fixtures should be achievable with minimal investment.
Same extended Squad, same flights, same venue costs.

Agreed.

Force managed a few "A" games during Australian away fixtures last year. It would be great to have a few more similar fixtures in WA too this time around.

Putting them on at local club grounds, such as McGillivray/Tompkins etc, the day before the SR game shouldn't be too costly.
It would allow teams to give their extended squads a bit more game time in a competitive environment.

And Tahs could potentially send their A & B teams in addition to their main 23 the way they are recruiting...

[andrewg]

Agreed.

Force managed a few "A" games during Australian away fixtures last year. It would be great to have a few more similar fixtures in WA too this time around.

Putting them on at local club grounds, such as McGillivray/Tompkins etc, the day before the SR game shouldn't be too costly.
It would allow teams to give their extended squads a bit more game time in a competitive environment.

And Tahs could potentially send their A & B teams in addition to their main 23 the way they are recruiting...

No franchise, except the WF has the $$s to make these ideas work (as shown by the WF taking the Academy crew to Canberra and Melbourne last year).

Consider the costs of return airfares, food and accom for 3-4 nights, availability of training facilities, in-town transport, - not just for players but support staff + umpires etc. etc.

[Burgs]

No franchise, except the WF has the $$s to make these ideas work (as shown by the WF taking the Academy crew to Canberra and Melbourne last year).

Consider the costs of return airfares, food and accom for 3-4 nights, availability of training facilities, in-town transport, - not just for players but support staff + umpires etc. etc.

Not so sure, I wouldn't summarily dismiss it on assumption.
There's money out there from some sectors to be associated with "youth" and "development".
Also, re the others, the Reds for one seem cashed up as they are touring Kumagaya, Bristol and Belfast, having already taken their Men and Women's Squads to Tonga.
Admittedly the Brumbies are likely touring Viking Park and there's nothing important outside of Sydney, but it's a start...

[Burgs]

Anyway!
I'm excited by this Squad and potentially getting down Saturday to check them out against RWA's finest!

[andrewg]

This is core business for a Head Coach.

So is filling some key positions.

[tjs10]

No franchise, except the WF has the $$s to make these ideas work (as shown by the WF taking the Academy crew to Canberra and Melbourne last year).

Consider the costs of return airfares, food and accom for 3-4 nights, availability of training facilities, in-town transport, - not just for players but support staff + umpires etc. etc.

Tahs have RA money! As a result they probably already have a private charter fl8ght booked for the world and his wife to come and watch the game anyway...

[GIGS20]

Tahs have RA money! As a result they probably already have a private charter fl8ght booked for the world and his wife to come and watch the game anyway...

Nah, they don't bother playing lesser teams, they just buy every player in the world who is off contract and see who's any good.

[Burgs]

[todd4]

Does anyone have any info on Pasitoa's shoulder injury?

[andrewg]

The squad is flying to Sth Africa tonight.
Went own to watch their last training session Tues a'noon.
All groups coached by Eggleston, Ozich and Heiberg with Cron observing.
Sustained, intense, head to head work out to build cohesion before the tour.
The 5 players who are on trial appear fully integrated.
Very impressed.