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The iRB have been very pro-active in their attempts to expand our game to new areas throughout the world and this has mostly been done through the iRB World Sevens Series.
What they eventually should want to happen from this though is for new countries to come into the 15-man game.
So, what ways should the iRB look at promoting the full game, while using the 7s as a vanguard?
I think a ‘Faces of Rugby’ campaign would be a good idea.
Use 15 players from around the world in an extensive campaign, showcasing all types of players, big and small that excel in the game.
So who would you choose for your 15?
You may only select at most two players from any one country. And remember, these will be the ambassadors for our game.
My choices would be:
Pierre Spies
I will admit straight off, he is not my favourite player and think others deserve the number 8 jersey ahead of him. However, due to his freakish athletic abilities, he is easily marketable in markets like the USA, where they are transfixed by size.
Tendai “Beast” Mtwarira
The South African shows off the front row union, but with his abnormal speed and athleticism for a prop forward, he has gained great popularity in the Republic and that can translate worldwide.
James O’Connor
The impish Aussie back, shows that size does not matter.
Sonny Bill Williams
I know some have their qualms with him, but he is one of, if not the most marketable player in the game.
Dan Carter
Next to McCaw, probably the world’s best player. As an Irish journalist famously said “He’s so cool, he pisses ice.”
Felipe Contepomi
Market him as the layer who transfers over from the amateur era. Qualified as a doctor during his career. A maverick in the game as well.
Sergio Parisse
The gladiator in Italian rugby from the home of gladiators.
Thierry Dusautoir
The ultra hard-working French flanker and captain can be a poster-boy for many of the African immigrants in Europe.
Maxime Médard
The man with the worst facial hair in the game. What should be promoted for though is him being the epitome of French flair and reckless abandon.
Chris Ashton
The new poster-boy of English rugby with his swan-dive-try celebration. Ableit from a League background, shows players from the North can flourish in Union.
Paul O’Connell
The ginger-topped giant is one the most inspirational leaders in the game, putting his heart and soul into every game.
Adam Jones
The hair-bear of Welsh rugby. Instantly recognisable and shows that not all rugby players have to be freakish athletes. Real character as well whose honesty and humour go down well.
Richie Gray
The big blonde mop of the Scotland’s new bean pole in the second row is conspicuous all around the rugby field.
Takudzwa Ngwenya
‘Z’ is the winger who lit up the group stages of the last World Cup by burning the then-top winger in the World Brian Habana on the outside. Has excelled with Biarritz in the mean with his electrifying pace.
Alesana Tuilagi
An islander presence from the famous Tuilagi family, which has already produced six pro rugby players and four internationals.
So who would you pick?
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.