Apparently it was what the players wanted ie every player needs to earn their place after injury via the 'A' team. However this 'rule' seems not to apply to all players.

I agree with your statement and its context. However there are players in the squad who have been out injured more than once and have not been involved with the 'A' team and other 'lesser mortals' have done their porridge. If you have a rule it should be seen to be applied fairly - we are all equal , but some are more equal than others.