There was a depressing inevitability about the events that led to the cancellation of England’s match against Barbarians. The only surprise is that it came so soon
“Rugby, it’s different”. So read the caption accompanying a picture posted on social media of two opposing players sharing a beer after last week’s Champions Cup final. It was misguided at best and widely criticised for the smug attitude that continues to blight the professional game. Fast forward a week, to the colossal wreckage caused by the cancellation of England’s match against the Barbarians, and it can be said with certainty that rugby is different all right.
In what other sport would professional players – a former national captain no less in Chris Robshaw – behave so brainlessly? So selfishly. The knock-on effects are catastrophic for the Rugby Football Union, for the Barbarians and not great for Eddie Jones and his England side either. But the ramifications stretch far wider. Think of the Welsh youngsters who dashed to central London on Friday to make up the numbers. The stadium workers and freelancers who now miss out on much-needed income. The supporters who have waited nearly eight months to see England in action.
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