@jambalaya, I agree that scheduling shouldn’t be hard in theory and I can see why the leagues have a interest in keeping international players playing club rugby in their league as much as possible… but I was surprised the PRL actually contract clubs to do this- normally the club’s contract with the player either does or doesn’t let them play at certain times, not the league organisation that dictates this. Also, the English players are exempt…
England’s first Test with NZ falls outside the international window and clashes with the Premiership Final since the international windows were decided many years in advance. It is easily done.
Mallinder seems to have a very sensible view- He argues North coming to Northampton has generated a lot of interest, excitement and revenue and at the times when North is away with Wales it gives the young, local players a chance to play having trained and gained a lot from North’s experience. With all that gained who is he to deny a player from representing their country. Seems very pragmatic.
“Sometimes this requires compromise, and while we appreciate that we are outside Premiership Rugby board policy with this particular agreement, we also believe that having George as a Northampton Saints player has benefited both the club and the league as a whole.
“George is a world-class player who in his short time at Franklin’s Gardens has brought a great deal of excitement and quality, not just to the Saints but to the Aviva Premiership as a competition.
“When his signing was announced it was hailed in the media and by the league’s hierarchy as a massive statement of intent by the club and a reflection of the competitive nature and high profile offered by the Aviva Premiership.
“Every player asks for specific conditions to be included in their agreements. This is not unusual in professional sport.
“In order to realise this rare opportunity of bringing a player like George to Franklin’s Gardens we agreed to allow him to represent Wales if, and when, selected.”
