Rugby is Boring
This doubtful claim takes on a quite new meaning as Paris Metro Line 18 begins to take shape. The children of the suburb of Massy, through which the line will pass, have decided on the name to be given to the second tunnel boring machine (TBM) that will trace the line’s route.
The name is ‘Caroline Boujard’, the great French right-winger, who is a native of Massy. As the new godmother of the line she had the honour of cutting the tape to begin the TBM’s work
Black Ferns invade Europe
The Black Ferns’ trip to Europe could scarcely be more riveting. They take on both England and France twice in a momentous trial run for next year’s World Cup.
Their first outing at Exeter (31 October) will be their 100th test. Their record is of course second to none. Back in 2012 England beat them 3-0; since then they have enjoyed one win in eight.
France had drawn a complete blank till the last two matches (Grenoble 2018 and Chula Vista 2019), though Annick Hayraud still can’t understand why New Zealand refuse to accept the result of a match played at an early World Cup when, as the losing semi-finalists, they agreed to meet in an unofficial decider. New Zealand will be particularly keen to avoid a hat-trick of losses.
All sorts of permutations are possible for this tour. One-all draws would frustrate all sides; 2-0 defeats would deflate the losers. But the sports psychologists will remind everyone that only the RWC results really matter.
Stamping in Rugby is permitted
How wonderful to see some of rugby’s greats commemorated on postage stamps.
The very first one depicts Emily Scarratt, Tamara Taylor and Mo Hunt during the unforgettable World Cup win of 2014.
It’s a moot point which great players are awarded first and second-class stamp ratings! The final decisions must have been tricky in the extreme.
Laura Kapo
Triple centuries fall like confetti.
Laura Kapo joins Sonia Green as a member of the exclusive Three Hundred Club. This most loyal member of Richmond FC deserves great honour. It’s such a shame that her recent games have had to be played below elite level, but that is not due to any lack of input by this indefatigable prop forward.
RWC Tickets
It’s excellent news that the first round of tickets for the World Cup were sold out within minutes. A pity we aren’t told how many of these tournament passes were on sale.
Wales
More good (coming) news from the Principality – the WRU will announce details of players’ contracts in the next few days. Vital details will be their total number, their precise terms and the presence of insurance cover.
HSBC World Series Sevens 2021-22
The elite Sevens series remains as unequal as ever.
Ten men’s tournaments are scheduled, seven women’s. Women will play in Dubai (twice), Malaga and Seville, Hong Kong, Langford and Toulouse. But not in Singapore, Los Angeles, Vancouver or London.
The season kicks of in Dubai on 26-27 November this year.
