The RFU are preparing to splash the cash again, with Steve Borthwick eyeing Saracens’ general manager Phil Morrow to fill the Strength and Conditioning coach role left vacant by Aled Walters, as reported by Mail Online.
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However, signing Morrow won’t come cheap. Premiership clubs have blocked him from a proposed job-share between Saracens and England, meaning the RFU would need to fork out for an expensive buyout to secure his services.
Aled Walters: Lions-Bound?
Walters, who left the England setup earlier this year, could be lining up a new gig with the British and Irish Lions. Head coach Andy Farrell is already plotting his plans for next year’s blockbuster series against Australia. Meanwhile, Wallabies boss Joe Schmidt has yet to confirm if he’ll stick around beyond the tour.
Coaching Carousel in Full Swing
The coaching merry-go-round doesn’t stop there. The Mail has also linked Leicester Tigers’ Michael Cheika as a potential replacement for Warren Gatland as Wales head coach. With 2024 just around the corner, expect a flurry of announcements as rugby’s coaching dominoes start to fall.
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Wayne Barnes named the best rugby captain he ever refereed
Get ready for a surprising revelation from renowned rugby referee Wayne Barnes, as he unveils his list of the top three captains he has officiated.
During a 2021 Q&A with Teddington Nub News, the famous whistleblower name checked three of the best skippers he’d refereed in his career up until that point.
#3. John Smit (South Africa)
A rugby legend hailing from South Africa, John Smit is renowned for his towering presence on the field and exceptional leadership skills. Born on April 3, 1978, Smit’s illustrious career as a hooker saw him captaining the Springboks to victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
With 111 caps for his country, he’s revered for his strength, agility, and strategic acumen. Beyond rugby, Smit is a respected figure in sports administration, having served as CEO of the Sharks rugby team and played a pivotal role in the development of rugby in South Africa.
#2. Sam Warburton (Wales)
Born on October 5, 1988, in Wales, Sam Warburton is a rugby union icon celebrated for his dynamic playing style and unwavering dedication to the game.
As a flanker and former captain of the Welsh national team, Warburton’s career highlights include leading Wales to Grand Slam victories in the Six Nations Championship and captaining the British & Irish Lions on two historic tours.
His agility, tenacity, and leadership prowess have earned him widespread admiration both on and off the field, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s most influential figures.
#1. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
Hailing from New Zealand, Richie McCaw is synonymous with excellence in rugby union. Born on December 31, 1980, McCaw’s remarkable career as a flanker saw him achieve unparalleled success with the All Blacks. Renowned for his ferocious tackling, strategic brilliance, and unmatched work rate, McCaw captained New Zealand to victory in the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest leaders.
Off the field, McCaw’s humility and integrity have endeared him to fans worldwide, making him not just a rugby icon, but a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Wayne Barnes said: “I’ve been on the field with some of the great captains, John Smit, Sam Warburton and Richie McCaw.
“Richie had the knack of asking the right question at the right time. Contrary to popular belief, he didn’t talk a lot on the field. He knew the law book inside out and so when he asked a question, he often had a point.”
