There have been busy weekends before, but the next two (25-26 March and April 1-2 2023) take on a whole new significance
First a list:
Internationals (partly Pacific 4 qualification for WXV); all in Madrid
Canada v South Africa (to be followed next weekend by Canada v USA)
Spain v USA (to be followed next weekend by Spain v South Africa )
Six Nations –
Round One: Wales v ireland, England v Scotland, Italy v France
Round Two: Ireland v France, Scotland v Italy, England v Wales
(all leading to qualification for WXV)
Add to them:
NZ: Super Aupiki Finals: Blues v Hurricanes Poua and Chiefs Manawa v Matatu
Australia: Super W, Round 1: Waratahs v Force; Fijiana Drua v Brumbies; Rebels v Reds
Conclusion
We’re in full post-World Cup mode. That means a host of new faces, both on and off the field, and new strategies unfolding as nations face the short haul to the 2025 RWC.
Managements are taking stock; how will the debutants perform? Have we got the game-plan right?
Unions will wonder whether they have their pathways properly in place. Under 18 and Under 20 squads are now proliferating.
All the test matches that are piling up remind us of the importance of next year’s WXV, which will probably come to stand second only to the RWC itself. There are places for eighteen teams available. All will have set their targets on which of the three tiers they will aim for.
The Six Nations, long held to be the greatest of all annual tournaments, will have real competition for its position once the WXV takes hold of public awareness.
No wonder so many warm-up games are being arranged. Countries that have long suffered a lack of meaningful tests are now seeking out new opposition to ready themselves for the matches that will really matter.
World Rugby’s strategies for spreading women’s rugby really seem to be working. New competitions in Africa and South America are heartening additions to the scene.
