Embrace unique challenge, Wasps boss tells players
WASPS head coach Lee Blackett has delivered a simple message to the squad ahead of a ‘unique’ challenge of playing seven games in 28 days.
Starting with the trip to Northampton Saints on Sunday week and concluding with the Ricoh Arena clash with Bristol Bears on September 13, the Black and Golds will rattle through seven of the remaining nine rounds of the Gallagher Premiership season in just four weeks.
On three occasions in that period, the amount of game-free days between rounds is as little as three. That rises to four days twice and one five game-free period between the Saints trip and the home match against Worcester Warriors on Friday, August 21.
Sitting just two points behind the top four following a hat-trick of bonus-point wins prior to lockdown, Wasps are well placed to push for a place in the end-of-season play-offs for a fourth time in five seasons.
For Blackett, who was made permanent head coach during lockdown after previously stepping into the position on an interim basis following director of rugby Dai Young’s departure in February, it’s a challenge he is relishing.
“We’ve got seven games in 28 days, for me you’ve just got to embrace it and enjoy it. It’s the thing we all love,” he said. “We’re going to relish this opportunity, we’re going to enjoy it, it’s unique. The lads all came back desperate to train, there were smiles on faces, boys desperate to get out the house. They all came back in relatively good condition, some of them came back in unbelievable condition, a lot of bodies have been rested up, so hopefully we’re fully charged and ready to go.”
The likes of Nizaam Carr, Charlie Matthews, Ashley Johnson and Billy Searle have left Wasps but their squad remains fully loaded with the acquisitions of centre
Ryan Mills from Worcester Warriors and second row Myles Edwards arriving from Oyonnax. Hooker Alfie Barbeary and back Will Simonds have also graduated from the academy into the senior ranks.
Blackett admitted luck will play its part to see Wasps through the congested period, but the direction he has given the squad is a clear one.
“I don’t want the boys to get too focused with the future, I want them to think about Northampton,” said the 37-year-old. “That’s our big message – Northampton. Then we will move on. Going on to
Worcester, then Sale, and it’s for us to think about the big picture behind the scenes.
“There’s no doubt when you’re looking at this period, it’s going to be who has got the strongest strength in depth. We are going to have to be lucky not to pick up injuries.
“It’s something we’re all relishing and really looking forward to. I personally am really looking forward to seeing some of the younger guys get game time at the top level and seeing how good our strength in depth is and really challenging it. I am looking forward to seeing everyone play in this period.”
We’re going to relish this opportunity, we’re going to enjoy it, it’s unique. Hopefully we’re fully charged and ready to go.