Aussie Player Exodus

[stoff]

On the other hand, outside of Len and T Wright, what back played better than JS?

The punt to bring him across in the first instance has worked out. In a team that is lacking of quality in the backs, JS's introduction was immediately felt.

Agree on his impact. The cost could be that some very good players head overseas to get the sort of money RA can only pay to one player though. Both the players you mention are off contract at the end of this season - if they are still playing better than JS can RA pay anywhere near their market value? RA are already talking about trying to suppress player wages globally, which is fine if the big money wasn’t coming from privately run clubs.

 

[The Ghost of Raelene]

Wouldn't it be great to see a player of Hooper's ability giving back to the game and playing a year in the Shute Shield. Imagine the crowds he would attract and what a thrill it would be for younger players to play with and against him.

Would be fantastic but all he really risks doing is injury. Gone are the days of players hanging around for a couple extra years. That death started with the pro game coming in.

 

[Adam84]

Not directly Australian Rugby related, but it has implications for Jordan Petaia,

Welsh Test star Louis Rees-Zammit failed to make the 53-man roster for Jacksonville Jaguars and is without a team now, he could still get picked up by another NFL team... but highlights the risk/challenge of what Petaia and Louis are facing trying to make a squad.

Louis Rees-Zammit considers future as Jaguars NFL contract ends

The Welshman's career in the NFL is about to enter a new phase and he could be set for another big change

www.walesonline.co.uk