No excuses for Thorn: 'If you put on the maroon jersey we expect you to do the job'

Proctor was only blooded last year (and went home early on the EOYT for family reasons) and injured at the start of this year, but in just one game has done more than Ioane has done all season (and to be honest in every season). Ioane could still be a world class winger, but Proctor’s form is a debate-killer.

I have not argued that the 5:3 is sacrosanct. I have argued that it is the intention of the law. The intention of the law should be sacrosanct.

Again, the WR board need to verify what the intention of the law was (relevant legal advice will clear it up). If it backs what Doyle claims then subs should be used in the 5:3 format. If others on the board want to change the law to allow for other splits they should use the appropriate method to do so.

Finally of there is doubt about the interpretation of a law International Unions should consult with World Rugby before loopholing the law. Rassie knew exactly what he was doing. He knew if he inquired about a non 5-3 split then he would be asked to wait for clarification. He deserves blame here.

Lots of nations do this Nick. NZ for example has guys like Dmac and Reece and then a few 140kg props. Sadly its the “average” weight of each position from 20 years ago that has changed the game, with many players now 10-15kg heavier than the 80-90s

I love the concept of less swaps and would love to see something bought in to ensure we see more true fatique in the game. The thing I dislike is that a team coach like Razor can complain that he wants the game sped up, but when NZ gets a penalty or free kick the opportunity to go quickly isnt often taken. I suppose Im saying that even with the current 8 man bench of replacements there is still opportunities to speed the game up even before we change the subs laws.

Rieko has been having ‘quiet’ games for the Blues and ABs for years now. So this is hardly news.

Rieko (for some reason) has a mortgage on that 13 jersey, and given Proctor is off contract soon I’d say he’ll be gone. With the returning Leicester Fainga’anuku playing 13 in the NH, and apparently no way past Ioane and ALB (no matter how poorly they both play) who would blame Proctor if he did leave.