What a couple of weeks it’s been for all, with the recent events in Japan and a couple of crazy upsets around the world in rugby. I have to say that the earthquake in Japan was particularly close to home for me. Living in Japan was one of the greatest periods of my life.
Having made so many close friends in Japan, watching the devastation the earthquake caused to the northern part of the country on the news was very tough. Not being able to contact any of my mates left me feeling helpless here.
To know there are months, possibly years, of work ahead for so many people in Japan, all I can say is to all families suffering is that our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this difficult time in your lives. There are many training and playing venues around Tokyo that have uprooted and ruined.
Back onto other rugby matters, there have been some amazing results lately: Ireland beating England in Ireland and Cheetahs beating the Waratahs in Sydney, and winning for the first time in Australia, in particular. I did not see that one coming.
And of course, I did not feel good when the Reds thumped the Rebels. Yes, there were some surprising results for a few teams.
It’s going to be a tough game for the Rebels against the Hurricanes in Melbourne on Friday night. Meanwhile, the Waratahs up against the Brumbies in Canberra will not be an easy one to pick, while the Reds should have it over the Cheetahs.
But anything can happen.
The injury to my shoulder has been coming along very well, though there is still a bit of pain. But I am trying to push it as much as possible. That’s rugby for you! There are ups and downs.
That’s why we play.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
Harry Plummer spent 10 minutes in the sin bin over the tackle, but some of the commentators thought it was a tough call.
The Melbourne fly-half admits that some players are worried about their next moves with the club's future in doubt.
The centre was forced out of the game during halftime after being knocked out trying to make a tackle.
No one could believe how he could snap a pair of rugby boots.
After Melbourne scored the opening points, a sloppy play allowed the Blues to hit straight back.
The final result was 4-1 for the Kiwi sides but some of the results could easily have been different with a bit more maturity from the Aussies.
