Gatland at training

British and Irish Lions and Current Wales head coach Warren Gatland has reacted in cryptic fashion in saying that the impending departure of Wales Rugby Union Chief Executive Roger Lewis “probably does” affect his own long-term future. Lewis has announced that, after nine years in charge, he will leave his post following the World Cup in October.

After answering in the affirmative whether he could see it affecting his role as Wales coach going forward Gatland refused to elaborate.

Lewis is the man who gave the Wales contract to the kiwi head coach back in 2008, which should see him in the post until the RWC in 2019 (making him the best paid coach in the game also). The fact Gatland is unsure about his own future could be due to the fact he doesn’t think he will get the same backing from Lewis’ replacement, and in the light of Wales recent form, you can see why.

“The relationship the national team has had with Roger in terms of the support he has given us since I have been here is outstanding,” Gatland said. “There is no doubt we have got some of the best rugby facilities in the world. And when we have gone to Roger to ask for things for the team, whether it’s been staff or facilities, he’s been absolutely outstanding.”

What do you think of the situation? If Gatland does go, who will replace him?

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Mike Brown in action vs Italy.

It has been announced today that following a pretty severe looking concussion picked up in the England v Italy game in Twickenham 11 days ago, Harlequins and England Full Back Mike Brown will miss the Ireland and England game after failing to pass stage 3 of the return to play concussion protocol.

The incident happened in the 12th minute of the game, when Kelly Haimona placed a nice kick over the top of the English defence line. Italy’s centre, Andrea Masi, runs onto the ball with Mike Brown also coming over to collect and the two clash. It looks like Brown is out cold before hitting the ground.

He left the pitch on a stretcher, looking a bit worse for wear.

The 29 year old will be replaced by Saracens’ Alex Goode for the top of the table clash in the Aviva stadium this weekend.

Speaking about Goode, England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster said “Mike and our medical staff have been diligent during every step of the graduated return to play protocol and they will continue to work to get him back to full health. The most important thing is Mike’s welfare.

“We are of course disappointed to lose him but Alex is an experienced international and in great form for Saracens.”

Everyone here at RBP hope to see you on the field again soon, Mike!

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