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Speculation mounts over Jamie Heaslip's future as extent of injury becomes clear
By Ian Cameron
Leinster have omitted Ireland number eight Jamie Heaslip from their European Cup Squad, adding to speculation that his ongoing injury could potentially end his career.
The thirty-three-old hasn't played a game since last season's Six Nations match between Ireland and Wales, where he injured his lower back.
Speaking on the Left Wing podcast earlier in the week, Heaslip said he could not give a date for his return.
"I actually don't have an answer for people" Heaslip told the Left Wing.
"It is pretty complicated what I've done. I'm literally taking it week by week - some days are good and some days are bad. I'm taking an opportunity, now that I'm not away playing games, to enjoy my weekend."
Heaslip had been renowned for his seemingly indestructible body, rarely succumbing to injury throughout his long career.
"I've a growth mindset in terms of challenges and opportunities that arise with them," Heaslip stated.
"The injury wasn't great timing considering everything that was at stake but the flip side is that I was able to plan holidays and plan trips and catch up with some friends and family that I haven't seen. I knew it [injury] would happen one day, it is rugby and you are going to get hurt, but I didn't think it would be such a serious injury."
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In the fine tradition of Irish rugby, Leinster cheat well and for some reason only known to whoever referees them, they are allowed to get away with it every single game. If teams have not got the physicality up front to stop them getting the ball, they will win every single game. They take out players beyond the ruck and often hold them on the ground. Those that are beyond the ruck and therefore offside, hover there to cause distraction but also to join the next ruck from the side thereby stopping the jackal. The lineout prior to the second try on Saturday. 3 Leinster players left the lineout before the ball was thrown and were driving the maul as soon as the player hit the ground and thereby getting that valuable momentum. They scrummage illegally, with the looshead turning in to stop the opposing tighthead from pushing straight and making it uncomfortable for the hooker. The tighthead takes a step and tries to get his opposite loosehead to drop the bind. Flankers often ‘move up’ and actually bind on the prop and not remain bound to the second row. It does cause chaos and is done quickly and efficiently so that referees are blinded by the illegal tactics. I am surprised opposition coaches when they meet referees before games don’t mention it. I am also surprised that they do not go to the referees group and ask them to look at the tactics used and referee them properly. If they are the better team and win, fair play but a lot of their momentum is gained illegally and therefore it is not a level playing field.
Go to commentsI’d be fascinated to see what other candidates you all might have for the Lions captaincy role. Let me know, below 👍
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