BRITISH RUGBY TEAM.

Manawatu Standard, Volume L, Issue 143, 16 May 1930, Page 8

BRITISH RUGBY TEAM.

MANAGER HOPEFUL. “What terrible people you are I” This was how the manager of the British Rugby team, Mr James said “how-do-you-do’’ to a “Standard” reporter, when he was interviewed today on the arrival of the northbound New Plymouth express. Mr Baxter was referring no doubt to the interest that is being displayed in the international team from Great Britain. When asked how lie and the team felt on the eve of their first match in New Zealand, Mr Baxter used the word “optimistic,” but hurriedly changed it to “hopeful.” Beyohd that ne was decidedly reticent. Asked for his impressions of the country, Mr Baxter stated that up to the present he had seen very little of New Zealand, but he expressed himself as being delighted with what lie had seen. “One thing I must say,” he added, “we are all overwhelmed by the hospitality that has been extended to us.” When further questioned, Mr Baxter stated that the personnel of the team included 14 old internationals. There had been no injuries to date, everyone being sound in limb, but not so sound (ho feared) in wind. In regard to the state of the grounds at the present time of the year, Mr Baxter said ho thought the members of the team would have no need to grumble. The grounds they had so far seen were quite soft enough to play on. When the train pulled in at the station the 29 British players who Stepped out of their special carriage caused a stir among the crowd on the platform. They struck one as being i+urdv fellows —well-dressed, clear skinned, powerful and fit.