Quote: DaveO "This comment set me thinking about how we approach Internationals generally compared to the Aussies. To me the Aussies will do anything to win. They will try and get the game played with an Aussie ref with rules interpreted their way and the last thing they would do is drop one of their best players even though they have plenty of alternatives.
We on the other had always seem to do the "right thing" when we have not got the luxury they have. For as long as I can remember we have had roughly just about enough players to form a team good enough to give us a chance but sending Hock home isn't the first time we have reduced that small number even further.
I remember years ago Joe Lydon and Des Drummond missed a tour down under because they got into a scrap at Central Park during a game that spilled over the barrier into the crowd. I can't remember if there was any more to it than that but they were kicked out of the tour squad.
I was flabbergasted. They were key players who we could not afford to leave out and I am certain the Aussies would not have done the same thing. We lost as usual. I am sure there have been other occasions were for some reason our best squad has been reduced by our own management but I just can't remember them at the moment.
As to Hock, well in my opinion had any other player done as he did I reckon that player would still be in the squad and if I am right on that score McNamara has punished Hock based on Hock's reputation not just on what he did in the England camp. If so that is wrong but either way I reckon if he was an Aussie not only would he still be in the squad but he'd have probably played in the game as well.'"
But presumably you don't condone players getting leathered a few days before a big game?
You certainly never used to.
Has something changed, or is this a hangover from the 'Hock is innocent' campaign we were all subjected to after IL and SW showed him the door?
(I don't remember you participating much in that, if I'm honest, but I do seem to recall you warming to the Gareth camp the more it looked as though SW wasn't going to win us anything).
Anyway the main question stands. Is it okay to go on the razzle a few days before a very NB Test match? Or is it only okay if you're a really, really good player?