Good Day
For rugby democracy as Argentina gains representation on World Rugby’s executive committee and there could hardly be a more popular choice of representative than Agustin Pichot.
The former scrum-half, who led the Pumas to their first World Cup semi-final at a tournament which they began and ended by beating hosts France in 2007 to finish in third place just as they are hoping to do this time around, replaces Irishman Peter Boyle, offering a further indication that the sport is opening up beyond the control of the original eight International Rugby Board members: Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England, France, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
As President of Rugby Americas he has already had considerable influence on the development of the sport as a driving force behind Argentina’s development, including pushing for their inclusion in The Rugby Championship and the introduction of an Argentinian franchise in Super Rugby.
“I am honoured and delighted to be representing Argentina and the global rugby family at this exciting and critical time for our sport,” he said of his election to what is effectively the board of rugby’s global governing body.
“With an Olympic Games in Rio and Tokyo and a first Rugby World Cup in Asia to look forward to over the next four years, I am looking forward to playing my full part in promoting and protecting rugby across all nations during my mandate.”
Bad Day
For Australian penguin lovers, if the staff at The National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham are to be believed.
It’s a World Cup so someone had to come up with an animal prediction and they have issued a string of photos which suggests that their New Zealand native Gentoo penguins pinned their colours to the mast when given a choice of which team they were supporting in the World Cup final.
Should we be giving such staged stunts the time of day? Well, it’s a cute photo so where’s the harm…
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