THE LAST WORD

Novembers will never be the same. Test rugby within that window is due to change but such has been the level of bickering on the subject there is no clarity yet about what the new global season model will look like. World rugby have appointed a committee to explore options but they are not due to make any firm decisions until may.

New Zealand’s recent matches against england and Ireland showed the enduring value of prestige, one- off Tests but other rivalries have become mundane. scarcity is crucial. The revised international calendar should allow for a four-week autumn window but with each leading nation only permitted to play two matches against Tier 1 visitors, to ensure greater exposure for the Tier 2 sides.

Players should be limited to three Tests in November and revenue share must be on the agenda. Wealth — and fixtures — need to be more evenly shared, to make the game viable and sustainable.