People have been saying things about sport for a long time now, often saying them on television; for the purposes of entertainment or enlightenment or devilment or to obtain a small fee or maybe to express bewilderment at fresh proposals to rework the national leagues.

It was once sport’s great secret shame, premature celebration.

AUSTRALIA coach Robbie Deans has backed the new-look midfield combination of Berrick Barnes and Matt Giteau to thrive ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster clash against New Zealand in Melbourne.

Former ITN newsreader Carol Barnes died in hospital today after reportedly suffering a stroke last weekend.

John Barnes has handed Ron Atkinson a chance to resurrect his TV career eight months after he was forced to resign for an on-air racist remark.