Policy threatens game’s soul

Charlie Mulqueen laments the fact that the provincial sides will no longer be able to test their mettle against the giants of world rugby.

AT a time when the provincial scene in Irish rugby is stronger than ever, it is ironic that Munster, Leinster, Ulster and Connacht are no longer provided with the opportunity of taking on the great rugby powers such as New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.

It was a common occurrence not very long ago for the Southern Hemisphere trio to visit our shores and expose themselves to the best efforts of the four home countries and France and also to some of the top regional and club sides in this part of the world.