“We all must back dangerous tackle clampdown”

SPORT SO often comes down to fine margins. The Six Nations is a prime example – look at the title race! And that’s before you consider moments like the Louis Rees-Zammit try that wasn’t, Maro Itoje’s late score against France, Owen Watkin’s tap tackle on Duhan van der Merwe…

There are also fine margins when it comes to dangerous tackles; a second here or a centimetre there can make all the difference in terms of whether a hit is late or high. Yet player welfare must remain at the forefront of all our minds.

Yes, similar tackles in the past weren’t penalised. Yes, some red cards may be considered harsh. But strict sanctions around dangerous tackles are designed to make the game safer. The fact that some big names in the game, current and former players, are criticising the process is counterproductive; everyone needs to get on board as the point is to change player behaviour long term.

In this issue, we’re celebrating some of rugby’s record-breaking feats. Enjoy!