During the Rugby World Cup, Warren Gatland urged England to address their concerns regarding South Africa’s frequent use of Head Injury Assessments (HIAs_ with the sport’s governing bodies.
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Gatland’s history with South Africa’s director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus, includes a notorious fallout during the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour.
Erasmus drew criticism for his antics as a “water boy,” a role typically reserved for carrying refreshments, which World Rugby subsequently banned. Gatland famously quipped: “If he is going to act as a water boy, at least he should have some water in his bottle.”
In his Telegraph column, Gatland offered advice to England head coach Steve Borthwick, saying: “I know what it is like to go head-to-head with South Africa’s director of rugby, and my advice to Steve Borthwick would be to make sure he gets on the front foot - and combat any dark arts.”
“To have any chance against the Springboks you must attempt not just to match them physically but also to be tactically smart and show no signs of mental weakness,” Gatland added.
Gatland suggested raising concerns subtly to highlight issues from a refereeing perspective. “For example, if I was Steve, I would be asking some questions about the number of head injury assessments that South Africa called for in their victory against France.
“I am not questioning whether they were legitimate or not but there have been people out there speculating about it and I would certainly be putting it out there and highlighting that it looked unusual and raising questions about the protocol.”
When asked if he would use HIA regulations to rotate players for rest, Erasmus responded curtly: “no.”
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#15. Phil Vickery (73 caps, 1998–2010)
Phil Vickery, known as “Raging Bull,” was a formidable prop for England, earning 73 caps from 1998 to 2010. A Rugby World Cup winner in 2003, he also captained the national team and represented the British & Irish Lions. Vickery’s strength and leadership left a lasting legacy.
#14. Bill Beaumont (34 caps, 1975–1982)
Bill Beaumont, a towering lock, captained England with distinction during his 34-cap career from 1975 to 1982. Renowned for his line-out prowess and leadership, he led England to a Grand Slam in 1980. Post-retirement, Beaumont has been influential in rugby administration.
#13. Will Greenwood (55 caps, 1997–2004)
Will Greenwood, an elegant and intelligent center, earned 55 caps for England between 1997 and 2004. A key player in the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning team, Greenwood’s creativity, vision, and try-scoring ability made him one of England’s most celebrated backs.
#12. David Duckham (39 caps, 1969–1976)
David Duckham, a dynamic winger and center, dazzled fans with his elusive running during his 39-cap career from 1969 to 1976. Known for his flair and versatility, Duckham was a standout performer for England and the British & Irish Lions, becoming a rugby icon.
#11. Maro Itoje (56 caps, 2016–present)
Maro Itoje, a dominant lock and flanker, has quickly become a cornerstone of the England team since his debut in 2016, earning 56 caps. Renowned for his athleticism, intelligence, and work rate, Itoje has also been a key player for the British & Irish Lions.
#10. Peter Winterbottom (58 caps, 1982–1993)
Peter Winterbottom, one of England’s finest flankers, earned 58 caps from 1982 to 1993. Known for his relentless work ethic and toughness, he was a key figure in England’s back row and represented the British & Irish Lions on two tours, solidifying his reputation as a rugby great.
#9. Jason Leonard (114 caps, 1990–2004)
Jason Leonard, affectionately known as “The Fun Bus,” is England’s most capped forward with 114 appearances from 1990 to 2004. A versatile prop, Leonard was part of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad and played in four World Cups, epitomising durability and excellence.