Wednesday’s top rugby news has the fallout from the Horwill appeal, George Smith’s availability, Nonu suspended and a wrap up of signing news
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More fallout from Horwill drama
Even though justice has finally been served, the James Horwill appeal issue will continue to be discussed for a little while yet. Following the announcement of the verdict yesterday, the ARU opened up on its thoughts on how the process had played out. ARU boss Bill Pulver is intending on writing to the IRB, urging them to review rule that allowed them to appeal their own decision and drag the situation out for well over a week. Rugby Union Players Association Chief Executive Greg Harris also stated that his organisation would be formally raising their concerns with the IRB.
Whilst it has previously been asserted that the appeal had not impacted on Horwill’s preparations for this weekend, Pulver yesterday said that the Wallabies skipper had been left in “utter mental disarray” by the process, and Horwill admitted that he had not slept on Monday night as he continued to await a final verdict.
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Smith definitely available this time
After a little confusion about George Smith’s availability for the second Test last week, Robbie Deans has confirmed that the veteran is definitely available for selection this week. Whether or not he makes the match day squad is another thing entirely though. Following Liam Gill’s strong performance off the bench last week, it is even harder to find a spot for Smith.
Despite the form of Gill and starting openside Michael Hooper, there is still strong temptation to find Smith a spot in the side somewhere. Even though he has been away from both Super and Test rugby for a number of years, Smith still has an undoubtable aura. As Wallabies skipper James Horwill put it yesterday “if he gets the opportunity I have no doubt that he will hit the ground running and play exceptionally well, because it’s George Smith isn’t it?”
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Nonu suspended for rest of season
Suspensions and the appealing thereof are all the talk at the moment. Putting aside the welcome news of Big Kev’s freedom and criticism of the IRB, we head across the ditch. Ma’a Nonu has been found guilty of a spear tackle on Tom Marshall in last weekend’s loss to the Crusaders and as a result has been suspended for three weeks, ending his Super Rugby season with the Highlanders.
Whilst Marshall was not injured and the judicial officer deemed there was no intent on the part of Nonu, the tackle was still deemed worthy of a four match ban. The suspension was reduced to three weeks as Nonu pleaded guilty. Nonu’s red card and suspension continued what has been a pretty miserable Super Rugby season for the Highlanders.
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Signings round up
At this time of year, player movements are happening left right and centre. First up, the Rebels have granted a release to their winger and two-Test Wallaby Cooper Vuna. He will head to Japan to link up with Toshiba as of July.
Out-of-favour Highlanders prop Jamie Mackintosh will be looking to jump up the Super Rugby table next year, when he moves to the Chiefs. Chiefs coach Dave Rennie was excited in announcing that Mackintosh, who has played a single Test for the All Blacks, would be joining his side on a two-year deal, saying “He is a bloody good man and we’re rapt to have him.” Also in New Zealand news, it has been confirmed that both Israel Dagg and Zac Guildford will be wearing Crusaders jerseys next year. Dagg had previously been linked with other Super Rugby franchises and Guildford with a move to the Northern Hemisphere.
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