Harsh Criticisms By Welsh Rugby Writer

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31277, 25 January 1967, Page 11

Harsh Criticisms By Welsh Rugby Writer

Lions At Bay, by J. B. G. Thomas. Pelham Books, Ltd.

The Welsh Rugby writer, J. B. G. Thomas, will not endear himself to New Zealand Rugby followers, officials and players with some of the harsh criticisms and comments he makes in his book on the unsuccessful tour of New Zealand last year by the British Isles. While saying that indifferent selection gave the Lions a poor start, Thomas blames referees, particularly their interpretation of the line-out laws, rough play and the dedication of the teams they met, for the defeats of the Lions.

Thomae makes the very strong comment that if Rugby in New Zealand continues on its present path it may become isolated from the rest of the world. And he suggests that British referees this year may turn a blind-eye to many things not in the Alt Blacks favour in an attempt to even up affairs.

This is a strange statement, and Thomas as a very experienced critic must feel matters have reached a dangerous point if British

referees would adopt a parochial attitude. Like other Rugby writers, Thomas places some blame on the management and captaincy of the Lions and is strong in his criticism of the policy that meant the coach, Mr J. D. Robins, was not allowed to have much say in tactics during the tour. As a devoted Welsh Rugby man, Thomas, even while

loose forward in the world let alone the Lions. R. A. Lamont received that tribute from the majority of New Zealand critics. The book is interesting and gives an insight into some of the problems that beset the Lions and his comments on New Zealand Rugby should be absorbed, for in many cases he is quite correct.