Tuesday, October 25, 2011

One Way Road to Intimidation

I was incensed when I saw on the news this morning that the IRB has fined the French team for walking within 10 metres of the haka while it was being performed.

In a display of passion and competitiveness, the French linked arms and walked torwards the All Blacks in a 'V' formation to impose themselves on the haka, which I believe they're entitled to do. Why should New Zealand be allowed to intimidate their rivals without a right of reply from the opposition? It's ludicrous.

Just because New Zealand are the best rugby nation in the world doesn't mean they should be untouchable. Sure, they should be allowed to perform their traditional dance without being interrupted but what the French did certainly didn't disrupt proceedings. It all adds to the spectacle of the game. It's good to see that both teams are fired up for the game and ready to play.

No team should be punished for showing passion for their country, especially in such a harmless manner.


On another note, congratulations to New Zealand for winning the world cup. You got the feeling right from the start that this was their time. While France but up a great fight, the All Blacks had the nerve to hold on and secure their first world cup since 1987.

I shudder to think what the reaction would have been if they'd lost. For a rugby-mad nation like NZ, I'm sure they are basking in glory right across the nation. It will be interesting to see if they will continue their dominance over the next four years or if someone will be able to knock them off their perch. We shall see.

2 comments:

Simon Ashari said...

Worth the fine.

Pretty sure it would have been for crossing half way.

Michael Pedersen said...

Indeed it was. 10 metre rule still applies.