Easter: We're worst run sport in the world

NICK Easter has criticised the RFU’s governance of English rugby as ‘greyhaired old men who live in the past’ and believes the game is the worst run sport in the world

- MATTHEW LUDDINGTON

The critique comes in light of the financial troubles faced by London Irish, Wasps, Worcester Warriors, where Easter served as defence and forwards coach, and now more recently Championship side Jersey Reds.

All four went into administration last season, resulting in their relegation and the redundancy of players and staff.

However, Easter believes those managing rugby are more interested in self-preservation than the sport’s wellbeing. He said: “Rugby is commercially the worst run game in the world. There’s so much attractive about individual players, teams, traditions, the emotion of the game, the passion on display, for us to be in this situation in this country and throughout the world is dire. Ireland and France are strong financially, but they’re unique, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa are struggling. South Africa had to be bailed out by the URC.