Well what a great couple of weeks for sport.
Firstly a big congratulations to the Aussies who trounced an unlucky Sri Lanka who looked the goods throughout the one day series, capping off a great year for our home side. Although I was skeptical of the Australians both on and off the field earlier on in the season, they shone through with a dominate display over the Indian team in the test series and fought tooth and nail to capture the one day series.
Michael Clarke looks as though he will be a great captain showing humility and true leadership in leading our side to victory. It seems as though he has gained the trust and respect of his fellow cricketers which will hopefully see us dominate for years to come.
On to my favorite subject, what a great first couple of weeks for the NRL. On a personal note I have done absolutely terrible in the tipping, this year proving to be hard to pick with some unlikely winners in the first few games. So far this year there have been some contentious issues raised that have stirred a lot of heart felt debate.
Firstly the issue of shoulder charges and should they be outlawed from the game. Growing up, I think the defining moments that cemented my love of the game, came from those hard fought matches involving plenty of fire. None could be as hard fought or more passionate than our very own State of Origin. The series has been successful on its ability to deliver a brutal display of power, determination and endurance.With big hits shown, some freaky tries and the odd dust up it is nothing short of spectacular.
I suppose that is why every year the referees in these games relax the rules to suit the popularity of the contest. With the surrounding debate on concussion and the effect it has on players, the issue is highlighted by some misdirected shoulder charges that have made contact with the players head.
Personally I believe that the shoulder charge is a great part of our game. Whilst players that make contact with the head should be punished, it also opens a window for attacking players to exploit. A classic example of this was Josh Reynolds efforts last weekend when the Bulldogs took on the Panthers. He attempted no less than three shoulder charges and on each occasion was ineffective, in doing so he opened up gaps in defense which made the Bulldogs line vulnerable.
In taking this form of defense away from the game I feel as though we would miss the x factor that separates the game away from sports like Rugby Union. Maybe the answer is to only tackle below the nipple line, or wear helmets as Des Hasler suggests the game will head, but I believe that there needs to be a stronger penalty for defenders as an incentive to adjust their tackling style.
The other issue up for debate is the current player transfer system currently being utilised by NRL clubs. While no team likes to see players strike deals with clubs mid season I don't know if the draft system is the answer the game is looking for.
While some clubs will be licking their fingers at the prospect of an open market, it does pose the question of whether it will open opportunities for juniors that will be in their best interests. I think that the current system works fine for our game although the window of opportunity should be narrowed as to when player transfers can occur so as to protect the marketing efforts of individual clubs. Also there could be more done to increase the attractiveness of juniors and seniors such as greater concessions on the cap.
So, tell us what you think. Should the shoulder charge be outlawed? Should a draft system be implemented? Hopefully whatever decision the new commission comes up with will serve the game justly and make 2012 the best year ever.
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