As far as scrums are concerned they are, and were, in my view boring. They are useful as a means of restarting while tying in 12 players.

"a contact sport"...I'd say not a strong enough description....a collision sport.

I don't like boxing personally but I would struggle to put forward an argument as to why it should not be allowed if all those involved are sentient and prepared to accept the consequences.

I take the view that at some point people need protecting from themselves. I appreciate that is a view that won’t find favour with everyone.

Yep it's a tricky philosophical point when we consider who protects us from the protectors? Best summed up as [iQuis custodiet ipsos custodes? [/i

Yes Wires71 you have me googling the translation. Very good!

Blimey Wires71, is that from the venerable bede's match report on the first test between The Vikings and the Northumbrians of 793?!

I think you will find it was a match involving the Centurions.

I've always been a fan of the big halves.

Perfacetus

The Derekus Bello Monte era was before then!

Was Biggus Dickus the referee?

The utility aspect of many players is both an advantage and a disadvantage. However, in that split second decision making situation you tend to revert to type and if that is not a halfback and you are playing halfback you might not seize that opportunity. Yes, super talented players can make a good fist of different positions but is that just to cover inadequacies in those other positions.

Footnote: A halfback needs runners and dummy runners