Rugby's problem 'getting bigger'
Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:25
Are rugby players just getting too big? British and Irish Lions tour doctor James Robson has admitted that he is concerned that the increasing size of the modern day rugby player is not necessarily good for the game.
The contact situation during the 2009 Lions tour of South Africa particularly has been a hugely contested point with a number of players on both sides sustaining serious blows as they crashed into an opposition player.
Already labeled one of the most brutal and physical test series in the history of the game, Robson, an experienced team physician, admits he has never seen anything like it.
"I would have to say this has been the most physical tour, the most physical Test matches I have been involved in," said Robson to Sky Sports.
Modern day players seem to increase their size and strength almost every season and Robson is convinced that the game, from an skill and entertainment point of view, is not necessarily benefiting from this trend.
"I think we are reaching a level where the players have got too big for their skill levels. I think they have become a little too muscle-bound and too bulky.
"I think you may see changes in the physical nature of the player that brings them back a little - I hope so - in order to speed up the game and introduce a higher level of skill."
In general Robson is also concerned that the demands on the modern players body are too heavy and that more consideration, particularly during Lions tour years, needs to be taken regarding their well-being.
"I do have concerns going forward about the number of matches we do subject our players to in the northern hemisphere," said Robson.
"I hope welfare will become a bigger part of player management. That is a personal view but it is a view I have expressed after every Lions tour.
"I don't necessarily think a compacted period is a detriment to the players if over the year they have less games."
Do you agree with Robson? Let us know if you think the modern day rugby player focuses too much on size and not enough on skill...