Deep Dive: Rugby Needs Rethinking

Wright on the Nail

In this week’s ‘Deep Dive’ episode, host Chris Wright and his guests discuss the current state of British rugby – the problems it’s facing and the recent demise of two of the Premier League teams, Wasps and Worcester Warriors.

In this episode, Chris sits down with the former CEO of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club and RFU and the Chairman of Premiership Rugby, Ian Ritchie, Wasps legend and former chairman, Mark Rigby, and rugby writer for The Times, Sunday Times and RugbyPass, Chris Jones.
The conversation begins with the panel discussing the recent announcement of Wasps RFC’s administration, making 167 players and staff redundant and becoming the Premiership's second club to go into administration in 21 days. Together, they talk about the game's structural problems, the club's different financial issues and the impact of Covid-19.
The panel then dives into investment in players and the club by wealthy benefactors and questions whether stricter tests should be implemented to ensure that they are fit and proper to take over a club. They also chew over player costs and investments into star players as a strategy to increase revenue.
The discussion then moves on to other rugby threats, including concussions and early-onset dementia. The panel debates whether injuries should be expected due to the contact nature of this sport and touches on how the sports teams can look after their players. Together, the panel discusses what governing body World Rugby could do to help reduce the likelihood of head injuries and concussions.
All this and much more in this week’s Wright on the Nail!
'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.
© Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.
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