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VIDEO: Simon Shaw story gives glimpse into French rugby's obsession with huge athletes
By Ian Cameron
It's no great secret that when it comes to Top14 rugby, bigger is definitely perceived as better.
Just last year Toulouse fielded a 1 tonne pack, which works out at 125kg or 19st 10Ibs a man. That's give or take a full 100kg heavier than an average Tier 1 international pack.
And Toulouse are by no means alone.
Just how obsessed the French top flight are with size - and by association weight - was illuminated in a conversation at a RugbyPod live event in London this week.
Along with regulars Andy Goode and Jim Hamilton, special guest on the evening was England and Lions legend Simon Shaw, who played at Toulon before hanging up his boots at the ripe old age of 39, having spent 23 years as a professional.
How 6'8 and 125kg Simon Shaw and latterly 6'8, 125kg Jim Hamilton describe the Top14's attitude to weight is to say the least an eye opener.
Shaw, who won 71 caps for England, describes the difference between the Top14 and the Premiership as a "world apart". The video contains adult language.
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I'd rate the brothers Hendricks a point or two lower. Jaden has really not delivered on his early promise and Jordan's kicking at posts was quite erratic. Amongst other things.
I was really surprised that DuhDuh was replaced and not Jordan. DuhDuh had a great game and just underlined his class in a backline that was not firing on all cylinders.
Damian Willemse was missed. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness and have an injury free 2025 (and '26 and '27 and so on until he decides to retire to spend time with his grandchildren).
RG was great. What an athlete.
Very happy that Hanekom made his debut at last. He gave a good account of himself and will hopefully grow into his role on the international stage.
All things considered, this was another frustrating Bok performance. Even though it was a comfortable win, it wasn't a commanding win. This Welsh team should've been put away by a far larger margin.
But I have faith in Dr Rassie. He knows more than I do. Bring on 2027 😁
Go to commentsGo the AB's .. Probs win by about 30 I reckon ... Cheers ..
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