RAF Duty Rules Out Rugby Star from Major Match
In a surprising turn of events, Cardiff’s second-row player, Josh McNally, will miss the upcoming Judgement Day match this weekend. The reason behind McNally’s absence is his commitment to represent the Royal Air Force (RAF) in the Inter Service Rugby Championship clash with the Royal Navy in Northampton. McNally, a Royal Air Force weapons technician since 2009, began his rugby career with the RAF before making his mark in professional rugby.
Despite his absence, Cardiff coach Matt Sherratt expressed understanding and respect for McNally’s commitment to RAF duties. Sherratt acknowledged McNally’s valuable contributions to the team and praised his leadership on and off the field. Along with McNally’s absence, Sherratt provided an update on the squad’s overall health, noting that Cardiff is currently in a good position despite the setback.
Furthermore, the team remains without Mason Grady, a long-term absentee who sustained an injury during Wales’ autumn opener against Fiji last year. Though Grady is expected to miss the remainder of the season, there is a possibility of his inclusion in Wales’ summer squad for the tour of Japan in July. Sherratt remains optimistic about Grady’s recovery and potential return to the team in the upcoming season.
In other rugby news, Wales and Scarlets fly-half, Sam Costelow, has returned to training after a three-month hiatus due to a broken collarbone. Costelow’s recovery is a positive development for both the player and the team, as he nears a return to the field. Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel expressed his satisfaction with Costelow’s progress and emphasized the importance of ensuring his full recovery before his comeback to competitive action.
Additionally, Scarlets will welcome back Wales back-three player Tom Rogers for their upcoming match against the Dragons at the Principality Stadium. Rogers’ return from injury boosts Scarlets’ chances in the final matches of the season, as they strive to secure a playoff spot. Peel highlighted the significance of each remaining game and emphasized the team’s determination to compete at their best level in the league.
Looking ahead to the British and Irish Lions tour, Bath coach Johann van Graan predicted a potential ‘truce’ between Finn Russell and Johnny Sexton if Russell is selected for the tour. Van Graan expressed confidence in the professionalism of both players and suggested that any past differences between them would not hinder their collaboration as teammates on the Lions tour. The anticipated selection of Russell and Sexton for the tour adds an intriguing dynamic to the upcoming rugby season.
As the rugby world continues to witness twists and turns both on and off the field, the dedication and resilience of players like McNally, Grady, Costelow, and Rogers highlight the challenges and triumphs experienced in the sport. With preparations underway for upcoming matches and tours, the anticipation and excitement among fans and players alike are sure to reach new heights in the days to come.